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Alberto Puig will step aside from his long-held role as Honda’s factory MotoGP Team Manager at the end of 2026, with HRC moving him into a wider advisory role across its two-wheeled racing activities. The post Alberto Puig to step back from Honda MotoGP Team Manager role appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

One year ago, Larry Larson rolled into Shadyside Dragway for the Ronnie Buff Memorial Featuring King of the South as a relative unknown commodity in the small-tire racing world. But by the end of the weekend, the 5-time Hot Rod Drag Week winner was walking out with $75,000 and his own personal crown. Now he’s ready to head back to Shelby, N.C. on May 21-24 to defend his title. Driving his Harts Charger-powered ’66 Chevy Nova, Larson defeated Lyle Barnett in the Tommy Youmans-owned “Salvage Title” Mustang by a minuscule .004 margin of victory. Larson was moved to tears immediately following the win, calling it the biggest of his career. Now, with a year to reflect, Larson knows going back-to-back will be a difficult mountain to climb. “That win was a big deal, and it always will be,” says Larson. “We came in there without many runs on the car with small tires, so to go in there and beat the best of the best, that was huge. Now, a year later, everybody’s three or four tenths faster. It’s gonna be a completely different race this year. Everybody has picked up the pace, so it’s going to be crazy.” Larson carried his King of the South momentum throughout the rest of the season, culminating with a $40,000 True 10.5 win at the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals, the first race of the Drag Illustrated Winter Series. As the popularity of 28×10.5 racing has exploded, so has the competition, with cars now running in the 3.90’s. “We did well. We won the Snowbirds, and we ran good,” Larson says. “We’re trying some different things to try and pick things up, but once again, everybody else has caught up. You’ve got Russell Stone, Cory Reed, Kyle Canion…everybody has picked up the pace. I’m not going to go driving around some of these guys like last year. It wasn’t a runaway last year, and it’s darn sure not going to be one this year.” In addition to the 64-car King of the South Invitational, the event will include the 26×8.5-inch tire Knight of the South, Lil’ Gangstas, SC Raceworks Street Racer 6.30 Index, Bracket Misfits 16-car invitational, IHRA Teen Championship Race, and the $7,500-to-win Kettle Kings Concessions Practice Tree Shootout on Friday night. King of the South testing will be live streamed Thursday-Friday, May 21-22, via Spoold Media, while Saturday and Sunday’s eliminations will be broadcast on FloRacing. Fans planning to attend the race in person will want to arrive early, as the event is likely to sell out. Last year, the fire marshal was forced to close the gates on Saturday afternoon as Shadyside had reached maximum capacity. The atmosphere of having such a huge crowd at a smaller venue makes the racing that much more intense, something Larson thoroughly enjoys. “It’s a really cool venue. It’s the [Ronnie Buff] Memorial race, which makes it special too,” says Larson. “It’s one of those backwood tracks that’s been there forever, and the fans come out of the woodwork. They had to shut the gate [last year]. They quit taking on race cars at a certain point because the pits were full. It’s just a crazy place. There’s so many things about it that are just silly crazy, but in the same token, that’s what makes it what it is. It’s just a cool, cool event, and I’m a really looking forward to it.” Spectator tickets will be available at the gate. Fans can watch testing on Thursday and Friday for $20 per day; eliminations take place on Saturday and Sunday, which are both $35 per day. A “King Pass” is also available for $80, allowing spectators to attend all four days. Fans can subscribe to FloRacing at www.FloRacing.com and watch the livestream via the following link: https://flosports.link/4rO8QAL This story was originally published on May 14, 2026. The post Larry Larson Ready to Defend His Crown at $75,000 King of the South Small-Tire Invitational first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

We’ve got live drag racing coming to you from Division 4! It’s Lucas Oil Drag Racing at it’s finest and every pair that goes down the race track is right here live. If you like Sportsman Drag Racing, where wheels-up action is the norm, then this is the racing for you. We’re talking Stock, Super Stock, Comp, Alcohol classes, and more right here from the Texas Motorplex in Ennis! Check it out and let us know what you think! The post FREE LIVE DRAG RACING: NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Division 4 At The Texas Motorplex – Thursday appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

In April 2026, BYD exported 135,098 vehicles — every single one of them either fully electric or a plug-in hybrid. That number, striking on its own, becomes remarkable when you hold it up against Tesla's likely global deliveries for the same month. Tesla doesn't publish monthly figures, only quarterly ones, which means we're working with an informed estimate. But the math by CleanTechnica tells a fairly clear story. Tesla delivered 358,023 vehicles in the entire first quarter of 2026. Divide that by three, and you get roughly 119,000 — and that's before accounting for the well-established pattern where Tesla front-loads deliveries toward the end of each quarter. In other words, BYD exported more cars than Tesla sold globally, and did it without touching the American market, which remains closed to Chinese automakers. BYD View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article A Domestic Powerhouse With a Growing Global FootprintThe export figure is only part of the April story. BYD's total passenger vehicle sales for the month came to 314,100 units. Subtract the 135,098 exported, and you get roughly 179,000 sold at home in China. That domestic base remains the engine of BYD's scale, even as competition inside China has intensified sharply, with rivals like Geely and Xiaomi chipping away at its market share. BYD's export volume, achieved despite US tariffs, EU surcharges, and no access to the world's wealthiest consumer market, is a different kind of statement. Legacy Automakers and Tesla Are Both Feeling the HeatThe pressure BYD is applying isn't limited to Tesla. Across more than 20 markets, including Thailand, Brazil, and Israel, BYD has already overtaken Tesla in sales. In Europe, where the EU slapped Chinese EVs with additional tariffs following an anti-subsidy investigation, BYD still managed to register more battery-electric vehicles on the continent than Tesla last year. Models like the BYD Seal and the Dolphin are undercutting domestic rivals on price while matching or beating them on features and safety ratings. The rise of a company that Elon Musk once openly laughed about is now everyone’s problem. View the full article

