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Jack Beckman and the Peak Squad Hope to Reach the Peak Again at NHRA Route 66 Nationals
Jack Beckman and the PEAK SQUAD took a difficult path to victory in last year’s Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK so they’re working toward a much smoother route to winner’s circle in this year’s May 15-17 event at Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, Ill. “The big races to win are typically your hometown race, milestone events, the U.S. Nationals and, and the Pomona races. They’re the legendary races,” Beckman said. “But I also put right up there winning your sponsor’s event because their name goes on the trophy at the end of the day, too. When you win at your sponsor’s event, and your sponsor is a company like PEAK and Old World Industries, where all the employees understand the culture of the product that they’re selling, it’s something special. We had so many PEAK employees show up to the race last year. It wasn’t mandatory. They wanted to be there and they were there at the end of the day with the team in winner’s circle holding that trophy up. It’s really hard to think of many better weekends that I’ve had driving a race car than to do it with that PEAK SQUAD surrounding us.” The PEAK Chevrolet SS was hit with multiple mechanical gremlins in qualifying and traction issues in eliminations during last year’s event. But it all came together in the final round against then-teammate and reigning Funny Car Champion Austin Prock. Beckman won on a holeshot, cutting a .049 light to Prock’s .063, and taking the win a run of 3.935 seconds at 325.77 mph to his teammate’s quicker run of 3.933 seconds at 329.02 mph. It was Beckman’s 37th NHRA Funny Car career victory. “It really looked like it was a scripted weekend for the PEAK SQUAD,” said Beckman. “We qualified number one, we win the race. It’s an absolute storybook description but it misses a lot of the details. It was an unusual event in that the quickest qualifying runs didn’t come on Friday, they came on Saturday. We were sitting mid-pack when we came up for the first Saturday run and we go right to the top with a 3.85. We thought it might even be a little bit quicker for the last qualifying run. We go up to the line and our car won’t start. The crew did a number of quick checks but couldn’t find the issue. We eventually found a broken air fitting that disarmed the ignition system. But the silver lining there is it happening qualifying, not on race day. “Race day comes and the car won’t start in the morning warmup,” Beckman added.” It’s a different issue in the ignition system. We replace the box and now we’ve dodged a couple of bullets. We win 1st round and then smoke the tires in the second round but were still able to win. The car smoked the tires again in the semis but I pedaled it and we got the win. Then we close it with a holeshot win over our teammate, Austin Prock, the defending Funny Car champion and that’s as good as it gets. As a driver, it feels unbelievable to give back to a team that’s given you a fast car all year long because it’s typically the car that wins the race. We bookended qualifying number one and that amazing final round victory with a lot of nail biting.” Beckman currently sits eighth in points, just 30 points behind Spencer Hyde. Two rounds of qualifying will be contested at 1:30 and 4:00 p.m. CT on Friday, May 15, and two more rounds of qualifying on Saturday, May 16 at 12:00 and 2:30 p.m. CT. Eliminations will begin at 11:00 a.m. CT on Sunday, May 17. The post Jack Beckman and the Peak Squad Hope to Reach the Peak Again at NHRA Route 66 Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article
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Infiniti QX65 Arrives With A Price That Makes The QX60 Look Expensive
The all-new 2027 Infiniti QX65 midsize luxury SUV has begun arriving at dealers across the U.S. on May 12. The coupe-styled two-row SUV, which shares the platform, four-cylinder gas engine, and assembly plant in Smyrna, Tennessee, with the three-row QX60 SUV, is available in three grades—Luxe, Sport and Autograph—with prices starting at $53,990 (excluding a $1,545 destination and handling charge). It Costs Less Than the QX60 in Equivalent Trim Levels Adam Lynton/Autoblog That makes the QX65 $2,100 more expensive than the base QX60 Pure, which starts at $51,890. However, if we compare the equivalent trim levels, the QX65 is significantly more affordable, which is rather odd as coupe-styled SUVs are generally more expensive than the regular SUVs on which they are based. For example, the QX65 Luxe starts at $53,990, making it $3,300 less expensive than the QX60 Luxe, which starts at $57,290. The price difference grows to $6,700 when comparing the Sport trims—$55,690 for the QX65 vs. $62,390 for the QX60—and $4,300 when looking at the range-topping Autograph models—$62,590 for the QX65 vs. $66,890 for the QX60. All Infiniti QX65 models are powered by a 2.0-liter Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo) gas engine good for 268 horsepower and 286 pound-feet of torque. The engine is linked to a 9-speed automatic transmission and standard Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. EPA fuel economy estimates are 20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined. What You Get for the Money Adam Lynton/Autoblog Standard features for the base Luxe trim include 20-inch alloys with all-season tires, dual 12.3-inch displays with Google Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, TailorFit-appointed seats with heating at the front, tri-zone climate control, panoramic sunroof, an 11-speaker audio system, and a power liftgate, among other things. The Sport trim adds goodies such as a sportier front grille design, unique 20-inch wheels, a graphite headliner, gloss black carbonite interior trim pieces, and a 16-speaker Klipsch Premium sound system with 600 watts of power, an 8-inch TriPower subwoofer and 1-inch titanium dome tweeters. Adam Lynton/Autoblog As for the top-of-the-range Autograph grade, it gets satin chrome window surround trim, 21-inch machined-finish alloy wheels, and a black-painted roof on the outside, while interior details include open-pore wood-toned accents, a quilted dashboard and semi-aniline leather seats with asymmetrical diagonal quilting pattern. Customers who opt for the Autograph trim also gets a 20-speaker Klipsch Reference Premiere system with 1,200 watts of power, as well as the Individual Audio feature that uses headrest speakers for the driver and front passenger to deliver individual content to different occupants. Competing at the Heart of the Premium Segment Adam Lynton/Autoblog Envisioned as a spiritual successor to the Infiniti FX, the QX65 competes at the heart of the premium segment and has the difficult task of going against the BMW X6, Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, GenesisGV80 Coupe, Audi Q8, and Lexus RX, to name the most important models in the segment. The 2027 Infiniti QX65 is among several new or refreshed vehicles the Japanese brand plans to launch in the U.S. through 2030 in key premium segments. "The launch of QX65 reflects the momentum behind our product strategy," said Eric Ledieu, vice president, Infiniti Americas. "Our retail network is ready and excited to bring this world class vehicle to their clients.” The Infiniti QX65 configurator is now online, allowing customers to build their own QX65. View the full article
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BMW's Outgoing CEO Teases New 3 Series Touring for Wagon Lovers
