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These aren't sports cars, but somebody has to winNobody buys a Honda Civic, Toyota Prius, or Ford Bronco Sport expecting to embarrass Mustangs at a stoplight. These are practical cars for practical people: good fuel economy, reasonable cargo space, the kind of vehicles that appear in "best family car under $35,000" roundups and end up in suburban driveways next to basketball hoops. But "practical" and "slow" aren't synonyms, and this comparison is more interesting than it looks. Because the fastest car here isn't the one most people would pick, and the second-fastest isn't the one anyone would expect. The specs that actually matterHere's where this gets complicated fast: none of these cars comes in just one flavor. The Civic has two engines. The Bronco Sport has two engines. The Prius, to its credit, just has the one: a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder paired to a hybrid system good for 194 horsepower total, with an available AWD variant that nudges it to 196 hp. The 2024 Civic base LX runs a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four making 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque through a CVT to the front wheels. Upgrade to the Sport, EX, or Touring and you get a 1.5-liter turbocharged four: same CVT, but 180 horses and 177 lb-ft. On paper that's more power with less displacement, which is how turbos work, and which is why Honda charges you more for those trims. The Bronco Sport's split is more dramatic. The base Big Bend and Outer Banks run a 1.5-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder making 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft. Step up to the Badlands, or the Heritage, Heritage Limited, and the outgoing First Edition, and you get a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder: 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic with standard AWD across the lineup. That 250-horsepower number starts to look meaningful very quickly. The Bronco Sport Badlands isn't messing aroundCar and Driver tested the Bronco Sport Badlands at 6.1 seconds to 60 mph. That's not a typo, and it's not a fluke. Two hundred and fifty horsepower going through a proper automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, in a vehicle weighing around 3,563 lbs, produces legitimately quick acceleration. Quick enough to embarrass a lot of cars that consider themselves performance-oriented. For context, 6.1 seconds is faster than a base Porsche Cayman from 2009. It's roughly the same as a 2018 Camry V6. The Bronco Sport Badlands is wearing mud flaps and a roof rack and goes like actual stink. The base Bronco Sport, though, is a different story. Motor Trend clocked the 1.5-liter version at 8.0 seconds flat, a full 1.9 seconds slower. Same nameplate, completely different performance character. If you're shopping a Bronco Sport and speed is anywhere on your list, the trim choice matters enormously. The Prius, somehow, is secondThe 2024 Toyota Prius is not the shapeless econobox of the mid-2000s. Toyota redesigned it top to bottom for 2023, dropped a genuinely attractive body on it, and made it substantially faster. Car and Driver recorded a 7.2-second 0-60 run, which puts it ahead of the turbocharged Honda Civic by a meaningful margin. The mechanism here isn't complicated: electric motors make instant torque, and the 2024 Prius's combined system output of 194 horsepower hits harder off the line than a small turbo four that needs half a second to build boost. The Prius weighs 3,197 lbs, about 300 pounds more than the Civic, and it still pulls ahead. There's a lesson buried in there about how we think about hybrid powertrains, but we'll skip the sermon. The Prius also gets 57 mpg city / 56 mpg highway on the LE trim, which is why it exists, and which it does while still outrunning a car with a turbocharger attached to it. Make of that what you will. The Civic's case and its asteriskThe turbocharged Civic Sport and above hit 7.5 seconds to 60 mph in Motor Trend testing: a respectable number that would have been genuinely impressive five years ago. The Civic's edge is in what the rest of the car does: at 2,877 lbs it's the lightest of the three, it handles with more precision than either of its rivals here, and on a twisting road it would likely feel faster than its stoplight numbers suggest. The base Civic LX, at 8.5 seconds, is a different animal entirely. The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine gets the job done commuting-wise, but "gets the job done" is the ceiling of its ambition. Step up to any turbo trim if you care about this at all. The verdict and what you should actually buyFastest car here: Ford Bronco Sport Badlands, 6.1 seconds, no competition. If outright acceleration matters to you and you want something that can also handle a gravel road afterward, this is the answer. The performance differential over the base Bronco Sport is so significant that they barely share a comparison. Second place goes to the Toyota Prius, which continues to be a car that surprises people who decided what they thought about it in 2007 and never revisited that position. At 7.2 seconds and 57 mpg combined, it's an argument against the idea that you have to sacrifice something meaningful to drive efficiently. The turbocharged Civic slots in third at 7.5 seconds: close behind the Prius, better-handling than either of its rivals here, and significantly cheaper to insure and service over time. The base Civic LX is the slow one, and you should know that going in. The rankings: Bronco Sport Badlands, Prius, Civic turbo, Bronco Sport base, Civic LX. But "fastest" and "best" are different questions entirely, and none of these cars was built to answer the first one. View the full article

The logo on the hood used to be the whole point. You bought the German sedan or the British SUV because the badge told the world something about where you'd arrived. That calculus, according to a new survey from Mazda North American Operations, is eroding fast. In a study of recent car buyers, 81% said the experience behind the wheel, encompassing comfort, performance, and intuitive technology, is what makes a vehicle stand out. Only 19% pointed to the brand's badge. And when asked to define what "more" means in a vehicle, just 7% of respondents chose status or social recognition. Seven percent. That's fewer people than the margin of error in most political polls. Mazda What buyers actually want is less glamorous and far more practical. Space and practicality led the list at 40%, followed by value paired with quality at 36%. Advanced technology, driving enjoyment, and performance capabilities each came in at 30%. These are people who want a car that fits their life, not one that impresses the neighbors. The markup isn't worth itThe survey's sharpest finding might be this: 76% of respondents said the premium markup on traditional luxury brands isn't worth the money, and 83% believe buying a mainstream brand with a premium feel is the smarter choice. In a market where the average new car now costs north of $49,000, that's not an abstract opinion. It's a financial calculation that millions of buyers make every time they walk onto a lot. Earl Lee/Autoblog Mazda posed a hypothetical to drive the point home. If respondents received a $75,000 cash windfall, the top priorities were retirement savings (67%), paying down debt (65%), and emergency funds (64%). A full 61% said they'd invest in a new vehicle, but only 46% would direct that money toward a high-end luxury car. The rest would rather spend smarter on something that delivers the features they care about without the badge tax. This tracks with what the broader market has been signaling for years. Brands like Mazda, Hyundai, and Kia have been steadily climbing in interior quality, technology, and refinement, while some traditional luxury players have coasted on reputation. The CX-90, for example, sits in showrooms with Nappa leather, a 12.3-inch infotainment display, and a starting price that undercuts a comparably equipped BMW X5 by more than $15,000. Consumers have noticed. Safety is the new status symbol Chase Bierenkoven If the badge no longer defines premium, safety might. Seventy-five percent of survey respondents identified advanced active safety and driver-assist features as essential markers of a high-quality vehicle. That finding carries extra weight, given that Consumer Reports recently named Mazda its first-ever Safest New-Car Brand, a distinction that carries more credibility with buyers than most advertising campaigns could ever manufacture. "Drivers are shifting their focus to what genuinely improves their time on the road," said Jennifer Morrison, Director of Vehicle Safety Strategy at Mazda North American Operations. "Comfort, safety, and features that support real life are winning out over labels, and people increasingly recognize they don't need to pay luxury prices for an exceptional vehicle." The car as a quiet roomThe survey also surfaced something more personal. When asked what lifestyle sacrifices they'd make to drive their dream car for free for a year, respondents were willing to give up alcohol (59%), their favorite podcast (58%), new clothes (55%), social media (54%), and even a gym membership (52%). That's a level of emotional attachment that goes well beyond transportation. Mazda For parents, especially mothers (40% of whom agreed), the car is often the only quiet space in a day filled with school pickups, work calls, and the general chaos of running a household. For Gen Z drivers, 45% said the car is where they feel most like themselves, whether that means singing along to a playlist, decompressing after class, or just sitting in the driveway for five extra minutes before walking inside. But the standards for how you behave in that space are high. Respondents said they won't judge someone by the brand they drive, but they will absolutely judge texting while driving (75%), not wearing a seatbelt (68%), or a car that smells like it lost a fight with a fast-food bag (62%). What this means for the marketMazda commissioned this survey, so it's worth noting the obvious: the findings align neatly with the brand's own positioning as a mainstream automaker that delivers a premium experience without luxury pricing. That doesn't make the data wrong, but it does mean the framing is intentional. Still, the broader trend is real and supported by industry-wide sales data. Mainstream brands that have invested in interior quality, safety technology, and driving dynamics are gaining ground on legacy luxury names that have relied on heritage and badge equity to justify their pricing. The gap between a well-equipped Mazda CX-70, Hyundai Palisade, or Kia Telluride and an entry-level BMW, Audi, or Mercedes has narrowed to the point where many buyers are asking the obvious question: What am I actually paying for? View the full article

