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With a 4.4-liter V8 hybrid powertrain delivering a combined total of 717 horsepower to all four wheels, there aren't many station wagons in the world that can keep up with the BMW M5 Touring. That is, until you look elsewhere in the BMW stable, and specifically the M3 CS Touring. YouTube channel Carwow recently pitted BMW's most extreme fast wagons against each other in a drag race, and the results were rather surprising, with the less powerful longroof beating the bigger brute to the quarter-mile mark by two tenths of a second, setting a time of 11.1 seconds compared to the M5's 11.3. You can watch that race and another to the half-mile mark at the bottom of this article. BMW M3 CS Touring Beats M5 Wagon Over 1,320 Feet Carwow/YouTube According to the video, the U.K.-spec M5 Touring weighs 5,456 pounds, while the limited-edition M3 CS Touring weighs "only" 4,079 lbs. While not as powerful as the PHEV, the M3 CS is far from underpowered, claiming 543 hp from its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, and in the run to the half-mile mark, this deficiency was laid bare, with the M5 Touring taking the flag first by a bumper. The power deficit was more obvious in a roll race, but in every case, the lighter M3 CS was closer than the on-paper figures might suggest. Where that lower mass made an even bigger difference was in the braking test. Related: BMW Alpina’s First Vision Concept Looks Like The Flagship Coupe BMW Is Missing The driver of the M5, Mat Watson, put the car into its most aggressive brake regeneration setting, but still failed to stop in as short a distance as the M3 CS Touring, taking an extra car length or so to come to a halt. Considering how much more buyers will be spending on tires and maintenance, that's not a good look for the M5, but at least it has greater practicality on its side. Along with being able to run in all-electric mode for an EPA-estimated 25 miles, the M5 Touring has a bigger rear end, swallowing up 27 cubic feet worth of luggage compared to the M3 CS Touring's 17.7 cubes. Not that it matters all that much to us, since the only BMW wagon sold in the United States is the M5. M3 Wagon Could Make It to America Someday Soon BMW While the current M3 Touring (CS or Competition) is not sold on our shores, that may soon change. BMW wants to sell more high-performance wagons in America because our market loves the unique blend of performance and practicality, and when the M5 Touring was launched here, it created more of a buzz than BMW anticipated. With BMW turning an M3 wagon into a racing car and the Neue Klasse 3 Series' longroof variant being teased recently, the automaker is clearly committed to the bodystyle. Hopefully, this new generation of 3 Series will finally be the one to put an M3 Touring on American roads without the driveway-shattering weight of the M5. View the full article

More Recreation Options for Honda and AcuraOverlanding isn't exactly a word we'd associate with Honda or Acura, though models like the Passport show that the companies are more than willing to appeal to that audience. Granted, Acura doesn't have a rugged-looking vehicle just yet, but it's safe to say that it's bound to happen. And with a more adventurous lifestyle comes accessories that will inevitably be attached to the car. With that, both Honda and Acura have partnered with Thule to sell its accessories through dealerships. So, for those planning to slap on some Thule accessories on their Honda or Acura, you don't have to leave the showroom to get those done. Honda The AccessoriesThis collaboration is called Honda Partnered Accessories, and for those interested, there are a couple of Thule accessories that one can fit to their Honda or Acura vehicle. There's a variety of roof boxes available, such as the Motion 3 and Force 3, while bike racks that can be fitted include the Epos and OutPace. Honda and Acura didn't forget about those who'd like to go fishing. The OnShore fishing rod box is readily available and can hold four fully rigged rods up to 12 feet long without the need to unthread or disassemble. Lastly, folks who regularly go on outdoor picnics can make the most of the OutLand Box Awning, which attaches to the side of the vehicle's roof. Acura What Cars Can Have These Accessories?Honda and Acura didn't mention any specific models that can be fitted with these Thule accessories. That suggests these are a universal fit for most models, so good news for those with any current-generation Honda or Acura model. We do see photos of these accessories fitted to the Passport Trailsport, CR-V, Odyssey, and Acura MDX, so anyone who owns any of those will know that it'll be a sure fit. Prices were not listed at the time of writing, so it's good to ask your nearest Honda or Acura dealer for details. But aside from being able to buy these Thule accessories, one can also have them fitted by the dealer, so you can drive off the lot with the bits attached from day one. Honda View the full article