Oliver Zipse is being replaced as CEO of BMW by Milan Nedeljković, and he's been at the helm of the automaker through some of its greatest hits, but before he leaves, he's telling the world about one more important car, teasing new images of the next 3 Series Touring, or station wagon. The shadowy imagery shown could be of either the gas car or the i3 Touring, the all-electric wagon that will precede the combustion model, though he says both are important. Zipse was speaking during the company's 106th Annual General Meeting, giving his final speech as CEO, and the images were displayed behind him as he explained the importance of this body style. Oliver Zipse Says BMW Wagons Are Still In Demand BMW BMW is one of the few automakers still to offer a longroof variant of a sedan, another body style that has been on life support since the explosion in popularity of the SUV, but Zipse explained that BMW has no plans to stop selling it. "The 3 Series is more than just a sedan, and it will remain that way in the future," he said. "The 3 Series Touring is very popular with families and business customers, which is why we have already confirmed this model." The electric wagon, internally codenamed NA1, will be produced in Munich alongside the i3 sedan (NA0), likely in 2027. Production of the sedan will start in August, so the wagon will have to wait a while. Insiders say a combustion-powered G51 wagon will happen, and since an electric M3 is happening, it seems entirely feasible that an electric M3 Touring may also appear sometime around the end of the decade. But what will we get in America? U.S. Likely to Get More High-Performance Wagons, Not Slow Ones BMW BMW Senior VP of Brand and Product Management, Bernd Koerber, indicated that BMW wants to sell more wagons in North America, with the company being delighted by the response to the M5 Touring. However, it seems unlikely that run-of-the-mill non-M Tourings will be sold here, as American buyers in need of practical cars choose crossovers and SUVs instead. Those who buy the wagons available to them are the sorts of people who would have purchased a high-performance car anyway but chose things like the M5 Touring or Audi's RS 6 Avant because they liked the blend of speed and a station wagon's style; it was an emotional purchase. With high performance comes high cost, and those who can afford an M5 ($123,300) don't mind paying a little more for an M5 wagon ($125,300). Perhaps the same would be true of M3 buyers, but we'll have to wait and see if BMW plans to give them the option. View the full article
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TJ Zizzo Looking to Make a Statement in Front of Hometown Fans at NHRA Route 66 Nationals
The 75th anniversary season of the NHRA is underway and this weekend, the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series will make its annual stop outside of Chicago for the Gerber Collision & Glass Rt. 66 Nationals, May 15-17. Veteran Top Fuel driver TJ Zizzo and his Rust-Oleum sponsored Top Fuel dragster are eager to show off the hard work and dedication they have put into the team throughout the off-season. The past few seasons’ results have shown that the Zizzo Racing operation is a formidable opponent racing on a limited schedule. “We don’t race often, but we are putting in the work year-round to be ready for races like Chicago,” said Zizzo. “Thanks to the support from Rust-Oleum and our other sponsors, we can come out and be very competitive. Our team, led by Mike Kern with input from Hall of Famer Rahn Tobler, will have this Rust-Oleum Top Fuel dragster set up for success. This sport is so competitive and having the ability to be a No. 1 qualifier is a huge achievement.” Crew chief Mike Kern and the Rust-Oleum team spent over 2,000 hours working diligently over the off-season to make sure Zizzo Racing is again positioned for success when the season starts this weekend. Over the past two seasons, Zizzo and the Zizzo racing team have turned heads scoring No. 1 qualifiers and posting excellent elapsed times. Their career highlight was a runner-up finish during the 2020 season that was delayed due to rain and completed at the historic U.S. Nationals. “I think our fortunes really changed for the positive in 2020 even though we didn’t win the race,” said Zizzo. “We knew at that moment we could compete with the best of the best and we just needed some better equipment. Thanks to the late Don Schumacher, we upgraded across the board and the rest is history. You must have a passion to compete out here and you also need to take risks, in a good way.” The 2024 No. 1 qualifying effort was Zizzo’s best qualifying effort since 2018 when he raced to the No. 5 spot only to be upset in the first round by Scott Palmer. Last year Zizzo and the Rust-Oleum team finished qualifying in the No. 13 spot and drew three-time Top Fuel champion Antron Brown in the first round. Zizzo was first off the starting line but his race car overpowered the track, and the Chicagoan was forced to watch Brown pull away for the first-round win. It was an uncharacteristically unsuccessful run for the team based on their previous runs. “Mike and I talked about what happened,” said Zizzo, following the race. “The idle was a little high and I compounded the situation with my right foot applying a little pressure to the throttle pedal. We are running the Rust-Oleum Top Fuel dragster right on the edge. You must try and get the most out of the tune up and we just tipped it over a little. We can fix that and learn from it.” This year, Zizzo and the team are focused on making the most out of every qualifying session and entertaining the fans. The team will once again host a free pancake social on Saturday morning before qualifying, serving the fan favorite Nitro Cakes to fellow competitors and fans. The annual tradition has become one of the highlight events of the NHRA tour. “Saturday morning serving Nitro Cakes is the best,” said Zizzo. “We haven’t been on tour, so it is a little like the first day of school when all our friends come over. The fans love it and I love to see many of our loyal NHRA fans every year. We have hundreds of people come by and it is just a cool way to thank the fans and have some fun.” Qualifying for the Gerber Collision and Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals will begin on Friday, May 15, with two sessions of the four professional categories. On Saturday, fans will be treated to two more qualifying sessions. The quickest 16 race cars, dragsters and motorcycles will race for the famed Diamond Wally trophy beginning at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday. The race will be broadcast nationally on FS1 Sunday evening. This story was originally published on May 13, 2026. The post TJ Zizzo Looking to Make a Statement in Front of Hometown Fans at NHRA Route 66 Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article
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MWDRS Discontinues J&A Service Funny Car Class
The Summit Racing Equipment Mid-West Drag Racing Series presented by J&A Service has announced that Funny Car will no longer be part of the MWDRS lineup, ending a run of more than five years for the J&A Service-backed class. Series founder Keith Haney announced the decision in a statement, thanking Jim and Annie Whiteley of J&A Service for their financial support and commitment to giving Funny Car racers a competitive home within the Mid-West Drag Racing Series. “Mid-West Drag Racing Series and I, Keith Haney, want to take a moment to sincerely thank Jim and Annie Whiteley for the past 5 1/2 years of support they have given to the J&A Service Funny Car Class,” Haney said. According to Haney, the Whiteleys invested heavily in the class in an effort to build participation and support a strong purse structure for racers. “These two have poured hundreds of thousands of dollars into trying to create a great place to race and provide a strong purse for the racers,” Haney said. “I can honestly say that Jim, Annie, and the Mid-West Drag Racing Series gave it everything we had. Unfortunately, many who said they would support the class simply did not, and because of that, as of today, Funny Car will no longer be part of the Mid-West Drag Racing Series. That is something that truly saddens me.” Though the Funny Car class is ending, J&A Service will remain closely aligned with the series. Haney emphasized that Jim and Annie Whiteley will continue supporting MWDRS through the Pro Mod class and as presenting sponsor of the series. “I do want everyone to know that Jim and Annie Whiteley are 100% still behind MWDRS,” Haney said. “They will continue supporting the series through the Pro Mod Class and as the Presenting Sponsor of the Mid-West Drag Racing Series.” The announcement comes as MWDRS continues its 10th season with an increased focus