Last weekend at Hallett Motor Racing Circuit, in Jennings Oklahoma, the SCCA ran two days of Hoosier Super Tour races and we’ve got the livestream replay right here! These are some fun SCCA regional races and feature some cool cars that look like they would be a riot to drive near their limits. Check out the livestream replay below and let us know which ones you most want to drive. Video Description: The 2026 Hoosier Racing Tire SCCA Super Tour heads to Rounds 7 & 8 hosted by motorsports’ best kept secret: Hallett Motor Racing Circuit. An old-school, club-style circuit in the heart of the Osage Hills in northeastern Oklahoma, this 1.8 layout is as technical as they come and encourages excellent racing year after year. Join Brian Bielanski, Tom O’Gorman, and the DriversEye Live team for two full days of live coverage from one of the most celebrated stops on the calendar. Streaming kicks off at 8:00am CT on Saturday April 25 for Qualifying 1 and Sprint Race sessions before resuming at 8:00am CT on Sunday April 26 for Qualifying 2 and Feature Races. Don’t miss a minute! Saturday Schedule Qualifying 1: 20 Minutes Race 1: 25 Minutes / 22 Laps Maximum 8:00am – Group 1 Qualifying 1 (SRF3) 8:30am – Group 2 Qualifying 1 (FF, FV, F6) 9:00am – Group 3 Qualifying 1 (SM, SMX) 9:30am – Group 4 Qualifying 1 (FA, FC, FE2, P, P2) 10:00am – Group 5 Qualifying 1 (EP, FP, HP, B-Spec) 10:30am – Group 6 Qualifying 1 (GT1, GT2, GTX, AS, T1, T2) 11:00am – Group 7 Qualifying 1 (STU, STL, T3, T4) LUNCH BREAK 12:20pm – Group 1 Race 1 (SRF3) 12:55pm – Group 2 Race 1 (FF, FV, F6) 1:30pm – Group 3 Race 1 (SM, SMX) 2:05pm – Group 4 Race 1 (FA, FC, FE2, P, P2) 2:40pm – Group 5 Race 1 (EP, FP, HP, B-Spec) 3:15pm – Group 6 Race 1 (GT1, GT2, GTX, AS, T1, T2) 3:50pm – Group 7 Race 1 (STU, STL, T3, T4) The post Free Livestreaming Road Racing Replay: The 2026 SCCA Hoosier Super Tour at Hallett Motor Racing Circuit – FULL WEEKEND Coverage LIVE! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Aprilia doubled down on its Jerez weekend authority at Monday’s official MotoGP test, with Ai Ogura edging Raul Fernandez in a Trackhouse 1-2 and Marco Bezzecchi making it three RS-GPs in the top three before the championship moves on to Le Mans. The post Aprilia tightens grip at Jerez test as Ogura pips Fernandez in Trackhouse 1-2 appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

A More Powerful Z Is PossibleSpeaking with The Drive during a podcast, Nissan North America Senior Vice President and Chief Planning Officer Ponz Pandikuthira let it slip that a more powerful version of the company's sports car could be coming in the future. "I do see performance upgrades in the future of the Z, that twin turbo is capable of a lot more power and output that are compatible obviously with the latest emissions," he said. Nissan "So I do see performance versions coming out, special limited series," Pandikuthira added. How much power could these limited edition Z variants deliver? The base Z produces 400 hp from its 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, while the Nismo is tuned to 420 hp; 500 hp isn't out of the realm of possibility, the executive hinted. We know this engine can produce 460 hp in the Armada Nismo, but that vehicle features a 3.5-liter displacement. Leaning On Heritage Nissan While the Z has not been a massive sales hit (no sports car sells in huge numbers in the US), the sports car is currently finding an unlikely audience among an older demographic of buyers. That is why Nissan will lean in with more special editions based on cars from its past. "It's going to be heritage based, Pandikuthira explained. "[Nissan will] go back to the authenticity of what Z was in the past. Create special editions that resonate with that heritage, and keep that animated cycle plan. Nissan won't just build it and then walk away. So you'll see a lot of that animation coming through special versions." Nissan says it would even like to build a convertible, but it depends on the company's success in the next two years. While we'd love to see a convertible Z, there are other models that sound just as interesting, like the rumored Silvia revival. View the full article

