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Back in September, Rivian unveiled what’s perhaps its coolest SUV yet—a Miami Edition of its R1S EV. Kitted out in a bright and breezy color scheme inspired by sunny Miami, this special edition of the SUV was originally intended to be a one-off. However, the EV maker received such a positive reception to it that it has committed to producing a limited run of 10 units. Rivian made the announcement during Art Week Miami Beach, where it also announced a stunning new color called Borealis. But first, let’s take a closer look at the Miami Edition R1S and what it’ll cost you. More Expensive Than an Escalade IQL Rivian R1S Miami Edition Rivian View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article If you want the most luxurious electric SUV experience out there, it’s hard to beat the enormous Cadillac Escalade IQL, which starts at $130,405. That’s a lot of money, but Rivian’s R1S Quad Miami Edition is even more expensive, starting at $134,990. That makes it $13,000 more expensive than the standard R1S Quad, but that’s the price to pay for a splash of color and unparalleled exclusivity. R Sitting on custom-painted 22-inch wheels (reminding us of the retro wheels on the Ford Bronco Heritage Edition), it’s impossible to deny that the Miami Edition looks the part. The Glacier White paint is enlivened by pops of aqua and pink. The Ocean Coast and Driftwood interior is just as alluring, and the SUV looks most at home set against the backdrop of some palm trees and the Atlantic Ocean. Being the Quad Motor version of the R1S, awakening from your beach-induced slumber is easy, as this Rivian produces 1,025 horsepower and can get to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds. That’s a claimed figure, but the R1T pickup with the same powertrain recently showed it’s perfectly capable of achieving it in the real world. Related: The Rivian R1T Quad Motor Now Hits 60 in 2.6 Seconds and It’s Quicker Than a 911 GT3 RS Top Rivians Go Purple Rivian R1S in Borealis Rivi View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Besides the announcement that the R1S Miami Edition will go into production, Rivian also chose the occasion of Art Week Miami Beach to introduce a striking new color called Borealis. A purple hue one expects to be adorning a Hemi-powered Dodge Challenger rather than an EV, the new color will be available for the brand’s more powerful Tri and Quad configurations. Rivian says the color draws inspiration from the aurora borealis, a natural light show, and that it shifts with the light. It was also inspired by Rivian fans who captured images of their vehicles during a 2024 solar event, beneath a purple-washed sky. To match the new paint, Rivian also introduced new 20-inch Burnished Bronze wheels, but these are only available for Quad-Motor models. With the new Miami Edition and the willingness to explore unorthodox colors, Rivian has hinted that customization and unique special editions could become a larger part of its strategy. This contrasts with rival Tesla, which offers a limited scope for customization across its lineup of EVs. View the full article

Gerry McGovern, the head designer behind Norton Motorcycle's rebrand, was fired from Jaguar after the Type 00 Concept received terrible feedback.View the full article

The Robot That Accidentally Solved a Car ProblemAsk any engineer, and they'll tell you there's no perfect suspension system. Every setup is a compromise depending on usage – too soft and the vehicle wallows; too stiff and it beats up the occupants. Sure, fully active adaptive suspension exists in high-end nameplates, but it still has limitations (read: off-road). Hyundai may not have set out to break this rule, but its latest creation comes surprisingly close. The Mobile Eccentric Droid, or MobED, started life as a 2021 concept and has now evolved into Hyundai Motor Group Robotics LAB's first production-ready mobility robot platform. MobED's purpose isn't automotive at all. It's designed as a versatile industrial and everyday tool, capable of autonomous navigation, handling deliveries, carrying equipment, and supporting research or service applications. It blends precision engineering with modular adaptability, and Hyundai positions it as a platform that can work in almost any environment – indoors, outdoors, smooth floors, rough terrain, or tight industrial lanes. The fact that it looks like a rolling testbed for the next suspension revolution is a bonus Hyundai may have unintentionally created. The Wheel System That Makes Everything PossibleThe secret is in MobED's wheel and Drive-and-Lift modules, each with fully independent power, steering, and posture-control hardware. Every wheel can raise, lower, tilt, or stabilize itself through an eccentric drive mechanism, letting the platform stay level even when the ground isn't. In practice, it acts like a suspension system that never stops adjusting – like a fully active adaptive suspension but on steroids. Even better, MobED can widen its wheelbase for maximum stability or retract as needed for tighter environments. The independence of each wheel means, in theory, this system could be tuned for performance, comfort, or both – something car suspensions rarely manage at the same time. If this technology ever reaches a passenger vehicle, it could redefine on-road smoothness and off-road confidence. As we see it, the biggest hurdles to putting this system into a production vehicle are weight and costs, but those are problems this journalist won't dare solve. Hyundai MobED Hitting the Market Next YearHyundai is already playing with a related idea. A separate development – a four-wheel-steer system capable of sliding a car sideways – shows how independent wheel control can transform parallel parking. It's essentially a real-world crab-walk demonstration, and it's proof that Hyundai is exploring applications beyond robotics. But back to MobED – the platform runs on a 1.47-kWh battery pack, provides more than four hours of operation, and supports manual or autonomous charging. Both the MobED Pro and MobED Basic will be commercially available starting in the first half of 2026. Now all that's left is for Hyundai to bring this "suspension" philosophy to an actual vehicle, like maybe the production derivative of the Crater Concept. We're waiting, Hyundai. Hyundai View the 13 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Russian Porsche Owners Left High and DryImagine walking out to your car, pressing the start button, and getting absolutely nothing. No crank, no lights on the dash, nothing. That’s exactly what happened to hundreds of Porsche owners in Russia last week. The issue is with the Vehicle Tracking System, a satellite-based security system that’s supposed to protect against theft. Instead, it turned these Porsches into driveway ornaments. The issue was first reported at the end of November, with owners reporting identical symptoms of their cars refusing to start or shutting down soon after ignition. Russia's largest dealership group, Rolf, confirmed that the problem stems from a complete loss of satellite connectivity to the VTS. When it loses its connection, it interprets the outage as a potential theft attempt and automatically activates the engine immobilizer. Porsche Club GB What Actually HappenedThe issue affects all models and engine types, meaning any Porsche equipped with the system could potentially disable itself without warning. The malfunction impacts Porsche models dating back to 2013 that have the factory VTS installed. This includes popular models like the Cayenne, Macan, Panamera, Taycan, 911, and the 718 Cayman and Boxster. When the VTS connection drops, the anti-theft protocol kicks in, cutting fuel delivery and locking down the engine completely. Some dealership representatives suggested the outage could have been deliberate, though no evidence has emerged to support that claim. Without active support from Porsche headquarters, the regional servers managing these connections could simply be failing. Others point to potential satellite interference. What's clear is that the simultaneous failure across Russia suggests a systemic problem rather than just isolated incidents. eBay How Owners Are Getting Back on the RoadSome drivers reported success after disconnecting their car batteries for up to 10 hours, while others managed to restore function by disabling or rebooting the VTS module entirely. Rolf dealerships have been instructing technicians to manually reset the alarm units, which often requires partially dismantling the vehicle. Some cars spring back to life immediately, while others remain stubbornly offline despite multiple attempts. https://youtube.com/shorts/vDsIsS43Kms?si=SHkpO0OrtdbTM9hN Porsche halted deliveries and suspended commercial operations in Russia after the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. That means there's no official customer support channel for Russian owners dealing with this crisis. View the full article