on Pro Mod and sportsman-style categories. “Jim and Annie Whiteley, along with Robin & Melody Roberts, Robert Costa, and myself, have also contributed additional money to increase the Pro Mod payouts for the 10th year of our great series,” Haney said. MWDRS is also evaluating possible additions and expanded support for other classes. “As MWDRS continues moving forward, we are actively looking at additional funding and sponsorship opportunities to support and grow the Top Sportsman and Top Dragster classes,” Haney said. “We are also exploring the possibility of expanding the series by adding a 6.0 class or Super Pro class, along with the potential addition of an NT 28 10.5 class. These additions could create more racing opportunities, attract new racers, increase overall event participation, and help strengthen the long-term future of the series.” Haney closed his statement by again recognizing the Whiteleys for their impact on the series and the sport. “Personally, I want to give Jim and Annie Whiteley the recognition they deserve for everything they have done for this sport,” Haney said. “They give so much to so many people, and their generosity never goes unnoticed.” This story was originally published on May 13, 2026. The post MWDRS Discontinues J&A Service Funny Car Class first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article
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Katherine Legge focused on results, not milestones in Indy-Charlotte Double
Katherine Legge knows nearly every move she makes is another milestone in motorsports, but her focus is on results and not the history books. In the late hours of Tuesday night, it was revealed Legge is set to attempt the rare ‘Double’ by running the Coca-Cola 600 and Indianapolis 500 on the same day - Sunday, May 24. She was already set - and wrapped up the opening day of practice - for ...Keep readingView the full article
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Friday Qualifying at PDRA Mid-Atlantic Showdown to Stream For Free on FloRacing 24/7
Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series officials and FloRacing announced today that Friday qualifying at the upcoming PDRA Mid-Atlantic Showdown presented by Classic Graphix will stream for free on the FloRacing 24/7 channel. The Mid-Atlantic Showdown, May 21-23, at Virginia Motorsports Park, is the third of seven races on the 2026 PDRA schedule and will include the series’ complete lineup of professional, sportsman, and Jr. Dragster classes. Fans can catch Friday qualifying on FloRacing 24/7 through Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Fubo, and other free video platforms. Saturday eliminations will also be available for FloRacing subscribers. “FloRacing opening the floodgates to the live stream on Friday of the PDRA Mid-Atlantic Showdown is huge,” said Tyler Crossnoe, series director, PDRA. “Not only through their channels, but through the 24/7 channel that puts the PDRA racers, teams, and marketing partners in front of eyes on Amazon Prime, Fubo, Roku, YouTube, and countless other streaming platforms that may have no clue what PDRA or even drag racing is.” The Friday schedule at the Mid-Atlantic Showdown includes three qualifying sessions for the pro classes – Pro Nitrous, Pro Boost, Pro Street, Pro 632, and Super Street – as well as two qualifying sessions for the sportsman and Jr. Dragster divisions. Those sessions will set the fields for Saturday eliminations at VMP. “Friday qualifying is always intense for our competitors, and having that shown for free on FloRacing 24/7 is a big opportunity,” Crossnoe said. “It could bring people to the track on Saturday for eliminations that would have never attended or have them become a lifelong drag racing fan by being introduced to the sport on avenues like Amazon Prime or YouTube.” To find FloRacing’s free streaming coverage of Friday qualifying at the PDRA Mid-Atlantic Showdown, search “FloRacing 24/7” on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Fubo, Roku, and other video platforms. For a complete event schedule and to purchase tickets, visit www.PDRA660.com. This story was originally published on May 13, 2026. The post Friday Qualifying at PDRA Mid-Atlantic Showdown to Stream For Free on FloRacing 24/7 first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article
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Desmoto: Futuri Motion Tech's 141kg Ducati Multistrada Supermoto
In the industrial landscape of Tilburg, the Netherlands, Mark van Veggel is quietly redefining what a garage build actually means. A mechanical polymath with a background in electronic design and fabrication, Mark grew up in the slipstream of his father and grandfather. These two men taught him that... View the full article
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TV’s Most Famous Car Just Got a Speeding Ticket Despite Not Moving In Years
A museum in Illinois opened its mail recently to find a $50 speeding ticket from the New York City Department of Finance. The vehicle in question was allegedly caught doing 11 miles per hour over the limit in a school zone. That vehicle was KITT, the legendary talking car from Knight Rider, one of the most iconic automobiles in television history. The only problem, as the Volo Museum in Illinois was quick to point out, is that the car hasn't moved in years. Volo Museum/Facebook The Car Behind the LegendIn the summer of 1982, a sleek black car with a glowing red scanner bar rolled onto American television screens. KITT — short for Knight Industries Two Thousand — was built on a 1982 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, using the car's low, wedge-shaped nose and hatchback coupe body as its base. The interior and distinctive nose design were the work of designer Michael Scheffe, with the iconic red scanner strip inspired by HAL 9000 from 2001: A Space Odyssey. Each car cost approximately $100,000 to build. Of the roughly 19 cars used across the show's four seasons, 14 were destroyed during or after production. Just five survived, with at least one of the most-used movie-car examples reportedly valued at $5 million. The Volo Museum's car is not one of those five. It was built in 1991 by Mark Scricani of Marks Custom Kits using original production designs, and later became part of the George Barris Star Car Collection, autographed by Barris himself. Volo Musuem View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article When the Algorithm Gets It WrongAccording to a CBS News report, museum officials believe the camera system matched a novelty plate from a passing vehicle to their famous Firebird — an easy mistake for a machine scanning thousands of plates a day, but a pretty embarrassing one. AI-powered traffic cameras have been expanding rapidly across American cities, promising speed and scale. The NYC Department of Finance says it is looking into the matter. The museum has since requested a hearing, and joked that David Hasselhoff owes them fifty bucks. View the full article
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The exclusive club Katherine Legge hopes to join with historic 'Double' attempt
Attempting to complete 1,100 miles in a single day of racing is quite the challenge (unless you're an endurance racing driver), but it's even more daunting when you're doing it in two wildly different race cars and at two race tracks that are multiple states and over 500 miles apart. That is what it means when a driver says they are attempting 'The Double.' Their day will begin at Indianapolis ...Keep readingView the full article
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Ron Capps Chasing Funny Car Points Lead As Maddi Gordon Builds Momentum Heading To Chicago
Ron Capps and Maddi Gordon are pushing for a big weekend in Chicago. Both drivers have high expectations for the Route 66 'NatsView the full article
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Toyota Celebrates 60 Years Of The Corolla With Sporty New Special Editions
