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The Journey... Recently, Great Wall Motors (GWM) announced its plans to expand more in Europe with seven new hybrid models. The brand is betting on plug-in hybrid and electric cars, which it will be launching over the next two years across the Atlantic. The brand's lineup consists of crossovers and off-roaders, all of which are big, filled with tech, and electrified. Based on its lineup in China and the rest of the world, the brand has a wide range of compact crossovers and off-road SUVs. Some are exercises in excess, while others are more sensible. GWM Europe View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article ... of 6,250 Miles... GWM has been amping up its presence in Europe with a clear roadmap and plans to build a complete business ecosystem on the continent. The brand is cultivating an environment that will see its products through their life cycles from start to finish. "We are committed to building a complete business ecosystem in Europe – not just to sell cars, but establish local R&D and production capabilities, operate our wholly owned sales and service organizations, and partner with a network of outstanding local dealers," said GWM's President, Mu Feng. The current lineup of GWM in Europe covers three key product categories in GWM's business unit. The Ora series is presented as a stylish daily driver of an electric compact SUV, while the Jolion nameplate features hybrid power in a compact SUV body. The biggest of the bunch is the H7, an off-road-focused hybrid or plug-in hybrid SUV that's next on the brand's launch calendar for the region. GWM Europe ... Starts with the First Step While the brand has already put down its roots in Europe, intending to become a mainstream brand on the continent, it's still determined to enter the U.S. market. "The U.S. is the No. 1 market [GWM wants to get into], so of course we have plans and ambitions," said Parket Shi, the head of the automaker's international business unit at this year's Beijing International Automotive Exhibition. GWM's ambitions also align with those of other Chinese brands seeking to enter North America. Geely is one such brand that has already entered North America through Lotus, but GWM appears hell-bent. Considering the brand's lineup of products, it features big, bold, electrified vehicles that might just appeal to U.S. customers. Product lines like the Tank series are of particular interest. They're big, bold, rugged, and filled with tech, offering a different take on what an off-road-focused SUV should be. This Plug In Hybrid SUV makes 865 Horsepower GWM View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article GWM's Already in the U.S... Sort of GWM already has technology centers in Detroit and Los Angeles, and it has participated in American trade shows like CES a total of 2 times as of the time of writing. At CES, the brand showcased two models that might appeal to the U.S. market: the G9 and the 07 crossover. The 500 series was also showcased, and given its size's proximity to the Toyota Land Cruiser and Sequoia, this could be the brand's headlining gig, presenting a robust, rugged appearance and feature set while keeping its forward-thinking approach to its tech elements. In addition, the brand also showed a twin-turbo V8 engine this year. What's keeping GWM and other Chinese automakers is the tariffs and trade restrictions that are in place. With that in mind, and since it already has roots in the U.S., the brand plans to bide its time until restrictions ease. GWM View the full article

Improving PerfectionSinger Vehicle Designs is one of the most respected restomodders in the world. Ever since their renditions of what they believe to be the perfect retro-inspired 911s hit the market, the world has gone crazy for them. Each car is carefully planned, designed, and built to a standard that would even make Porsche blush. In February of this year, Singer announced that it would be embarking on two new development projects. Specifically, the Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe and Cabriolet reimagined by Singer. Some details have already been shared with the public, but new information about the engines of both cars has just come to light. Naturally Aspirated BlissThe good news about Singer's new engine project is that the ethos behind it is purity. Rob Dickinson, Singer’s founder and creative director, said that they used the wide-body naturally aspirated 911s of the 80s as inspiration for the project. He also said that the goal was to create "the ultimate, naturally aspirated G model 911, reimagined for the twenty-first century in both coupe and cabriolet body styles." At the heart of it all is the iconic 911 flat-six, with optimized throttle response, thrilling high-rpm performance, and a manageable, consistent torque output throughout the rev range for better daily driving characteristics. According to Singer, it drew on its 15 years of experience and even sought the services of legendary engine builder Cosworth to build the engine they wanted. A lot of the magic comes from a redesigned Type 964 Flatsix, where Singer and Cosworth collaborated to optimize variable valve timing, combustion chamber design, and intake and exhaust paths. In fact, this engine has a lot of firsts for Singer: it's the first to feature variable valve timing, the first non-turbo engine to use water-cooled cylinder heads combined with air-cooled cylinders, and the first to use an electrically powered fan, all utilizing learnings from the DLS Turbo program. Singer Real PowerSinger also published a video in which the brand test driver, Marino Franchitti, visited Cosworth's HQ to see for himself how the development process is going. Towards the end of the video, you can see the engine being dyno-tested, giving us a sneak peek at its true performance. Singer's goal is to have it produce 420 horsepower, but at one point during the test, the needle rose to 450 hp. While that isn't an official number, it just goes to show the dedication that went into this engine and how capable it is. Singer Vehicle Design View the full article