Toyota reported declining global vehicle sales for the second consecutive month in March, blaming a sharp drop in the Middle East and a model changeover for the RAV4 SUV for dwindling deliveries. The company said global vehicle sales shrank 7.3% from the same month a year ago to 897,871 vehicles, including sales of the Lexus luxury brand. In Japan, Toyota sales fell 7.8% to 142,225 units, while in overseas markets they were down 7.2% to 755,646 units. US Sales Affected by RAV4 Changeover, Tariffs Toyota In the United States, Toyota and Lexus sales dropped 8.5% to 211,617 units, with the automaker noting in the sales report that the decline was “due to a rebound from last year’s pre-tariff-driven demand, as well as the impact of the changeover to the all-new RAV4.” The automaker added that demand for hybrids and other models remained solid. According to a Toyota spokesperson cited by CBT News, there was a RAV4 supply issue, not a demand problem. The shortage is due to a production gap at Toyota’s Kentucky assembly plant, which has not yet fully retooled for the redesigned 2026 RAV4. For this reason, Toyota sold just 21,693 RAV4 SUVs in the US in March, compared to 41,509 a year ago. Year-to-date RAV4 sales stand at 59,869, down from 115,402 through the same period last year. In China, sales fell 8% to 142,706 units, with Toyota noting that sales remained on par with the previous year “amid an increasingly competitive market environment.” Toyota sales in China were supported by solid demand for models such as the Avalon and Camry. Toyota's Europe sales remained relatively steady, with a drop of 5.6% to 113,875 units. Middle East Sales Dropped by a Third Amid Regional War Toyota But the biggest decline by far was in the Middle East, where Toyota and Lexus sales collapsed by nearly 33% to 33,919 units. Toyota did not provide a reason for the sharp decline in sales in the region, but it’s safe to assume that had a lot to do with shipping disruptions in the context of the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran. Iran has blocked cargo ships from using the Strait of Hormuz, making it more difficult to deliver cars to buyers. The Middle East is a relatively small market for Toyota. Despite the dwindling sales, Toyota’s global production rose 2.1% in March from a year earlier, with stronger growth of 4.9% in the US and 7.7% in China. Production dropped 3.3% in Japan. According to Reuters calculations, Toyota was the world’s top-selling automaker for the sixth straight year in 2025 with 10.5 million units. In the fiscal year that ended on March 31, the Japanese automaker racked up record global sales of 10.48 million vehicles, achieving its highest-ever US deliveries and hybrid volume. When its subsidiaries Daihatsu Motor and Hino Motors are included, Toyota's total sales amounted to 11.28 billion, up 2.5% year-on-year and also a record. View the full article

In August last year, Stellantis revealed the Chrysler Pacifica Grizzly Peak concept at the Overland Expo in Colorado, giving its popular minivan an off-road-ready makeover. And according to the folks at Mopar Insiders, people in the company want to make it a real production vehicle that adventurous families can buy. The publication did not disclose its sources but said that insiders claim Chrysler is "seriously considering" producing something similar to the concept shown last year, with "momentum behind the idea [...] growing internally." So how would Stellantis go about such a project? Chrysler Pacifica Off-Roader Won't Be Too Hardcore Chrysler It's unlikely that a production-bound Pacifica off-roader would be as extreme as some of the options out there; it won't be produced on the basis of a body-on-frame SUV because that would be too expensive, but it would almost definitely be given all-wheel drive and the revised looks of the 2027 model. Instead, it's likely to take most of its cues directly from the concept shown last year. This wore 31-inch BFGoodrich KO2 all-terrain tires wrapped around 18-inch wheels and had been given raised suspension, going up 2.75 inches at the front axle and 2.5 inches on the rear. It also gained a roof rack with extra spotlights, a retractable awning, and space for a pair of traction boards and a spare tire. And inside, the third row of seats was replaced with a flat cargo panel to make living in the van easier. Related: Chrysler Dealers Need a New Model to Sell Beside the Pacifica—and They Need it Yesterday The concept was based on the most expensive trim, the Limited, with leather upholstery, orange seatbelts, and a big infotainment display, and it's possible that Chrysler opts for a less costly basis for the production version. Still, we'd expect the 115V outlet to carry over because the concept wanted to show how practical the Pacifica could be as an overlander and base of operations for adventures. That brings us to why Chrysler is thinking about such a model at all. Chrysler Needs New Offerings, and Off-Roading Is Popular Chrysler View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Chrysler's reveal of the Grizzly Peak concept explained why the brand was thinking about entering this portion of the market by saying the vehicle was "inspired by the growing number of recreational overlanding and van-life customers who value flexibility and a space to sleep." While that may seem like a relatively small niche to those who aren't in it, it's always growing, and with the Pacifica as the only vehicle in its roster, Chrysler needs to take advantage wherever it can. The company has been talking about expanding its offering, potentially by launching a new sedan and other vehicles, but since the brand doesn't appear to be a priority for Stellantis right now, it may have to make do with new versions of the Pacifica until it gets a real revitalization plan or fades into nothingness. Chrysler View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Tesla just quietly filed plans to commit over $25 billion in capital expenditures this year, but the massive corpus isn't meant for new passenger vehicle platforms. Instead, the automaker is focusing entirely on custom silicon, robotics, and artificial intelligence. Representing triple the capital they spent in 2025, this staggering financial pivot signals an expensive, calculated transition away from merely building cars and toward setting up factory production lines to support AI infrastructure and its underlying hardware. Elon Musk is actively converting his automotive empire into a hardcore AI and custom silicon infrastructure powerhouse, spearheaded by the newly announced Terafab project in Austin, Texas. Tesla What Terafab is, and Why Its Success is CriticalWhile the corporate narrative frames this as the inevitable evolution of an ultra-modern tech company, the underlying geopolitical situation tells a much darker, defensive story. The fate of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC)—the silicon-wafer production giant that supplies chips for the entire American automotive and tech sectors—remains precariously uncertain. For decades, the global automotive supply chain, as well as other supply chains, treated advanced microprocessors like any other raw material, essentially interchangeable modules. Today, the entire digital backbone of both Detroit and Silicon Valley is dangerously tethered to a single, highly vulnerable island: Taiwan. As Chinese militarization aggressively escalates at the Taiwan border, that foundational supply line is visibly fracturing. A localized blockade, an invasion, or even a sudden wave of severe trade sanctions wouldn't just delay the delivery of the next-generation tech; it would paralyze the American economy overnight. Tesla Tesla’s $25 billion Terafab pivot is an aggressive and well overdue insurance policy against that exact doomsday scenario. By introducing the capacity for 2-nanometer chip design, AI architecture, and robotics development completely in-house, Tesla is actively attempting to sever its fatal reliance on external supply chains, while also positioning itself to cater to all but the entire American economy. They aren't merely building a factory; they are frantically constructing a closed-loop supply fortress before the geopolitical powder keg across the Pacific finally ignites. How is American Auto Positioned?The broader domestic auto sector is watching this play out with a grim sense of realization. Legacy brands remain entirely captive to TSMC's survival. If the boats stop crossing the Pacific, Detroit doesn't just lose the high-stakes race for full autonomy—it loses the baseline hardware required to build a modern, heavily digitized car at all. Tesla The takeaway for the American auto industry is absolute, and it is expensive. The era of the globalized, monopolistic semiconductor supply is dead. If domestic automakers fail to aggressively diversify and secure their own localized, iron-clad chip pipelines, they are essentially outsourcing their entire corporate future to foreign military posturing - Tesla could end up being the nucleus around which American manufacturing achieves its invaluable autonomy. View the full article