Sixty Years Of CorollaThe Toyota Corolla is a big name not only in the brand's lineup, but also in the entire car industry, having become the best-selling car of all time, ahead of the Ford Model T and Volkswagen Beetle. That gives Toyota major bragging rights, along with the kind of sales success that helped shape the company into what it is today. So it is only fitting that the Japanese marque is celebrating the Corolla’s 60th anniversary, with its latest tribute coming in the form of updated Active Sport editions. If those trims don’t ring a bell, that’s because they are offered on the Japan-spec Corolla, meaning the U.S. is unlikely to get them. The U.S.-spec Corolla is available in LE, SE, and XSE trims. Still, the celebration feels well-deserved, considering what the Corolla has achieved over the past six decades, making it almost as old as the Ford Mustang yet as relevant as ever. Toyota An Anniversary Glow-UpThe 60th-anniversary editions are available on the Toyota Corolla Active Sport and its wagon counterpart, the Corolla Touring Active Sport. Both feature 60th-anniversary logos on the front fenders and a laser-engraved version on the instrument panel. Toyota also added tuned suspension for 2WD versions and 17-inch black aluminum wheels, giving them a slightly different driving experience from the standard models. However, the two special-edition models also differ. The sedan version gets more premium-looking styling, including an exclusive front bumper, body-colored rocker moldings, and mid-gray and black front seats. On the other hand, the wagon version gets a more outdoor-oriented treatment inside and out. In addition, Toyota has updated the standard Corolla lineup with new colors, including Neutral Black and Emotional Red II, while the base X trim now comes standard with Smart Entry and the Navigation-Ready Package. Toyota The Corolla’s Birthday BillBoth Active Sport special-edition models sit at the top of their respective ranges, with the sedan starting at 3,231,800 yen, or around $20,400 at current exchange rates, for the 2WD version. The Corolla Touring Active Sport starts at 3,282,400 yen, or approximately $20,800, in front-wheel-drive form as well. Toyota has yet to announce a dedicated 60th-anniversary Corolla for the U.S. market. For now, the celebration appears focused on Asian markets, including Taiwan, where the automaker has also released anniversary models with bronze-gold accents. Toyota View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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10 SUVs That Can Tow More Than Most Pickup Owners Will Ever Need
While the industry softens the SUV into an oversized station wagon, a select few heavy-duty workhorses engineered with proper frames and potent powertrains refuse to compromise. If you need to pull absolute maximum tonnage without stepping up to a pickup, these ten SUVs are your only legitimate options. Dodge Dodge DurangoThe Dodge Durango is a traditional SUV in the field of electrified crossovers, aggressively tuned to pull an imposing 8,700 pounds. Starting at $38,495 in the US, this platform relies on brute force rather than sophisticated software. Marketed as a family hauler, the Durango provides a high-capacity towing experience that the modern market struggles to compete with. Traditional SUVs with torquey powertrains still earn their place in the market. NIssan Nissan ArmadaNissan overhauled the Armada, transforming a forgotten fleet vehicle into a premium tow rig. Starting at $57,520 in the US, the new Armada pulls a highly competitive 8,500 pounds. It ditches its ancient V8 for a modern twin-turbo V6 pushing 425 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. With a reinforced frame and revised trailer sway control system, towing heavy campers at highway speeds is no longer an exhausting battle. The NISMO Armada has the same towing capacity and even more sporty credentials. Toyota Toyota SequoiaToyota's Sequoia has long been suburbia's favorite; it presents itself as an impressive towing machine pulling an impressive 9,520 pounds. Starting at $62,175 in the US, its mandatory i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain makes 437 horsepower and a significant 583 pound-feet of torque. Using a fully boxed frame, it trades some cargo capacity for undeniable strength, making it perfect for hauling. Factor in the undeniable Toyota reliability, and the Sequoia is hard to argue with as a package. Ford Ford ExpeditionEquipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, the Ford Expedition functions as a legitimate F-150 substitute, maxing out at a massive 9,600 pounds of towing capacity. Starting at roughly $62,000 in the US, it utilizes a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 generating 400 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. Its proprietary Pro Trailer Backup Assist removes the anxiety of maneuvering a boat ramp by letting drivers steer via a dashboard dial. Chevrolet Chevrolet TahoeWhen optioned with the Max Trailering Package, the rear-wheel-drive Chevrolet Tahoe effortlessly pulls 8,400 pounds. With US prices starting around $63,495, Chevrolet offers the highly durable 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter V8 engines. The Tahoe leverages an independent rear suspension, ensuring ride quality remains remarkably composed even with a heavy weight dragging down the rear axle, serving as an uncompromised choice for American buyers. Chevrolet Chevrolet SuburbanStretching the Tahoe’s wheelbase yields the Chevrolet Suburban, a cavernous utility vehicle remaining a staple of high-capacity transport. With US pricing starting at $61,500, the increased mass drops the maximum towing capacity to a still-formidable 8,000 pounds. However, it compensates with unrivaled interior volume. With the proven V8 powertrains, the Suburban handles severe cross-country towing assignments with a predictable, iron-clad stability that shorter-wheelbase SUVs physically cannot replicate. GMC GMC YukonThe GMC Yukon shares its underlying structural architecture with the Tahoe, targeting buyers demanding massive capability wrapped in premium materials. Hitting an 8,400-pound maximum towing threshold, US models start around $69,229. Opting for top trims secures a potent 420-horsepower 6.2-liter V8. GMC heavily prioritizes visibility, outfitting the Yukon with up to thirteen distinct camera views calibrated for hitching, providing heavy-hauling competence while isolating the cabin in leather-bound comfort. Audi Audi Q7European luxury vehicles are rarely associated with heavy-duty labor on American soil, but the Audi Q7 aggressively challenges that perception. Starting at $60,500 in the US, the Q7 offers an exceptional 7,700-pound maximum towing capacity. Audi utilizes a highly advanced, turbocharged V6 paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for immediate torque delivery. The famous Quattro all-wheel drive system helps minimize dangerous trailer sway that often plagues lighter crossovers. Land Rover Land Rover DefenderThe Land Rover Defender perfectly merges legendary, absolute off-road capability with serious payload management. It matches the German standard with a 7,700-pound towing capacity. Starting at $56,900 in the US, the Defender leverages robust turbocharged inline-six engines and an immensely stiff aluminum monocoque architecture. It is a brutally capable machine built for the buyer who needs to pull heavy equipment miles beyond where the pavement ends. Jeep Jeep Grand WagoneerThe Jeep Grand Wagoneer remains the undisputed king of the consumer tow, capable of dragging a staggering 10,000 pounds. Dropping the aging V8 for a twin-turbocharged inline-six, it churns out 420 horsepower and a brutal 460 pound-feet of torque. Starting around $86,945 in the US, this luxurious workhorse boasts a body-on-frame architecture, effortlessly pulling a loaded dual-axle trailer on a steep grade. While the automotive industry is reconsidering its transition toward soft, battery-powered crossovers, the uncompromising towing segment remains anchored in the brutal physics of weight and combustion. These ten platforms prove that heavy-duty capability is still available on the market. If you routinely move massive, multi-ton loads across state lines, you simply cannot rely on aggressively marketed alternatives. You must demand the iron-clad mechanical hardware and relentless torque that only these dedicated haulers can provide. View the full article
