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The subcompact crossover segment is now a bustling segment in the United States, with practically every mainstream brand having a competitor in this segment. Three popular models in this category are the Toyota Corolla Cross, Honda HR-V, and Volkswagen Taos. Despite their affordable price tags, all are generously equipped with the latest safety technologies, but which one holds up best in crashworthiness and crash-prevention tests? We’ve consulted the 2026 ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, so strap in to see which small SUV leads the way for safety. Crashworthiness: Honda is Safest, VW FaltersThe IIHS runs three key crash tests on new vehicles, those being the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, and side tests. The small overlap front involves a collision with the front corner of the vehicle, while the moderate overlap front analyzes an offset crash between two vehicles. Each test receives an overall score of Good, Acceptable, Marginal, or Poor. Toyota Corolla Cross Honda HR-V Volkswagen Taos Small Overlap Front Good Good Acceptable Moderate Overlap Front Acceptable Good Marginal Side Good Good Acceptable The final results are a mixed bag for these SUV rivals. The HR-V is clearly the most secure, with three Good ratings helping it achieve a Top Safety Pick+ award—the only one of these three to do so. The Corolla Cross wasn’t bad, but its score for the rear passenger restraints and dummy kinematics brought down its rating in the moderate overlap front test. Finally, the Taos was clearly the poorest performer of this trio. It failed to achieve an overall Good rating in all three tests, which is disappointing for a 2026 vehicle, regardless of size. In the moderate front overlap test, the testers found an elevated risk of chest injuries for rear passengers, which brought down the overall rating to Marginal. If you’re unlucky enough to be involved in a crash, the HR-V’s results show that it’s the safest vehicle to be in between these three. Related: Toyota Corolla Vs. Mazda 3 Vs. Honda Civic: Which Is Safest? Crash Prevention: Room For Improvement Across The Board 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Kristen Brown View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article In crash avoidance and mitigation, the cars are tested for how effectively they can avoid striking another car or a pedestrian. These tests are conducted at various speeds and the effectiveness of the warning systems for the driver is also evaluated. Finally, the IIHS also tests headlights on low and high beams. Toyota Corolla Cross Honda HR-V Volkswagen Taos Headlights Acceptable Acceptable Good or Acceptable (depends on trim) Crash Prevention (vehicle-to-vehicle) Not tested Acceptable Poor Crash Prevention (pedestrian) Good Good Marginal No SUV was perfect here, but the Honda and Toyota are once again superior to the VW. The Japanese SUVs achieved a maximum Good rating in pedestrian crash prevention, whereas the Taos scored a Marginal rating in the same test. For example, while the Toyota successfully avoided hitting a child crossing in front of it when driving at 25 mph, the Taos could only reduce its speed by 9 mph, not avoid the collision. The HR-V achieved an Acceptable rating in vehicle-to-vehicle crash prevention, but the Corolla Cross wasn’t tested for this. The Taos was very disappointing here, with a Poor rating and not a single collision avoided with its standard Front Assist system. The VW was also the only vehicle with a Poor rating for its seat belt reminder system. The only area where the Taos did better than its rivals relates to the headlights fitted to the S trim, which were rated as Good. Related: The Safest New Cars Under $30,000, According to IIHS Final Verdict: VW Has Work To Do Volkswagen The Honda HR-V is the best small SUV of these three for overall safety. Next in line is the Toyota, which has no serious red flags and could potentially achieve a perfect rating with some enhancements. The VW is by far the most disappointing vehicle here. It’s the only one with Marginal or Poor ratings of any kind, and the gaps in its performance apply to both crashworthiness and crash prevention. The VW has not kept up with tougher safety tests, but its age alone (it was introduced here in 2020) isn’t solely to blame, as other small SUVs of a similar age have performed a lot better. View the full article