This one was really fun. Our friends Marcel and Jason, the guys behind Auto Revolution and their Car Guy Confessions, Influence and Impact, and several other podcasts, invited me and our friend Jefferson Bryant onto Car Guy Confessions with Jeff Smith during the Grand National Roadster Show in Pomona a few months ago and we had a great time. As is typical with me and Jefferson, we had no problem keeping up with, and sometimes talking over Jeff Smith, but man did we have fun. I want to thank Jeff and Marcel and Jason for having us, and say that it was a pleasure. I still pinch myself sometimes when I think about all the cool people I get to hang out with. I mean Jeff Smith. This dude is a legend, and I’m really thankful for getting to become friends with him over the years. This dude, like Freiburger and several others, has done it all and shaped an entire generation of hot rodders and racers and for that I’m thankful. I read everything he wrote in Car Craft and Hot Rod back in the day and can tell you that my dad’s stick shift racing, and Jeff Smith’s stick shift articles, shaped me into the three pedal fan that I am today. So strap in kiddos and see what kind of trouble Jefferson and I get into in this one. We had a great time telling stories and being a part of the show, so watch this one from start to finish and then let me know what your favorite part was, or the thing you didn’t know about us before watching. Video Description: With Jeff Smith, Cam Benty and Steve Strope Presented by ARP Jeff sits down with Chad Reynolds from Bangshift and Jefferson Bryant to talk drag racing, Buick muscle cars and Corvette body mold making. See more from Chad Reynolds at www.bangshift.com and Jefferson Bryant at @reddirtrodz Visit ARP Bolts at https://www.arp-bolts.com for all of your engine fastener and hardware needs. Recorded at the Grand National Roadster Show. Checkout Rod Shows at @grandnationalroadstershow and https://www.rodshows.com/. Checkout OBS Truck Parts for your 88-98 at https://www.obsclash.com/ For more automotive podcasts, videos and TV shows, visit Auto Revolution at https://www.autorevolutiononline.com/ The post Car Guy Confessions With Jeff Smith – Bangshift’s Chad Reynolds and LS Swap Book Author Jefferson Bryant Steal The Show! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Ducati cops another fuel-flow reduction ahead of Most, Yamaha gets a concession boost, and Nicolo Bulega arrives in Czechia still unbeaten in 2026. The post Ducati squeezed again as Bulega rolls into Most unbeaten – Preview appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Here we go with more awesome vintage F1 action from the streets of Monaco! The Monaco Historic Grand Prix is one hell of an event, and it’s back after a few years off! If you dig old race cars, you are going to love this. And the way that it is organized at Monaco is something special. They organize the F1 races based on years, and they livestream the entire weekend. We shared the livestream already, and if you missed it then use the link below. But if you just want to see the independent races, we’re going to share those as well, and the first one is down below. This is the Pre War Formula 1 race and just look at how sexy these old race cars are! CLICK HERE IF YOU MISSED THE MONACO HISTORIC LIVESTREAM The post Pre-War Perfection: Formula One Racing Action From The Monaco Historic Grand Prix appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Mario Andretti was a household name when I was growing up watching him race at the Indy 500 and such. His career is insane, with more wins and championships than you can shake a stick at. But what really set Mario Andretti apart was just how much racing he did, in a variety of cars and racing types. He’s won at Indy, in F 1, at Daytona, and more. In Formula One cars, Indy cars, sports cars, stock cars, and more. There wasn’t anything he wouldn’t drive if given the chance, and back then this was not the norm. As a result, younger Andrettis that followed would race in even more categories, including NHRA drag racing! The life and times of Mario Andretti are a story of the American Dream and the will to succeed, and we love it. Check it out below and let us know what you think. Video Description: We’re excited to announce that we’ll be celebrating all things Americana at the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard. The Americana Celebration presented by Bank of America will have the very best of motorsport from across the pond. The godfather of American racing is undoubtedly – the great Mario Andretti. As part of our F1 champions celebration last year, we sat down with Mario in our cosy Tyrrell Shed to reminisce about one of the best careers in motorsport. More Americana announcements will follow soon, but for now, please spend an hour with Mario and his Lotus 79. The post The Mario Andretti Story: Racing’s Most Versatile Driver? America’s Greatest American Racer? Watch appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Roughly two months after its debut in Thailand, where it is built for the local and global markets, the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ has launched in Japan. The compact, rugged off-road SUV has officially gone on sale in Japan today with a single engine, a single trim level and a price that makes it the most affordable Land Cruiser-badged SUV in Toyota's home market. At This Price, Is the FJ the Most Desirable Toyota or What? Toyota The Land Cruiser FJ starts at 4,500,100 Japanese yen, which is the equivalent of $28,500 at the current exchange rate, undercutting the classic Land Cruiser 70 by about $3,500. The FJ will also be available in Japan as part of the Kinto subscription service for a monthly fee of 38,390 yen (about $243). In addition to the FJ and 70 Series, Toyota also sells the 250 Series (marketed as the Land Cruiser in USA) and 300 Series Land Cruiser models in Japan. The 70 Series and 300 Series Land Cruisers are not available in the United States—unless you want it as a more luxurious Lexus LX. Toyota Back to the Land Cruiser FJ, it’s available in Japan with only one engine, a naturally aspirated 2.7-liter four-cylinder rated at 161 hp and 178 pound-feet of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed Super ECT torque-converter automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels via a part-time 4WD system. Toyota says the engine achieves a fuel economy of 8.7 km/L in WLTC mode, which is the equivalent of 20.5 