Racing Beyond TrophiesThe beauty of manufacturers competing in motorsports is that races can be used to develop and validate powertrains that may eventually make their way into road-going models. That's exactly what Hyundai plans to do with a new high-performance engine set to be publicly tested at the Nürburgring 24 Hours. Hyundai has not disclosed many details, but the engine is expected to power future N models. In a press release, the Korean marque said the day-long race will serve as a real-world test of the engine’s performance and durability. In other words, it could be a major validation moment, especially if the cars complete the race without reliability issues. Hyundai A Prototype Under PressureThe pre-production engine will power two Elantra N1 RP cars in the SP4T class. Hyundai says it features “improved power and response characteristics with enhanced race capability while meeting current emissions standards.” For reference, the current Elantra N uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 276 horsepower. The “T” in SP4T suggests the upcoming engine will use forced induction, while the class allows up to 2.6 liters of displacement. Whether Hyundai has increased displacement remains unclear, but it would not be surprising to see output climb to around 300 horsepower. That would still trail the Honda Civic Type R’s 315 horsepower, but it would be a welcome upgrade for future Hyundai N buyers. In addition to the two Elantra N1 RP entries, Hyundai will field one Elantra N TCR in the TCR class as it seeks a sixth straight class victory. The main race, scheduled for May 16 to 17, will also mark the automaker’s 11th consecutive appearance at the event. Hyundai A Track Record That MattersHyundai has used this approach before. In 2016, the company entered an i30 fitted with a prototype 2.0-liter Theta engine. After the car completed the 24-hour race, the i30 N was introduced in 2017, which marked the start of its performance N lineup. Over the next three to four years, Hyundai reportedly plans to add more N models. That could make the brand more competitive with Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division, which already has a broad performance portfolio that includes the GR86 and the upcoming GR GT halo car. With the automaker describing the program as “A New Era Begins,” it will be worth watching how the new powertrain performs in one of motorsport’s toughest proving grounds next month. Hyundai View the full article

The Skyline has become an iconic name for Nissan fans in America, despite the model never being sold here in that form. We've had the Infiniti G35 and G37, as well as the Q50, but never the Skyline, and while the next-generation Skyline that Nissan recently teased is also not destined for the U.S., customers may be able to make it look like they bought a Skyline domestically, and not with aftermarket body kits, either. Speaking on The Drivecast podcast, Senior Vice President and Chief Planning Officer for Nissan North America, Ponz Pandikuthira, responded with one word when asked if Nissan might consider offering a JDM Skyline retrofit kit for the next Q50 sedan at U.S. dealerships: "Yes." How Nissan Could Provide the Skyline Experience in America Nissan The executive explained how the Skyline retrofit program might work by saying that whatever powertrain Nissan brings to North America "will be tunable," indicating that Nissan may be willing to offer factory support for aftermarket upgrades, and that may extend to a Skyline retrofit kit. "If we can offer it through the factory with all our warranties, we will," said Pandikuthira. "And sometimes, if the volumes are too small, it's actually a business better done with a tuner. We partnered with tuners before, so we could officially partner with them. And we would definitely consider that and make sure that the supply chain's in place, sharing the right mapping and ECU data so the tuner is well equipped to get a perfectly functioning car out there. So that's an absolute yes." It seems that Nissan's current head honchos are true car enthusiasts who understand that modifying is part of what helped the brand become so popular, both here and abroad, as evidenced by what else Pandikuthira said. Related: Nissan Is Getting Serious About Bringing the Silvia Back "What you're referring to [a Skyline retrofit kit] is a very interesting proposition, which we could very easily do, and which my planning team and I have really tossed around is, what if you have an Infiniti version because that's the right brand and the right demographic to bring in, but maybe there's some purists out there who'd be like, 'You know what? I'd like this to be like the Skyline that's in Japan or whatever car that's super authentic to the heritage of this. Help me make this.' And we would love to facilitate that." Pandikuthira conceded that it would be a very small group of buyers who would be interested in such a niche, but noted that "there's culture around it" and that those who do show interest are not the sort of people who would sell a car after a short time just for something new. What This Means for Skyline Fans in America Nissan/Youtube Pandikuthira's comments were far less vague than we're accustomed to, which not only indicates that Nissan has already seen a desire for the Skyline badge in the U.S., but also that the company itself is trying its absolute best to be a true enthusiast brand. Nissan's leadership, with "real car guy" Ivan Espinosa at the top, seems to understand that, while affordable but profitable everyday cars are critical, so is being perceived as desirable and fun, and tapping into the brand's heritage is how the culture spreads. With Pandikuthira responding to questions about a Skyline with factory backing in America resoundingly, Nissan no longer sounds like it's trying to keep its head above water. Instead, it's preparing to surf the waves. View the full article