Lotus will launch a new supercar 2028 featuring an all-new V8 hybrid powertrain as part of its Focus 2030 business strategy reset that ditches the electric-only focus and places emphasis on a multi-powertrain approach. In order to achieve a more flexible sustainable business model that will make the brand more resilient to shifting market conditions, Lotus will provide a diverse powertrain lineup built around the customer. “As regulatory and consumer landscapes continue to evolve globally at different speeds, Lotus will pursue an agile approach across ICE (internal combustion engine), PHEV (hybrid electric vehicle) and BEV (battery electric vehicle), targeting an approximately 60% PHEV / 40% BEV volume mix over its electrified portfolio in the short term, and a customer-led transition to full electrification,” the automaker said in a press release. A New Lotus Esprit on Steroids Is Coming Lotus Cars Building on its existing X-Hybrid PHEV powertrain available in the Eletre X in China, Lotus will reaffirm its performance DNA with what it calls its "first ever supercar" called Type 135—what about the 2,011-hp Evija electric hypercar, isn't that supercar enough? Slated to launch in 2028, Type 135 will be an all-new car featuring a V8 hybrid powertrain delivering over 986 horsepower (1,000 metric horsepower). Lotus expects to build the new model in Europe, but further details will be announced later this year. The automaker also released a teaser image of its hybrid supercar, showing a mean-looking rear end featuring two massive round exhaust tips, a chunky diffuser and two pairs of high-set horizontal LED lights. From this angle, the Lotus Type 135 appears to have a very sloped roofline with an almost horizontal rear window. Lotus There’s a clear resemblance between the Type 135 and the Lotus Theory 1 concept from 2024, which was designed to evoke the spirit of the Esprit and its F1 racing heritage. However, that car featured a twin-motor AWD battery-electric powertrain, whereas the production version has switched to a hybrid V8 setup. The last time Lotus sold a V8 model was in 2004, when the Lotus Esprit mid-engine sports car went out of production. Here's hoping that Lotus will revive the Esprit name with the new model; the Type 135 is a working name used during development. Lotus Back to Being Lotus Kyle Edward Lotus has promised that its V8 supercar will follow the brand’s old philosophy, suggesting a return to extreme lightweight engineering. “Lotus was born from the rebellious spirit of Colin Chapman, and that is not lost today,” said Lotus Group CEO Qingfeng Feng. “Focus 2030 will reset both the brand and the business to keep us true to our DNA. We are obsessed with engineering, obsessed with performance and obsessed with building drivers’ cars, and that is what will grow this business.” Regardless of product or powertrain, every future Lotus will be “developed against the same set of guiding principles: lightweight, aerodynamics, obsessive engineering and driver engagement,” reads Lotus’ press release. That’s reassuring to hear if you’re a Lotus fan who was confused by the company’s strategy in recent years. Under Focus 2030, Lotus has pledged to keep design and engineering rooted in the UK, home of its identity and motorsport expertise, and R&D in China to deliver rapid scale to market—Lotus is of course majority owned by China’s Geely Holding Group. Lotus also said that Lotus UK and Lotus Technology (the Chinese side of the business focusing on NEVs) will be merged into a single entity later this year, with the goal of “unifying the brand, streamlining governance, reducing costs and accelerating engineering integration for next-generation performance vehicles.” View the full article

BMW has a number of new motorcycles coming soon, with one seemingly being a performance-oriented bagger on the K1600 platform. But is that what this is?View the full article

A recent post on social media went viral, as it depicted a motorcycle dangling precariously from a traffic light pole, with many asking how that happened. Now, with security footage, we know. View the full article