While the action cam maker has put out motorcycle bundles before, this one is all about making the most of your helmet for sick clips.View the full article

For the second year in a row, Subaru came in as the top-ranked marque in the annual Consumer Reports Auto Brand Report Card, the non-profit publication has announced. The Japanese automaker outranked not only Toyota and Honda – competitors normally known for their quality and reliability – but high-line luxury brands like Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus and second-ranked BMW. Kristen Brown Related: The Toyota That Refuses to Die — Meet the Industry’s Longevity King Asian brands generally dominated the annual study, while domestic U.S. brands – with a few exceptions -- largely lagged behind the rest of the industry. Surprisingly, many mainstream brands matched, and even exceeded, the performance of top-tier luxury marques. Behind the Numbers The Auto Brand Report Card takes into account a variety of factors, including “CR’s road-test scores, predicted reliability and owner satisfaction from survey data, and safety ratings for all tested models from each automaker,” the non-profit organization explained. Using that metric, Subaru came in tops for the second consecutive year – and the third time in the last half-decade. BMW came in a close second, followed by Porsche, Honda, Toyota, Lexus, Lincoln, Hyundai, Acura and, rounding out the top 10, Tesla. The upstart EV manufacturer made one of the biggest year-over-year jumps, CR noted, largely due to improvements in reliability. Related: Tesla Model Y Posts Worst Defect Rate of Any New Car in a Decade Reliability Rankings While CR takes a variety of different factors into consideration when it comes to marking up the annual report card, reliability is clearly something that motorists tend to watch closely. And, here, the results were a bit different. Toyota lived up to its long-standing reputation for delivering industry-leading quality and reliability, though Subaru came in second in this category, followed by Lexus, Honda and BMW – again demonstrating the improvements mainstream brands have made in recent years. Part of the challenge for luxury brands, according to industry analysts, is the fact that they typical come equipped with a wide range of features, including the latest digital technologies. Other studies, such as the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study, have routinely found that high-tech features, such as navigation and voice control, are today the source of far more owner complaints than traditional concerns about faulty engines and transmissions, body misfits and wind noise. For those shoppers focused on reliability, “Our surveys continue to show that the slow and steady approach to vehicle redesigns pays dividends for reliability, while more aggressive changes and the introduction of new technologies often lead to setbacks,” said Jake Fisher, senior director of auto testing for Consumer Reports. “For reliability-conscious car shoppers, the best bet is to steer clear of newly-introduced or newly-redesigned vehicles in their initial model year, as that’s when they are almost always the most problematic.” Winners and LosersBy virtually all the metrics used by Consumer Reports, Japanese brands tended to come out on top in this year’s report card. They accounted for five of the top 10 brands overall. That said, Mazda and Mitsubishi tarnished the Japanese halo. Mazda, in particular, faced some serious reliability issues with the conventional and plug-in hybrid versions of its flagship CX-70 and CX-90 models. Mazda Only two European brands, BMW and Porsche, cracked the top 10, along with one Korean carmaker, Hyundai. Among domestic American brands, Lexus and Tesla made it into that elite group, while other domestic brands struggled. Overall, Jeep landed dead last among the 31 marques included in this year’s report card, though Land Rover was a close second-to-last. Prices Hit a New RecordWith growing concerns about the economy and inflation, “Affordability continues to be a top concern for Americans, with prices rising on everything from groceries to cars,” says Phil Radford, president and CEO of Consumer Reports. The challenge is making “the best choices with their hard-earned money.” New vehicle prices, at an average of over $50,000, have reached new records and seem likely to continue rising due to the Trump administration’s tariffs on imported autos and auto parts. And that’s encouraging consumers to think more carefully when it comes time to consider buying a new car. Hybrids Stand Out Hyundai Reliability is just one thing motorists need to consider when buying a new vehicle. And though fuel prices have been relatively stable over the past year, costs can quickly add up if you’re clocking the typical 12,000 to 15,000 miles annually. That’s led to a sharp surge in sales of hybrid vehicles over the last several years, 1.6 million sold last year, about 10% of the overall market. Perhaps the biggest surprise in this year’s CR Auto Report Card is the finding that “On average, hybrids have about 15 percent fewer problems than internal combustion engine (ICE) cars,” a summary of the CR study reported. Among conventional hybrids, it added, “only the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, Lincoln Nautilus Hybrid, and Mazda CX-50 Hybrid have below-average predicted reliability scores.” Unfortunately, the news wasn’t nearly so good for other electrified vehicles. The owners surveyed for this year’s report car experienced about 80% more problems with their plug-in hybrids and pure battery-electric vehicles than did owners of ICE models – with EVs and PHVs accounting for seven of the 10 least reliable vehicles. That said, over a dozen EVs from Tesla, Ford, Toyota, Lexus, Subaru and Hyundai ranked average or better in terms of reliability. The Tesla Model Y was the most reliable EV, though the Rivian R1T was rated least reliable. “With so many newly introduced EVs and PHEVs, along with the still relative newness of the technology, these growing pains were inevitable,” Fisher said. “However, we are seeing evidence in our survey that some EVs are improving as they age, and there are some reliable models available.” Tesla Who They SurveyedThe Auto Brand Report Card was based on surveys submitted by about 380,000 owners of vehicles from the 2000 through 2025 model years, CR said, with a handful of 2026 models included. The organization noted its “reliability predictions are based on overall reliability for the past three model years, provided the vehicle has not undergone a redesign. One or two years of data will be used if the model was redesigned in 2025 or 2024.” View the full article