A Sweet Restomod PlatformBefore the Gladiator, Jeep built the Scrambler based on the Wrangler's predecessor, the CJ-7. Also known as the CJ-8, production ran from 1981 to 1986, and not many were made during that time. About 28,000 were produced, making it one of the rarest series-production Jeeps ever. Despite its relative rarity, we've seen a fair bit of these Scramblers being restomodded. Oftentimes, it's with a larger V8 swapped in, and there's also the occasional Cummins swap. But the folks from Vigilante 4x4 upped the ante by sticking in a modern 392 Hemi under the CJ-8's hood. Vigilante 4x4 Meet the Vigilante ScramblerVigilante 4x4 is no stranger to sweet swaps when it comes to classic Jeeps. The Vigilante Scrambler simply continues that tradition, and it's done in a way that makes it a bit of a sleeper. Exterior-wise, it's faithful to the original Scrambler, so there are no over-the-top embellishments here. For the people who want to retain the purity of the classic version, that's good news. The same goes for the interior, although it gets more comfortable-looking seats and a more modern audio system. No touchscreens present, of course. That said, this isn't just a Scrambler with a 392 swap. The frame gets a fair bit of mods to handle the additional power, and the body gets a high-strength replacement aluminum tub. It also gets an Atlas II transfer case, courtesy of Advance Adapters, while Currie Enterprises provides a Dana 44 (front) and Dana 66 (rear) axles for the Jeep. A new, heavy-duty steering box is also part of the long list of mods, along with Baer 6-Piston brakes with 14-inch cross-drilled and slotted rotors. Vigilante 4x4 Build Your OwnThe best part isthere's a configurator that lets you visualize your ideal Scrambler restomod. There are 13 colors to choose from, all inspired by Jeep's back catalog. One can also choose from 8 decal patterns, the first set taking cues from 1981 to 1982 models, while the latter from 1983 to 1984 models. Three wheel styles are on offer, along with three interior color combinations. It can be ordered with a Safari Top, Soft Top, or no top at all. You can have any engine you want, as long as it's that 392 Hemi and left untouched, so it makes 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. It's a brand-new crate engine, too. Oh, and there's a choice of a Tremec five-speed manual or a beefed-up GM 4L80E four-speed automatic from Bowler Performance. So, how much for all of these? According to the configurator, it starts at $260,000, though the only option seems to be the automatic transmission, which costs $15,000. Of course, there's also the matter of finding a suitable donor vehicle. Given all the work that will go into it, it's no surprise it'll cost that much. Worth it? For a well-heeled Scrambler fanatic, it's no big deal. It'll certainly be rarer than the upcoming Hemi-powered Gladiator that should be coming this year. Vigilante 4x4 Vigilante 4x4 View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Late April is still delivering winter across the Rocky Mountains. The National Weather Service has Winter Weather Advisories active across mountain ranges of Montana, Wyoming, Colorado and Utah, with two shortwave troughs pushing snow into the high terrain today through early Tuesday. The Weather Prediction Center says snowfall rates of 1 to 1.5 inches per hour are possible across the Wasatch, Uinta and Absaroka ranges tonight. Wyoming Takes the Heaviest HitWyoming is the bullseye. The NWS office in Cheyenne issued a heavy snow warning for the Sierra Madre Range and Snowy Range, including the communities of Albany and Centennial, where 12 inches of heavy, wet snow is expected. Snowy Range Pass could see up to 20 inches over the next two days. Battle Pass tops the state forecast at 24 inches. The NWS warned that outdoor recreation could become dangerous, with hunters, hikers and snowmobilers at genuine risk of becoming disoriented in falling and blowing snow. Visibility could drop to a quarter mile or less across the highest terrain. Colorado Mountain Passes BuriedColorado is dealing with a broad-reaching system. The NWS Denver office is calling for up to 8 inches with 45 mph wind gusts across Berthoud Pass, Eisenhower Tunnel, Rocky Mountain National Park, Winter Park, Breckenridge, Cameron Pass and Rabbit Ears Range. Farther west, the NWS Grand Junction office warns of up to 12 inches in Crested Butte, Silverton, Monarch Pass, Molas Pass, Coal Bank Pass, McClure Pass and Trappers Lake. Grand Mesa stands out as the heaviest forecast in the state at 24 inches, matching Battle Pass in Wyoming for the most extreme totals in the region. The NWS travel warning is direct: heavy snow will reduce visibility to a quarter mile or less at times, and roads will become slippery in spots, especially through mountain passes. Utah and Montana Round Out the AdvisoriesIn Utah, Eagle Point Resort is forecast for 12 inches on top of the 10 to 12 inches the area received this past weekend. The NWS Salt Lake City office highlights the Wasatch and Uinta ranges as the zones most likely to see the highest snow rates tonight. Snow levels are hovering around 7,000 feet across the Utah-Nevada corridor. Montana has been hammered by repeated late-season storms over the past few weeks, with nearly 5 feet falling in several locations. This round adds up to 4 inches across communities from Sheridan to Hardin, with Daisy Pass expecting up to 10 inches. The NWS Billings office expects Montana's advisory to expire by noon Sunday, offering a brief reprieve. Why This Snow MattersThe Rockies are in rough shape heading into summer. The WPC notes that ranges across the region are classified anywhere from class 2 severe drought to class 4 exceptional drought. Every inch of late-season snow helps delay runoff and buy time for reservoir levels, even if nobody driving over Monarch Pass this week is thinking about water supply. This is also not the last round. OpenSnow is tracking a second storm system around April 30 to May 1, with substantial accumulations possible again before the calendar flips to May. If your vehicle is not ready for sudden winter conditions on a mountain highway, Autoblog's winter car readiness checklist covers tread depth, emergency kits and everything you need to know about driving in snow and ice. Roads & Highways Most Impacted:Wyoming Battle Pass (WY-70): Up to 24 inches Monday night through Tuesday. Closure likely.Snowy Range Pass (WY-130): Up to 20 inches Monday afternoon through Tuesday afternoon. Quarter-mile visibility, heavy wet snow.Colorado Grand Mesa (CO-65): Up to 24 inches Monday night through Tuesday. Highest totals in the state, near-certain closure.I-70 corridor through Eisenhower Tunnel and Vail Pass: Up to 8 inches with 45 mph gusts Monday evening through Tuesday morning. Traction law in effect, chain requirements for commercial vehicles likely.Utah Wasatch and Uinta ranges: Snow rates up to 1.5 inches per hour Monday evening through overnight. Snow levels around 7,000 feet.Eagle Point area (UT-143): 12 inches on top of 10-12 from the weekend. Accumulating through Tuesday morning.Montana Daisy Pass area near Beartooth Range: Up to 10 inches through early Tuesday.Sheridan to Hardin corridor (US-87/US-312): Up to 4 inches Monday into early Tuesday. Advisory expires noon Sunday, lightest-hit state.View the full article

IHRA acquires Empire Dragway. It has announced upgrades, expanded events, and a long-term investment in Northeast drag racing facilities.View the full article

It was one of the most epic victory celebrations in the history of motorsports on Sunday at Talladega Superspeedway. Carson Hocevar, who stands 6'4", sat on his door against the B-post and was able to work the clutch and throttle to be able to drive both ways around the track while personally waving to the attending fans following his win in the Jack Link’s 500. In fact, someone even ...Keep readingView the full article