MPG U.S. Well-Equipped and Roomier Than You Think Toyota The Land Cruiser FJ is available in only one trim level called VX, which includes roof rails, side steps, front skid plate, and a rear-mounted spare tire on the outside. Customers can also choose between five body colors, including Smoky Blue and Oxide Bronze Metallic. Standard interior features include a multifunction steering wheel, 12.3-inch display with Connected Navigation support, Panoramic View Monitor that sends live feeds from the vehicle’s exterior cameras to the main screen to provide a 360-degree, bird's-eye view of the surroundings, and Blind Spot Monitor. The Toyota Safety Sense active safety suite is also standard and includes advanced functions such as the Pre-collision Safety System and Lane Departure Alert. Despite the fact that the FJ is almost 14 inches shorter and 4.5 inches narrower than a Land Cruiser 250 (the wheelbase is also 9.5 inches shorter), it offers seating for five and a generous trunk, thanks in part to its boxy design; the cargo volume is 28 cubic feet with all five seats in place. The second-row seat comes with a 60:40 split and it also slides forward and backward, reclines, and includes seat backboards. The second row is placed significantly higher than the front seats, enabling better forward visibility for rear passengers—although we’re not of the impact that has on headroom. It Beats the Land Cruiser 250 at Key Off-Road Metrics Now, when it comes to the Land Cruiser FJ’s off-road capability, the ladder-frame chassis adapted from Toyota’s IMV platform shared with the Hilux pickup is a prerequisite for top performance off the beaten track, especially since the lateral frame rigidity has been enhanced by shortening the wheelbase and adding braces. Additionally, the body structure features lightweight high-tensile strength steel plates, while the underfloor benefits from additional spot welding to improve vibration damping, which is said to enhance ride comfort while maintaining excellent handling stability. Toyota Compared to the Land Cruiser 250, the FJ has equivalent ground clearance but superior approach and departure angles (15 degrees greater), while wheel articulation is equivalent to the legendary 70 Series. Furthermore, the short wheelbase is said to enable excellent maneuverability and a minimum turning radius of 5.5 meters (18 feet). Toyota will also offer a series of dealer-installed options that include exterior accessories by ARB (skid plate, roof rack and rock rails), Molle panels for the side of the trunk and the rear door, as well as body decals, among other customizing options. View the 11 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

After a while, a lot of custom designs tend to blend into a homogenous soup: variations on a standard recipe, slightly tweaked by the individual chefs.A handful of top builders specialize in less mainstream flavors though. One of them is Calum Pryce-Tidd of the south London workshop deBolex Engineer... View the full article

There is no direct comparison since this was the first NASCAR Cup Series race at Watkins Glen to take place during the spring but the Go Bowling at The Glen on FS1 earned an average of 1.928 million viewers and a 1.06 rating according to Nielsen’s Big Panel + Data metric. This is the lowest rated race of the season, won by Shane van Gisbergen, this race barely dropping below Bristol’s ...Keep readingView the full article

The NASCAR All-Star Race changes formats ... often. The Sanctioning Body are not shy about using the race as an experiment, but this year marks quite a dramatic change. First, the All-Star Race heads to Dover, Delaware for the very first time. The 'Monster Mile' will not host a points-paying race for the first time since 1968, but it will play host to the All-Star Race this weekend. NASCAR also ...Keep readingView the full article

Randy Pobst can wheel a race car, and on too many occasions to count we’ve seen him do it. But he also enjoys a quick and fast street car which means that upgrades are often in order. In the video series starting below, we’ll see his 1977 Pontiac Trans Am get some suspension love. But don’t think that this is some old original worn out machine that is getting the upgrades so they can show a huge improvement. No, this car has had a bunch of work done to it to get it into ship shape, and now it’s time for more. More grip, more control, more adjustability, and above all else, more fun. CLICK HERE IF YOU MISSED AN EPISODE Video Description: On this episode we’re getting Randy’s car into the shop and under the knife. While we review the products that are about to find their way on to the Randit, the rest of the team starts on disassembly. The post Randy Pobst’s Randit Suspension Overhaul: Episode 2 of 5 – His Bandit Trans Am Gets New Suspension Installed! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Google has announced a big makeover for Android Auto that will benefit more than 250 million cars compatible with the smartphone-mirroring app. The next generation of Android Auto brings a host of improvements, including a new visual and usability experience, premium entertainment, and better integration with the Gemini AI virtual assistant. Designed to Fit on Every Screen with Edge-to-Edge Google MapsThe 2026 Android Auto refresh is immediately obvious from a graphics standpoint as Google says the app is now “tailored to fit and look great on any car screen, whether it's an ultrawide rectangle, a circle or a unique shape.” In addition, the update brings personal design touches, widgets users can see at a glance (even when navigating), and edge-to-edge Google Maps on the vehicle dash. More specifically, Android Auto gets the Material 3 Expressive design from Android phones featuring expressive fonts, smooth animations and wallpapers. Users can also add a shortcut to their favorites contacts, a one-tap garage door opener, a weather overview, and more. Google But the biggest upgrade is Immersive Navigation, which Google calls the “biggest update to Google Maps in over a decade.” The map adopts a fresh look with a vivid 3D view that shows buildings, overpasses and terrain, while critical details like lanes, traffic lights and stop signs are highlighted to help drivers navigate tricky turns. Full HD Video Playback—Including YouTube Google Changes are equally big on the entertainment side of things, as Android Auto introduces the possibility to watch videos on apps like YouTube—only when stationary, obviously. Cars that support 60 fps full HD video playback will be the first to get the feature later this year. Those include vehicles from BMW, Ford, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Skoda, Tata, and Volvo. Interestingly, when the driver switches gears from parked to drive, videos don’t abruptly stop; they just transition to audio-only in apps that support background audio. 