Range Loss Is Real, But This Model 3 Refuses to QuitBattery degradation remains one of the biggest psychological barriers for EV buyers. Concerns around long-term usability and resale value often outweigh the day-to-day benefits of electric driving. While studies suggest most EVs lose far less range than expected over time, extreme real-world cases are rarely documented in detail. That is what makes this 2019 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus stand out. With 380,000 miles on the clock, it is still running on its original battery pack. However, the impact of time and usage is clear. Its displayed range has dropped from 240 miles when new to just 158 miles today. That is a 34.2 percent reduction, leaving the battery with under 70 percent of its original capacity. A Worst-Case Scenario That Still WorksDespite the heavy degradation, the car remains fully functional. YouTube Channel, Drive Protected in Canada, put the vehicle through a highway range test to validate its real-world usability. Starting from a full charge, the Model 3 managed 138.3 miles at a steady 68 mph before reaching zero percent. Efficiency held at 4.27 miles per kWh, which is still respectable given the mileage. There are plenty of high-mileage EV success stories that report minimal battery degradation. Cases like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, which has crossed 300,000 miles with single-digit losses, show how durable modern battery packs can be. Still, examples like this Tesla highlight the outer limits. It represents a more severe scenario, yet proves that even heavily degraded batteries can remain usable for daily driving. YouTube - @DriveProtected View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The LowdownThere is a growing body of evidence showing that EV batteries can outlast the lifespan of internal combustion vehicles. This high-mileage Model 3 reinforces that argument. At 380,000 miles, many gasoline cars would already be retired or require major engine work. This Tesla continues to operate without mechanical drama, aside from reduced driving range. The bigger conversation now shifts to charging performance and convenience. Faster charging remains critical to making EV ownership seamless at any stage of a vehicle’s life. Solid-state battery development offers some promise on that front. If charging times approach the speed of refueling, and degradation continues to prove manageable, range anxiety may finally become a non-issue. YouTube - @DriveProtected View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Another Comeback AttemptSpyker’s history dates back to 1880, when it built carriages, then moved into cars and even aircraft. When Spyker returned in 1999, the Dutch company made a name for itself with its hand-built sports cars, which stood out for their design and driving feel. The Spyker C8 was the headliner in the 2000s, with interiors borrowed from aviation, and mechanical parts left visible on purpose. The cars were about detail, drama, and a kind of old-school charm you rarely see now. But Spyker’s story has been anything but steady. The company has shut down more than once, with bankruptcies in 2014 and 2021. Each comeback brought hope, but also plenty of questions. This time, the Dutch brand seems to have a more focused plan, and there’s already a new car in the works. What We Know So FarThere aren’t many details yet, but here’s what’s confirmed: the car will be called the Spyker C8 Preliator, powered by a twin-turbo V8 with about 800 horsepower and a top speed over 350 km/h (217 mph). Surely the brand wants to enter supercar territory, but its approach is more old-school than most rivals. According to Victor Muller, electrification is not part of the plan. “I think I can reassure a lot of fans and potential customers that this car is not going to be electric in any way, shape, or form. Not even a hybrid,” said CEO and founder Victor Muller. With most small carmakers moving to hybrids or full EVs, the decision to forego electrification is refreshing. Spyker is sticking to what made it different: mechanical feel, real engine sound, and a driving experience you can actually sense. There are signs this car might be related to the C8 Preliator concept from 2016, but it could also be built on a new platform. The team working on it combines original Spyker specialists with new engineers, so both experience and new ideas are going into the project. Spyker Cars A Tight TimelineThe schedule is tight, however. The first car is supposed to be ready for Pebble Beach this August, with assembly happening in both the UK and the Netherlands. The development chassis is chassis 270, suggesting production will be very limited. At the time of writing, Spyker Cars has just over 100 days to prepare for its return (yes, the company has a countdown timer on its website). That pace shows both the pressure and the chance Spyker sees. The supercar world is more crowded now, with big names and new electric brands raising the bar. This comeback seems more focused than previous ones. The goals are clearer, and there’s less confusion about what the car is supposed to be. Still, given Spyker’s track record, it’s hard to be sure until real cars reach buyers. If everything goes as planned, this could finally be a real return for one of the more unique names in performance cars. If not, it might just be another almost-comeback for Spyker. Spyker Cars View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Rethinking One of EVs’ Biggest DrawbacksBattery weight remains one of the biggest hurdles for EVs. Yes, larger packs offer better range, but they also add weight, hurting efficiency and handling. Solid-state batteries hold promise, but for now, automakers are rethinking how batteries are packaged. Mercedes-Benz is taking a different route. A recent patent (USPTO no. 12614774, published April 2026, if you want to check) lays out a new way to mount battery modules inside an EV pack. Instead of loading up on bolts, brackets, or just one kind of adhesive, Mercedes is looking at a more specialized bonding method. Mercedes-Benz Two Adhesives, Two JobsThe idea is simple: instead of asking one adhesive to do it all, Mercedes splits the job between two, each with its own purpose. The first adhesive goes under the battery module and is designed to pull heat away from the cells into the battery housing. It helps with cooling and also anchors the module in place. The second adhesive runs along the sides and is all about strength. It resists mechanical stress, so the module stays put whether you’re cruising or hitting rougher roads. Most current setups use screws or thick adhesive to handle both cooling and structure. By splitting the tasks, Mercedes lets each material do what it does best. The patent even points out that you can use less of the bottom adhesive, since it doesn’t have to hold everything together. The patent diagrams show a tray-style battery housing, with modules sitting on a base layer and lockable sides. It’s a tidier setup that cuts down on hardware and could make assembly easier. Mercedes-Benz Why It Might Matter in the Real WorldIf Mercedes brings this to production, there are some real-world perks. Fewer screws and heavy mounts mean less weight and a simpler build. Using less adhesive could also help keep costs in check. There’s also a service benefit. The side adhesive is strong but can be cut through, so a damaged module can be swapped out without tearing down the whole pack. That’s not always possible with today’s designs. Thermal management is another piece of the puzzle. By improving how heat is transferred away from the cells, the system could support more consistent performance and potentially extend battery life. As with most patents, it’s worth noting that this is not a guarantee of production. Automakers file a wide range of ideas, and only a portion of them make it into actual vehicles. Still, it offers a look at how Mercedes-Benz is thinking about refining EV fundamentals beyond just range and power figures. USPTO View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Revealed in production form earlier this year, the Red Bull RB17 is one of the most extreme hypercars ever conceived—just as you’d expect for a machine designed by Adrian Newey, who has designed winning Formula 1 cars for the likes of Williams and McLaren. The RB17, engineered to be even faster around a track than existing F1 cars, has just entered its final build phase. Rob Gray, RB17 technical director, also shared some of the exclusive design details about the car that will only see a 50-unit production run. A Carbon-Fiber Masterpiece Red Bull RB17 Red Bull Advanced Technologies View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Red Bull RB17 is being built in a former warehouse on the Red Bull estate in Milton Keys. The same site plays host to the new F1 wind tunnel for Red Bull Racing. Autocar had the opportunity to see the first near-complete passenger cell and tail section, while catching up with Gray at Red Bull’s headquarters. For a car capable of completing a lap at Spa around a second faster than an F1 machine, its conception came about almost by chance. Gray said the RB17 is “something Adrian drew when he was bored one year over Christmas.” It’s shaped up to be something much more serious since then. The 4.5-liter V10—developed by Cosworth—is paired with an electric motor. Combined, the system produces a staggering 1,200 horsepower, and that’s in a car that weighs around 1,984 pounds. Newey left Red Bull for Aston Martin in 2025, but continued to refine the car until the end of his tenure. One of those changes was a spine running down the engine cover, which directs exhaust gases to “blow” the bottom of the wing to increase downforce. According to Gray, this spine was “Adrian Newey’s parting gift, because it was a relatively late addition, which he asked for shortly before leaving, and required much development to cope with the thermal challenges that it presented.” How Much Does It Cost? Red Bull Advanced Technologies Each RB17 is expected to cost around £5 million, which works out to roughly $6.7 million. All 50 units have already been allocated, so the car has already proven to be successful. This level of performance and cost is occupied by only a few other exotics, such as the Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR Pro, GMA T.50S, and Pagani Huayra R. But, with claimed lap times that eclipse even an F1 machine, the RB17 will likely stand alone once it arrives and its performance credentials can be verified. Circuit testing and development sessions are set to start in a few weeks, with an official launch to take place sometime next spring. Although designed as a track-only car, hypercar modifier Lazante may produce a kit that will convert it for road use. This conversion could cost over $600,000 alone. Newey continues to follow the RB17’s progress and will likely visit the factory to see it up close at some stage. When it arrives, expect the RB17 to rewrite the rulebook for hypercars. View the full article