Volvo Underrated The EX60The all-electric 2027 Volvo EX60 is a total sleeper car, and not just because of its Swedish minimalist styling. Volvo will sell three powertrains ranging from 369 to 670 horsepower, and based on our real-world experience in two of them, we believe the Swedish automaker has underrated this car. During the First Drive event for the EX60, Autoblog sampled the P6 RWD and P10 AWD versions of the EX60; both accelerated quicker than Volvo's zero-to-60 mph estimates using a Racebox data recorder. Volvo P6 RWD P10 AWD P12 AWD 369 horsepower 503 horsepower 670 horsepower 354 lb-ft 524 lb-ft 583 lb-ft 5.7 seconds to 60 mph 4.4 seconds to 60 mph 3.8 seconds to 60 In our testing outside Barcelona, Spain, the P6 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.22 seconds, beating Volvo's claimed time (5.7 seconds) by nearly half-a-second. The P6 doesn't have a sport mode of any kind, so this time was pretty impressive for the 369-hp rear-drive car. The P6 was quick, but the P10 was outright blistering. With the performance powertrain setting activated, it gently rolled off the line (because there is no launch control) in just 3.96 seconds, beating Volvo's estimate (4.4 seconds) by around the same gap as the P6. Quicker Than Two BMWs Volvo Even taking Volvo's estimates as face value, the EX60 is quicker than its closest rival, the 2027 BMW iX3. That vehicle launches with only one available powertrain configuration: the 50 xDrive with 463 hp. BMW says the iX3 50 can hit 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, though we've recorded it doing the sprint in 4.53 seconds. Of course, BMW will have a quicker M variant coming in the future. The EX60 P10's 3.96-second time puts it into impressive territory along with some truly quick cars: Tesla Model Y Premium AWD (4.6 seconds)GMCHummer EV 2X SUV (4.4 seconds)Mercedes-AMG G63 (4.2 seconds)Porsche 911 Carrera T (4.3 seconds)Toyota GR Supra (3.9 seconds)Not only is the EX60 P10 substantially quicker than its German competitor, it's actually quicker than the base BMW M3 with a manual transmission (4.1 seconds). In fact, even that new M3 CS Handschalter will struggle to keep up with Volvo's latest electric crossover off the line. How Quick Is The P12? Volvo did not have an EX60 P12 on-hand for us to drive, but we can't wait to find out how quick it is in the real world. Assuming it beats the manufacturer estimates by around the same margin as the P6 and P10 variants, we can expect it to hit 60 mph in under 3.4 seconds. If the P12 lives up to these expectations, it would be near the following vehicles: Cadillac Optiq-V (3.5 seconds)Aston Martin Vantage (3.4 seconds)BMW M5 (3.4 seconds)Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack (3.3 seconds)Tesla Model Y Performance AWD (3.3 seconds)The Volvo EX60 P12 would even keep up with a BMW M3 Competition xDrive (3.4 seconds) on paper, though that car is also severely underrated by the manufacturer and has been known to hit 60 mph in under three seconds. When we record a 0-60 time for the EX60 P12, we will let you know how quick it is. The upcoming Polestar 7 will use the same SPA3 architecture as the EX60 and may have sportier tuning, so perhaps it will be even quicker than the Volvo. View the full article

Confusing Wade Mode for a Boat HullOne of the TeslaCybertruck's most discussed off-road features is Wade Mode. This specialized setting raises the ride height and uses the vehicle's onboard air suspension to pressurize the battery pack against harmful water intrusion. It allows the electric pickup to safely navigate shallow flooding and minor river crossings. Unfortunately, one ambitious owner in Texas saw this tool as an open invitation for total maritime mayhem. Tesla explicitly states that Wade Mode is designed strictly for shallow water, not as a lake-crossing cheat code. That warning did not stop a driver from treating Grapevine Lake like an open ocean yesterday. Elon Musk once promised that the Cybertruck would briefly serve as a boat, but that production reality has not arrived. An Instagram video showed brief success near the shore, but the truck quickly succumbed to gravity in deep water. Yacht-mode Envy?Perhaps the driver read about a high-end Chinese range-extended electric SUV that features a functional emergency Yacht-mode and felt a sudden bout of cyber-insecurity. If the goal was to match that swimming capability, the attempt failed miserably. Grapevine Police reported that the Cybertruck quickly became disabled and started taking on water, forcing the driver and passengers to promptly abandon ship. The recovery process turned into a massive logistical headache for local emergency services. What began as a sunny daytime stunt dragged into the dead of night, requiring the Grapevine Fire Department Water Rescue Team and a heavy crane to hoist the truck from the depths. Things worsened significantly when police officially arrested the driver for operating a motor vehicle in a closed section of a park and for multiple water safety equipment violations. Facebook: Grapevine Police Department View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Software Doesn't Make a Truck FloatTexas state laws are incredibly strict regarding operating motor vehicles in closed or barricaded sections of parks and lakes. Furthermore, Texas legally requires proper vessel registration and onboard safety gear for any amphibious machine navigating its public waters. Expecting a multi-ton electric pickup truck to double as a registered watercraft without life jackets or a valid hull ID is a legal nightmare. The ultimate takeaway here is simple: stop doing stupid things for social media clout. Tesla frequently pushes impressive over-the-air software updates to enhance off-road capabilities, but code cannot override the laws of physics. No amount of software tuning will ever transform a heavy highway vehicle into a seaworthy vessel, so please keep your expensive truck on dry land. Tesla View the full article

NASCAR on (Amazon) Prime Sports earned widespread critical acclaim last season and crew chief analyst Steve Letarte says their success came from a very simple set of instructions from executive producer Alex Strand. “Alex won't pat himself on the back but I think the Prime group gave us a really clear direction on what was expected,” Letarte said on Wednesday during a media call previewing ...Keep readingView the full article

I tested the all-new 2027 Norton Manx R superbike at its launch in Seville, Spain. Check out my video review after putting the bike through its paces on the twisties and a few sessions on track.View the full article

THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 425 “SMALL TIRE STORMS & SOUTHERN CHAOS” SOME PEOPLE SEE BAD WEATHER. WE SEE BOOST WEATHER. This week on The Wes Buck Show, we’re diving headfirst into one of the rowdiest weekends on the outlaw racing calendar as we get ready for the 9th Annual Strange Engineering Ronnie Buff Memorial and the always wild King of the South showdown. Joining us are two guys who live in the middle of the madness, Michael Poland and Corey Stamper. And if you know these two, you already know this conversation could go absolutely anywhere. We’re talking small tire wars. Outlaw racing. Big personalities. Big money. Big opinions. And yeah, maybe a little weather drama too, because it looks like Mother Nature might have some thoughts about this weekend all across the East Coast. But around here? We stay glass half full. Racers race. Promoters promote. And somehow these outlaw guys always seem to find a way to make it happen. We’re gonna break down the event, the classes, the storylines, the chaos, and probably stir the pot a little bit while we’re at it. One thing’s for sure. This one is gonna be loud. LET’S GET IT. Each week on The Wes Buck Show, Wes Buck, JT “Murder T” Hudson, and Mike Carpenter bring their unique insights and analysis to the most electrifying moments and storylines from a packed weekend of drag racing. SUBSCRIBE for the latest in drag racing: @dragillustrated GRAB YOUR MERCH: dragillustrated.store STAY CONNECTED: @thewesbuckshow @dragillustrated RACERS CLUB MERCH: racers.club Wanna sponsor the show? Contact us: [email protected] dragracing #wesbuck #MichaelPoland #CoreyStamper #KingOfTheSouth #RonnieBuffMemorial #SmallTire #OutlawRacing #WBS #DI #RacersClub This story was originally published on May 20, 2026. The post The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 425 | Corey Stamper & Michael Poland first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