After reaching the final quad at last year’s NHRA 4-Wide Nationals at zMAX Dragway, Alexis DeJoria entered Sunday’s eliminations looking to replicate that success at the season’s only four-wide event. Backed by a strong qualifying performance that secured the No. 5 seed, DeJoria and her Bandero Café Chevrolet SS Funny Car team advanced out of the opening round before falling short of a return trip to the final elimination quad. DeJoria rebounded from early traction issues in Friday’s opening qualifying session with a standout 3.932-second pass at 331.20 mph under the lights, vaulting from 14th to fifth in the order. Crew chiefs Mike Neff and Jonnie Lindberg sent DeJoria on another good run during Saturday’s first session where she posted a 3.993 E.T. before traction problems followed in the final round. With the No. 5 qualifying position locked in, DeJoria matched up against No. 4 qualifier J.R. Todd, No. 12 qualifier Hunter Green, and No. 13 qualifier Jeff Arend in the opening quad where she delivered a clean and competitive 3.962-second pass at 324.36 mph to advance alongside Todd. In the quarterfinal round, she made a decent 3.980-second run, but it wasn’t enough to outpace Todd and Ron Capps, who posted quicker E.T.s to advance, ending her bid for a first 4-Wide Wally trophy. “Ran a little slower than we had planned,” said DeJoria, who reached the final round at the season-opening Gatornationals with her new John Force Racing team last month. “It didn’t drop a hole, but it was pushing me downtrack. I was getting pretty close to the centerline, but luckily it was towards the end. I was giving the wheel input, and it was just not reacting, so right before I thought I was going to cross the centerline, I lifted and fortunately, missed it, but it wouldn’t have mattered anyway because we ran a 98. We’re doing well, we just need to touch up on some areas and get this thing going a little quicker. It’s consistent; we’re getting down the race track, we just need to get down there a little quicker.” DeJoria won’t have to wait long for another shot at the winner’s circle as the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series heads to Adel, Ga. near Valdosta this week for the NHRA Southern Nationals at South Georgia Motorsports Park, May 1-3. She will start the weekend ranked sixth in the Funny Car point standings, up one spot from the previous event. The post Alexis DeJoria Qualifies No. 5, Secures Quarterfinal Finish at NHRA 4-Wide Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Jasmine Salinas returned to the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour this weekend for the 4-Wide Nationals near Charlotte, marking the second-generation driver’s first time back in the seat for an NHRA event since the season-opening Gatornationals in Florida last month. Salinas and the Scrappers Racing/Valley Services Top Fuel team looked strong in qualifying at zMAX Dragway, making three solid passes out of four, but a parts malfunction during the first round of eliminations on Sunday ended their race day early. With 19 cars vying for a spot in the 16-car field, competition was at an all-time high at the season’s only four-wide event. In the opening round of qualifying, Salinas’ machine lost traction early to place her on the bump heading into Friday night’s session under the lights, but the team rebounded quickly with crew chiefs Todd Okuhara and Adem Cave sending Salinas on a 3.783-second at 331.77 mph ride to launch from 16th up to the No. 8 position. The team’s strong performance continued into Saturday with the third-year Top Fuel racer posting a run of 3.833 seconds in the heat of the day, which held up to be low E.T. of the round, before laying down another strong run of 3.864 seconds in the final session. With qualifying wrapped up, Salinas settled into the No. 9 spot, pitting her against No. 1 qualifier Shawn Langdon, No. 8 qualifier Spencer Massey, and No. 16 qualifier Dan Mercier in her first-round elimination quad. Salinas was looking to keep the momentum rolling Sunday morning, but a parts malfunction caused the engine to let go, ending the team’s hopes of advancing into round two. “It feels really good to be back running on the NHRA tour,” said Salinas, who spent her NHRA absence gaining seat time on the IHRA tour where she powered to a runner-up finish from the pole at the series’ season opener. “The four-wides have typically been pretty good for us. First round didn’t go our way, we ended up breaking a rear end, which then caused this whole chain reaction, and we hurt a bunch of parts. For a part-time team like ours, that really hurts our pockets. We really try hard not to do that. We have three weeks until we’re back on the track again for the IHRA Triple Crown, so we’re going to try and get some new parts between now and then. We haven’t been able to replenish any parts this year, so while that’s obviously not ideal, it does make us feel good that when you look at our competitors and what the top cars out here are running, we’re right there with them and we’re doing that on old parts. So, when we do get those new parts, we know we’re going to be a force to be reckoned with. “In qualifying, in Q3, we were low of the entire session and that was with the blower belt coming off at 800-feet, so that right there shows we’ve got a great car and a great program. I’m gaining a lot more confidence and a lot more seat time this year doing this hybrid schedule between the two series. The team that we’ve got is very seasoned and really badass, and to see that we’re a part-time team keeping up with a lot of these full-time cars with much bigger budgets, it’s giving us a lot of motivation and excitement. We’re going to keep working hard, and try and get the car together. I’m going to keep working to find sponsorship and get the money that we need to replenish our parts and hopefully, add more NHRA races to our schedule, but I’m really excited about our program this year.” Salinas will be back on track May 22 in Reading, Pa. for the IHRA Triple Crown. In Pro Stock Motorcycle competition, Salinas’ sister, Jianna Evaristo, advanced into round two after taking her bike straight down the groove in 6.788 seconds at 199.37 mph to win her quad. She then posted another good pass of 6.825 seconds, but it wasn’t enough to score a spot in the final round. The post Strong Qualifying Effort Highlights Jasmine Salinas’ NHRA Return at Charlotte 4-Wide Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

The Jack Link's 500 at Talladega was another memorable superspeedway race with high-drama, big wrecks, a new winner, and some of the same frustrations we've come to expect in these events. While Carson Hocevar became the 208th different winner in NASCAR Cup Series history, Chris Buescher just missed out on ending RFK's win drought. Here's a look back at the biggest winners and losers from ...Keep readingView the full article

Greg Anderson and his HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro had a great weekend at zMAX Dragway, his home track that also happens to be in the backyard of Rick Hendrick and his HendrickCars.com group. On Saturday at the 16th annual NHRA Four-Wide Nationals, Anderson drove to the 143rd No. 1 qualifier award of his career and grabbed the coveted Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge title as well, locking in valuable points that will come into play when the Countdown to the Championship begins in the fall. Sunday’s performance made it nearly a sweep for the most winning driver in the history of the class as he reached the final round of the main event. The four-wide format is known to throw even the most seasoned drivers a curveball or two, but in the first round of eliminations, Anderson was unhindered. His .028-second reaction time in his powerful HendrickCars.com Chevrolet was coupled with a 6.531-second pass at 209.46. That sent him ahead to round two, where his quick and fast 6.527, 209.39 vaulted him right into the four-wide final. There in the last round of the day, it was an all KB Titan Racing showdown that saw Matt Hartford defeating Cody Coughlin, (.024) 6.526, 210.05 to (.048) 6.529, 210.14, while Anderson was third (.060) 6.529, 210.31 and Matt Latino finished fourth (.021) 11.390, 78.39. Drivers who finish first and second in the final-round quad count the results as a final round, and the drivers in the No. 3 and No. 4 position are recorded by NHRA as semifinalists, despite competing in the last round of the day. “It was a great end of the weekend for KB Titan Racing, but I’m a little disappointed to not have that 75th anniversary Diamond Wally to hand to Mr. H,” said Anderson, who shifts his focus to the NHRA Southern Nationals, which will take place just one week from now. “When you have a car like I have, you’re excited to get to the next one. It’s a little easier to pick up your chin when you know you can try again in just a few days.” The next event on the 2026 Mission Foods Drag Racing Series is the NHRA Southern Nationals at South Georgia Motorsports Park in Valdosta, Ga., May 1-3. This story was originally published on April 27, 2026. The post HendrickCars.com Campaigner Greg Anderson Comes One Win Light Shy of a Charlotte Sweep first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

