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Facing stiff competition from local giants, Honda exited South Korea’s car market while keeping its motorcycle business. View the full article

Forefront of TechnologyOur modern world has reached a point where technology seems to be making big leaps and bounds at a rapid pace. What used to take months and years to develop can sometimes be done in a matter of days. When it comes to the automotive industry, most brands are focusing on improving safety, efficiency, and autonomous driving through the crucible of tech. There are still some who believe that flying cars are a possibility, and it seems one believer is Florida's Governor. Xpeng Aeroht Flying Car FriendlyJalopnik reports that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis really wants to ensure his state is at the forefront of aerospace and aviation. He has expressed his intention to aid in the integration of Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft, or "flying cars," if you will. DeSantis signed legislation early this week stating that Florida will pay 100% of the construction costs to build VTOL vertiports or landing and takeoff venues. The legislation is in preparation for these flying cars that will most likely be used as taxis before more private individuals buy them. DeSantis, along with Florida Transportation Secretary Jared Perdue's new aspirational push for these ports, is one way they're tackling the state's heavy traffic congestion. This should come as no surprise, given that both men are well-established fans of flying car technology, having visited the Paris Air Show recently. Having had first-hand experience with these VTOLs at the air show, DeSantis promptly partnered with SunTrax, which will be the testing center for the VTOL system in Florida. Currently, there is only one other vertiport in the country, located in Chicago. So Florida's new legislation could really put it ahead in terms of this new aerial mobility solution. However, there are other vertiports already under construction in other states, though none are ready yet; these ports can also accommodate personal vehicles such as drones or helicopters. Xpeng Aeroht Is it actually possible?According to Jalopnik's report, they've been following VTOL technology for quite some time now, and while there have been many showcases and prototypes, actual production of these so-called air-taxis is virtually nonexistent. There are a few VTOLs already in use, but these aren't civilian projects, mostly built for military purposes. From a practical standpoint, Florida's plans seem out of this world, and while there is merit to the thinking behind this legislation, actual application that will benefit the broader population isn't in sight just yet. Audi, Airbus, Italdesign View the full article

I’m not a die hard Formula 1 fan that follows all the racers and points and such. But I appreciate the cars and the racing and all the technology that is present in that world nowadays. With that said, seeing the Monaco Historic Grand Prix video has me wanting to go to Monaco for that race more than the current F1 race. Check out these awesome historic race cars as they navigate the streets of Monaco. It’s like traveling back in time, to some of the sexiest open wheel cars on the planet. And they are all on site, racing around this historic and fun street course like we’ve only seen in old film. Check it out and let us know which one of these is your favorite machine on the track this weekend! The post Proper Vintage F1 Racing in Monaco: The 2026 Monaco Historic Grand Prix Did Not Disappoint! Awesome Racing Action! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Nitro Funny Car clutch tuning is super complex. In this episode of Tech Inspection we learn about clutch tuning from Tim Fabrisi.View the full article

Here we go again! We’ve got GT World Challenge Racing going on live right here, and we dig road racing and who doesn’t love the World Challenge series? This weekends racing is coming to you live from GT World Challenge America at Circuit of the Americas in Austin Texas, where the action was hot and heavy this past weekend! The post LIVE REPLAY: Circuit of the Americas GT World Challenge America powered by AWS 2026 appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

We’ve said it multiple times, but it still makes me smile when I see heads up no-prep racers running an index class, and the awesome popularity of Lil’ Gangsta’s and other classes like them. There are similar classes being held all over the country now, some in No Time format and some with times showing. I don’t care which one you like or participate in as long as cars are coming out and racing. These classes are drawing big numbers of cars and real payouts, so it is no wonder that our friends at the 704 Outlaws series kicked off their 2026 season with some small tire gangsters style racing going on as well. Check out the action from the season opener below. Video Description: The 704 Outlaws returned to Mooresville Dragway to kick off their 2026 season!!! With 20 5.30 small tire drag radial cars in the house, they would battle for $3,000 and bragging rights as the Outlaw nights have officially kicked off! The post 5.30 OUTLAW SMALL TIRE GANGSTERS AT MOORESVILLE! 704 OUTLAWS SEASON OPENER APRIL 2026! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Fairfield, OH — The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) has officially announced the acquisition of Empire Dragway, marking a major step in our continued growth and investment in premier racing facilities across the United States. Located in Leicester, New York, Empire Dragway has long been a staple in the Northeast racing community, known for its rich history, passionate fan base, and competitive racing environment. Under IHRA ownership, the facility will undergo strategic enhancements focused on racer experience, fan engagement, and long-term operational sustainability. “This is exactly the kind of facility we want to invest in,” said Darryl Cuttell, Owner of IHRA. “Empire Dragway has a strong foundation and a loyal racing community. Our goal is to build on that momentum—bringing more opportunities for racers, bigger events for fans, and ensuring this track continues to thrive for years to come.” “Empire Dragway has meant so much to me and to this community over the years,” said Jerry Scaccia. “I’m proud of what we’ve built here, and I truly believe IHRA is the right group to take it to the next level. Their vision for the future of the sport and commitment to racers gives me full confidence that Empire is in great hands.” Already established as a stop on our national schedule, Empire Dragway will host the Outlaw Nitro Series and Small Tire BRATZ Series on July 23–25. Under IHRA ownership, that momentum will continue to build with expanded programming, enhanced amenities, and greater opportunities for racers and fans alike. Fans and racers can expect upgrades to infrastructure, enhanced safety measures, and a renewed focus on delivering a top-tier race day experience. We will work closely with local organizations, teams, and the racing community to ensure a seamless transition and continued success of the venue. About IHRA The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA), founded in 1970, is a global motorsports sanctioning body based in the United States, supporting professional and grassroots racing programs across multiple disciplines. With a racer-first approach, IHRA is committed to safety, innovation, and building strong partnerships with racers, tracks, sponsors, and communities worldwide. The post IHRA ACQUIRES EMPIRE DRAGWAY, EXPANDING NATIONAL FOOTPRINT IN THE NORTHEAST appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