The Recall That Refuses to EndIt’s been over twelve years since the first recalls in 2013, but the Takata airbag crisis remains unresolved. BMW issued another Takata airbag recall recently for faulty airbags in 2000-2001 X5s, with anywhere between 15-25 million vehicles across manufacturers, all with potentially lethal airbags still on the road. With Takata being the dominant airbag supplier in the early 2000s, over 100 million vehicles were affected. What makes these deaths particularly tragic is their preventability. Many victims died in minor collisions that should have been survivable, killed not by the impact but by the very safety device designed to protect them. What Makes Takata Airbags DeadlyTakata used ammonium nitrate as a propellant in their airbag inflators, and this chemical degrades over time, especially in heat and humidity. When the airbag deploys during a crash, this propellant can explode with excessive force, rupturing its canister and sending sharp fragments flying. Drivers and passengers have suffered lacerations, blindness, and fatal injuries from shrapnel. The scale of the Takata recall dwarfs anything the automotive industry has ever faced. Coordinating repairs for tens of millions of vehicles proved nearly impossible. Manufacturing replacement parts became a critical bottleneck after Takata itself filed for bankruptcy in 2017, right in the middle of the crisis. Automakers scrambled to find alternative suppliers while owners waited months or even years for replacement inflators. AOL On Why This Recall Took Over a DecadeFinding affected vehicles added another layer of complexity. Cars change hands constantly, and recall notices sent to old addresses never reach new owners. Privacy laws limit how manufacturers can track down vehicle owners, and millions of cars have been exported to other countries where the recalls cannot be enforced. Even when owners received notices, many ignored them, not understanding the urgency. Perhaps most damaging to public trust was what became known as the double recall scandal. In March 2019, Honda issued a recall for 1.1 million vehicles that had already received replacement driver airbag inflators as part of a previous recall, because those replacement parts were also defective. Getty Images Still Dangerous, Still UnfinishedThe danger has not passed. Vehicles from 2001 to 2005 face the highest risk because their inflators have had the longest time to degrade. Some vehicles carry "Do Not Drive" warnings, indicating the rupture probability exceeds 50 percent in a crash. What should every driver do right now? Check your vehicle identification number immediately using the NHTSA recall website or your manufacturer's recall checker. If you have an open Takata recall, contact your dealer today to schedule a free repair. For anyone buying a used car from the 2000s or 2010s, demand proof that any Takata recall has been completed before you purchase. Check your VIN today because this recall crisis is far from over. View the full article

Sylvain Guintoli will run the London Marathon in his racing leathers to raise money for PASIC, after losing his child to cancer.View the full article