The all-new Lexus ES sedan went on sale earlier this year in fully electric form, with hybrid variants set to arrive in showrooms in June. New powertrains and a fresh design aside, the automaker has now detailed its new Lexus Interface Multimedia Experience, which launched on the ES and will ultimately roll out to other models. It’s a smarter, more personalized and feature-rich system than before, while promising much-improved usability for an automaker that hasn’t always delivered on the infotainment front. Related: Lexus ES Hybrid Starts at $51K and Arrives in June Lexus Interface Multimedia System Overview Lexus The previous ES had a much more traditional layout with a small, standard eight-inch touchscreen and numerous quick-access buttons. In the new one, many of these buttons are gone, but the standard screen size has grown to 14 inches. All models get a 12.3-inch digital multi-information display ahead of the driver, too. Here’s a summary of the new features and improved functionality: First Lexus integration of AT&T 5G network connectivityFaster touchscreen response timesConfigurable home screen with individual widgetsQuick Control Menu on upper right of touchscreenFaster responses from Lexus Voice Assistant (male or female options)Native, cloud-based navigation now available in full screen in driver’s displayNew Drive RecorderDigital Key for up to five additional driversAvailable SiriusXM with 360LAvailable Spotify Lexus Interface: Drive Recorder Lexus View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article These improvements bring the ES right up to date with rivals, giving drivers and passengers access to a range of connectivity and entertainment options. Lexus has not forgotten ease of use, though. The configurable home screen and Quick Control Menu (allowing instant access to often-used functions like Bluetooth and screen brightness) prevent users from having to dig deep into the menus to find what they need. Integration of AT&T 5G improves connectivity speeds, which is useful for the range of streaming options. Do note, however, that some features require a subscription to Drive Connect or Remote Connect. The latter allows for remote control of features like the climate settings, the headlights, and even trunk access, all via the Lexus app. Safety and Convenience Come Standard, Too Lexus The latest infotainment system marks the debut of the Lexus Drive Recorder. This system can save 90 one-minute clips of continuous looping footage, and also saves vehicle speed and location data. Manual recording is also possible, and incident recordings can be triggered when the G-Sensor is triggered, such as during a collision. These clips can be viewed on the car’s display or downloaded via USB. For the electric variants specifically, the Lexus Interface introduces EV Charge Management. Using this, drivers can monitor and manage charging on the go. Charge limits and charging schedules can quickly be set, while navigation integration allows you to plan trips based on the location of public chargers. “We are excited for guests to experience something truly special,” said Brian Inouye, chief engineer, Connected Experiences Division. “We’ve made bold updates to Lexus Interface that deliver both function and performance, with every detail meticulously designed to delight, inform and entertain.” Related: 2026 Lexus ES Launches With LS-Level Rear-Seat Luxury What It Means Lexus Lexus has always been viewed as one of the top luxury brands for quality and reliability, but its vehicles often lagged behind German rivals for tech integration. The Remote Touch interface fitted to various vehicles for around a decade was a major weakness—as we experienced in the 2019 Lexus ES—with its mouse-like controller and touchpad being particularly frustrating to use. The new Lexus Interface Multimedia Experience successfully banishes memories of that much maligned system. It brings Lexus tech into the modern era and will do the same as it rolls out to other models in the brand’s lineup. This is now an automaker for tech-savvy drivers as much as it is for those who appreciate traditional luxury virtues like comfort, quality, and refinement. View the full article