As Team Penske continues to try and find the right formula for its No. 12 pit crew, they have opted to make another change ahead of this weekend's Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The group has had several problems early in the year with 88 positions lost on pit road in the first eight races of the 2026 season. Both Blaney and rew chief Jonathan Hassler have been fairly open about ...Keep readingView the full article

Montreal is a city of dualities. It is a place where European charm meets North American industrial grit, and where the sacred architecture of the ‘City of a Hundred Steeples’ often provides a backdrop for more rebellious pursuits. This past weekend, the Théâtre Paradoxe, a former church converted i... View the full article

Hyundai Motor America is issuing a voluntary safety recall for 54,337 of its Elantra Hybrid sedans due to a defect in the high-voltage electrical assembly that poses a localized fire risk. According to filings released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall impacts certain 2024 through 2026 model year Elantra Hybrid (HEV) vehicles. The IssueThe core of the issue lies within the vehicle’s Hybrid Power Control Unit (HPCU). This follows Hyundai’s recent recall of two of its most popular models. Under conditions of high electrical load—such as sustained highway driving in peak summer heat or heavy stop-and-go commuting—the HPCU can rapidly overheat. If the unit’s thermal limits are breached, it can cause the vehicle to trigger a safeguard "fail-safe" mode, resulting in a sudden loss of motive power or a complete refusal to restart after being shut off. In more severe scenarios, extreme overheating can cause localized thermal damage to the control unit assembly and its internal electronic components, significantly increasing the risk of an engine bay fire. Hyundai Fortunately, or unfortunately, as we have grown used to, the remedy does not require extensive hardware swaps or lengthy workshop stays. Hyundai dealerships will resolve the issue by applying an updated software patch to the Hybrid Power Control Unit. This update optimizes the unit's thermal management protocols and improves diagnostic monitoring to prevent overloading before temperatures reach critical levels. As with all safety-regulated campaigns, the software update will be performed entirely free of charge to vehicle owners. While this campaign specifically targets the electrical architecture of newer models, the Elantra Hybrid line has faced previous electronic interventions, including an August 2023 recall regarding motor control software. This latest action reflects heightened regulatory scrutiny on power electronics as automakers scale up high-voltage hybrid configurations for the American market. Hyundai Next Steps for OwnersOwner notification letters are expected to be mailed out over the coming weeks. In the meantime, Elantra Hybrid drivers can verify if their specific vehicle is included in the campaign by entering their 17-character VIN directly into the official NHTSA Recalls Portal. View the full article

It may be a bit strange to think that inexperienced drivers seem to shine in this grueling five-hour marathon, but it's happened enough for it to become notable. At 600 miles, no other NASCAR race gets close to the length of the Coca Cola 600. And it is no surprise that several of those first-time winners went on to become NASCAR legends. As the saying goes: "The strongest steel is forged in ...Keep readingView the full article

It's Not a RecallAccording to industry data, General Motors sits in the middle of the pack regarding total vehicle recalls. While avoiding the chart-topping numbers of some rivals, the automaker still regularly addresses defects. However, the latest action for certain 2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban models is not a recall. Instead, GM issued a special coverage adjustment for SUVs equipped with the 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel LM2 engine. This program addresses a potential failure involving the cylinder 2 glow plug, which can trigger the Check Engine light. This special coverage program applies for 15 years or 150,000 miles from the vehicle's original in-service date. A glow plug is a small heating element that warms the engine cylinders to help ignite diesel fuel during cold starts. Chevrolet dealers will replace the cylinder 2 glow plug at no charge, and the repair may include a new throttle body gasket. GM expects only a small number of vehicles to need this fix. Retailers face limited parts availability during the early stages of the program. Chevrolet What You Should DoWhile GM avoids the highest overall recall count, many of its official safety campaigns are incredibly serious. For instance, a recent recall of a missing transfer case part that could lock the wheels warranted a strict do not drive warning. This glow plug bulletin stands in contrast because it is a voluntary warranty extension rather than a safety recall. Owners do not need to schedule a dealer visit unless their SUV actively exhibits the condition. GM’s customer notification letter states plainly that drivers should not visit a dealer unless they believe the defect is present. Technicians must officially confirm that the fault points specifically to the number 2 cylinder glow plug before starting repairs. If diagnostics do not justify replacement of the component, no further action is permitted under this field action. Owners can confirm eligibility through a dealer using their vehicle identification number. For those who already paid out of pocket for this fix, reimbursement claims must be submitted by May 31, 2027. Chevrolet The Lowdown Proactive special coverage actions are vital for modern automakers. They demonstrate that car companies are willing to address mechanical situations before they turn into massive lawsuits. Ignoring known flaws quickly invites corporate disaster. For example, GM was recently hit with a lawsuit over alleged brake failure in certain 2025 models. Voluntarily extending component warranties shields the manufacturer from class-action trouble while protecting consumers on the road. Furthermore, a 15-year or 150,000-mile warranty extension builds significant goodwill within the diesel community. Duramax buyers choose full-size SUVs for long-term longevity and heavy-duty capability. Standing behind the product for a decade and a half shows commendable accountability without the panic of a safety recall. Despite early parts shortages, this targeted campaign is a responsible move that keeps family vehicles running smoothly. View the full article