2026 Android Auto also introduces immersive, spatial sound using Dolby Atmos in supported apps and cars, starting with BMW, Genesis, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Škoda, Tata, and Volvo. Furthermore, media apps, including YouTube Music and Spotify, are getting visual updates that will make them easier to use in the car. Gemini Is More Helpful, Especially If Your Phone Has Gemini Intelligence Google Google's Gemini AI is now widely available in Android Auto to help users get more done, brainstorm ideas or learn something new while driving. And if your smartphone has Gemini Intelligence, it will be available in the app later this year. Gemini Intelligence allows the device to understand your context, anticipate your needs and get things done on your behalf, according to Google. For example, “if you get a text from a friend asking for an address, Magic Cue will understand the context of the question, find the answer using information from your text messages, email or calendar, and offer to send a reply with the right information, all in a single tap.” Gemini Intelligence also allows users to order dinner while driving, starting with Doordash. View the full article

History could be made at Beech Bend Raceway Park in two weeks when Top Fuel driver Cameron Ferre takes a shot at the track record during the Speedfest event, May 28-30. Speedfest combines three street-legal drag racing series (Sick, Street Car Takeover, and Braggin Rights) with a thrilling package of horsepower including jet funny cars, a laser show, and Ferre in the Freeman Top Fuel Dragster. Ferre, who recently went to the final round of Top Fuel at the IHRA Spring Nationals in Columbus, Ohio, said the team is excited to be making an appearance in Kentucky. “The Freeman team is based out of Huntsville, Alabama, so they are extremely excited to make runs so close to home,” Ferre said. “There aren’t many options to run a Top Fuel Dragster in Alabama itself, so it’s going to be great for our local fans. “I am very excited to make some laps at Beech Bend,” added Ferre. “It’s a great facility and I have been there many times for other events over the years, but have never got the chance to make any passes. Hopefully we can put a big number on the board for all the fans!” The number Ferre would especially like to put up is anything quicker than 5.15 seconds over the quarter-mile, which is the current track record for Beech Bend Raceway Park. The team certainly has experience on their side, with team owner Jerry Freeman a veteran of Top Fuel. He has raced in places as far afield as Japan and Puerto Rico across his career in the sport. “We have our sights set on that record for sure,” Ferre said. “After a great performance last week at the IHRA event where we went to the finals, I think that we have a great shot of putting the Freeman Top Fuel Dragster in the record books of Beech Bend Raceway Park!” The nitro-fueled dragster will not be the only highlight of Speedfest, with flame-throwing jet cars and a spectacular laser show adding to the atmosphere. Speedfest will take place across three days of action. Thursday, May 28 will feature tech and testing, followed by qualifying on Friday, May 29 and racing on Saturday, May 30. The Freeman Top Fuel team will make their record attempts on both Friday and Saturday night. Online discount tickets are now available at sickthemagazine.com/speedfest. Kids 12 and under are free, so don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime drag racing show! The post Beech Bend Track Record Under Threat From Top Fuel Dragster at Speedfest first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

The Pricing Finally Makes More SenseWhen Volkswagen finally launched the ID. Buzz in America, the reaction was a bit mixed. People still loved the idea of a modern electric Microbus, especially one that looked this close to the original Type 2. But once pricing entered the conversation, enthusiasm cooled off pretty quickly. The ID. Buzz started at over $60,000 in the US, which made it a tough sell for buyers expecting something more approachable from a vehicle built largely on nostalgia. That became an even bigger issue once some dealers began stacking markups on top of MSRP, with a few examples reportedly climbing into six-figure territory during the early rollout. To be fair, the ID. Buzz itself isn’t the problem. It’s roomy, quirky, comfortable, and still one of the most recognizable EVs on sale today. The issue was always whether buyers were willing to spend luxury SUV money on a retro-styled electric minivan with modest range figures. That’s starting to change as dealers across the US are now cutting prices on leftover 2025 inventory, with some listings dropping into the mid-$40,000 range. At those numbers, the ID. Buzz becomes a much more reasonable option. Volkswagen Discounts Are Getting Surprisingly AggressiveAccording to dealer listings cited by Elektrek, some 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz Pro S models are now being advertised for less than $49,000 before additional incentives. One Illinois dealer reportedly listed a new unit at around $48,365, while other stores in Georgia, Ohio, Indiana, and California were also showing sizable markdowns. In some cases, discounts have topped $15,000 when dealer incentives and Volkswagen bonuses are combined. One Indiana listing even dropped the price into the low $40,000s after all discounts were applied. The ID. Buzz uses a 91-kWh battery and is rated for up to 234 miles of range in rear-wheel-drive form. Standard models make 282 horsepower, while the AWD 4Motion version bumps that to 335 horsepower, though with a bit less range. Range is still not a strong point, especially next to rivals like the Kia EV9 or Hyundai Ioniq 9, which both offer better efficiency and value on paper. But neither of those options brings the same personality as the ID. Buzz, which is still the only EV that fully embraces classic van nostalgia. Volkswagen VW is Already Looking Ahead to 2027Part of the reason dealers appear eager to move inventory is that Volkswagen has already confirmed there won’t be a 2026 ID. Buzz for the US market. The company previously said it was pausing the model for America following an assessment of current EV market conditions. Instead, Volkswagen plans to focus on clearing existing inventory before preparing for a 2027 return. VW hasn’t fully detailed what that larger 2027 plan looks like yet, though the move suggests the automaker may be repositioning the ID. Buzz for a more serious second attempt in the American market. In the meantime, buyers willing to