Truth in Lending Act Whenever you sign off on a loan, be it from the bank or for a car with in-house financing, you'd want to know every single detail, or at least you should do your due diligence to get the information in front of you. Likewise, dealers and lenders are supposed to show you how much you will eventually pay before signing. Both parties are supposed to be transparent, though that might not be the case in this story, Automotive News reports. So what's happening with this Atlantic Kia dealership in New York and its customer? According to the plaintiff, Jean Garcia, the used vehicle they bought is priced "grossly-inflated" and "packed with costly hidden charges." According to the dealer, they extended a gesture in good faith. According to the client, forged documents were involved. The plot thickens. It Started with a Carnival This auto loan circus is nothing new, nor is the 2023 Kia Carnival that the customer and plaintiff bought secondhand from Atlantic Kia in West Islip, New York, in December 2025. According to him, Garcia was the victim of "a variety of sharp and deceptive sales practices." Garcia negotiated the price of the car down to $33,325 from $34,150 that the dealer was selling it for. He then made a $5,891 down payment and digitally signed the documents. One issue was that the included retail installment sales contract was in the documents that Garcia signed, which was not explained to him – allegedly. It was only after he reviewed the sales contract that Garcia realized the price had been inflated by $8,175, leaving him with a total of $41,500, according to the lawsuit. Lawyer's ReactionsGarcia's lawyer, Robert Nahoum of Pearl River, N.Y., stated that his client's "attempts to resolve the matter were met with persistent and continuing deception and obfuscation [by the dealer]." On the other hand, Kia New York's defense said that Garcia returned to the establishment to complain about the car's price after the deal. Graciously, Kia New York offered a "full refund" or a refund of $1,971 of Garcia's purchase price. Presented with these two options, Garcia declined both. Since Kia offered these two options, it has made an effort in good faith to smooth out the situation. Lawyer John Gentile, general counsel to the Atlantic Auto Group, stated that "the dealership did nothing wrong." However, Garcia contends that when he returned and asked the dealership about the discrepancy, he was shown an unsigned purchase order listing the higher price and obtained the sales documents from the lender. In doing so, he saw a purchase order with a forged signature, according to the suit. John Beltz Snyder Hidden Charges and Damages Other than the inflated price, the dealer also included some "hidden charges" in Garcia's purchase, which included a $695 "acquisition" fee, a $2,995 "inland freight charge", and a $1,895 "recondition" fee. None of the fees were included in any of the documents that Garcia signed and left unsigned. The plaintiff, Garcia, is seeking damages for the violation of New York's consumer protection and motor vehicle laws, false advertising, and fraud. The defendant is the lender, being the assignee of the sales contract. View the full article

KLIM has just launched an in-house-developed armor, which is made to tackle the problems adventure riders face. Alongside it is updated gear and an all-new helmet.View the full article

Suzuki’s new SV-7GX lands in France with approachable ergonomics, crossover styling, and a surprisingly reasonable price tag. View the full article

Ford’s New Power PlayIn 2025, Ford said it took a $19.5 billion hit tied to its electric vehicle business. That was behind Stellantis’ $26.2 billion hit, but still large enough to force a major strategy rethink, including the shift from an all-electric F-150 Lightning to a range-extender version. But instead of doubling down on EV models amid uncertain market conditions, the Blue Oval introduced Ford Energy, a wholly owned subsidiary aimed at developing battery energy storage systems (BESS). In a press release, Ford said Ford Energy will provide BESS for utilities, data centers, and large industrial and commercial customers in the United States. The systems will be assembled domestically in Glendale, Kentucky, at a site originally intended for EV battery production. That appears to align with current market and political realities, as federal policy has moved away from EV incentives and tougher emissions rules. Ford Not Your Typical Battery PackThe subsidiary’s flagship product will be the Ford Energy DC Block, a standardized 20-foot containerized battery energy storage system built around 512 Ah LFP prismatic cells. It will be available in two configurations, the FE-250 (two-hour system) and the FE-450 (a four-hour system). The Ford Energy DC Block is touted to offer “predictable lifetime performance, ease of service, and thermal stability.” Ford Energy will also produce electrode coils, assemble modules and containers, and provide sales and service support. Customer deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2027, with the company targeting 20 GWh of annual deployments. Ford The EV Fight ContinuesDespite the shift to BESS production and the broader EV slowdown, Ford will continue competing in the EV market. It still sells the Mustang Mach-E, which serves as an alternative to the Tesla Model Y and Hyundai Ioniq 5. A plan to introduce lower-cost EV models is also underway, with pricing expected to start at around $30,000. That could be a fitting response to the rise of affordable Chinese EVs, which may not be sold in the U.S. but continue to pressure automakers to adapt globally. How these strategic shifts will play out remains to be seen, though Ford is clearly investing in them. The company has committed $2 billion to retool the Kentucky plant for its BESS venture, while roughly $5 billion has been allocated for the Louisville Assembly Plant and BlueOval Battery Park Michigan to support new low-cost EVs and advanced prismatic LFP batteries. Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A meticulously reimagined interpretation of BMW’s legendary air-cooled boxer platform, this 1994 BMW R100R cafe racer by Diamond Atelier represents the fusion of classic Bavarian engineering and contemporary custom craftsmanship. Now offered on Bring a Trailer, the machine showcases the Munich marque’s durable R-series architecture transformed into an aggressively modernized performance-oriented build with unmistakable visual presence. Originally based on the R100R platform, the motorcycle has been comprehensively modified with a handcrafted café-style tail section, a Walzwerk subframe, and a black-and-gold […] The post FOR SALE: 1994 BMW R100R Cafe Racer by Diamond Atelier appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article