Now that Canada’s auto market is open to Chinese-made electric vehicles at a reduced tariff rate of 6.1%—albeit with an annual cap of 49,000 vehicles—western automakers are starting to consider exporting their Chinese-made vehicles to our northern neighbor. Tesla is believed to be among the first to take advantage of the opportunity as it recently began advertising a Model 3 sedan in Canada for just C$42,132 (about US$30,900) after delivery fees. Since that’s an $8,000 drop from the electric sedan’s previous list price, the Model 3 is thought to be sourced from Tesla’s Shanghai factory. The Nissan N7 Sedan and NX8 SUV May Be Potential Candidates Nissan View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Nissan is reportedly another automaker that is exploring exporting cars built at a joint venture with its Chinese partner Dongfeng to Canada. In an interview with Bloomberg, Christian Meunier, Nissan’s head of the Americas, said the carmaker aims to tap demand for low-cost EVs by exporting vehicles it makes with Dongfeng Motor Group Co in China to several markets, including Brazil and Mexico—and potentially including Canada. “In Canada, the government has opened the door for some Chinese products. We’re looking at this,” Meunier said. Mind you, he did not say which Nissan Dongfeng models were taken into account for possible export to Canada nor did he provide a timeline for the launch. Besides the Ariya, Nissan currently builds two other EVs with Dongfeng in China: the N7 fastback sedan (pictured above), which is slightly larger than the discontinued Maxima, and the NX8 midsize SUV (pictured below), which slots between the Rogue and the Pathfinder from a size standpoint. While not exactly entry-level vehicles, these two EVs are surprisingly affordable in China. The Nissan N7 starts at just $17,600, while the NX8 SUV is priced from around $22,000. Even after factoring in the 6.1% tariff rate and other expenses, Nissan may still have enough leeway to offer these models at competitive prices in Canada. Nissan View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article How Much Longer Can Fortress America Resist? Nissan The fact that Nissan is considering bringing its China-made EVs to North America indicates a broader shift in the global auto industry as legacy carmakers lean on China’s lower production costs and faster EV development cycles to stay competitive. Nissan CEO Ivan Espinosa previously said the Japanese automaker plans to ramp up exports from China, starting with 100,000 units initially and growing to 300,000. The first of the models destined for Latin American markets will be the Nissan N7 electric sedan and the Frontier Pro pickup, which is also sold as a plug-in hybrid in China. In addition to Tesla and Nissan, several Chinese carmakers have expressed interest to enter the Canadian market, including BYD, Geely and Chery. Meanwhile, a bipartisan bill proposed in Congress seeks to permanently ban Chinese cars from the U.S. market. It remains to be seen how America's isolationist policy will affect the competitiveness of its domestic automakers on the global stage in the long run. View the full article

NHRA officials announced today that JEGS, a DTC, e-commerce retailer and distributor of high-performance automotive aftermarket parts and accessories, has been named the presenting sponsor for the first-ever event at Maryland International Raceway in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. The inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS takes place May 29-31 at the standout facility just outside of Washington, D.C. during NHRA’s 75th anniversary season, coming just after Memorial Day Weekend and on the eve of America’s 250th celebration. The debut at Maryland International Raceway marks one of four new tracks during NHRA’s milestone campaign, as fans will get to see all the incredible action of 12,000-horsepower, 340-mph nitro cars, plus all the stars in Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle. With a NHRA 75th anniversary Diamond Wally on the line and a chance to win the first-ever race at Maryland International Raceway, the NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS should be spectacular from start to finish. “JEGS has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with NHRA, and we were proud to support its expansion into the Greater Washington, D.C., market,” said Rob Fisher, Director of Marketing. “Bringing our JEGS Experience trailer to Maryland International Raceway gives us an exciting opportunity to connect with fans and racers alike to showcase the products, service and value that has defined the JEGS legacy.” The action starts with two rounds of qualifying on Friday, the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge bonus race on Saturday – as well as two more rounds of qualifying – and eliminations on Sunday, plus a host of 75th anniversary events, including: An appearance from NHRA legend and three-time Top Fuel world champion Shirley Muldowney and a tribute to Muldowney’s trailblazing history in the sport. On Sunday, a free, limited-edition NHRA pennant will be given to the first 4,000 fans in attendance. A new-look Nitro Mall, special displays and much more. The 2026 NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS includes action in all four Mission Foods Drag Racing Series classes and coverage of the event will be broadcast on FOX, with elimination coverage beginning at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday, May 31. “JEGS has been a tremendous NHRA partner for many years and we’re excited to have them as the presenting sponsor of the NHRA Potomac Nationals, which marks a historic weekend for NHRA and the facility,” NHRA Vice President and Chief Development Officer Brad Gerber said. “Our first-ever national event at Maryland International Raceway is a major moment during NHRA’s 75th anniversary season and we’re thrilled to work together with JEGS to make this an amazing event for the local community, our fans, race teams and partners.” Former Top Fuel world champion Shawn Langdon powered to a new speed record of 345.00-mph at the NHRA Southern Nationals before going on to win the event. He took over the points lead and will look to impress in Maryland against the likes of Josh Hart of John Force Racing, reigning world champion Doug Kalitta, motorsports legend Tony Stewart, Leah Pruett, Clay Millican and Tony Schumacher. The Funny Car class continues to be ultra-competitive, with Ron Capps earning two wins in 2026. J.R. Todd is the current points leader and will look for his first win of the season in Maryland. Matt Hagan has a win as well, while others to watch in Maryland include Gainesville winner Chad Green, Funny Car newcomer Jordan Vandergriff, who won in Georgia, and reigning world champion Austin Prock. Reigning Pro Stock champ Dallas Glenn currently leads the points with two wins in 2026. Matt Hartford also has two victories this year, while six-time world champ Greg Anderson picked up the win in Pomona. Fans at MIR will also see the Elite Motorsports team, led by six-time champion Erica Enders, Aaron Stanfield, Jeg Coughlin Jr. and T.J. Coughlin. Pro Stock Motorcycle world champion Richard Gadson won his first title last season over two-time champ Gaige Herrera. Six-time champ Matt Smith and his teammates Angie Smith, John Hall and Jianna Evaristo will look to win in Maryland, as will Kelly Clontz, Steve Johnson and Chase Van Sant in an area loaded with motorcycle fans. NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 1:30 and 4 p.m. ET on Friday, May 29 and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, May 30 at 12:30 and 3 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 a.m. ET on Sunday, May 31. Television coverage includes qualifying on FS1 at 7 p.m. ET on Friday and 9 p.m. ET on Saturday, with eliminations action on Sunday at 3 p.m on FOX. To purchase tickets to the 2026 NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. Children 12 and under are free in general admission areas with the purchase of an adult ticket. For more information about the NHRA, visit www.nhra.com. The post JEGS Named Presenting Sponsor for NHRA Debut at Maryland International Raceway first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Robust, reliable, and over-engineered Toyotas almost instantaneously paint the picture of a flagship Land Cruiser. Historically, the ultimate case study for longevity, the global heavy-duty Land Cruiser, since the 100-Series, has stepped into an overly complex, electrically assisted, and luxury-tier purgatory. By contrast, the homegrown American 4Runner platform has deliberately avoided this path. For the daily driver navigating interstate road trips and weekend trail runs, the 4Runner wears the crown as the most reliable upper-midsize SUV. Land Cruiser vs 4RunnerThis comparison discounts the smaller Land Cruiser LC250, which shares the sixth-generation 4Runner’s TNGA-F platform and 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid drivetrain despite costing significantly more. Instead, looking closely at the core lineups highlights why the 4Runner boasts superior real-world reliability over flagship Land Cruisers, including the LC300, which is not sold in America - the Lexus equivalent, however, is available in American dealerships. Drivetrain ComparisonThe fifth-generation 4Runner utilizes an under-stressed, naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V6 and a five-speed automatic transmission, famously recognized for lasting past 200,000 miles. As the platform transitions to its sixth generation, it adopts the high-volume TNGA-F global truck platform. Because these mechanical components are shared with millions of North American trucks like the Tacoma, parts are cheap, heavily stocked, and easy to source. Conversely, the LC200 and LC300 rely on lower-volume Diesel V8 and twin-turbo V6 powertrains whose high-tech components naturally kneecap field serviceability and predictably inflate long-term repair bills. Toyota Platform and Suspension ComparisonThe structural divergence becomes even more apparent in the chassis engineering. The global Land Cruisers are engineered as tech-forward goliaths, using complex ride-management systems like Hydraulic Active Height Control and Adaptive Variable Suspension arrays. While these setups elegantly balance off-road articulation with plush highway dampening, they introduce a large collection of localized failure points—including pressurized hydraulic systems, height sensors, accumulation valves, and dedicated air compressors. These intricate systems inevitably degrade, leak, or fail when subjected to road salt, weathering, and harsh trail debris. Both iterations of the 4Runner shield owners from this hyper-complex diagnostic maintenance through mechanical component simplicity. The fifth-generation layout utilizes a narrower track and standard stamped-steel independent front control arms optimized for traditional, slow-speed trail compliance, alongside a purely mechanical, always-on Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System hydraulic loop. The sixth-generation layout introduces a wider, structurally stiffer stance designed to mitigate body roll and brake dive, pushing the rear coil springs and dampers outboard closer to the wheels. It replaces the complex dual-axle hydraulic plumbing of previous iterations with a push-button electronic Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism at the front axle for manual, maximum wheel travel over obstacles. Toyota King of Toyota's JungleWhile flagship Land Cruisers remain magnificent machines designed to haul global diplomats through remote warzones, the 4Runner defines real-world reliability for the American landscape. For overall longevity, the mechanically simplistic fifth-generation 4Runner sweeps the competition, while the sixth generation secures modern dependability by balancing cutting-edge efficiency with an unbreakable, highly supported domestic safety net. View the full article

Powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder motor, the Segway Super Villain side-by-side is finally coming Stateside.View the full article

The big news today comes from Stellantis, the conglomerate in charge of Alfa Romeo, Jeep, Ram, and more, with the automaker announcing that it has signed a memorandum of understanding with JaguarLand Rover. The goal? To potentially "collaborate on product development in the United States." In other words, Stellantis and JLR could jointly develop vehicles that will be sold here in America, likely including new SUVs. Importantly, JLR is owned by India's Tata Motors, and this announcement may lead to JLR getting access to Stellantis' U.S. factories, helping avoid import tariffs. But before we get ahead of ourselves, it's worth keeping in mind that this non-binding agreement is just the first step in any potential joint effort. What Stellantis and Jaguar Land Rover Could Do Together Jaguar Land Rover View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The announcement states that Stellantis and JLR "will explore collaboration opportunities to create synergies across product and technology development, leveraging the companies' complementary strengths to create value for both organizations." Thus, it's unclear which of the two automakers would play the bigger role in any future tie-ups, but we could see jointly developed components, infotainment systems, powertrain management software, or full vehicles, potentially including EVs and their systems. It's exciting to ponder the possibilities for future off-roaders that leverage the know-how of both Jeep and Land Rover, and we imagine JLR could help bring a touch more pizzazz to certain Stellantis brands. Related: Chrysler Already Showed Dealers A New Car Priced In The $20,000s "By working with partners to explore synergies in areas such as product and technology development, we can create meaningful benefits for both sides while remaining focused on delivering the products and experiences our customers love," said Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa. Meanwhile, JLR CEO PB Balaji said, "As we continue to evolve JLR for the future, collaboration will play an important role in unlocking new opportunities. Working with Stellanis allows us to explore complementary capabilities in product and technology development that support our long-term growth plans for the U.S. market." Early Stages of the Stellantis & JLR Colab Stellantis View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article As always with a memorandum of understanding like this, there will be certain conditions on each side of the bargaining table, and while this move by Stellantis and JLR is big, it's not guaranteed to last or turn into something tangible. Honda and Nissan had signed an MoU with a view to merging, and that fell through. Even advanced collaborations don't always work out, as we've seen with Honda and Sony, and Honda and GM. Still, if this MoU turns into something more, it could help Stellantis and JLR find a more secure foothold in their most important market. Stellantis reported a $26 billion loss last year, while JLR has had costly reliability issues and a major cybersecurity breach. With a collaboration, each outfit may find a return to success quicker than they might on their own steam. View the full article