overlook the range limitations may finally be able to see the ID. Buzz at the price it probably should’ve launched with from the start. Volkswagen View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Quick 32 Sportsman Series will open its season by competing in the John Scotti Canadian Championship Series during the NHRA National Open double-headers at Toronto Motorsports Park, scheduled for Victoria Day Weekend, May 16-17. The John Scotti Canadian Championship Series at the NHRA National Open double-header will feature classes including the Quick 32 Sportsman Series (Top Dragster and Top Sportsman), Can-Am Stock/Super Stock Series, Nostalgia Super Stock, Super Comp, Super Gas, Super Street, and Junior Dragster. Competitors can earn NHRA grade points, which determine eligibility for major NHRA events and provide an opportunity to win a Wally, the most prestigious trophy in drag racing. “I cannot wait to open the 2026 season. It has been a long winter, and what better way than at Toronto Motorsports Park on Canada’s Victoria Day Weekend with our series,” said John Scotti. “The calibre of entries this weekend will be outstanding. All we need is a little help from Mother Nature; we are due.” The winning Quick 32 Sportsman Series (Top Dragster and Top Sportsman) team will receive a $2,000 bonus, and the runner-up will receive a $1,000 bonus, over and above the posted purse each day, courtesy of Fletch Racing and Engineered Racing Services, which has posted the Bounty Hunter Award for events of the 2026 season. “I have been at race tracks on Victoria Day Weekend all of my life,” said Bruce Mehlenbacher. “Cayuga is well known for hosting the May 2-4 Kick Off to Summer for over 50 years.” The event will feature two days of qualifying and eliminations on Saturday and Sunday, with a Test & Tune session on Friday. The Quick 32 Sportsman Series will compete at the John Scotti Canadian Championship Series during the NHRA National Open double-headers at Toronto Motorsports Park in Cayuga, Ontario. Events are scheduled for Victoria Day Weekend, May 15-17, and Labour Day Weekend, September 4-6, 2026. The post Quick 32 Sportsman Series to Kick Off 2026 Season in Style first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Constant EvolutionThere are classic automotive shapes that simply cannot be changed dramatically. A prime example of that is the Porsche 911. We still remember the uproar over the 'fried egg' headlights on the 996, a seemingly minor thing that led fans to raise their figurative pitchforks. Another example is Mini, and the rebirth of the car in 2001 was, thankfully, met with a strong reception. It's always risky to modernize a classic shape, but so far, the company has been doing a fine job of it for the past 25 years. The Mini lineup has since expanded to several models, but the cars still retain the character one expects from the brand. Mini Expect Big ChangesOf course, the challenge for any automaker is where to go next. It's an even bigger one for Mini, as one could say it's constrained by its design language. Still, that's not stopping newly minted design chief Holger Hampf from taking on that monumental task. Speaking to Autocar, the designer didn't lay all the cards on the table just yet when it comes to setting a new direction. He did, however, say enough for us to expect significant changes in Mini's design. "You will see my work in an upcoming LCI," said Hampf. By that, he means Life Cycle Impulse, which is BMW-speak for a facelift. That means we can expect a couple of Mini models to get refreshes down the line, and those cars could preview what we might see in future models. Mini What Will be Refreshed?Autocar reckons the Cooper, Countryman, and Aceman will all get facelifts within the next two years. The Cooper and Countryman were totally redesigned in 2023, and are part of Mini's product cycle; those cars are, indeed, due for updates. The Aceman, on the other hand, was introduced in 2024, meaning we might see the LCI version by either late 2027 or early 2028. Hampf also brought back the subject of an off-road vehicle. He had previously mentioned that he would like to make a version of the Countryman for the outdoor lifestyle crowd. Should he get his way, we might just see a high(er) riding Mini with all-terrain tires. It's also worth noting that parent company BMW would like to explore that market. Mini Future ModelsIt will be interesting to see how Hampf will refresh the current Mini models. Hopefully, it's not just a few trim changes, since he had hyped up what we can expect from the brand. Of course, it can't be too radically different, or it will put off Mini traditionalists, as the Countryman hadn't already. The facelifts will be the first steps towards a 'new era of Mini.' That said, the design chief mentioned that his team is now working on the next-generation models. Like BMW, Minis typically have a seven-year cycle. If we were to follow that, we might see an all-new Cooper and Countryman by either 2031 or 2032, and a second-generation Aceman come 2033. MINI View the full article

Brand Loyalty Isn’t What It Used To BeBrand loyalty used to come naturally in the car industry. Buyers would purchase a vehicle from brands like Toyota or Honda, build years of trust with the dealership, then return later for another vehicle. That cycle helped create generations of repeat customers. While those brands still rank highly in customer loyalty studies today, the reasons people stay loyal are changing quickly. Vehicle affordability is now putting pressure on customer retention across the entire industry. As prices continue to climb, buyers are shopping around more aggressively for the best financing, after-sales support, and overall ownership experience. Increasingly, the deciding factor between dealerships selling similar vehicles is no longer the product itself. It is customer service. More specifically, it is how customers are treated during ownership, especially after the sale is completed. That makes the first service appointment far more important than many dealerships realize. Getty Images The First Service Appointment Is Becoming CriticalAccording to Automotive News, Cox Automotive surveyed 2,502 consumers who serviced a vehicle within the last 12 months, along with 500 fixed operations managers from franchised dealerships. One of the clearest findings was that dealerships are steadily losing customers to independent repair shops and quick-service centers. Between 2018 and 2025, the dealership share of service visits dropped from 33% to 29%. Meanwhile, general repair facilities increased from 25% to 27%, while quick lube chains rose from 12% to 14%. The drop becomes even more alarming as vehicles age. Dealerships handled 68% of service visits for