Carhartt has, in recent years, become a fashion brand beloved by streetwear aficionados. But its working-class roots are still present, and the brand's partnership with Ford, and is baked into this special edition F-Series Super Duty.View the full article

Davey Todd will miss the 2026 Isle of Man TT after being declared medically unfit due to injuries sustained at the Daytona 200, adding to the blow of also missing the North West 200. The post Davey Todd ruled out of 2026 Isle of Man TT appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Moto News Weekly Wrap May 12, 2026 What’s New: 2027 FIM Oceania Speedway confirmed for Gillman WSX 2026 field starts to take shape FIM Intercontinental Games move to Brazil Boughen wins FIM Flat Track debut Mulford reclaims FIM Long Track U23 crown 2026 AusProMX Round Three – Gillman Wrap 2026 AMA SX Round 17 – […] The post Moto News | WSX | Flat & Long Track | AusProMX | SX appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

A weekend storm that buried Southwest Alaska with 13 inches of snow and 90 mph gusts is not finished. NWS Anchorage confirms the original upper-level low is still spinning today, Tuesday May 12, 2026, while a 982 mb Bering Sea low merges with it over the Pribilof Islands in a textbook Fujiwhara Effect, with the worst remaining conditions pushing toward Kodiak and Southcentral Alaska. Peak Driving Danger WindowTuesday evening through early Wednesday delivers the highest-risk window on Kodiak Island and along Turnagain Arm, when 40 mph crosswinds overlap with wet snow refreezing into black ice on shaded shoulders and bridge decks. What to ExpectWind gusts: 40 mph on Kodiak Island, 30 mph along Turnagain Arm, 25 mph in Whittier and ValdezPrecipitation: wet snow across Anchorage and Mat-Su, rain switching to snow in Valdez after 10 PM Tuesday, isolated graupel in the Southwest InteriorRefreeze risk: overnight black ice on Anchorage, Mat-Su, and Turnagain Arm pavementThe combined low sits over the Pribilofs by Tuesday afternoon and tracks east through the Gulf overnight. This is the seasonal exception that proves the rule, with the WPC Winter Weather Desk having already gone on summer hiatus through late September. Road ConditionsKodiak's coastal segments and the Glenn Highway through Turnagain Pass are the most exposed paved routes, with crosswinds capable of pushing trailers and motorcycles across the lane line. Spring upslope refreeze causes more single-vehicle slide-offs in Alaska than the snowfall itself. Check the Alaska 511 system for live closures and chain advisories before any peninsula crossing. Crosswind Threat on Wyoming I-25 and I-90The same upper-level pattern driving Alaska's winds has the NWS Riverton point forecast showing 50 mph gusts Wednesday and 65 mph gusts Thursday along I-25 near Buffalo and the I-90 approach to Sheridan. WYDOT routinely restricts light trailers during sustained 60 mph events. Drivers should check wyoroad.info for corridor advisories before crossing the open prairie sections east of the Bighorns. Fire Weather Watch on Southwest Utah HighwaysNWS Salt Lake City has issued a Fire Weather Watch for Wednesday from 12 PM to 9 PM across portions of southwest Utah below 8,000 feet, with 40 mph southwest gusts pairing against 8 to 12 percent relative humidity. The driver-side concern is blowing dust on I-15 and US-89, where visibility can collapse below a quarter-mile in seconds and rear-end pileup risk spikes. Storm Driving TipsThree-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) tires remain the minimum for ice-adjacent driving, with tread at 4/32 inch or deeper. Cold air drops tire pressure roughly 1 to 2 PSI per 10 degree Fahrenheit, so check cold pressures before leaving a heated garage. Plan for triple stopping distance on packed snow and skip cruise control on any compromised surface. See Autoblog's best cars and SUVs for snow and winter driving and snow, ice, and rain best practices for setup, and review NWS winter weather safety before any high-country crossing. TimingThe Fujiwhara merger peaks Tuesday afternoon over the Pribilofs and tracks east overnight, with Southcentral conditions easing Wednesday afternoon. A second Pacific wave is queued for the Alaska Peninsula and northern Gulf Friday and Saturday. The Wyoming wind event peaks Thursday afternoon, and the Utah Fire Weather Watch is a single-day Wednesday issue. We'll update this article as conditions evolve. View the full article