Drag Race Bracket Bonanza (DRBB), the free fantasy game built for NHRA drag racing fans, has officially opened voting for the Pro Stock Motorcycle edition of its popular Major Moments brackets, the latest chapter in a season-long fan experience celebrating 75 years of NHRA history. The Major Moments initiative features seeded 64-moment brackets in each professional NHRA category: Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle, highlighting the most iconic wins, rivalries, records, championships and unforgettable moments the sport has ever seen. Fans can now vote in the Pro Stock Motorcycle bracket, which will remain open through May 29, during the stretch between the Route 66 Nationals and Potomac Nationals. Throughout the 2026 season, DRBB is unveiling each class-specific bracket one at a time before culminating in an Overall Bracket featuring the Top 16 moments from every category. Fans will ultimately determine the single greatest moment in NHRA drag racing history. “This has become something fans genuinely look forward to every few weeks,” said Elon Werner, creator of Drag Race Bracket Bonanza. “The Major Moments program has added another layer of excitement to DRBB because it keeps fans engaged all season long. Everyone remembers these moments differently, and watching people debate, defend and relive them has been incredible. That’s exactly what we hoped this would become.” After each bracket closes, DRBB publicly releases the fan-completed results, creating even more discussion among racers, longtime followers and newer fans discovering the sport’s history for the first time. Six-time Pro Stock Motorcycle world champion Matt Smith said the bracket is a reminder of how much the category has evolved over the years. “I’m very proud to represent this class,” said Smith. “I set my life ambition to be a world championship in Pro Stock Motorcycle, and I’ve got six of them, and of course I want to get seven and be the all-time leader in our class, so hopefully we can accomplish that this year. And the big moments I have, some are good, some are bad, but we keep striving, and I’m just glad to help support the class and keep new people coming in.” Two-time world champion Gaige Herrera believes the category’s next generation is already creating moments that could someday become part of future brackets. “I just focus on what I’m doing as far as when the big moments are happening,” said Herrera. “This class is only continuing to get better, so I feel like we’re going to see a lot of people who are already in the class step up, or new people come in, to continue to set records and create major moments.” By combining fan voting, NHRA history and friendly debate, DRBB’s Major Moments brackets have quickly become one of the most interactive additions to the 2026 fantasy season. DRBB hopes the program continues sparking passionate conversations among fans about the defining moments, biggest upsets and most legendary performances in NHRA history, all while adding another fun, free and interactive element to the game throughout the season. Remaining Major Moments schedule for 2026: Pro Stock Motorcycle Bracket: May 18 – May 29 (between the Route 66 Nationals and the Potomac Nationals) Funny Car Bracket: June 29 – July 17 (between the Norwalk Nationals and the Sonoma Nationals) Overall Bracket: August 24 – September 5 (between the Brainerd Nationals and the U.S. Nationals) Completed brackets: Top Fuel Bracket: February 23 – March 6 (leading into the Gatornationals) Pro Stock Bracket: March 30 – April 10 (between the Arizona Nationals and the Winternationals) Fans can vote now in the Pro Stock Motorcycle Major Moments bracket at DragRaceBracketBonanza.com. They can find an example video for how to fill out a Major Moments bracket on the DRBB YouTube channel. This story was originally published on May 20, 2026. The post Drag Race Bracket Bonanza Opens Pro Stock Motorcycle ‘Major Moments’ Bracket, the Third Bracket in the Series first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Kia’s Big Pickup Debut Didn’t Go To PlanKia invested years preparing for the Tasman, with teasers, trademark filings, and plenty of discussion about what its first pickup would offer. By the time it launched in Australia, expectations were high. Those expectations weren’t met, though. The Tasman entered a tough segment, already populated by long-running nameplates like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux. Rather than making an impact, Kia’s new ute struggled to gain traction. Kia executives have acknowledged that the Tasman’s launch has not met their expectations. According to global business planning head Spencer Cho, the company is still working to address feedback on both styling and drivetrain options, particularly in Australia. Instead of waiting for a typical mid-cycle update, Kia is already developing short- and mid-term changes to improve the Tasman’s competitiveness ahead of a supposed facelift in 2028. Kia Kia Is Looking At More Than Just StylingThe Tasman’s design is easily the most polarizing feature of the midsize truck, especially regarding its wheel arches and front-end proportions. Kia appears ready to revisit these elements in the near future, despite earlier refuting reports of this move. In an interview with Drive, Cho hinted that revisions could include design improvements, additional features, and even new powertrain choices. While Kia stopped short of confirming specifics, hybrid power has already been linked to the Tasman in previous reports. That direction would make sense given Australia’s tightening emissions regulations and rising diesel prices. Smaller updates may arrive sooner, such as efficiency improvements like stop-start technology for the current turbo-diesel engine. These changes would help the Tasman compete more directly with established rivals. Tasman’s sales numbers are driving Kia’s quick response. In one recent month, the Tasman reportedly sold 320 units in Australia, compared to over 3,600 Ford Rangers and higher numbers for the Isuzu D-Max. Kia Heavy Discounts Arrive As Sales SlowBut before the changes arrive, Kia has already implemented measures to make the Tasman attractive to Australian customers. The company reduced prices across most of the Tasman lineup, with discounts reaching up to AUD$13,000, or about $8,500 at current exchange rates. The largest discount is on the flagship Tasman X-Pro, now starting at AUD$64,990 drive-away, down from nearly AUD$78,000. Mid-range models also see significant discounts, while entry-level pricing remains the same. These price reductions come as the overall truck market in Australia slows, with higher diesel prices and lower demand prompting other brands, including Ford, to offer discounts on electrified models. The Tasman represents more than just a new model for Kia. As the company’s first pickup, it was intended to establish Kia in Australia’s competitive utility market. Fortunately, the US will soon get a different midsize pickup, hoping to take on the top-selling Tacoma. Kia View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Do PHEVs Make Sense?On paper, plug-in hybrids seem to offer the best of both worlds. You can charge it up and do your commutes on battery power alone, or you can drive it like a hybrid and still get a couple of extra MPGs along the way. Either way, there's no range anxiety, as there are two energy sources. But to truly make the most out of PHEVs, it's best to plug these in regularly. It's the best way to achieve those bold consumption claims. Also, the technology is already in place, and running on an empty battery just means you're lugging around extra weight. Still, it's self-charging, and there's nothing wrong with treating it like a hybrid if charging ports are inaccessible. However, BMW wants more of its PHEV owners to start plugging in. It's not necessarily to improve fuel mileage, but rather for corporate reasons. The proposal? It's rather drastic and probably bordering on extreme. BMW Punishment for Non-ChargersGerman news outlet Die Zeit reported a controversial proposal from BMW to force more PHEV owners to charge their cars. It has been suggested that those who stubbornly refuse to charge or those who don't plug the car in regularly should be 'punished.' It was proposed by BMW supervisory board chairman, Dr. Nicolas Peter. So, what exactly are the possible consequences? It wasn't listed in its entirety, but the publication said, 'One possible measure would be to reduce engine power if the battery is not regularly charged.' It was also mentioned that this plan is 'technically feasible.' Yikes. Let's say BMW does push through with the proposal. How will the car know if it's not being charged enough? Read on. BMW Tracking and MonitoringUnsurprisingly, user habits will be tracked and monitored to find out. That brings us to the elephant in the room: privacy. As it is, cars practically track our movements 24/7, and adding this layer will certainly raise more alarms and concerns. There's no shortage of companies that want to buy that potential data goldmine. There's also the matter of an automaker directly influencing a customer's behavior. This is possibly the first time that the thought of being 'punished' for one's charging habits is being brought forward. While it might force some owners to actually start charging their plug-in hybrids, there's also the very real possibility of current owners just getting rid of their cars and buying something else. Why so Drastic?As Auto Motor und Sport reported, BMW isn't proposing this entirely for the benefit of its customers. Instead, it's to boost the company's carbon credits. On-Board Fuel Consumption Monitoring (OBFCM) has been fitted to all new cars sold in Europe since 2022. It studies a car's fuel consumption and energy usage, and, for PHEVs, miles driven on battery power alone. The data collected from the cars are then used to compute the automaker's carbon credits. Failure to meet that means more fines and penalties for the company. "This is a behavioral problem that discredits a climate-friendly technology that could actually be a good way to introduce people to e-mobility - especially where the infrastructure is still too sparse. One measure would be for car manufacturers to be able to document and even penalize usage patterns," said Peter. The thought of facing direct disciplinary action from a car certainly wasn't on our bingo card this year. Add that to the idea of data possibly being used against you, and it comes off as unsettling. That said, it's safe to say that the idea hasn't been met with the warmest of receptions in Germany. Kyle Edward View the full article