If you haven’t seen the WRC documentary series More Than Machine, and you are a rally racing fan, you are going to want to check out the entire first season at the link below. With behind the scenes, racing action, and more, this series gives you a look you can’t otherwise get from WRC coverage. We love this series, and are thrilled that the new season has started. We’ve got Season 2, Episode 1, below for you to enjoy, and more coming! If you missed Season 1 of the series, and would like to catch up, there is a complete Season 1 Replay at the link below. CLICK HERE IF YOU MISSED ANY OF SEASON 1 OF More Than Machine The post World Rally Championship Video Series: More Than Machine, Season 2 Starts Right Here! Episode 1 appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Subaru's Electrification JourneySubaru doesn't have the operational scale of Toyota or Honda, which likely explains why it's taking baby steps towards electrification. The company's electrification journey began in 2013 with the Crosstrek hybrid, followed by the Forester e-Boxer in 2019. With a bit of help from Toyota, Subaru launched its first EV with the Solterra in 2023. It's currently complemented by the new Crosstrek hybrid and the Forester hybrid. But soon, there might be a third model joining the range. Cole Attisha The Outback Could be NextNearly all of Subaru's competitors have a hybrid model for every class, whether in the U.S. or abroad. However, Subaru is limited to only two models, and perhaps it's about time they expanded their electrified lineup. Now, it seems that it could happen soon. Australia's Drive reports that the newly redesigned Outback could quickly get a hybrid option. Subaru Outback product manager Toshihiro Ohya told the publication during the Japan Mobility Show, "Hybrid... we are considering some power unit, but we have not decided the next power unit." That was in response to Australia's looming emissions rules that penalize automakers with higher-than-average emissions. Think CAFE standards, but Down Under, and yes, they're pretty strict down there too. What Could Power It?The likeliest candidate we can think of could be found in the Crosstrek and Forester hybrid. It's a 2.5-liter engine paired to two motors and a 1.1kWh battery that's good for 194 horsepower, with the electric motor putting out 199 lb-ft of torque. It's not exactly a ball of fire, but Subaru's current hybrid setup delivers more punch than the base engine in the current Outback, which we found a bit lethargic. For reference, the non-turbocharged models make 180 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. It also does 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, according to the EPA. Sprinkling in some electrified bits should help it consistently stay above 30 mpg, even with some traffic. That said, the Outback is a larger vehicle so that it might need a little more grunt. Could there be a turbo-hybrid in development? It's hard to tell at the moment, but Subaru does have the hardware to get the Outback hybrid started. Subaru View the full article

Yamaha has killed its legendary cross-plane inline four-cylinder engine...in its MotoGP race bike. But that begs the question: are its street sportbikes next?View the full article

A Name That Refuses to FadeThe idea of a revived Toyota MR2 has circulated for years, kept alive by offhand comments, prototype development, and scattered trademark filings in different markets. None of them ever felt substantial enough to suggest a real program was underway, but they did keep fans from dropping the conversation. Toyota hasn't done much to quiet the speculation either, especially as its Gazoo Racing division expanded and performance models like the GR Yaris, GR Corolla, GR86, and GR Supra anchored the brand's enthusiast base. This is why Toyota's newest move stands out. A fresh trademark filing in Japan uses the name GR MR2, and it's easily the strongest sign yet that the mid-engine sports car might be returning. It doesn't confirm a production vehicle, but it gets much closer than any previous breadcrumb. Bring a Trailer The Filing From Last WeekJapanese publication Best Car discovered the "GR MR2" filing on Japan's official patent information platform. The application was submitted on November 25, 2025, and will enter the usual review process before registration, which could be completed as early as 2026. Toyota hasn't commented, but the timing, format, and placement are notable. Linking the MR2 name with "GR" fits Toyota's current approach to performance branding. That's why we call it the GR86 now instead of just 86, and the GR Supra instead of just Supra. Toyota has been consistent about consolidating sporty nameplates under one identity, with its upcoming flagship GR GT supercar also bearing the same moniker. The same logic would apply naturally to a mid-engine model. Best Car also noted the absence of any "GR Celica" trademark filings, despite earlier speculation that Toyota's secret project could revive the Celica name. The lack of such filings doesn't settle the debate of which one's coming or not, but it does tilt expectations toward MR2 instead of the Celica. What the Early Info SuggestsThe Japanese magazine believes the model under development uses the internal code 710D and could launch in 2028 as a mid-engine, four-wheel-drive sports car. They claim it will feature a next-generation G20E 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing around 500 hp and 406 lb-ft, with dimensions slightly larger and wider than the final-generation Celica. Of note, and we couldn't stress this enough, all of this should be treated cautiously, as early Japanese scoops often blend insider reporting with guesswork. Whether these early details survive to the production stage – or whether Toyota actually revives the MR2 name at all – remains uncertain. Trademark filings are not commitments so much as preparations. Still, one thing seems clear: Toyota isn't ignoring the demand for a mid-engine sports car, and the MR2 conversation is becoming harder for the company to pretend it can't hear. View the full article

If you want your dog or cat to love Yamaha as much as you do, there's only one thing you can do: Make this adorable Tricity 300 bed for them.View the full article