Only a Matter of TimeThe Audi Q9 is no secret. Several spy shots of the large SUV have been published, and the company said it's coming any time this year. After seeing its rivals own the full-size, three-row luxury crossover space for years, the folks from Ingolstadt reckon it's their turn to make a big impression on that segment. Its main rivals are none other than the BMW X7, which is due for a redesign, and the Mercedes-Benz GLS that was just given a facelift. Audi is determined to give its rivals a good scare, and has released first images of the Q9 for us to see. Audi Corporate LookOf course, Audi isn't showing all of its cards just yet. The exterior is still wrapped in camouflage, but we see more details of the SUV this time around. The Q9 follows the brand's corporate look, so there's a sizable grille up front, high-set daytime running lights, and bumper-mounted headlights. We can expect the next-generation Q7 to adapt a similar look. We're glad to report that the Q9 comes with regular door handles, likely to make it easier and less costly for Audi to sell in China. As for the size, it looks massive even in photos, making the current Q7 look even smaller than appears. A tall glasshouse is typical in this class, and the flared fenders aim to give it more presence. As for the rear, the tailgate is as wide as it gets with a low liftover for easy loading. The tail lights are then inspired by the A6 Avant, also employing a split design. Audi calls the SUV a prototype for now, this it's safe to say we're looking at the version that we'll be seeing in showrooms later this year. Honda Hopping InThere are two ways to open the doors, either manually or letting the motors do the work to swing it all the way by simply tugging the handle. Once on board, the now-familiar layout has been supersized, and, for once, it's nice to see a cabin not plastered with piano black trims. Of course, we'll know the full scope of its interior features once Audi publishes the rest of it. The Q9 shown in the preview comes with the optional captain's chairs. It is, of course, electrically-adjustable, and a floor-mounted center console takes the place of the middle seat. Those seats are also heated and ventilated with the option of adding a massage function. For those who plan to use this crossover as a family car, the good news is, second and third-row seats come with ISOFIX mounting points. Audi Other HighlightsThere's no mention if that massive panoramic sunroof is standard or not, but it does come with tech that allows it to be fully opaque, translucent, or totally transparent. Audi says it can block out a good amount of light with its glass roof, negating the need for a motorized cover. It automatically reverts to an opaque setting when parked. Of course, there's no shortage of ambient lighting in the Q9, and the 4D audio experience by Bang and Olufsen has been updated for a more immersive experience. As mentioned above, the doors are motorized, although another neat trick it can do is the ability to open all doors at once via the key fob or an app. We're also glad to see the appearance of more buttons inside. It won't be long before Audi unveils the Q9. The company says all will be revealed by summer this year. This will be a hugely important vehicle for the brand, especially for the North American market. U.S sales have tumbled, and 2026 has been difficult so far, and threatening tariffs won't make this model's debut any easier. Still, it should help bring in more customers into showrooms. Audi Audi View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Choosing oil for a motorcycle rarely gets the attention it deserves, yet it shapes how the engine feels day to day. Riders often learn this the hard way. The question tends to surface during routine servicing or when weighing up the right motorcycle engine oil in NZ, where conditions can shift without much warning. However, the right choice is less about brand loyalty and more about knowing what your engine is asking for. The right choice is less about brand […] The post How to Choose the Right Oil for Your Motorcycle Engine appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article