Winding DownWhenever a new generation model is announced and about to enter the market, it is only natural that the current model on sale be gradually phased out. Slowly is the key word here, because while most people will wait for the new model, some don't mind and need a car right now. Plus, it makes no sense for the brand to kill off the model completely and lose potential sales while waiting for the launch of the new car. GMC is doing just that with its pickup, the Sierra 1500. Zac Palmer Closing the BooksIt has come to light through GM Authority's report that GM is slowly winding down production and orders for the Sierra 1500 pickup. This is no surprise because the 2027 model is waiting in the wings to take over. While the slowdown will affect the entire Sierra range, GM is implementing it in batches, starting with other truck variants rather than a blanket production slowdown. In the report, the GMC Sierra 1500 can no longer be ordered in Regular or Double Cab configurations. According to the sources, the last production units of the Sierra 1500 Regular Cab are scheduled to roll off the line during the last week of June. The assembly plant for the Regular Cab Sierras is located in Mexico, while the Double Cab and Crew Cab are built in GM's plant in Indiana. GM Authority also points out that there are currently 64,000 Sierras in dealer lots or in transit across the nation. 3,100 of which are Regular Cabs, accounting for just 4.8% of the total inventory. Last April 2, GMC officially ceased production of the Double Cab Sierra 1500s. GMC Next Generation2026 is the final year for this generation of the GMC Sierra 1500 pickup. The all-new next-generation 2027 GMC Sierra 1500 is set to begin production in October 2026, the same date as the new Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Both pickups share many components and, for 2027, will have new styling, an overhauled interior, and new engine options. Zac Palmer View the full article

Japan's Rolls-RoyceLong before Lexus, Toyota was already building a series of premium and luxury vehicles, albeit for its home market for the most part. The Crown is one of those models, as well as the smaller Mark II, that the rest of the world knows better as the Cressida. But at the very top is the Century, the crown jewel of Aichi. The Century made was built to commemorate the 100th birthday of Toyota Industries founder, Sakichi Toyoda. Revealed in 1967, the car has since become associated with royalty, politics, and anything related to industrial and business powerhouses. The nameplate has been around for nearly 60 years, but it has only seen three all-new generations since then. Bring a Trailer A Low-Mile Piece of Japanese Automotive RoyaltyGiven that the Century is built in low volumes each year, there aren't many of these that end up in the used car market outside Japan. Factor in the 25-year import rule, and let's just say that there isn't a steady stream of these luxury limousines making it abroad. Still, some of the few that end up here are snapped up fairly quickly, which brings us to today's auction find from Bring a Trailer. What we have here is a 1997 model, so it's the first year of the second-generation version. This one should be of interest for those who think eight cylinders aren't enough, as what you're looking at here packs a 5.0-liter V12 - the sole option you can get for this era of Century. It's low-mileage, too, as the odometer reads just 43,864 kilometers at the time of posting. In freedom units, that's a mere 26,634, so it's not even broken in by Toyota standards. A good amount of work went into this car, too. Given its age, it was best to replace key components of the air suspension and braking system. As far as we can tell, the engine has a clean bill of health. Aftermarket bits include rear curtains and an exhaust system from Junction Produce. At the time of writing, the current bid is at $16,666. Bring a Trailer The Toyota Century: What You Need to KnowThe second-generation Century was built from 1997 to 2017, a remarkable production run that spanned 20 years. That said, its predecessor lasted for 30 years with few changes. The first-generation model packed a V8 engine, while the second upped the ante with Japan's only V12 to ever reach production. As for the current model, it reverts to a V8, but it's been given an electrified boost. The V12 in this model makes a rather conservative 276 hp, although that's because of Japan's gentlemen's agreement among automakers not to exceed that number, at least on paper. Export versions of the second-generation Century have a higher figure listed at 295 hp. Exterior and interior-wise, this version of the Century remained relatively unchanged, although an update in 2005 ditched the four-speed automatic for a six-speed unit, and other in-car entertainment upgrades were made later on in the model's life. Toyota produced fewer than 10,000 second-gen Century sedans over 20 years. Of the 9,753 built, about 100 were left-hand drive, some of which made it to the U.S. Of course, the Century nameplate has since expanded to include the inevitable SUV version, but it's also become a standalone brand. The Century brand will sit above Lexus and serve as Toyota's ultra-luxury arm, taking aim at Bentley and Rolls-Royce with a coupe reportedly in the works. Bring a Trailer Bring a Trailer View the 10 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Royal Enfield turns up the heat with the Guerrilla 450 Apex, adding real grip, sharper ergonomics, and a more aggressive feel. View the full article