In many markets outside the United States, it’s possible to buy even luxury cars in a basic specification (so-called “poverty-spec” models) with tiny wheels, cloth interiors, and smaller engines. American tastes differ, though, with fewer base trims that actually look and feel basic. Here, consumers prefer even the cheapest variants of a model line to come with high-end features and decent power. But the desire for cheaper, basic trims is increasing as the average car price rises to record levels. Nowhere is this clearer to see than by analyzing Ford’s most recent sales figures. The Blue Oval has reported a dramatic rise in sales for base trims across at least four model lines this past November. Related: Average New Car Price Crosses $50K Barrier as Americans Struggle to Keep Up Sales of Base Maverick Explode F In November, sales of the entry-level Ford Maverick XL surged by 76.2%, completely contrasting with the company’s overall November sales, which declined by 0.9%. Across the industry, auto sales dropped by 7%, so the base Maverick completely bucked the trend last month. Ford The Maverick XL is the only trim in the range that starts at under $30,000, with a base price of $28,145—it’s also the cheapest pickup truck in America. The next model up is the XLT, which retails for $30,645. But it wasn’t only the base Maverick that saw a significant rise in sales. The Ford Explorer ST-Line (the second-cheapest trim) saw sales jump by 68.5%, while the cheapest Ford Ranger, the XL, increased by 48%. The base Explorer Active saw sales rise by 60.7%; this model is over $15,000 cheaper than the top Explorer ST. Combined sales of the Maverick XL, Ranger XL, and Bronco Big Bend increased by 26.4%. The Big Bend is the second-cheapest Bronco trim, but is under $1,000 pricier than the base trim. Hybrids and F-Series Going Strong Ford Elsewhere in Ford’s lineup, sales of the F-Series were once again strong, with the company saying the pickup is almost guaranteed to finish 2025 as America’s best-selling truck for the 49th consecutive year. Currently, the Ford is 227,000 units ahead of the Chevrolet Silverado. Ford hybrids also had a great month in November, with record sales of 16,301 units, an increase of 13.6%. This total includes sales of the F-150 Hybrid, Escape Hybrid, and Escape Plug-in Hybrid. Ford is planning to discontinue the Escape at the end of this year to make way for a new EV. Final ThoughtsFord’s sales data indicates that, even with rising car prices, many consumers would rather settle for a base trim than go for a higher-spec but smaller model. The Maverick XL’s performance is especially strong, but perhaps this isn’t a shock, given that a pickup stripped of fancy extras isn’t nearly as jarring as a luxury model missing key features. Earlier this year, we looked at some of the models with the best base trims on the market, from the Toyota Camry LE to the Honda Civic LX. Interestingly, Honda discontinued then quickly brought back the Civic LX trim a few years ago, suggesting demand for base trims isn’t unique to Ford. Most of these models aren’t as sparse as you may expect, and if you don’t mind a few sneers from the neighbors, you’ll end up with a much cheaper car that delivers much the same driving experience as pricey top trims. View the full article

Some performance sedans are slowing down. Is the end near?At one point, the four-door sedan was the undisputed king of the road. It’s the form that many marques’ best-known nameplates took as they ascended to sales royalty over the years. For example, the Toyota Corolla or Chevy Impala. Unsurprisingly, making sedans go fast was a logical evolution, and while the concept can be traced back to the 1930s, the segment really came into its own in the 1960s and 1970s. Specifically, models from BMW, Alfa Romeo, and others established that the number of doors was no measure of athleticism. As time went on, the formula was honed even further — largely propped up by efforts from automakers and specialty tuning companies, including Audi, Jaguar, AMG, and, of course, BMW M. But that was a long time ago. In fact, there’s a case to be made that the peak performance sedan has come and gone. Want evidence? Consider the newest BMW M5, a name once synonymous with what all sport sedans aspired to be. Today, it’s a 5,000-pound hybridized caricature of the original E28 M5 from forty years ago. Instrumented tests from sources as reputable as Car and Driver indicate a loss in measurable performance compared to the last model. More recently and less subtly, the testers over at Edmunds confidently proclaim that the new Audi S5 is “worse than it was five years ago.” Similarly, it too underperformed relative to its predecessor. (Note: the S6 they tested last year suffered similar regression.) Is it the end of the performance sedan upon us? Audi Increasing complexity and weight make fast four-doors an even tougher sellAs you might’ve suspected, much of the performance flatlining comes from what should be considered auto enthusiasm killjoy-in-chief: weight. The M5 and S5 are not alone in putting on substantial weight in pursuit of modernization; need we remind you of the current AMG C63, which subtracted one eight-cylinder engine to add a four-cylinder hybrid powertrain and around 800 pounds? (In fairness: at least that car actually got quicker.) Granted, it’s not the only reason sport sedans are getting softer. Cost-cutting is everywhere these days, and one of the easiest places to cut costs is by parts sharing. The S5’s powertrain is almost completely unchanged from the last generation product, despite its weight gain. Over at BMW, interior quality has become a sticking point throughout the entire lineup, with flimsier switchgear than ever before and a renewed love for piano black. Of course, to be completely fair to automakers, it’s hard — and expensive — to fight weight gain, especially in a segment falling out of favor. According to Experian, sedans made up less than 20% of all new retail registrations in the U.S. in Q4 last year, while SUVs accounted for nearly 60% of the market share. Perhaps tellingly, most automakers don’t break down sales figures of independent models (i.e., the M3 vs. the larger BMW 3 Series, or Cadillac’s CT5 vs. Blackwing variants), so we don’t have any real insight into how many “performance sedans” really get sold each year. But we’re certain it isn’t a lot. Kyle Edward There’s hope: some performance sedans go above and beyondWe aren’t so cynical as to say the segment’s best days have already come and gone. Notably, BMW still makes the M3, which by all accounts is a wonderful car from the driver’s seat and, notably, improves on the last generation in almost every metric. Cadillac’s Blackwing-badged CT4 and CT5 duo, too, are evidence of a segment that’s thriving rather than “just surviving.” Even though Audi’s latest S cars might leave a little to be desired, the excellent RS3 is still alive and well. All of these performance sedans are, arguably, better than they’ve ever been. Or at least faithfully channel the performance sedan ethos. We’d also be remiss to ignore EV offerings. Like it or not, some of the best and most attainable performance sedans come by way of full electrification. Lucid is doing great, albeit expensive, things with the Air, and BMW’s current i4 models paint an optimistic picture of what an electric M3 might look like. The Model 3 Performance, similarly, offers accessible and potent performance, as long as you’re willing to trade valves and pistons for electrons and a different kind of Supercharging. Full electrification also cuts down on complexity and can deliver more than enough performance to offset the (still egregious) weight gain. Final thoughtsWe don’t know what the future will bring. What we do know is that performance sedan options are slimmer than ever, and the future isn’t bright. The next M3 will offer hybridization, along with likely sizable weight gain and cheap-feeling switchgear permeating the rest of the modern lineup. The current RS3’s sweet five-cylinder engine isn’t Euro 7 emissions-compliant and will likely cease production after 2027. Cadillac’s CT4 and CT5 leave us in 2026. Electrification, then, might be the performance sedan’s savior. Assuming, of course, that cost-cutting and weight gain don’t kill the segment in the interim. View the full article