vehicles under two years old in 2018. By 2025, that number fell sharply to 55%. For vehicles between 2 and 5 years old, dealership service share dropped from 58% to 45%. That matters because the most profitable ownership years happen later in a vehicle’s lifespan. Cox Automotive estimates that roughly 80% of service spending occurs between years six and 10. With Americans now keeping vehicles for an average of 8.4 years, dealerships that lose customers early are missing out on the most profitable service years. Getty Dealers Still Aren’t Taking Advantage of the OpportunityThe study found that more than half of consumers surveyed, around 56%, said their service experience strongly influences whether they would buy their next vehicle from the same dealership. Despite that, only about 25% of dealerships schedule a customer’s first service appointment at the time of purchase. According to Cox Automotive, customers who return to the dealership for service are twice as likely to buy another vehicle from that retailer later. Some automakers have already started offering loyalty incentives and special discounts just to keep existing customers from leaving the brand. Ford Motor Company, for example, recently introduced offers aimed at retaining Escape owners after discontinuing the model. However, discounts alone cannot fix poor customer experiences. The dealership visit still leaves the biggest impression on buyers. A smooth first appointment builds familiarity, trust, and long-term retention. A bad one sends customers directly to the nearest independent repair shop. Stick around for next week’s investigative report confirming that water is still wet. Getty Images View the full article

Open Production Floor Volvo Cars is opening up its doors to other automakers in a bid to maximize its production facility in South Carolina. Volvo Cars' CEO, Hakan Samuelsson, went on record at the Future of the Car Conference that the brand can do something to help the U.S. auto industry. The move is opportune and comes at a time when other automakers are working around U.S. President Donald Trump's duties on imported cars. American brands are set to receive up to $2.3 billion in tariff refunds, but others aren't as lucky. New developments could see other imported cars jump up in price. With that, Volvo may be able to help imported brands set up shop with a small catch. Volvo Looking for Production Partners President Donald Trump wants to bring manufacturing back to the United States. Foreign brands like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan are even producing products for export back to Japan, which is a more favorable landscape for automakers with local U.S. production facilities. However, not every brand is as fortunate as Audi and Porsche, to name a few. Volvo is determined to build more cars in the U.S., and it's even open to cooperation with other brands. The deal there is assembly, construction, parts sourcing, and supply chain. The current production capacity of the Volvo plant is set at about 150,000 cars per year. The factory is located in Ridgeville, South Carolina, and it's currently producing the Volvo EX90 and Polestar 3, with the XC60 planned for production later this year, 2026. While Volvo may have its own production to worry about, it's also concerned with facility expansion and its goal of being more present in the U.S. When asked why Volvo is open to partnerships, CEO Hakan Samuelsson said, "That is something I think we need as we are now increasing our presence in the U.S." He continued, It's part of the regionalization of the world, we need to be much more industrially present in the U.S., and we need to fill the factory we have here." Volvo The Catch: Geely Holdings Zooming out, Volvo's openness to partnership could be part of a bigger plan for Geely to gain more footing in the U.S. The Chinese auto group has just entered Canada under the Lotus brand, and Volvo and Polestar are well-positioned to facilitate the group's growth. The strategy could play out well for Geely, as Volvo is one of the group's trump cards, already giving it an advantage over other Chinese brands without U.S. plants. If another brand were to step into the Geely Volvo factory in South Carolina, technically speaking, Geely Holdings would become more present in the U.S., a feat that other Chinese brands are currently struggling with at the moment. Volvo's CEO also went on record, stating that he is open to producing low-cost Chinese-based EVs in the U.S., essentially leaving the door open to Geely to enter and sell their cars under the leverage of local assembly. Volvo View the full article

This weekend at the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 Nationals presented by Peak Chicagoan Chris King will hang up his fireman’s protective gear for an Impact firesuit to pilot the Howards Cams/Competition Products Nitro Funny Car. For King handling the dual role of team owner and driver is an exciting diversion from his day-to-day as a lieutenant for the Chicago Fire Department. The team will be looking to grab one of the 16 qualifier spots to race for the coveted 75th anniversary diamond Wally on Sunday at Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, Illinois. The last time King was behind the wheel was during the Stampede of Speed and Texas Fall Nationals in October at the Texas Motorplex outside of Dallas. “It’s been a long off-season,” said King. “We found something in Dallas and we made an adjustment that has been very positive for our tune up. Ever since getting out of the car in Dallas, I couldn’t wait to get back in this Funny Car. We wanted to run Gainesville, but parts availability and timing just didn’t work out. It’s been a very long, frustrating off-season for me. I am a terrible spectator. Seeing all these other drivers getting to race has just been killing me. To finally make our season debut in Joliet with a good race car that we don’t have to test anymore, we can just send it on the first run is very exciting.”The Howards Cams/Competition Products Funny Car will continue to be tuned by veteran crew chief Bob Peck. He has been instrumental in continuing to lower King’s personal bests in elapsed times and raising his personal bests in speed. A solid racing surface like Route 66 Raceway could be a great launching pad for more personal bests by King. “I am excited to still have crew chief Bob Peck making all the calls and he is excited too,” said King. “I am looking forward to sending this thing full tilt.” For a team that is building its program from the ground up King has maintained strong support from long-time sponsors Competition Products and Howards Cams. In addition, King has support from NGK and Hydraulic Energy Applications who will be using the event