Ford’s EV program took some major hits last year resulting in an $8.5 billion write-down. Among other things it’s killed the F-150 Lightning and scrapped plans for a 3-row SUV. But don’t count Ford out. In a major strategic shift, it’s investing billions more to develop a new line of low-cost EVs. And Autoblog was invited to get an inside look at the Universal Vehicle program before its 2027 launch. After taking an $8.5 billion write-down last year on its EV program one might expect Ford to steer clear of battery-electric vehicles. But, with the threat of new Chinese competitors looming ever more ominously, the Detroit automaker has launched a skunkworks program aimed at delivering a line-up of low-cost, long-range EVs. The “Universal Vehicle” project’s mandate is a bold one: team members told to rethink just about everything but the shape of the wheel. And, in the process, they’re getting ready to launch the most radical makeover of the assembly process since Henry Ford switched on the first moving assembly line on October 7, 1913. It’s a high-risk, multi-billion-dollar venture set to launch production sometime in 2027. And Ford offered Autoblog a chance to visit the project’s new campus in Long Beach, California where team members are given bounties to take the sort of risks automakers traditionally try to avoid at all cost. Isolate the Culture For his part, Alan Clarke admits he’s feeling “tons of pressure” these days. That shouldn’t come as a surprise considering that, in his role as Ford’s executive director of Advanced EV Development, he’s in charge of what’s arguably the most important project the automaker has launched in decades. It’s not the first time the Detroit automaker has taken risks. It pushed the limits with the original 1986 Taurus sedan and the GT supercar designed by another skunkworks program. Both were meant to show how a small team could transform a massive multinational into a nimble enterprise. Yet, Ford today still moves like a lumbering battleship in an era when little drones are becoming the weapon of choice. To give the Universal Vehicle project a better chance, Ford moved it to Long Beach, California, nearly 2,000 miles away from company headquarters in Michigan, explained Clarke. “Culture is local,” and the former Tesla engineer is determined to create an entirely new one from scratch. “Isolation has been incredibly important. Separate the culture and you separate the mindset.” A Growing TeamThere are currently about 500 members of the UV team and, even with another 100 soon to come onboard, that’s a fraction of the manpower normally found at a major car company. That said, the two buildings that make up the project’s campus are some of the most well-equipped in the Ford global system. There’s the requisite design studio equipped with the latest AI and virtual reality software, a battery lab that can simulate in days what would normally take months to test out. And the complex has one of just two closed dynamometers capable of recreating virtual any condition a future EV would be able to experience anywhere in the world, everything from the cold of an Arctic winter to the heat of a Saudi Arabian summer, complete with the light of a blazing Mideast sun. Better yet, “Everything is in close proximity,” noted designer Simona Merker, making it easy for team members to reach out to one another. In a number of instances, Ford has reversed its traditional approach which often relies on outside suppliers to do things like developing the look and feel of seats, noted Scott Anderson, the UEV seating chief. His team can cut its own prototype foam cushions and seat covers, for example, in some cases saving weeks of development time. “Fail fast”Like Clarke, each team member is under intense pressure. But not just to get things right. They’re encouraged to risks on new ideas under a “bounty” system Clarke’s management team has set up. In sharp contrast to Ford’s traditional risk aversion, there’s a recognition that not everything will work as planned. The key is to “find failures fast,” said hardware engineering manager Kevin Lundbert, then come up with something better. If it works as planned, Ford hopes to avoid the sort of hits it’s taken to its image in recent years. The company that long used the tagline, “Quality is Job One,” faced an industry-record 153 separate recalls in 2025 affecting nearly 13 million vehicles in the U.S. Beyond that, it’s been spending billions fixing all manner of quality problems. Quality really must be Job One with the Universal EV family. It can’t afford to repeat the eight separate recalls that the company’s recently discontinued F-150 Lightning has experienced since its launch four years ago. More for LessBut that’s just one part of the challenge. EV sales surged almost eightfold from 2019 to 2024, reaching about 8% of the U.S. market. But the industry ran into trouble then reaching out to more mainstream buyers considering the typical battery-electric vehicle cost about $5,000 more than a comparable gas model. The troubles only grew worse with the phase-out of federal tax credits last September. Ford CEO Jim Farley is convinced his company needs to shift focus from high-end EVs to affordable alternatives, the first of the Universal Vehicles expected to come in around $30,000 – though Ford has so far sidestepped offering specific numbers. Among the steps it’s taking: Universal EVs will use lithium-iron phosphate batteries, instead of more costly, trouble-prone lithium-ion technology found in most of today’s EVs. LFP chemistry has helped slash costs for Chinese EVs and, Ford claims, is quicker to charge and less prone to fires and other failures;Meanwhile, the packs will be more tightly packaged and serve as part of the actual structure of the vehicles they’re used in, simplifying construction;Using a centralized computer network eliminates scores of microprocessors scattered around the vehicle while also cutting nearly a mile of copper out of the wiring harness, saving over 20 pounds and over $100 in material alone.Holding Down Repair CostsFord also plans to adopt mega-castings – something already used by Tesla, as well as the Chinese, replacing dozens, even hundreds of stamped steel parts with a single cast piece of aluminum. While not the first to use megacasting, Ford is taking a novel approach developed in cooperation with the insurance industry. Megacastings are notoriously difficult and expensive to repair. As an example of the UEV’s approach to creative thinking, body structures chief Vladimir Bogachuk, said each of these massive aluminum components will be marked with “cut lines,” showing where they can be cut, glued and welded back together, rather than leaving the service shop tech to try to figure things out on the fly. Back to the LineMore than 100 years since the first moving assembly line went into operation in Highland Park, Michigan, Clarke’s team has come up with what it’s billing as a revolutionary alternative at Ford’s Louisville Assembly Plant. On a traditional line, cars are built up, almost like Lego models, individual parts added atop one another as the vehicles rolls forward. Once a $2 billion makeover is completed at the Kentucky factory, Universal EVs will start out with three parallel lines, one pulling together the vehicle’s back end, another the front, the third putting together the cabin and floor, including the integral battery pack. Much like making a sandwich, those three pieces will be married together near the end of the line. There are “tens of prototypes” now running around the Long Beach campus and some other Ford locations, according to Clarke. That should grow to hundreds when the Louisville plant gets to try out the new process sometime later this year, with “saleable” vehicles expected to launch sometime in 2026 – though Clarke is notably wary about being too specific with his timetable. Finding “A Better Way” The auto industry is facing more turmoil than any time in decades, arguably more than at any time since Henry Ford first rolled out the Model T. Ford, in particular, has a variety of challenges to face. But, like the rest of the traditional industry, it’s also worrying about the prospects of facing a wave of new Chinese automakers already putting the U.S. in a pincer grip as brands like Geely, BYD and Chery expand in Mexico and launch in Canada. For Ford, it can no longer be business as usual, “We have to ask ourselves is this the way we do things because it’s always been done that way, or is there a better way to do that?” suggested engineer Scott Anderson. On paper, the Universal Vehicle certainly seems like that better way. We’ll have to wait at least another year, however, to see if it works as planned. View the full article