Suzuki hints at finally entering the booming mid-size segment, where 350–500cc bikes dominate the global market. View the full article

Edelbrock’s Muskrat is the wildest build at SEMA 2025. It’s a 1,500hp, twin-turbo big-block Chevy stuffed into a Tesla Model S body.View the full article

Triumph has just launched the Tiger Sport 800 Tour, a middleweight sport-tourer equipped with touring goodies straight off the showroom floor. View the full article

There are two things that Americans can agree on: Public lands are good, and dealerships suck. But this article touting how AI will save dealerships fails to address why we hate them. View the full article

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE IHRA Announces Leah Martin as President, Marking a Historic Moment in Motorsports Leadership Fairfield, OH — The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) announces Leah Martin as President of the rapidly growing organization. Leah brings a broad and distinguished background in executive leadership, national advocacy initiatives, organizational development, and large-scale motorsports operations. In this role, Leah will oversee all IHRA disciplines—including drag racing, offshore powerboat racing, stock car racing, tractor pulling, and emerging motorsports platforms—ensuring unified leadership and strategic alignment across the entire IHRA organization. Before entering the motorsports industry, Leah held leadership roles within national nonprofit organizations, including serving as a director with the American Lung Association. In these roles, she guided statewide and regional initiatives, aligned diverse stakeholders around mission-focused goals, and helped advance the broader objectives of complex national organizations. Her ability to unify teams, build strong partnerships, and lead with strategic purpose has been a defining aspect of her career. In motorsports, Leah has served as Executive Director of the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout, the largest powerboating event in the world. Under her leadership, the Shootout expanded its sponsorship portfolio, strengthened event logistics and safety operations, enhanced media and community engagement, and delivered the most significant economic benefit to the region. She remains in an oversight capacity for the Shootout, ensuring continuity, long-term planning, and strategic alignment as the event continues to grow. Leah coordinated hundreds of volunteers annually and built operational systems that strengthened governance, consistency, and event execution. Within IHRA, Leah has played a key role in advancing organizational structure, creating the alignment of multiple racing disciplines, and building a unified framework for the IHRA across its growing and diverse motorsports properties. She is known for her operational discipline, strategic clarity, and racer-first philosophy—paired with her ability to bring people together around a clear and shared mission. In all her commitments, Leah is supported by her husband, Justin, and their three children. Her family has been a constant source of encouragement, and her two boys often tell everyone that their mom has “the coolest job in the world.” Their belief in her leadership continues to inspire her work within the IHRA and throughout the motorsport’s community. A Historic First for Motorsports Our research indicates that Leah Martin is the only female President of a major motorsports sanctioning body in the United States. This marks a significant moment not only for the IHRA but also for women rising into leadership roles across the motorsports landscape. Statement from Leah Martin, President, IHRA “Stepping into this role is an incredible honor, and I am fully committed to advancing the International Hot Rod Association with a racer-first mindset and a clear vision for long-term growth. Motorsports thrive when organizations work together, when teams feel supported, and when there is alignment with a shared mission. My focus is on fostering collaboration, strengthening our operations, and building a foundation that will carry the IHRA forward for years to come. I’m grateful for the trust placed in me and look forward to leading the IHRA into a new era of stability, innovation, and opportunity.” Statement from Darryl Cuttell, CEO of IHRA “What’s important to me isn’t male or female, but rather who is best for the job. Leah has a tremendous sense of business and has surrounded herself with the strongest experts in each racing discipline under our umbrella. Her leadership, her strategic approach, and her ability to unite teams are exactly what the IHRA needs as we elevate our motorsports portfolio to new levels. The fact that she is a woman breaking new ground in motorsports is a bonus—but it’s her capability, not her gender, that makes her the right leader. We are committed to progression in motorsports, and we couldn’t be prouder that Leah will lead the way.” About the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) fuels the future of motorsports with a multi-discipline platform and a renewed leadership vision focused on growth, competitive excellence, and modernized event experiences. With an expanding national footprint, IHRA is committed to elevating competitive standards, strengthening local venues, and delivering unforgettable experiences for racers, fans, and partners. Visit IHRA.com for more information. The post IHRA News: IHRA Announces Leah Martin as President, Marking a Historic Moment in Motorsports Leadership appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

On the third day of the 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports v NASCAR antitrust trial, testimony was concluded from Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer Scott Prime and began for FRM team owner Bob Jenkins. Prime spent the second half of Tuesday on the stand, examined by 23XI and FRM attorney Jeffrey Kesseler and then cross-examined by a friendly attorney before being reexamined ...Keep readingView the full article