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TJ Zizzo Ready To Defend Home Turf At NHRA Route 66 Nationals
The Route 66 Nationals is special for TJ Zizzo. The Chicago native is ready to put on a show for his hometown fans in Top Fuel. View the full article
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New Mitsubishi Pajero May Return Without The Three-Door Version Fans Remember
The New Pajero News of the new Mitsubishi Pajero is running rampant. It is one of the names that put Mitsubishi on the map, and it's been nearly a decade since we last saw a new Pajero. We're happy to report that we're surely getting a new model soon. Coverage isn't sparse either. Other reports state that Mitsubishi is benchmarking against rivals in the segment, while others still say the Pajero will come in three variants, and what's more, we know it's coming in late 2026. Mitsubishi What We Didn't Know While we do know quite a few things by this point, there are many more details we're not yet sure about. A Japanese source, Best Car, has news that could prove true, so we're treating it as plausible for now. Still, plausible is the operative term. Historically, the Pajero has had at least three wheelbase options for buyers to choose from: long, standard, and short (otherwise known as the "Pajero Junior"). According to the source, Mitsubishi has one wheelbase option for the model, and it will also have three different grades. Also, Best Car already reiterated what we already knew: it will be based on the Triton pickup truck's platform. In addition to sharing the same or a similar platform to the truck, the source also mentions that the new Pajero will initially be powered by a diesel engine. As for which engine that may be, an educated guess would be the 2.4-liter bi-turbo diesel, also found in the Triton, mated to a six-speed transmission. Finally, the publication mentions that the new model will be the first Pajero to adopt a smart key system, which also means it will be the first Pajero to come with a push-start system, rather than a flip key like the late models of the discontinued SUV. MitsubishiMotorsTV/YouTube View the full article
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America’s Car Loan Crisis Is Getting Worse, and Lenders Don’t Seem Worried
Some Car Loans Now Last Longer Than Presidential TermsAmericans are stretching car loans longer than ever just to keep monthly payments manageable. According to recent reports, some auto loans now extend beyond seven years, with certain financing terms even outlasting a U.S. presidential term. At the same time, average monthly payments for new vehicles have climbed to $722, while roughly 20% of buyers are now signing up for 84-month financing deals. What used to be considered extreme financing is quickly becoming normal in today’s car market. That trend is exactly why Capital One Auto President Sanjiv Yajnik says he is not overly worried about so-called “forever loans.” Speaking to CNBC, Yajnik argued that while vehicle prices, insurance costs, and interest rates have all increased sharply since 2019, the percentage of income consumers spend on car ownership has remained relatively stable at around 10%. Capital One’s data also found that 80% of financed buyers remain below the widely accepted 15% payment-to-income threshold. In short, lenders believe consumers are adapting responsibly by taking out longer loans rather than overextending themselves with higher monthly payments. Getty Images Auto Debt Has Reached $1.68 Trillion NationwideStill, not everyone in the automotive and financial sectors shares that optimism. U.S. auto debt has now ballooned to $1.68 trillion, overtaking credit card debt and raising fears that the industry could be heading toward a dangerous bubble. Financial analysts have increasingly warned that long-term financing combined with inflated vehicle prices may create a situation similar to the housing crisis of the mid-2000s. The concern is simple. Consumers are borrowing more money for longer periods on assets that depreciate rapidly. The CNBC report also highlighted growing concerns from Edmunds, which found that 26% of used car buyers trading in their vehicles this year still owed more on their existing loans than their cars were actually worth. Average negative equity has jumped to $5,105 for used vehicles and $7,183 for new vehicles. Edmunds analyst Jessica Caldwell warned, “As loan term lengths increase on average, the pace at which consumers make progress paying down their balance slows.” Yajnik acknowledged that buyers take longer to build equity but defended the practice by saying consumers still gain transportation and earning potential from vehicle ownership. For lenders, affordability matters more than loan length if borrowers continue making payments. The Lowdown - Chilling Effect of PricesThe bigger issue here is what these longer loans are doing to the entire car market. Automakers have become increasingly comfortable raising prices because they know buyers are willing to stretch financing terms further than ever before. A higher sticker price suddenly looks manageable when spread across 72 or 84 months. The problem is that consumers often focus only on the monthly payment instead of the total amount paid over the life of the loan. Longer loans may lower the monthly burden, but they can quietly become financial traps. Higher interest charges over seven years can add thousands of dollars to a vehicle's final cost. In some cases, the extra interest alone could buy an entire used car by the time the loan ends. Buyers also face years of depreciation while remaining underwater on their loan balance. As vehicles age, rising maintenance costs lock many consumers into expensive transportation debt long after the excitement of buying a new car fades. Getty Images View the full article
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BYD’s $10,300 EV Gets LiDAR While America Still Treats It Like Luxury Tech
BYD's new subcompact brings cutting-edge tech and affordability together. The 2026 Seagull—marketed internationally as the Dolphin Mini was launched on May 11, 2026, following its reveal at the Beijing Motor Show. With prices between $10,300 and $12,600, the updated subcompact brings advanced driver-assistance hardware to the budget segment via a new "Surf" trim. This configuration offers an optional LiDAR system and a manufacturer-claimed 251-mile driving range. BYD Democratizing Advanced SensorsHistorically, LiDAR arrays have been reserved for premium EVs to support complex technologies - especially relating to ADAS. By offering this technology on an entry-level platform, BYD is bringing a high-tech experience to the masses. This aligns with the automaker's strategy, a tactic also observed in BYD's 1,000-horsepower Formula SL sedan. Efficiency vs. MassPowering the Seagull Surf is BYD's proprietary lithium iron phosphate (LFP) Blade Battery. While the 251-mile rating is based on the more optimistic China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC) rather than North American EPA standards, the range remains highly practical for urban commuting. BYD This focus on lightweight efficiency contrasts sharply with the hurdles facing domestic U.S. automakers. Grappling with the weight and cost penalties of massive battery packs recently forced Ford to pivot its electric F-150 strategy toward gas-generator EREV platforms. Global Market DisruptionAs BYD pushes into international markets, it faces a complex competitive landscape. While dominating overall volume in China, the brand is encountering calculated pushback abroad. Recent first-quarter sales data demonstrated how highly targeted government subsidies artificially allowed legacy brands like Toyota to vastly outsell imported BYD models in Japan. BYD Despite these geopolitical hurdles, the updated Seagull remains a disruptive force. By packaging a practical range and LiDAR into a budget-friendly footprint, BYD is forcing competitors to re-evaluate their baseline specifications. As traditional European legacy brands actively terminate affordable models to fund their EV programs, the Seagull Surf is positioned to capture consumers currently being priced out of the market. View the full article