to host clients and guests at the fastest sporting event in the world. “Competition Products and Howard’s Cams been very loyal,” said King. “NGK stepped up pretty big this year. Robert Rohde with Hydraulic Energy Applications is going to have a couple of people at the race and we are excited to be hosting them. This is the perfect place to host B2B events. There is exciting on-track action and then people can get right up beside the race team.” The anticipation of getting to race week has been tough for a seasoned competitor like King. He has qualified for the biggest race in the series, the U.S. Nationals, and his team has been working diligently over the off-season. They had planned to get started at the season opening Gatornationals, but parts and supply chain issues kept them on the sidelines. Now with all the equipment and parts in hand King is ready to put the off-season frustration behind him. “Now that it’s race week, I’m getting pumped up,” said King. “Two weeks ago, I was talking about quitting, but now that it’s here, I’m getting excited and getting right back to that point where I need to be as an owner and a driver. I had a lot of hurdles to overcome in the off-season. There were a lot of highs and lows. The was a lot of questioning myself asking, ‘Why am I still doing this?’ When this weekend comes up and its race week things are starting to happen. That’s why I do it and why we are all out here battling.” Qualifying for the Gerber Collision and Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals will begin on Friday, May 15, with two sessions of the four professional categories. On Saturday, fans will be treated to two more qualifying sessions. The quickest 16 race cars, dragsters and motorcycles will race for the famed Diamond Wally trophy beginning at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday. The race will be broadcast nationally on FS1 Sunday evening. The post Chris King Fired Up to Race Hometown National Event in Chicago first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Another Mazda Crossover Coming SoonMazda has no shortage of crossover offerings worldwide. If anything, most of its lineup consists of those, leaving just the 3, MX-5, and, in some markets, the 6e as its non-crossover models. From subcompact to midsize, the Hiroshima-based company has it all and is squeezing into the gaps in between to make sure all bases are covered. Now, there's another one coming, and Mazda has confirmed it. It's the next-generation CX-3, and the brand hopes to achieve higher sales volume once the model is out. It Lives for Another GenerationWe're genuinely surprised that Mazda kept the CX-3 nameplate. Introduced in 2014, it's well over a decade old now, and even the facelifted model from 2018 isn't getting any younger. It was initially thought that the model would be replaced and carry a different name. With the recent announcement, the subcompact smaller than the CX-30 will, indeed, live to see an all-new model. So, why keep the CX-3? Although it was discontinued in the U.S. in 2021, the model remains hugely popular, particularly in Asia and Oceania. If anything, the CX-3 was kept alive primarily by the Australian and Thai markets, proving a strong seller despite its age and the arrival of the CX-30. The name holds strong equity, and it's the least expensive Mazda crossover anyone can buy. That's despite it actually offering only slightly more ground clearance or space than the Mazda2. Mazda Launch Year Locked-InAside from the model's announcement, the launch year has also been locked in. The all-new CX-3 will make its world premiere in 2027, likely for the 2028 model year. The car will be built at the AAT plant in Thailand, and will likely serve as the model's main production hub. Mazda even said that Thai-built second-gen CX-3s will be exported to Japan, similar to what Honda has been doing with the CR-V and Accord, and what Toyota has been doing with the Hilux and Land Cruiser FJ. The AAT plant in Thailand recently received further investment, mainly to build hybrid vehicles for Southeast Asia. With that in mind, there's a good chance the CX-3 will be electrified, like many of its rivals in the class. Specifics haven't been given about the powertrain yet, but it could benefit from Toyota tech like the CX-50. As for the look, we expect it to draw some cues from the Vision X-Compact shown at last year's Japan Mobility Show. Of course, it won't look as radical as the concept, but it'll be interesting to see how Mazda applies the new design philosophy for its future subcompact crossover. Mazda Mazda View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Gen Z Car Enthusiasts Are Reviving Forgotten IconsGen Z may not be embracing car culture at the same level as previous generations, but the enthusiasts who are diving in seem to be gravitating toward objects and experiences that many millennials once ignored or discarded. Digital cameras, cassette players, vintage electronics, and even old-school performance cars are finding a second life among younger buyers. One of the more surprising examples is the Chevrolet Cobalt SS, which recently landed on Hagerty’s list of the most popular enthusiast vehicles among Gen Z buyers. According to GM Authority, Hagerty’s insurance quote data show that younger enthusiasts born between 1997 and 2012 are actively shopping for affordable, attainable enthusiast cars instead of traditional collector vehicles. Japanese icons like the Honda Beat, Acura RSX, and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI heavily dominate the list. The Cobalt SS stands out as the only American entry. That alone says a lot about how tastes are changing. Younger buyers are looking for analog driving experiences and tuner-friendly platforms without spending six figures. The Cobalt SS Was Once GM’s Unexpected Performance HeroWhen the Cobalt SS first arrived in the mid-2000s, there was genuine excitement around it. Chevrolet positioned it as a serious rival to the growing sport-compact scene, especially as import-tuner culture exploded in popularity. Early supercharged models came equipped with a 2.0-liter LSJ four-cylinder engine producing 205 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual transmission, sport suspension, aggressive styling, and optional Recaro seats helped give the car real enthusiast credibility at the time. Things became even more serious in 2008 when Chevrolet introduced the turbocharged version powered by the 2.0-liter LNF engine. Output jumped to 260 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, which was massive for a front-wheel-drive compact at the time. Chevrolet also added launch control, no-lift shifting, Brembo brakes, and sharper suspension tuning. Performance improved