Shelton Motorsports is charging into the 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Series presented by J&A Service with a major new partnership, announcing earlier this week a technical and operational alliance with Killin’ Time Racing (KTR). The collaboration takes effect immediately as the team prepares for this weekend’s Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks at Bradenton Motorsports Park. The two-car effort features Stan Shelton and Kevin Rivenbark, who will wheel a pair of supercharged Ford Mustangs in the $50,000-to-win eighth-mile Pro Mod event, which kicks off the three-race Winter Series. KTR, led by two-time NHRA Pro Mod world champion Steve “Stevie Fast” Jackson, will provide Shelton Motorsports with full-spectrum support both at the track and behind the scenes. “The Sheltons are heavily invested in our sport and are equally as passionate about drag racing as we are,” Jackson said. “Their entire team gives it their all at every outing, and we feel confident that this partnership will be equally beneficial to both organizations.” Based in Thomson, Georgia, KTR has become one of the sport’s most respected drag racing solutions companies, offering everything from tuning and diagnostics to complete team guidance. Their philosophy—show up, work hard, and support racers with integrity—aligns directly with the Shelton family’s approach. For Shelton, the partnership represents a strategic step forward as the team enters the second annual DI Winter Series and later, the 2026 NHRA Pro Mod Series season. “Team Shelton Motorsports is super excited about our new alliance with Stevie and KTR,” Shelton said. “KTR brings our same passion for hard work, energy, and dedication to racing that our team will look to thrive and prosper on and certainly benefit TSM moving forward.” The timing of the announcement couldn’t be better. The Snowbird Outlaw Nationals is expected to draw one of the toughest Pro Mod fields of the season, serving as a critical first test for the newly unified effort. The event is the opening round of the Drag Illustrated Winter Series, a three-race championship paying out more than $300,000 in purses and bonuses. Snowbirds qualifying begins Thursday evening. This story was originally published on December 3, 2025. The post Shelton Motorsports Forms New Alliance With Killin’ Time Racing Ahead of Drag Illustrated Winter Series first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Performance Racing Industry (PRI) announced a major enhancement to the 2025 PRI Show with the debut of the PRI Paddock, a new activation at the grand entrance of the Indiana Convention Center. A centerpiece of the experience is the Show’s iconic hanging car, this year represented by the Matco Tools Top Fuel dragster driven by four-time NHRA Top Fuel Champion Antron Brown, continuing a long-standing PRI tradition. The Paddock includes a live stage featuring exclusive live interviews and standout vehicles representing the breadth of racing disciplines at the Show, including a BMW M4 GT3 EVO from SRO GT World Challenge America powered by AWS, a Honda Civic from SCCA Time Attack, a TRAD PRO4 custom off-road truck from Amsoil Champ Off Road, a Schnee-Lawson Sprint Car from the High Limit Racing Series, and a Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano from Formula Drift. It reflects PRI’s commitment to supporting the entire racing community from grassroots competitors to professional teams and manufacturers while connecting attendees with the industry leaders and innovators shaping motorsports. “Racing is at the heart of everything we do, and the 2025 PRI Show brings that energy front and center with the debut of the PRI Paddock,” said Michael Good, PRI President. “This is about creating an experience that reflects PRI’s role as the hub for innovation and collaboration in motorsports. The Paddock strengthens our strategy to connect the entire racing community, from racers and teams to manufacturers and fans, while showcasing the creativity and passion that drive the industry forward.” Throughout all three days of the PRI Show, the PRI Paddock stage will host driver appearances, industry conversations, expert interviews, and opportunities for fans to interact with some of the most influential voices in motorsports. Attendees may also see a surprise visit from a favorite racing driver or team owner. “The PRI Paddock gives attendees an unforgettable first impression of the Show,” said Karin Davidson, PRI Show Director. “With live interviews and standout vehicles, fans and industry professionals can connect, learn, and celebrate all aspects of racing.” SHOW TIME — PRI PADDOCK INTERVIEW SCHEDULE Thursday, December 11 • 9:30 AM – Michael Good, President of Performance Racing Industry (PRI) • 10:00 AM – Bill Bader, President and Owner of Summit Motorsports Park • 10:30 AM – Cindy Sisson, Executive Director of Women in Motorsports North America • 11:00 AM – Melanie White, CEO of Hellwig and SEMA Board of Directors Chair • 11:30 AM – Kim Pendergast, CEO of Magnuson Products • 12:00 PM – John Doonan, President of IMSA • 1:00 PM – Glen Cromwell, President of NHRA • 1:30 PM – Ty Flannery • 2:00 PM – Adam LZ, Formula Drift Driver, Content Creator, Car Builder, and Entrepreneur Friday, December 12 • 9:30 AM – Mike Spagnola, President and CEO of Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) • 10:00 AM – Greg Zipadelli (Zippy), Crew Chief and Team Executive of Port City Race Cars • 10:30 AM – Kyle Fickler, Director of Business Development at ProCharger • 11:00 AM – Gaige Herrera, NHRA Driver • 11:30 AM – Wes Buck, Founder/Editorial Director at Drag Illustrated • 12:00 PM – Doug Lane, President and Owner of Motor State Distributing, and Curt Spalding, Division Manager of Allstar Performance • 1:00 PM – Nelson Gill, Owner and Founder of ACC Performance • 1:30 PM – Lyn St. James, Former Racer, Co-founder and President of Women in Motorsports North America • 2:00 PM – Davey Hamilton Sr., Former Race Car Driver and Founder of the King of the Wing Sprint Car Series, and Davey Hamilton Jr., Former Racer, Founder and Owner of the Open Wheel Showdown Saturday, December 13 • 10:30 AM – Vivian Campbell, ARA Rally Driver, RC2, Car 964, Musician • 11:00 AM – Jason Vansickle, Vice President of Curation and Education at Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, and Dan Rosenau, Restoration Manager at Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum • 11:30 AM – Brian Mabutas and Nick Pedroza, Founders of Eat Sleep Race Registration for 2025 PRI Show The PRI Show draws attendees from all 50 