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This Lincoln Town Car Looks Like China’s Forgotten Luxury Limo
What Is a Hongqi?Unless you're following the Chinese auto industry or deep into the rabbit hole of its history, Hongqi (pronounced hong-chi) is a brand that isn't really heard of outside of China. It's long been the country's premier luxury automaker and also its oldest automaker. Think of it as China's Cadillac or Lincoln, and its classic models certainly reflected that. Hongqi used to be reserved for China's elite, whether in government or in any positions of power. It's a little different now, as it's more accessible to the masses, but it's sticking to its luxury roots. But before it reached its current state, Hongqi underwent a rather interesting phase of building licensed cars from abroad. Hongqi The People's Republic Town CarOne of the cars that Hongqi built was a licensed version of the Lincoln Town Car. Dubbed the CA7460, the Chinese automaker started building these in 1998, and did so until 2005. Ford supplied Hongqi with semi-knockdown kits of the car, and final assembly was done in China. It's not a straight-up rebadge of the much-loved livery car, as Hongqi added some of its own touches. The most obvious difference is the different set of headlights and grille, making it look rather generic. Some sections of the front end are also noticeably different from the Town Car, and a 'red flag' ornament adorns the hood. At the rear, there are quite a number of changes made as well. The taillights are a different shape from the Town Car, and bits of extra trim were added to the trunklid. As for the interior, it's largely the same as the car it's based upon, save for a Hongqi badge on the steering wheel. Also unchanged is what's under the hood, as it uses the 4.6-liter V8 found in Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and yes, the Town Car too. This One's For SalePanther Magazine recently came across a CA7460 for sale, not in China but in the U.S. It's currently in Los Angeles and is being offered for $10,000. It's a 2001 model, although the car itself has a pretty interesting history. The car was previously covered by The Autopian back in 2023, and spoke to the owner about it. Yang, who was at Art Center College of Design and a Hongqi intern at the time the article was published, got himself a Lincoln Town Car. He then stripped down a CA7460 in China and fitted the parts that made it unique to the donor Lincoln. Yang doesn't parade his car as a true CA7460, but rather, as a replica and a tribute to the Chinese-American collaboration. Low-mileage Town Cars go for a surprising amount of money these days, and this one has about 70,000 miles on the clock at the time of posting. By Town Car standards, that's barely broken in. For $10,000, you can drive around in something that will surely leave the Cars and Coffee and Radwood crowd scratching their heads. Hongqi View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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Chrysler Already Showed Dealers A New Car Priced In The $20,000s
Late last year, we heard that Chrysler was planning a radical revival that would include a new sedan, new crossovers, and something that would cost less than $30,000. Now, Pennsylvania dealer Dave Kelleher has told the Detroit News that, last fall, Stellantis showed its dealers an affordable Chrysler concept that would be priced in the $20,000s. The concept reportedly had the name Pronto, which was used on several concepts in the late 1990s, including one that would ultimately become the PT Cruiser. What's more, Kelleher says that similar small, affordable future products were shown for Dodge and Jeep. However, don't get too excited just yet. Stellantis Is Gauging Brand Interest Chrysler None of the products mentioned by Kelleher has been confirmed for production, and images or other information about these vehicles were not shared, but it sounds like Stellantis is testing the waters after a tough 2025, looking for ways to right the ship and regain ground where it's lost market share. Kelleher told the Detroit News that Chrysler has lost its way, and dealers have noticed. "Most dealers made their money selling Neons and Sundances, and Acclaims and Spirits, cars that were affordable [...]," he said. "We've gotten away from that heritage." With the news of this cheap concept being shown to dealers, as well as recent comments indicating that Chrysler is exploring new ideas for future sedans, it seems that Stellantis is as committed to the brand as its executives have been saying, despite the marque only having one product, the Pacifica, currently on sale. Chrysler CEO Knows Affordability Is Key Chrysler Recently appointed Chrysler CEO Matt McAlear acknowledged the need to offer affordable products, saying that this is "part of all our brands' futures," and adding, "It's something that we know we need to work on as a company, and we need to take a good look at where the industry is going and make sure we're competitive." He also told the publication that leadership at Chrysler is seeing "a lot of positivity around the brand" before teasing more details to come before the end of the month: "It's some stuff that we've already talked with our national dealer council about, and we're excited to kind of lay that out [on May 21]." That's a reference to the Stellantis investor gathering in Auburn Hills, where it's believed that CEO Antonio Filosa will outline the company's future strategy and also detail what the future looks like for each of the conglomerate's 14 brands. Autoblog's TakeRelated: Chrysler Pacifica Could Become an Off-Roader You Can Actually Buy Until we hear what Filosa says next week, all we can do is guess, but it certainly sounds like Chrysler has a future. Ram and Jeep may be the priorities for Stellantis, but we expect Chrysler to play its own role. As long as Stellantis doesn't overinvest in unpopular technologies and is able to keep costs down, Chrysler has a shot at becoming one of America's biggest brands again. To that end, a midsize hybrid crossover must surely be near the top of the agenda. We'll know more on May 21. View the full article
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GM Lays Off Hundreds of IT Workers While Hiring For AI Roles
General Motors is reportedly laying off up to 600 information technology (IT) salaried employees globally as the company focuses on artificial intelligence (AI) and other similar skillsets to cut costs. According to unnamed sources familiar with the matter cited by Bloomberg, about 500 to 600 IT jobs will be cut, including some at the carmaker’s Warren Technical Center in Michigan. GM's Austin and Warren Tech Hubs Among Affected Sites The affected jobs are no longer needed, one of the sources said, adding that GM plans to hire workers adept in AI and future technologies that are expected to be relevant for next-generation product development. According to the report, managers started notifying affected workers on Monday morning. "GM is transforming its Information Technology organization to better position the company for the future," reads a statement from the automaker. "As part of that work, we have made the difficult decision to eliminate certain roles globally." GM did not disclose the locations of the job cuts outside of the Warren hub; it did not say how many people in Michigan are affected either. But CNBC learned from an unnamed source that many of the job cuts are in Austin, Texas, where GM operates a major IT and Innovation Center. The Austin site is one of GM’s largest IT innovation hubs and focuses on IT, software development, web technologies, and vehicle technology. Despite the cuts, GM is still hiring IT workers in areas including AI, autonomous vehicles and motorsports, its careers website shows. GM Also Laid Off Over 500 IT Workers Last October General Motors The IT layoffs are the latest round of job cuts for GM since it cut several hundred jobs last October. The automaker laid off approximately 200 Computer-Aided Design (CAD) engineers who worked at its global tech campus in Warren at that time. The move was part of GM’s ongoing efforts to reevaluate its businesses and boost profits, the company said. Also in October 2025, GM laid off about 325 workers at its Georgia IT Innovation Center, as it began shuttering the site. At the time, GM said the remaining 575 Georgia employees would continue working at the site through mid-2026. In March 2026, GM temporarily laid off 1,300 workers at its Factory Zero EV assembly plant on the Detroit-Hamtramck border amid slow sales of electric vehicles. However, those employees were expected to return to work on April 13. As AI becomes more advanced, more companies bet on the technology and eliminate human jobs that they consider to be made redundant by artificial intelligence. Some companies, particularly in the tech sector, are laying off IT workers to fund massive AI infrastructure investments—or so they claim. While some roles are replaced by automation in areas such as entry-level coding, debugging, and IT support, companies may claim layoffs are due to AI even though the primary purpose is cost-cutting—a phenomenon known as as AI washing. General Motors View the full article