Blue skies, sticky track conditions and packed staging lanes highlighted a busy weekend of Summit Series competition at Famoso Dragstrip as racers battled through back-to-back points races during Races No. 3 and No. 4 of the 2026 season. Saturday’s program opened the weekend with a strong mix of door cars, dragsters, motorcycles and Junior Street entries filling the property from early morning through the final rounds. Paige Smith picked up the Sportsman victory, while Jeff Arnswald drove to the win in Pro competition. Marc Schatkuin captured the Super Pro victory after surviving a tough ladder filled with heavy hitters. Motorcycle competition went to Manny Taylor, while James Brown claimed the Super Street victory. Mike Lang added the Pro Gas win, Chuck Babcock earned the Super Comp victory and Travis Rees closed out the night with a Junior Street win. Sunday’s Race No. 4 brought another full day of eliminations as temperatures remained favorable and the racing surface continued to produce consistent side-by-side action. Jeff Answald drove to the Sportsman victory over Jan Vanderpool, while Chris Barger added a Pro category win after defeating Marvin Roles in the final round. Steve White earned the Super Pro victory over David Rudd, and Mark Avila rode to the Motorcycle win over Paul Silvas while also securing the class No. 1 qualifying spot. Wes Anderson claimed the Super Street victory over Kelly Giacalone, while Doug Sedmak defeated Pete Bothe in the Pro Gas final. Amberlee Garfield added her name to the weekend winner list with a Super Comp victory over Jeffery Forney, and Dylan Silva finished off Sunday’s action with a Junior Street win over Travis Rees. The back-to-back events continued a busy start to the 2026 season at Famoso Dragstrip as racers continue chasing Summit Series championships and divisional points. This story was originally published on May 20, 2026. The post Doubleheader Shootout: Famoso Summit Series Weekend Delivers Wall-to-Wall Action first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Ram’s Mystery Pickup Gets Even LouderRam has shared another teaser video of its mysterious pickup truck following last week's preview. The latest clip still doesn't reveal the whole thing, though it adds to speculation that the model could be related to the Rumble Bee, which was a street truck offered for the 2004 and 2005 model years. A street truck is essentially a performance-oriented variant designed for pavement rather than off-road terrain. That could explain the lowered suspension seen in the teaser, along with the yellow paint scheme also used by the Rumble Bee. Interestingly, UFC President Dana White narrated the clip and repeatedly mentioned the word “loud.” Loud Still SellsPerhaps the best interpretation is that Ram is doubling down on its combustion lineup despite the EV segment continuing to grow, albeit more slowly in the U.S. market. That holds more weight after the automaker dropped the Hemi V8 from the 1500 in favor of the Hurricane inline-six, before bringing it back for the MY2026. Now that market conditions appear to be favoring combustion again, Ram looks to be capitalizing on the shift after reviving the Ram 1500 SRT TRX, which makes 777 horsepower and surpasses the Ford F-150 Raptor R on output. The brand has also returned to NASCAR, where racetracks unapologetically rumble with loud V8s, though only in the Craftsman Truck Series for now. That stock car racing venture was also included in the latest teaser. That sentiment could also apply to this upcoming truck with features like a noisy exhaust, and with it being more street-oriented, neighborhoods could become loud again, especially if other automakers like Ford return to the segment with models of their own. Ram Trucks/YouTube Reviving Peak Truck MadnessRam's so-called “New Era of Trucks” could mean electrification will have less of an effect on its lineup. In fact, Stellantis discontinued development of the battery-electric 1500 and shifted focus to a range-extended version, though even that has been delayed. For now, the new truck is set to be unveiled on May 20. It is expected to be related to the 1500 SRT TRX, so the 777-horsepower output could also be on the cards. If so, that could reignite excitement around the brand's performance trucks while channeling the spirit of the SRT-10 street truck, which used a Dodge Viper V10. Ram Trucks/YouTube View the full article