states and around the world, including race teams, retailers, engine builders, fabricators, media and others. To register, book hotel accommodations and learn more about the 2025 PRI Show, visit PRI2025.com/Attend. This story was originally published on December 3, 2025. The post PRI Paddock Takes Center Stage at 2025 PRI Show first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Two-time NHRA Funny Car world champion Cruz Pedregon confirmed Wednesday that crew chief Jason Bunker has departed Cruz Pedregon Racing (CPR) to pursue other opportunities. The team issued a brief statement wishing Bunker well as both sides move forward. After flashes of strong performance in 2025—including a playoff-opening win at the NHRA Reading Nationals—Pedregon says the move aligns with a larger effort to reshape the program for long-term success. “With this transition, CPR is fully focused on redefining its program and building the foundation for a stronger, more competitive 2026 season,” the statement read. Pedregon emphasized that the team is already deep into its offseason planning. “Our attention is on strengthening our operation and putting the right pieces in place for 2026,” Pedregon said. “We’re confident in our direction and motivated to keep improving. The work we put in now will define the season ahead.” Despite an up-and-down 2025 campaign, Pedregon delivered standout performances that demonstrated the potential of the Snap-On Tools Dodge Charger Funny Car. He kicked off the Countdown with a victory at Maple Grove Raceway and added a No. 1 qualifier award at Norwalk earlier in the summer. Pedregon, who owns 40 career wins, remains one of the most experienced and driven competitors in the Funny Car ranks. As CPR begins the process of restructuring its leadership and tuning approach, Pedregon says the goal is simple: return to championship-contending form. Expect further updates on staffing and direction as the team continues building toward the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. This story was originally published on December 3, 2025. The post Cruz Pedregon Announces Departure of Crew Chief Jason Bunker first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Motorsports track operators, promoters, and sanctioning body leadership and staff will have a dedicated headquarters to conduct business, learn from industry leaders, and grow their professional networks at the 2025 PRI Show. Happening Dec. 11-13 in rooms 240-245 of the Indiana Convention Center, T.O.P.S. HQ Presented by MyRacePass.com will offer over 42 sessions and learning opportunities designed to help racetrack professionals strengthen their business. Beyond the educational sessions, the relaxed setting provides the ideal place to engage in peer-to-peer discussions, schedule meetings, take a break, and connect with peers. T.O.P.S. HQ Presented by MyRacePass.com is also supported by Gearhead Events and PJH Trackbite. “T.O.P.S. HQ is a cornerstone for strengthening the motorsports ecosystem,” said PRI President Michael Good. “By fostering deeper relationships with sanctioning bodies, promoters, and racetracks, we ensure the foundation of our sport remains strong and adaptable. These connections are critical for driving innovation, sustaining local economies, and creating opportunities for the next generation of racers.” Racetracks play a vital role in motorsports, serving as launchpads for young people to discover the sport, for competitors to sharpen their skills, and local economies to thrive. According to the 2024 PRI State of the Racing Market Report, 50% of racetracks earn more than half of their revenue from races, underscoring the importance of staying competitive and adapting to industry shifts. Featured Presentations and Events • Morning Coffee by Gearhead Coffee (Dec. 11-13, Room 242) • Industry Leadership Forum (Dec. 11 at 3 pm): A panel of leaders will discuss strategies for attracting the next generation to the sport. • Successful Auto Racing Promotion (Dec. 12 at 3 pm): A panel of master promoters will share lessons learned. • Friday Continental Breakfast (Dec. 12 at 8:30 am): Enjoy breakfast compliments of Geobrugg, DZE USA LLC, Tecpro Barriers, TrackWalk, and the FOD Control Corp. • B.S. & Brews Happy Hour (Dec. 12 at 4:30 pm): Join fellow track operators and peers for beer, snacks, and “big stories.” The event is sponsored by MyRacePass.com, RPM Promoters Workshop – Racing Promotion Monthly, Gearhead Events, Professional Motorsports Solutions, TicketSpice, and PJH Trackbite. Education Topics • Legislative Updates: Learn how to master your political universe using the PRI Economic Report and paths to incubating the Nuisance Law. • Marketing, Social Media, and Promotion: Explore updates in technology for ticketing, scoring and event management; content engagement; AI best practices; and digital marketing. • Racing Roundtables: Hear from industry experts in road racing, karting, oval paved, off-road, dirt track, and dirt late model facilities. • Track Operation Breakouts: Hear from announcers and race officials, plus attend sessions on enhancing the fan experience and better understanding race insurance. • Trends and Tactics in Motorsports Safetyby ICMS: Join sessions covering EV racing, what’s new in safety, NFPA 610, and finding and keeping safety crews. Access the full schedule here. “Tracks aren’t just competing with other racing facilities, they’re competing with every other form of entertainment,” said Karin Davidson, PRI Show Director. “This year’s program will help racetrack leaders make smarter decisions that ensure their facilities remain viable, financially successful, and competitive for years to come.” Industry support for the 2025 PRI Show is stronger than ever, with the event on track to be one of the largest in the past two decades. More than 1,000 exhibitors are confirmed to participate, including over 100 first-time exhibitors, underscoring the Show’s continued momentum and influence. This response reflects the commitment to PRI as the premier destination for motorsports professionals to connect, innovate, and drive business forward. Registration for 2025 PRI Show   The PRI Show draws attendees from all 50 states and around the world, including race teams, retailers, engine builders, fabricators, media, and others. To register, book hotel accommodations, and learn more about the 2025 PRI Show, visit PRI2025.com/Attend.  This story was originally published on December 3, 2025. The post T.O.P.S. HQ Empowers Racetrack Professionals at 2025 PRI Show first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article