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Funny Car Winner Jordan Vandergriff Eyes Chicago Success at Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals
For the first time in his career, Jordan Vandergriff is entering race week as the most recent NHRA Funny Car winner on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour. With momentum on his side following the major moment in his career, Vandergriff is hoping to follow up his win at South Georgia Motorsports Park in his 12,000-horsepower Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS with a victory at this weekend’s fan-favorite Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals presented by PEAK, which takes place at historic Route 66 Raceway. Vandergriff scooped up his first career NHRA win two weeks ago at the NHRA Southern Nationals at the debut event at SGMP. After a part-time season in Top Fuel in 2019 and a stint as a pit reporter for the FOX broadcast team, Vandergriff became a full-time driver for John Force Racing in 2026. His win made Vandergriff the 97th different Funny Car winner and leading that list, of course, is NHRA legend, and Vandergriff’s team owner, John Force, who has 157 wins. Vandergriff’s win gave John Force Racing its second win of the 2026 season following Josh Hart’s Top Fuel triumph in Gainesville. “That moment is something I have thought of for a very long time,” said Vandergriff. “Since my last final in 2019 (in Top Fuel), when I lost to Billy Torrance in Dallas. It was just awesome. I think back to all these years that I’ve been out of the seat and everything I’ve done to try to get back to this point. Getting that win made all of it worth it.” This weekend, the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series travels to Route 66 Raceway for the sixth event of the 2026 season as NHRA honors its 75th anniversary. As part of the celebration, fans can expect a variety of highlights at the Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals presented by PEAK, including: An appearance from NHRA legend and Chicago native “The Greek,” Chris Karamesines, as NHRA honors his long career and accomplishments. Karamesines will also be featured on the unique commemorative ticket for the race. Fans can scan the on-site signs at the track to purchase the commemorative ticket, which will be distinctive to each event. On Sunday, the first 3,000 fans in attendance will receive a free, limited-edition NHRA can cooler. A new-look Nitro Mall, special 75th anniversary displays and more. Last season, Tony Stewart (Top Fuel), Jack Beckman (Funny Car) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) claimed wins in Chicago. This year’s race will again feature the popular Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge on Saturday, offering competitive racing for fans during qualifying. The event will also be broadcast on FS1, with final elimination coverage on Sunday, May 17, beginning at 5 p.m. ET. Vandergriff enters the Chicago race fourth in points. With two semifinal finishes as well as a Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge win under his belt in his first season in Funny Car, he is confident in the team’s performance on track so far, even while taking on a loaded class that includes points leader J.R. Todd, Ron Capps, who has two wins in 2026, Matt Hagan, Beckman, Spencer Hyde and Gainesville winner Chad Green. “At pre-season testing, I knew that we had something special,” Vandergriff said. “I knew (crew chief) Chris Cunningham was the right guy to take this car over and we knew we had a good group of guys that could put the car together the right way. It’s just surreal. “My teammate Jack (Beckman) joked when I got my Funny Car license on what’s the over/under on five races until he’s holding a trophy and here, we are, five races in with a win. It’s unbelievable. I did not expect it this soon, but at the same time, I did because my team is so good and we’re really ready to go on a good run.” Last season, motorsports legend Tony Stewart won his second career NHRA Top Fuel race in Chicago over Justin Ashley. Stewart has one win on the season, but leading the way is world champion Shawn Langdon, who has two wins this season. Langdon wowed the motorsports world with his record-breaking 345.00 mph pass at South Georgia before winning the race on Sunday. Reigning Pro Stock world champion Dallas Glenn has continued his success on track this season with two wins on the season. His KB Titan Racing teammate and six-time world champion Greg Anderson is second after nabbing a win in Pomona. Matt Hartford has wins in Gainesville and Charlotte and is third. Two-time Pro Stock Motorcycle world champ Gaige Herrera has yet to lose a round at Route 66 Raceway. Last season, he won his third consecutive race, defeating rival Matt Smith. Herrera won seven races last season, but it was his teammate, Richard Gadson, who earned the world title. Herrera, Gadson and Smith have wins in 2026. The event will also feature competition in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, along with the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports and Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown. Race fans in Chicago can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce each driver and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. Fans are also invited to congratulate the event winners at the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday. As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. Fans can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their cars, get autographs and more. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and vendors create an exciting atmosphere. NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series will feature two rounds of qualifying at 1:30 and 4:00 p.m. CT on Friday, May 15, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, May 16 at 12:00 and 2:30 p.m. CT. Eliminations will begin at 11:00 a.m. CT on Sunday, May 17. Television coverage includes qualifying action at 7:30 p.m. ET on Friday and Saturday at 11:30 p.m. before eliminations coverage at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday. To purchase tickets to the Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals presented by PEAK on May 14-17 at Route 66 Raceway, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. All children 12 and under will be admitted free in the general admission area with a paid adult. For more information about NHRA, including the full 2026 schedule, visit www.NHRA.com. The post Funny Car Winner Jordan Vandergriff Eyes Chicago Success at Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article
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Honda’s Tiny Motorcycles Are Doing Billion-Dollar Damage Control
Massive global motorcycle and scooter sales may help Honda recover from its biggest financial loss in history. View the full article
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More NHRA Four-Wide Nationals Action Photos From Zmax In Charlotte: Pro Stock, Pro Stock Bikes, And Factory Stock 4-Wide Drag Racing Photos!