223,000 Miles in 3 Years, This Camry Lease Breaks All the RulesWith more Americans falling behind on car payments, some drivers are pushing their vehicles harder to extract maximum value. Leasing is a great option but it comes with mileage limits. Apparently, someone just hacked the system. Lease overages are usually costly, but one lessee of a 2023 Toyota Camry SE in Wisconsin flipped the script, averaging 76,650 miles annually and returning it with 223,036 miles. According to a report from The Drive, the car later appeared at SmartToyota in Madison, Wisconsin, for $15,000, catching the attention of a curious shopper. Originally a roughly $29,000 sedan, this Camry was driven about 215 miles daily. Service records show relentless usage. It logged 5,400 miles in its first month and hit its 10,000-mile service just nine days later. Despite that punishing schedule, the car came back in shockingly good condition, with only a minor bumper scuff from an early incident. Smart Toyota View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article How One Camry Became a Money-Making MachineThe Camry has long been known for low running costs, but this case reframes it as a profit-generating machine. Inside, the driver’s seat remains unusually clean for a car that essentially lived on the road. It suggests a combination of disciplined use and careful upkeep, even under extreme daily mileage. A dealership representative confirmed the vehicle was used for Uber and Lyft. That explains the mileage, but not entirely. As noted by the dealership, most trips in Madison are short and urban. Sustaining over 200 miles per day implies long-distance fares or highly strategic route selection. In effect, the driver optimized the Camry not just as transport, but as a revenue tool. Smart Toyota When a Lease Buyout Becomes the Smartest MoveFor many drivers, leasing offers predictable costs and lower upfront commitment. In this case, it also provided a crucial financial escape route. Faced with what could have been tens of thousands in mileage penalties, the driver opted for the buyout clause instead. That decision proved pivotal. The leaser could have made a killing, according to the latest lease deals for the current Toyota Camry. The dealer offered to take the car back for $3,000 less than the buyout price. The driver simply paid the difference and exited the deal. Considering the estimated excess mileage, which could have triggered penalties approaching $40,000, the outcome was remarkably favorable. It demonstrates how lease structures can sometimes work in the customer’s favor when used aggressively. Smart Toyota Why Leasing Might Be Smarter Than You ThinkAs car prices continue to climb, traditional ownership is becoming harder to justify for many buyers. Leasing, often seen as restrictive, can actually offer flexibility if approached strategically. This case shows how maximizing usage within a fixed-cost framework can tilt the economics in the driver’s favor. Still, this is not a blueprint for everyone. The risks are substantial, and most lease agreements are not designed for this level of abuse. But it highlights an important point. Even a mainstream sedan like the Camry can deliver outsized value when paired with the right use case and a willingness to push the limits. Smart Toyota View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