A second late-season storm is taking aim at Colorado and forecasters are flagging it as potentially the more impactful of the back-to-back systems hitting the Rockies this week. The Weather Prediction Center is already calling for high probabilities of significant snow across the Front Range, Pikes Peak, and Sangre de Cristos from Wednesday night into Friday, putting major mountain corridors back in the danger zone just as drivers were getting a brief reprieve from this week's first storm. Chat GPT generated image Peak Danger Window: Thursday afternoon through Friday morning, when expanding snow above 8,000 feet collides with cold overnight pavement temperatures across I-70, US-50, and southern Colorado highways. What to ExpectSnow totals: 70%+ probability of 6 or more inches across the higher Front Range, Pikes Peak, and Sangre de Cristos; significant high-elevation accumulation continuing into the weekendSnow level: Above 8,000 feet, dropping close to the foothills as cold air filters in Thursday nightFront Range cities: Denver, Colorado Springs, and Pueblo will see the storm's edge with possible upslope-enhanced surprise accumulationWorst corridors: I-70 across the high country, US-50 over Monarch Pass, US-160 over Wolf Creek Pass, US-550 through the San Juans, CO-65 over Grand Mesa, and I-25 between Denver and PuebloThe system begins as a closed mid-level low near Baja Wednesday evening before opening and ejecting east into the Desert Southwest by Thursday. Strong warm and moist advection ahead of the wave will push ascent over the Colorado Rockies again, while easterly low-level flow drives upslope-enhanced moisture into the state from the Southern Plains. This arrives just behind the storm that hit the Rockies Sunday and Monday, which dropped 12 inches across Crested Butte, Monarch Pass, and the San Juans before exiting Tuesday morning. Road ConditionsThe I-70 mountain corridor is once again the headline travel concern. Berthoud Pass on US-40 (11,307 feet), the Eisenhower Tunnel approach (11,158 feet), and Vail Pass (10,662 feet) all sit well above the 8,000-foot snow level forecast for Thursday and Friday. Drivers should expect renewed chain requirements for commercial vehicles and traction law enforcement for passenger cars. US-50 over Monarch Pass (11,312 feet) and US-160 over Wolf Creek Pass (10,857 feet) are squarely in the southern Colorado heavy snow zone. CDOT has historically closed both passes for snow removal operations during events of this magnitude. The US-550 corridor through Molas Pass, Coal Bank Pass, and Red Mountain Pass remains one of the most exposed and dangerous routes in the state during winter storms, with limited guardrails and avalanche risk. CO-65 over Grand Mesa (10,839 feet), which already saw 24 inches in the first storm, is forecast for additional accumulation that could push it back to impassable. Pikes Peak Highway and routes through the Sangre de Cristos south of Salida will also be heavily impacted. Drivers along I-25 between Denver and Pueblo should plan for slick conditions on bridges, overpasses, and shaded sections Thursday night into Friday morning. Photo by Bloomberg on Getty Images Winter Driving TipsColorado's Traction Law remains active through May 31, regardless of conditions. Passenger vehicles need AWD or 4WD with mud and snow rated tires and at least 3/16-inch tread depth, or chains. Autoblog's AWD vs. 4WD breakdown covers what each system actually does and doesn't do, and the bottom line is that AWD does not reduce stopping distance on ice. That's the real threat across the Front Range and southern Colorado mountains Thursday night into Friday. Carry chains, a blanket, flashlight, portable phone charger, water, food, and a full tank of fuel before crossing any pass. If your vehicle isn't set up for a sudden return to winter, Autoblog's full breakdown of the best cars and SUVs for snow and winter driving is worth a read, and our best practices for driving in snow, ice, and rain guide covers everything from skid recovery to what to keep in your trunk for emergencies. Check COtrip.org for live closures and chain law alerts before any mountain crossing. Winter Storm TimingThe storm arrives Wednesday evening as the closed low approaches from Baja, with snowfall ramping up across the southern Colorado mountains overnight. Heaviest accumulation across the Front Range, Pikes Peak, and Sangre de Cristos is forecast Thursday afternoon through Friday morning, with significant high-elevation snow continuing into the weekend. Front Range valley cities will see their best chance of accumulation Thursday night as cold air filters in and snow levels drop toward the foothills. Conditions should improve across most of the state by Saturday afternoon, but high-country roads will remain treacherous through the weekend as overnight refreeze cycles continue. We'll update this article as conditions evolve. View the full article

Suzuki Australia has confirmed the MY26 Hayabusa range, with most Special Edition stock already pre-sold and only eight units to be offered online from midday AEST on May 8 The post 2026 Suzuki Hayabusa range lands with Special Edition almost sold out appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Prior to the weekend, Joe Gibbs Racing notified both Spire Motorsports and Chris Gabehart that it intended to amend and refile its lawsuit against them both. As a result, their intended responses to the lawsuit due on Monday is no longer necessary. The below in italics is taken from the notice to the Western District of North Carolina. “Defendants requested JGR provide a copy of the ...Keep readingView the full article

Aprilia, KTM, Yamaha, Ducati and Honda all left Jerez with different answers and fresh questions. Here’s what the riders and team managers said after MotoGP’s crucial Monday test. The post MotoGP riders and Team Managers reflect on Jerez Test appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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