Skyrocketing gas costs have dominated the headlines in 2026, leading to renewed interest in hybrids and EVs, while also encouraging many Americans to turn to carpooling. What the price of a gallon of gas doesn’t quite tell us is which consumers are hit hardest, based on how much driving they do and the type of vehicle they have. A new analysis has revealed the 10 models with the biggest fuel cost increases between January and April 2026, and it’s no surprise to see larger SUVs dominating the list. A certain Toyota leads all other models with a massive increase in fueling costs over the course of just four months. Vehicles With Highest Fuel Cost Increase: January Vs. April 2026 2026 Toyota Sequoia Toyota View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The study was conducted by iSeeCars, which analyzed 2.1 million three-year-old vehicles sold in 2025. Average annual fuel costs for each model were calculated based on the average odometer reading and the increase in gas costs between January and April. The publication’s full methodology can be viewed here, and based on that, the Toyota Sequoia is the model that saw the largest increase in fuel costs over this period. Here’s a look at the top 10. iSeeCars Annual fuel costs for the Sequoia are now $1,623 more than they were at the start of the year, with the Chevy Suburban and Nissan Armada not far behind. The top 8 models are all three-row SUVs, with only the GMC Sierra 1500 Limited and Chrysler Pacifica breaking this pattern. “Large, three-row SUVs can accomplish nearly any task related to personal transportation,” said iSeeCars Executive Analyst Karl Brauer. “Unfortunately, the high functionality of large SUVs combines with their less-than-stellar fuel efficiency to make their annual operating costs extremely volatile when fuel prices spike.” Related: Trump’s Gas Price Plan Could Help Drivers, But Not By Much Or For Long Minivans Hit Hardest by Vehicle Segment Stellantis Even though SUVs dominate the list of individual models with the highest fueling cost hikes, minivans are worse off when entire segments are taken into account. Overall, minivans saw a $1,139 jump in annual fuel costs between January and April, ahead of trucks ($992), SUVs ($681), and passenger cars ($606). Although minivans are more efficient than large SUVs, they log the most miles on average per year, at 19,292. That’s almost 5,000 miles more than for all SUVs. Minivans are often the primary means of transportation for a family, in addition to them being used for school runs and road trips. “Trucks, minivans, and SUVs offer a wide range of functionality, which is why they are so popular with consumers,” said Brauer. “Unfortunately, their highly functional, do-it-all nature combines with relatively low fuel efficiency to make them the most vulnerable to gas price spikes.” Unsurprisingly, fueling costs impacted those with internal combustion engine vehicles the most. For this vehicle type, annual fueling costs are up by $706, followed by regular hybrids on $486 and plug-ins on $291. As for EVs, these motorists experienced a comparatively minuscule $11 increase in annual fueling costs. What It Means Acura It won’t surprise anyone to see that owners of heavy, large SUVs have experienced the biggest increases in fueling costs in 2026. The stark difference may encourage owners of these vehicles to consider downsizing, but what really jumps out is the difference in fueling costs based on powertrain type. EV owners have been largely shielded from rising gas costs this year. This, together with high incentives on many new EVs, makes for one of the strongest cases yet to go electric. View the full article

The IHRA has named Dustin Farthing as its new president. Farthing has an extensive background in the motorsports industry. View the full article

Subaru Has Been Here BeforeThis isn’t Subaru’s first legal headache over EyeSight. In 2021, the company settled a lawsuit after owners complained about their cars braking for no reason. Most people walked away with little more than a warranty extension or a reimbursement offer. Now, Subaru is back in court over what looks like the same old problems. The latest class-action lawsuit says newer models with EyeSight still have glitchy emergency braking and lane-keeping tech that just doesn’t work right. The lawsuit includes Subaru’s entire combustion-powered lineup, from the 2022 model year to the latest Forester, WRX, Legacy, Outback, Ascent, Impreza, Crosstrek, and BRZ. The plaintiffs say Subaru kept pushing EyeSight as a must-have safety feature, even though they supposedly knew about these ongoing problems. Subaru Drivers Say The Systems Behave UnpredictablyThe main complaints target Pre-Collision Braking, Reverse Automatic Braking, and Lane Keep Assist – features bundled under EyeSight. According to the lawsuit, these systems can hit the brakes for no reason or fail to react when there’s a real danger ahead. The lawsuit lists stories of cars suddenly slowing down on highways, in the middle of a turn, or while taking a curve – sometimes with nothing in sight. One Forester owner says their car braked hard on the highway and almost got rear-ended. Another Crosstrek driver says their SUV slammed on the brakes on an empty country road, leaving them with neck and shoulder pain. There are also claims that Lane Keep Assist can fight your attempts to change lanes, yank the steering wheel without warning, or just quit working altogether. Some owners say their dealers told them to just switch the systems off every time they start the car, instead of actually fixing the problem. To support the allegations, the filing calls back numerous complaints submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), many involving “phantom braking” events at highway speeds. Subaru Subaru’s Legal Troubles Go Beyond EyeSightThis EyeSight lawsuit isn’t the only trouble Subaru is facing right now. The company has also been hit with lawsuits over battery drain issues in some of its cars. One case says certain models go through batteries way too quickly, leaving owners stranded with dead cars. Another lawsuit points to older Subarus with outdated 3G hardware that keeps draining the battery, even though the cellular network is long gone. Today’s cars have become increasingly complex, with more and more systems relying on software and electronics. EyeSight is still a big selling point for Subaru, but the company now has to prove it actually works the way owners expect when it matters most. Kristen Brown View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article