American Honda is recalling 2025 and 2026 CRF250s and 450s over a handlebar clamp issue, and has had one report of a crash so far (no injury).View the full article

Noise ComplaintsNo matter how much we adore and enjoy a properly loud engine, the fact is that not everyone does. In certain cases, automotive brands have installed new software that allows the owner to mute the exhaust during startup to avoid bothering neighbors. However, in public spaces, this is generally a free-for-all, as long as the owner of the car isn't deliberately being noisy, most people ignore it. An incident has just gone viral where one woman couldn't contain her disdain for the noise. Texas Karen kicks man’s Corvette at gas station, demands he “certify” he heard her, then calls him retarded A woman in Texas, claiming she has tinnitus, confronted a man at a gas station right after he started his Corvette. She walked over, kicked his car to get his attention,… pic.twitter.com/tEETn65pQX — The Facts Dude 🤙🏽 (@Thefactsdude) April 29, 2026 Verbal Assault and Property DamageA video of an incident at a Texas gas station was posted by The Facts Dude. In the video, a woman can be seen swiftly approaching a man in a C8 Corvette Z06 and she immediately opens the "conversation" with a kick to the driver's side door. As the video progresses, we see her covering her ears and yelling at the Corvette owner to see if he understands what she said. She then says that she will call the police, because what he's doing is illegal. Now, we're not sure whether his particular Corvette has a modified exhaust that violates any local noise legislation, but in the video, the man wasn't even revving the engine. The owner even tried to stay calm and placate the visibly angry woman, but she wasn't having it, even after he left his car. She followed him and proceeded to insult him by calling him out for his "lack of intelligence" and even questioned the size of his, erm... manhood. This woman claims that she suffers from tinnitus, but the owner counters her by saying he will be the one to call the authorities for the damage she did by kicking his car. As the video neared its conclusion, it didn't really show any major damage to the kicked door. Hopefully, all it required was a thorough wipe down. Adam Lynton/Autoblog Bizzare IncidentWhile this incident is isolated for now, it probably happened before, given that the Corvette C8, even in stock form, is quite loud. However, it isn't an excuse to verbally assault someone and physically try to damage property. Thankfully, the owner of the Corvette stayed calm and didn't engage, or things could've gotten out of hand much quicker. Exotic Car Trader View the full article

When Rok Bagaros first started riding in the late 90s, he was a teenager with a 50cc Yamaha Aerox and a dream. And now, he's cranking it up.View the full article

Akrapovič’s titanium footpegs bring MotoGP-grade materials to ADV bikes like the BMW R 1300 GS, which will let you pair your exhaust with your pegs.View the full article

A Crossover for EveryoneIs there a crossover segment that Mazda hasn't entered? There's the CX-30 at the lower end of the market, and there's the CX-5 and CX-50 for just about everyone. One can choose the CX-60 if they're looking for a junior X3/Q5/GLC alternative, along with the CX-70 for empty nesters who like the size of the CX-90 but don't need an extra row of seats. More recently, Mazda filed a trademark for the CX-40, and the next-generation CX-30 is coming soon. An even smaller crossover is underway, too, likely to be called CX-10 or CX-20. Also, in markets that have deemed the CX-90 too large, there's the CX-80. Mazda Potential New Model for the U.S.As it is, Mazda's U.S crossover lineup is pretty well-stocked. However, it seems like there's just enough of a gap between the CX-70 and CX-90. Judging by a fairly recent trademark filing by the company, it seems the CX-80 might be considered for stateside release. The document was filed on February 27, 2026, in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Making this more interesting is the fact that it's for a national trademark application. Granted, Mazda could simply be protecting the name in more territories, given the Luce dispute with Ferrari, but it also opens up the possibility of the CX-80 coming to America. Mazda The Mazda CX-80 in a NutshellTo oversimplify the CX-80, it's a stretched CX-60 with a third row thrown in. It's primarily aimed at markets that don't get the CX-90, although it is offered in some countries that have the larger model. For instance, Mazda Australia and New Zealand have both models, with the CX-80 serving as the successor to the CX-8, a model that appears to be an elongated CX-5 but is actually based on the CX-9. The CX-80's main markets are Europe and Asia, which is just right given the tighter roads in those markets. Well, there's a need for three-row vehicles in many parts of the world, but these don't need to be large by certain market standards. The CX-80 measures 196.7 inches long, 74.4 inches wide, 67.3 inches tall, and has a wheelbase of 122.8 inches. In comparison, the CX-90 is 201.6 inches long, 77.6 inches wide, 68.2 inches tall, and also has a 122.8-inch wheelbase. There are three powertrain choices. There's the familiar 3.3-liter turbo inline-six with 280 hp and 332 lb-ft, but also a 3.3-liter inline-six turbodiesel that's good for 254 hp and 405 lb-ft. Of course, a plug-in hybrid version is also offered, pairing a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine with a single electric motor to deliver a combined output of 323 hp and 369 lb-ft. All-wheel drive is the standard layout. Mazda Should the U.S. get it?On one hand, the CX-80 might be a bit of an odd addition to the U.S., given the preference towards larger crossovers. There's also the CX-60, itself a 'right-sized' five-seat crossover that meets most needs. The CX-90 already does a fine job as Mazda's three-row crossover in the U.S., and adding another one might make the point moot. Then again, there are markets that have proved the CX-60, CX-80, and CX-90 can peacefully co-exist. At the same time, Mazda makes the two-row CX-70 for the U.S and Canada, catering to a rather specific set of buyers. So, perhaps, there is room for the CX-80 in America, particularly for those who'd like a seven-seater with smaller exterior dimensions. Perhaps it can be a fuel-fed alternative for Highlander buyers now that the Toyota will become an EV come next year. Mazda Mazda View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Royal Enfield announced its inaugural Himalayan Base Camp adventure, and registration is already open.View the full article