The Case Just Got SmallerThe lawsuit against the 2022–2023 Volkswagen Tiguan over alleged excessive oil consumption has received a new update in court. According to Car Complaints, a judge dismissed the nationwide class action and narrowed the case to seven states: Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New York, and Pennsylvania. By limiting the class-action lawsuit to fewer states, fewer owners could potentially be covered, resulting in a smaller payout and reduced financial risk for Volkswagen. The German marque argued that the plaintiffs cannot sue on behalf of Tiguan owners in other states because they “have suffered no injuries,” though the plaintiffs claimed that argument was premature. As the latest development shows, the court sided with the automaker. Volkswagen Under the HoodFor context, the plaintiffs argue that the 2.0-liter EA888 TSI engines in their 2022–2023 Tiguan SUVs burn too much oil due to insufficient piston ring tension, allowing oil to enter the combustion chamber. As a result, carbon builds up and oil levels drop faster, increasing maintenance and repair costs for owners while potentially affecting the vehicles’ resale values. While the nationwide class action has been narrowed, Volkswagen is still facing challenges in the case. The company argued that the plaintiffs failed to establish that their vehicles are likely to consume excessive amounts of oil in the future, but the judge disagreed. Another claim asks the court to “compel” Volkswagen to issue a recall to fix the issue. The automaker pushed back, arguing that no judge or jury has the authority to order a recall, since that responsibility falls to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Volkswagen The Recall DebateIf a recall were eventually issued, it would cost Volkswagen, as safety campaigns require free repairs and often reimburse owners who already paid out of pocket to fix the problem. It would also deal the brand a reputational blow, especially as it is already facing recalls of its all-electric ID.4 over reports of vehicles potentially catching fire, even when parked. While the case continues to develop, the EA888 TSI is also found in other Volkswagen models, such as the Jetta GLI, as well as in Audi vehicles, such as the Q3 and Q5. The engine was also the subject of a separate lawsuit over premature turbocharger failures, often caused by wastegate corrosion. That case was already settled in late 2025. Volkswagen View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

While Triumph’s official "Scrambler" models have been a mainstay of the modern classic scene since 2006, the term "scramble" is, at its heart, a verb. It describes the act of taking a road-going machine and preparing it for battle against dirt, sand, and mud. In the 1960s, this meant stripping a Bon... View the full article

Tesla’s Premium Charging Perk Moves Down the LineupFor a long time, free Supercharging was one of those small but meaningful extras that set the Model S and Model X apart. Even if it only lasted a year, complimentary charging made a real difference for owners who paid top dollar for Tesla’s flagship EVs. That era is wrapping up, though. Tesla is selling off the last Model S and Model X units, and even the $159,000 Signature Editions are already gone. Thankfully, one of their better ownership perks is now finding a new home. Tesla North America now says buyers of the Model 3 Premium and Performance in the US get a full year of free Supercharging. That’s a big change, since the Model 3 has always been the more affordable, mainstream option – not a flagship. New orders of Model 3 Premium & Performance now come with 1 year of free Supercharging 🇺🇸 Also, all Teslas pay the lowest Supercharging rates – all others pay a ~40% premium or need a subscription — Tesla North America (@tesla_na) April 24, 2026 But Not All Model 3 TrimsThe deal is for new orders from April 24 onward, but only if you pick the Premium (Long Range) or Performance Model 3. Standard Rear-Wheel Drive buyers miss out, and current owners don’t get the perk either. Tesla shared the update through its North America account on X, framing it as another advantage of staying within the Tesla ecosystem. Beyond the free year, the company also highlighted that Tesla owners continue to receive the lowest Supercharging rates across the network. Non-Tesla EV drivers using Superchargers typically pay roughly 40% more per kWh unless they subscribe for better access. That pricing gap reinforces one of Tesla’s strongest long-term advantages: direct access to the company’s massive fast-charging network without extra hoops. For most owners, the savings add up. If you drive a Model 3 for 12,000 to 15,000 miles a year, you could save around $800 to $1,200 on charging in that first year, depending on how much you use Superchargers. A Strategic Move as Tesla Looks AheadThe timing here is worth a closer look. Tesla usually uses free Supercharging to help sell its premium models, so seeing it offered on the Model 3 raises some questions. Some think Tesla might be getting ready to update the sedan and wants to move current inventory before the new version lands. But it could just come down to demand. The Model Y is still Tesla’s sales leader, but the Model 3 has it tougher now that the $7,500 federal EV tax credit is gone. Free charging gives buyers a reason to jump in without Tesla having to cut prices. Meanwhile, Tesla is investing more in self-driving and robotaxi projects. Perks like free charging don’t just help sell cars – they also get more owners using Superchargers, which means more real-world data for Tesla’s software team. Tesla View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Different Kind of M3Countless unorthodox car builds have surfaced over the years, and this one from Bleumode and NightRide.pl fits right in. Unveiled at Ultrace Germany last weekend, it features a BMW E30 M3 riding on four Suzuki GSX-R bikes. Not everyone will like it, but that reflects the nature of car culture – it is not meant to be one-size-fits-all. Just as some enthusiasts are not drawn to slammed cars with extreme camber, others may not connect with this concept. Still, Ultrace is exactly the kind of event where such builds belong, with organizers narrowing a massive global applicant pool into a little over 1,000 selected cars. This year also marked the first time in the event’s 15-year history that Ultrace was held outside Poland. A Build With Racing FlavorThis E30 M3 build blends car and motorcycle culture, finished in the orange Jägermeister livery made famous by BMW’s early-1990s touring car history. It evokes the same nostalgic motorsport appeal as liveries like the now-banned Marlboro scheme. Trying to justify the creation is a challenge, especially since even the builders do not offer a clear definition. NightRide.pl, a Poland-based crew known for working on cars like the BMW E30 and Honda Civic, said, “If you’re wondering what this is, I’m wondering the same thing.” The most fitting description may simply be an interpretation of combining a car and a motorcycle – described by the team as “just a cool thing, cool piece to look at.” As for functionality, the build does not appear to be drivable in its current form. The E30 M3 body was mounted on a custom frame supported by four Suzuki bikes. Larry Chen/Instagram Hit or Miss?It may not have served the conventional purpose of being driven, but it still drew attention to the event, whether for better or worse. For those less interested in experimental builds, Ultrace Germany also featured a wide range of standout cars, from classics like the Bugatti EB110 to widebody track-focused machines. BMW also showed up to the event to celebrate the M3’s 40th anniversary, which made the wild car-bike E30 build even more amusing. It is probably safe to say the Bavarian automaker never imagined an M3 being reinterpreted this way – but that is what gives the build its personality. Larry Chen/Instagram View the full article