(Photos by David Whealon) – It was a cool, fast, and adventurous weekend for the stars of the NHRA Mission Drag Racing Series at the NHRA Four-Wide Nationals at zMax Dragway in Charlotte, North Carolina. Lucky for us, we have great photos from our dude David Whealon who was on hand shooting all kinds of race cars, from nitro burners to door cars and everything in between. He was on hand for the first running of the Outlaw Street class as well, so we’ve got those photos for you to check out too! David Whealon shot these images and there are some stunners in here. From the four wide launches to the tight shots of funny cars and dragsters rocketing off into the night, if you dig drag racing, you’ll dig these photos. We’ll have even more galleries coming over the next few days, so stay tuned in to see more! The post More NHRA Four-Wide Nationals Action Photos From Zmax In Charlotte: Pro Stock, Pro Stock Bikes, And Factory Stock 4-Wide Drag Racing Photos! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article
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Jeep Just Made the Wrangler Even More Patriotic With Captain America
Wrangler, AssembleJeep has partnered with Marvel Studios for the Wrangler America250 edition. Fans can easily recognize the collaboration through Captain America’s shield, which is used as the spare tire cover. But it is not just meant to appeal to comic fans; it also reinforces Jeep’s patriotic image, similar to the aforementioned superhero character. The America250 edition – part of the commemoration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence – is a series of special-edition vehicles based on Stellantis models. The first release was the Ram 1500 America250 edition. Now, the Wrangler gets its own version, which could capitalize on the popularity of Marvel, especially with the highly anticipated Avengers: Doomsday set to arrive in theaters on December 18, 2026. The Wrangler Dresses for the OccasionExterior-wise, the America250 package for the Wrangler includes an exclusive Bright White exterior with red and blue accents, and a soft top finished in Jean Blue, which Jeep said creates a denim-inspired contrast that nods to classic Jeep utility roots. There are also 33-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires, steel rock rails, and red front and rear tow hooks, giving the model functional off-road upgrades rather than just aesthetic enhancements. The Jean Blue motif carries over to the cloth seats and instrument panel inside, along with tri-color red, silver/white, and blue stitching and finishes. No powertrain upgrades were mentioned, though Jeep said the America250 package is priced at $2,095 on top of a comparably equipped model and will arrive at dealerships this summer. Stellantis siblings Chrysler andDodge are also part of the broader America250 rollout, with limited-edition Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram models debuting monthly ahead of America’s 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026. Stellantis The Wrangler Steve Rogers DeservesIn addition to the features of the Wrangler America250 edition, each purchase also includes an exclusive comic book cover. The cover features the special-edition Wrangler and Captain America, which could make it collectible for fans of both brands. The release of the Wrangler America250 edition follows Jeep winning the 2026 Most Patriotic Brand recognition from Brand Keys, beating other major American brands like Ford and General Motors. That is made more notable by Jeep's 25-year title streak. It does not necessarily mean that Jeep models like the Wrangler and Gladiator are the most “American” vehicles on the market, though Stellantis can still leverage that image for marketing, as seen in this unique collaboration with Marvel Studios. Stellantis View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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HIGH FLYING FORMULA OFFROAD RACING FROM ICELAND’s HELLA 2026! COURSE 2 RACING ACTION
If you are new around there then you might not know that we seriously dig Formula Off-Road racing here at BANGshift.com. This is high flying, loud, and intense racing that involves what look to be impossible hillclimbs, usually on giant courses made from pea gravel or something similar. It’s intense, the cars often end up upside down or rolling over down a hill. They end up rightside up on their own sometimes, but regardless the action is fun and kind of nuts. These drivers do some stuff that I’m not sure most people could. Check it out below. Video Description: Formula Offroad Iceland, Hella 2026! Track 2 – All cars and action from Track 2 in first race of the season. This year Unlimited and Modified class race together but different points. Great action in Track 2 – Hope you like it FORMULA OFFROAD: One of the most extreme motorsport in the world, the Vikings are extreme crazy when comes to Formula Offroad. Formula Off road competitions have always been a great part of the Icelandic motor-sport and is well known all over the world. Formula Offroad began in Iceland on May 2nd 1965. It started with Willys jeeps and now we have these extreme special built Offroad cars that can climb almost everything. In 1990 Formula Offroad started in other nordic countries. Today we have races in Iceland, Norway and Sweden. Hope you will enjoy this extreme motorsport that Formula Offroad is. Extreme Hill Climbing, hydroplaning, rollovers and jumps. Enjoy! Thank you. Jakob C – www.facebook.com/jakobcoffroad Jakob C – www.instagram/jakobcoffroad High-powered machines tackle steep, rocky terrain in this intense competition. Drivers push their customized vehicles to the limit against gravity and challenging obstacles. The post HIGH FLYING FORMULA OFFROAD RACING FROM ICELAND’s HELLA 2026! COURSE 2 RACING ACTION appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article