Remember last year’s Nissan Leaf U.S. recall that included nearly 45,000 vehicles posing a potential battery fire risk? It looks like Canadian owners from the province of Quebec have grown tired of waiting for an effective fix from the automaker so they filed a class action suit against Nissan Canada. Lawsuit Alleges Nissan's Promised Software Fix Cannot Solve the Problem The lawsuit alleges Leaf EVs built for the 2019-2022 model years—the exact same years as those included in the October 2025 recall—are equipped with defective high-voltage batteries that can cause fires. Despite the recall, the lawsuit alleges that the risk of melting components and battery fires remains. According to CarComplaints, the class action lawsuit includes “all persons in Quebec who own, purchased, lease and/or leased one or more of the Subject Vehicles, namely the 2019–2022 Nissan Leaf vehicles equipped with a Level 3 quick charging port.” The Leaf vehicles included in the suit include 2019-2022 Nissan Leafs equipped with both the standard 40-kWh or long-range 62-kWh lithium-ion battery packs. The packs are allegedly prone to overheating and suffering short circuits, which can cause melting of the charging components, electrical damage and fires. The problem is aggravated by Level 3 DC fast charging via the CHAdeMo connector. The class action lawsuit argues that the main problem is excessive lithium deposits on the battery’s anode, something that cannot be remedied by simple software updates Nissan has promised but is yet to deliver. Furthermore, the lawsuit alleges that Leaf high-voltage battery cells are defective and recalls issued by Nissan will not help. Plaintiffs Calling on Nissan to Replace the Batteries or Buy Back the Cars Nissan According to the plaintiff who sued, Nissan offers only software updates to monitor the Leaf batteries’ state of charge and possible overheating incidents. And because Level 3 fast charging aggravates the existing problem, Nissan has warned customers not to charge the vehicles with fast charging via the CHAdeMO connectors. But since Nissan Leaf customers paid for fast charging capability, they are obviously frustrated that they cannot use the feature until the vehicles get the promised software updates. The plaintiff complains that fast charging is a key reason why consumers purchase or lease the Nissan Leaf, and by not providing that, Nissan hasn’t kept its end of the bargain. In conclusion, the class action lawsuit claims the only way to repair the affected Leaf EVs is to replace the defective high-voltage batteries, or for Nissan to buy back the vehicles. The class action lawsuit was filed in the Superior Court of Quebec of the District of Montreal Canada and is titled B.S. v Nissan Canada Inc., et al. It’s worth noting that a similar class action suit was filed in California against Nissan North America over defects in the charging system of 2019-2022 Nissan Leaf vehicles. Brought on behalf of multiple owners and lessees of the affected Leaf EVs, the lawsuit (Proudfoot et al. v. Nissan North America, Inc) alleged that Nissan was aware of the battery defect before the vehicles were sold. View the full article

Our boy Scott Liggett is back with a new drag and drive project! After buying a 1950 Chevy coupe a year or two ago, and realizing it would be more work than he was really wanting to tackle, he sold it and sent it on to a new owner. He’s been on the lookout for something else that sparks his interest and the other day he found something we think is pretty cool. It’s a Monza, but not just any Monza. Nope, this one is a 1977 Monza Town Coupe, which is an odd little notchback but they are cool and there are parts available to make one mild, wild, or anywhere in between. Using mostly bolt on parts, plus a roll cage and some safety gear, Scott will be able to make this thing a fun driver at whatever performance level his wallet will allow. He’s looking for a name for this thing, and while I was thinking of something to go with the yellow color, there were some trim parts in the car that had a label on them that said Cousin Eddie. It’s hard not to think that might be a cool name too, so watch the video and chime in to let us know what you think. Video Description: I bought this ’77 Monza Town Coupe. Yes, it’s yellow! I bought it to build for drag and drive type events. And, have fun on the streets as well, if I am being really honest. I wasn’t really looking for a replacement for my 50 Chevy Coupe, but I came across this one on FB Marketplace locally. And, it was incredibly straight and rust free. And, it was originally powered by a 305 V8! Not only that, it has clear title and the price was right. I even got a set of SBC headers out of the deal. So, on the trailer it went. What do you think of it? The post RebelDryver Got A New Project Car! This 1977 Chevy Monza Is Going To Become A Drag And Drive Machine! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