dramatically with 0-to-60 mph times dropping to around 5.5 seconds. Despite all of that, the Cobalt SS slowly faded from mainstream attention as newer hot hatches and turbo sedans arrived. Today, though, affordable prices and huge aftermarket support are making the car attractive once again. General Motors The LowdownFor many millennials, the Cobalt SS was the kind of car you drove endlessly in racing games before eventually forgetting about it in real life. It was the underdog compact that often sat in the shadow of Japanese rivals despite offering serious performance for the money. Some enthusiasts still remember it from racing titles and tuner culture forums more than they remember seeing it on the road. That nostalgia factor appears to be working in Gen Z’s favor as younger buyers rediscover a genuinely capable performance sedan that does not require exotic car money. There is also something refreshing about Gen Z digging into the forgotten corners of car culture rather than simply chasing the latest trends. Cars like the Cobalt SS offer a more mechanical, raw driving experience that feels increasingly rare today. Of course, owning an aging GM performance car may come with a few headaches, especially when reliability and maintenance enter the picture. Still, if younger enthusiasts are willing to keep these overlooked machines alive, the enthusiast community is probably better for it. Murilee Martin View the full article

Krista Baldwin will make her return to NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series Top Fuel competition this weekend at the NHRA Route 66 Nationals at Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, Illinois, bringing with her a heartfelt tribute to one of the sport’s most iconic pioneers – her grandfather, Chris “The Greek” Karamesines. Backed by Red Line Oil, Composite Specialties, and Seefried Ranch, Baldwin returns to the Top Fuel ranks at one of the NHRA tour’s marquee events with a special family celebration at the center of the weekend. Karamesines, a legendary figure in drag racing history and one of the original stars of NHRA Top Fuel competition, will serve as the event’s honorary legend of the weekend. To celebrate his impact on the sport and his family legacy, Baldwin’s Top Fuel dragster will feature a special signature tribute design honoring “The Greek.” The design will be officially unveiled on the starting line during the first qualifying session on Friday. “This weekend means so much to me personally and professionally,” said Baldwin. “To return to Top Fuel competition while also celebrating my grandfather and everything he’s meant to the sport is incredibly special. He paved the way for generations of racers, including me, and I’m proud to honor him on our race car this weekend.” Baldwin’s return also marks the beginning of a new collaboration with crew chief Ron Douglas, who has spent the last several weeks working closely with Baldwin and her team to prepare the car for competition at one of NHRA’s most historic venues. Douglas brings decades of Top Fuel and nitro experience to the operation and has been instrumental in ensuring the team is race-ready heading into Joliet. “Ron has worked tirelessly to help get this program prepared,” Baldwin said. “His experience and leadership have already made a huge impact, and I’m excited to work alongside him this weekend.” The NHRA Route 66 Nationals marks Baldwin’s first Top Fuel appearance of the 2026 season and comes at a venue rich with family history and memorable moments for the Karamesines racing legacy. Qualifying for the NHRA Route 66 Nationals begins Friday at Route 66 Raceway, with eliminations scheduled for Sunday. The post Krista Baldwin Returns to NHRA Top Fuel Competition at Route 66 Nationals With Special Tribute to “The Greek” first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Still Missed After All These YearsSaab's story is one that's filled with clever innovations that ended far too soon. Despite multiple attempts to resuscitate it, its doors closed for good in 2016. That effectively ended the company's car manufacturing arm after 71 years. NEVS, the company that was supposed to restart 9-3 production, just folded this year. The brand is still very much missed, and a strong following for the Swedish automaker remains. We can spend countless hours talking about the marque's greatest hits, but we're writing about Saan today for a totally different reason. Klaravik Last ChanceFor those who want to own a piece of history or a near-brand-new Saab, this is your final chance. As NEVS liquidates its assets, several cars have emerged from the woodwork. More specifically, seven different 9-3 models have come up for sale, a mix of Saab- and NEVS-badged cars, all of which are up for auction. The auction is being held by Klaravik, a company better known for selling off heavy machinery or company assets. This time around, it's part of Saab history. So, what's up for bidding? Read on. Klaravik The CarsUp for grabs are three 9-3 Aero sedans built in 2014. Note that these are pre-production examples, although all are drivable. The lowest mileage car for sale has about 11,500 miles on the clock. The lone black unit has a little over 24,000 miles, while the highest-mileage car has around 36,400 miles. Not exactly brand-new, but low mileage nonetheless. These cars were used for internal transport. You also have the chance to buy one of the few remaining NEVS 9-3s. It's essentially a 9-3 that's battery-powered, with an estimated mileage of approximately 23,600 miles. Like the Saabs, this NEVS 9-3 is drivable and was also used for internal transport. The three remaining cars are prototypes, one of which we believe is highly relevant and could have sold well had NEVS not gone bust. The first one is an EV but with four in-wheel motors. The second is a testbed for autonomous driving, while the third is a range-extended electric vehicle. Given the current automotive climate, the REEV could've been a hit, especially in Asia. Klaravik Auction DetailsBidding will be held at Saab's former headquarters in Trollhättan on May 30, 2026. The auction will also be a meet for Saab enthusiasts, so it's a bit of a bittersweet event. With that, there's still time to book a flight to Sweden for one last look before these cars go home to their new owners. Those (very) interested in bringing one of these to the U.S must first register with Klaravik as a company to be able to bid. Once you've done that, you'll be pleased to know that the cars are being sold at no reserve, and bidding starts at 0 Swedish Krona. We're curious if the pre-production cars can be registered, and we do hope that these 9-3s go to a home. Klaravik View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article