Ron Capps’ red-hot start to the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season rolled on at the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals Sunday afternoon at zMAX Dragway as the three-time world champion secured his second win of the year in his third consecutive final round. Driving his NAPA Auto Care Funny Car at the fourth of 20 races this season, Capps qualified No. 1 and carried that momentum through eliminations. He defeated fellow past world champions Jack Beckman, Matt Hagan, and J.R. Todd in the final quad to score his 79th career victory, extending his points lead in the process. Capps posted a solid 3.988 E.T. at 321.65 mph on the board in Friday’s first qualifying session before throwing down a 3.883-second blast at 333.91 mph, one of just two 3.8-second passes in the second session, to finish Friday as the provisional No. 1 qualifier, earning three championship bonus points in the process. In the third qualifying session, which also counted as the first round of the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge, Capps recorded the quickest pass of the quad, a 3.957 E.T., to advance. He was the quickest of the quad again in the final with his 3.929 E.T., but came up just two-thousandths-of-a-second short to Jordan Vandergriff, who won on a holeshot. Capps was also the second-quickest and quickest driver overall in Saturday’s two qualifying sessions, respectively, earning another five total bonus points. Qualified No. 1, Capps and crew chief Dean “Guido” Antonelli continued their class-leading performance in Sunday’s opening round of eliminations as Capps fired off low E.T. of the round, a 3.865-second pass at 333.00 mph, to defeat Chad Green, Austin Prock, and Spencer Hyde. His 3.923 E.T. in the next round was the second-quickest of the semifinal quad, sending him into the final round. The finals were a showdown featuring four of the most accomplished drivers in the class. Capps moved first off the starting line and charged to a 3.905-second pass at 334.90 mph to finish first ahead of Beckman, Hagan, and Todd, and clinch his fifth zMAX Dragway victory. “The secret to this success is just surrounding yourself with great people,” said Capps, who will be inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America’s Class of 2027, it was announced last week. “I’ve been that way my whole career. I can’t believe I have as many trophies as I have, and it’s with all great people. The great Roland Leong taught me a lot about racing, how to be a great racer overall and a great person while you’re doing it, and to really respect everybody. Guido and the NAPA Auto Care guys gave me a great car today and I just didn’t want to mess anything up.” Charlotte was the fourth race for Ron Capps Motorsports as a two-car operation after adding Maddi Gordon and the Carlyle Tools Top Fuel team to the roster over the offseason. What could’ve become a distraction has instead strengthened the fifth-year organization. Capps started the season as the No. 1 qualifier at the Gatornationals, won the Arizona Nationals, reached the final round at the Winternationals, and now won the 4-Wide Nationals. “This all happens in December. I said that in Phoenix,” explained Capps, one of the recent additions to NHRA’s Top 75 Drivers list. “It’s all the effort during the off-weeks. To add a team like we did with Maddi and to watch that all come together with the partners we have like NAPA Auto Parts and Carlyle Tools and then Monster Energy coming on board, it’s special. We had Casey (VanKeuren) from Monster Energy here. She brings good luck for us all the time. We also had NAPA Premium Brakes Booster with Motorcar Parts of America, and Okuma on board this weekend. Maddi and I get to go visit NAPA headquarters this week, and to take this 75th anniversary diamond Wally there is going to be pretty awesome.” Following the midweek trip to NAPA Auto Parts headquarters in Atlanta, Capps and the NAPA Auto Care Funny Car team will roll into South Georgia Motorsports Park for the first time as it hosts the NHRA Southern Nationals, May 1-3. This story was originally published on April 27, 2026. The post Ron Capps Extends Funny Car Points Lead with Second Win in Four Races at NHRA 4-Wide Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Bartone Bros. Racing driver Sean Bellemeur drove his way into the NHRA history books this weekend at the zMAX Dragway NHRA Nationals, securing his 50th career national event victory. With the milestone win, Bellemeur becomes just the 25th racer in NHRA history – and only the third in the Top Alcohol Funny Car category – to reach the magic number. Bellemeur, the five-time and reigning Top Alcohol Funny Car world champion, piloted Tony Bartone’s famed “Pirate Ship” to victory with a pass of 5.38 seconds at 269 mph, further cementing his legacy as one of the most dominant drivers in the professional ranks. Entering the 2026 season with 48 wins, Bellemeur’s pursuit of 50 was one of the central themes of the team’s “#DriveFor6in26” championship campaign. “This team!” Bellemeur said. “That is what the hardest working team in drag racing, let alone Top Alcohol Funny Car, will get you. Here, at the shop and beyond, everyone involved has a piece of this milestone win. They deserve this more than I do. I am just along for the ride. I am a very lucky guy. “The game plan coming into the weekend was the same: just focus on the next run. We had a little adversity in the first run; the car didn’t want to go down the racetrack. Steve (Boggs) looked at it, and in the semifinal it ran pretty good, but I drove like an idiot – my words, not his. Man, we lit up that scoreboard in the final with a run of 5.38!” With this victory, Bellemeur joins a pantheon of drag racing legends. According to NHRA records, he is the 25th driver overall to reach 50 wins and the first in the Top Alcohol Funny Car class since Bob Newberry. Bellemeur was also recognized as one of NHRA’s top 75 drivers in history. He joins the late Pat Austin (75 wins) and Hall of Famer Frank Manzo (105 wins) as the only drivers in the Alcohol Funny Car category to reach the 50-win plateau. The 50th win caps a remarkable run for Tony Bartone’s team. Known as the “Killer B’s,” the team won the Gatornationals and followed up with a Baby Gators regional win to start the season. They are now undefeated in the first three events of the season. “We have a great crew, a strong crew chief and a fast driver. I knew we would do it; I just didn’t know when,” said team owner Tony Bartone. “The team worked hard on the car all weekend, and it resulted in a fast run. Getting Sean his 50th win is just an added bonus in a very young season. I am proud of this team and the effort they bring every weekend.” “We have a great crew of guys and girls on this ‘Killer B’ team,” Bellemeur continued. “It starts with Tony Bartone. He is a competitor and a winner. His drive and support, and just knowing what it takes to win, powers this whole organization. Hall of Famer Steve Boggs, and team members Troy Green, Nick Stoms, Justin Taylor, Garret Bateman, Brian Gawlik, Lauren McMaster and Matt Krebs all work so hard that driving this ‘Pirate Ship’ is just an honor.” The team extended a heartfelt thank you to its sponsors: Red Line Synthetic Oil, Roger Dean Chevrolet, Talon Air LLC, NGK Spark Plugs and McLeod, along with product supporters Simpson Performance Products and Taylor Motorsports Products. This story was originally published on April 27, 2026. The post Sean Bellemeur Powers to 50th NHRA National Event Win at Charlotte first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Ten races into the 2026 NASCAR Cup season, Richard Childress Racing has just one top ten finish as an organization -- a tenth by Kyle Busch this past weekend at Talladega Superspeedway. Jim Pohlman, who left behind a successful career as crew chief for Justin Allgaier in the NASCAR O'Reilly Series to take over crew chief duties for Busch, is now being moved off the pit box. Pohlman, who won ...Keep readingView the full article