While the future of motorcycling is safe thanks to youth-focused EV dirt bikes, the parents buying these machines aren't teaching their children to be safe riders. Parents need to step up before lawmakers make them illegal. View the full article

I am a big fan of Rain-X. I own, and have owned, a few vehicles that don’t have windshield wipers at all and have found that if you apply it right and often enough it works wonders. I’ve tried a few other brands over the years as well, and found some to work well and others to just seem like cleaner and not repellent. So how do they compare in real world testing? Thanks to Project Farm, we’re about to find out. Check out the video below as 10 brands of windshield water repellents are put to the test! Video Description: The Windshield water repellents were tested for hydrophobic performance after application, after a glass cleaner, after exposure to car wash, after exposure to bug-and-tar remover, after exposure to wheel and tire cleaner, and after exposure to a degreaser. They were also tested for their ability to resist bug guts. Brands Tested: Glaco, Gtechniq, Gyeon, Nasiol, Rain-X, Invisible Glass, Griot’s, Meguiar’s, Ethos, and Adam’s. I purchased all the Windshield Water Repellents to ensure an unbiased review. So, thank you for supporting the channel. The post Better Than Rain-X?! Is This The Best Windshield Water Repellent Windshield Coating Ever? 10 Brands Tested! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Here’s gallery #4, our final gallery of PDRA East Coast Nationals action, and if you missed the photos we already posted, use the link below to check them out too. (Photos by David Whealon) The PDRA East Coast Nationals at GALOT Motorsports Park were some badass drag races and for good reason. This is one of the coolest dragstrips in the country, and when the PDRA is in town the crowds are always great. With Pro Nitrous, Pro Boost, Pro Street, and more, there is no shortage of great racing action for the fans to see. Lucky for us, David Whealon was on hand shooting photos like a madman, so that we have galleries to share with all you BANGshifters. Check them out below. We have several galleries to share, so click on any photo below to make them bigger so you can scroll through the slideshow. CLICK HERE IF YOU MISSED OUR PREVIOUS PDRA PHOTOS The post Our Final Gallery of 2026 PDRA East Coast Nationals Photos! Pro Mods, Dragsters, Door Cars, And So Much More! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

There is something awesome about vintage bodied pre-runner trucks, and this dentside F100 is a great example. My uncle had a SuperCab back then, and even though I was never a Ford fan growing up I still dug it. If it was a long travel pre-runner like this, I definitely would have dug it even more. So when I saw this feature video, including some high speed whoops, I knew I had to share it. Whether you are a classic Ford fan or not, you’ll like this one. Who wants a long travel truck after watching this one?! Video Description: Alex brought over his insane F100 pre-runner for a last minute shoot and it turned out absolutely perfect! This truck was passed down to Alex from his uncle and has been turned into the ultimate badass truck ON & OFF the road so sit back and enjoy the ride! The post This Awesome Dent Side Ford F100 Pre-Runner RIPS The STREETS, The Dirt, And More! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The last 365 days have been a wild ride for Jordan Vandergriff. We sat down with Vandergriff to learn a bit more about him.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 1977-1980 Formula 1 race and just look at how sexy these race cars are! CLICK HERE IF YOU MISSED THE MONACO HISTORIC LIVESTREAM The post The Wild 1981-1985 Era Of Formula One Cars Race At Monaco Again! 1980s F1 Gold at the 2026 Monaco Historic Grand Prix! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Shannon is back at the fab work on the FJ40, with the rear bumper continuing to take shape in preparation for fender flares. These two go together, so the bumper has to be just right if the flares are to take shape the way he’s envisioning them. Shannon and Jess are moving right along on the FJ40 and things just keep getting better. If you like a Landcruiser, you’ll dig this one. But if restored to factory is your jam, this one might not be quite up your alley. We dig them all, so we are in. If you missed this FJ40 project that Shannon Campbell is working on, we’ve got a link below, but if you are back for the next installment in this build series you are in luck as well. I think this is going to be a fun project, because I love FJ40s, but if you have any ideas of building a custom chassis for your FJ or Jeep, you should check this one out. CLICK HERE IF YOU MISSED ANY OF THE UPDATES ON THIS FJ40 PROJECT SO FAR Video Description: We kicked off the week with a beautiful Easter Sunday spent with family — good food, good company, and time well spent with the people who matter most. But as always… Monday hits and it’s right back to work Back at the shop, we had a very special little helper hanging out — and let’s just say she loves watching her papa do his thing Shannon gets after it and makes solid progress finishing up the rear bumper, putting in the work to keep this build moving forward. This one’s a shorter video for us — so if you’ve been loving the quick, easy-to-watch episodes… this one’s for you This one’s a little mix of everything we love — family, shop life, and the next generation already soaking it all in. ‪@MonsterEnergy‬ ‪@Ultra4RacingAction‬ ‪@NittoChannel‬ ‪@AMSOILinc‬ ‪@VisionWheel1976‬ ‪@HolleyPerformance‬ ‪@branikmotorsports3637‬ ‪@ARB4x4Accessories‬ ‪@warnindustries‬ ‪@MotiveGearofficial‬ The post FJ40 Land Cruiser Custom Fabrication: More Custom Bumper Touches, Metal Fab, And More! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article