Before recording his Actions Detrimental podcast each week, Denny Hamlin goes back and reviews the race broadcast for the stories of the week, and that means sharing a frustration with race fans from this past weekend at Watkins Glen International. All the missed crashes and incidents. Read Also: NASCAR CupThe wild NASCAR Watkins Glen moments viewers never saw on ...Keep readingView the full article

Honda Motor is staring down a financial hole it has not seen in nearly seven decades. The company is set to report an operating loss of around 400 billion yen ($2.55 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 2026, as per Reuters. It will mark its first operating loss since going public in 1957. To put that in perspective, the previous fiscal year delivered an operating profit of 1.2 trillion yen. The size of Honda's operating loss would be the second largest among Japanese automakers, trailing only Toyota's 461 billion yen loss during the 2008 to 2009 global financial crisis. Honda bet heavily on electric vehicles, and that bet went badly wrong. Honda View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The EV Pivot That BackfiredHonda cancelled its entire North American EV programme and 0 Series rollout, triggering up to 2.5 trillion yen ($15.7 billion) in losses. The cancelled programme included multiple near-production EV models and retooled Ohio facilities already ramping for launch. In China, newer EV manufacturers with faster development cycles and stronger software capabilities outcompeted Honda, which was unable to deliver products that offered comparable value for money. Combined with Ford's $19.5 billion write-down and General Motors' $7.6 billion in EV-related charges, the industry's collective retreat from battery-electric vehicles now totals roughly $67 billion. Honda View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article What Comes NextHonda is not abandoning electrification, but it is dramatically slowing the pace. Instead, hybrids are getting the resources that were once earmarked for pure EVs. Honda plans to launch 13 next-generation hybrid models globally over a four-year span starting in 2027. In the US, where hybrid sales have been a genuine bright spot, Honda's electrified lineup represented nearly a quarter of Honda's American auto sales in 2024. That number is only expected to grow. Honda's full strategy will be laid out at its May 14 earnings briefing, but the direction is already clear. Hybrids now. EVs, eventually, and on Honda's terms. View the full article

The first product from the new low-volume Mythos division of Mercedes is almost ready to be unveiled, with AMG sharing a batch of new images of the CLE-based super sports car on Instagram. Still clad in a geometric camouflage wrap but with the body looking close to production-ready, these images give us a closer look at some of the aerodynamic elements that will make this V8-powered monster a true 911 GT3 RS rival. Unlike the Porsche, this coupe won't make do with just 518 horsepower, though. If reports out of Germany are to be believed, this M4 killer will make up to 646 hp. Wide Body and Extreme Aero for AMG Mythos mercedesamg/Instagram View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The images AMG shared show a new front fascia that is far more aggressive than any we've seen before, with large lower side intake openings on either side of a pair of intake scoops within the AMG grille. That grille now has long vertical vanes that are far more aggressive than those on test mules our spies have come across, and the fascia itself extends beyond the headlights and into the widened fenders. These front fenders also have large louvers in them to reduce front-end aerodynamic lift, though the existence of rivets surrounding both these vents and the AMG grille confirms that this isn't the final form. It's also worth noting that a prototype our spies saw previously had a much deeper front splitter, though the one depicted here is far from small. Higher up, the hood appears to be vented, much like that of the upcoming AMG GT Black Series. Related: Mercedes Is Recalling Thousands of Sedans, Crossovers, Coupes, and Convertibles At the back of the car, the widebody treatment continues into the rear haunches, again with recesses around the light clusters. The rear bumper has more gaping holes, and lower down, there's a prominent diffuser with an F1-style vertical reflector. We can't see the tailpipes in the image provided, but we can safely assume there'll be four of them. The real party piece sits atop the trunk as a huge dual-element wing with large endplates and manual adjustability. We don't see any actuators, so this won't have a DRS function like a GT3 RS, but the wing is similarly sizable, so it should vie for lap record honors at a few circuits. AMG Mythos Coupe Will Be Highly Exclusive mercedesamg/Instagram View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Already back in 2022, Mercedes was saying that Mythos products would be even more exclusive than those with Maybach badges, and the report that claimed a 646-hp peak output (from a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 hybrid) also claimed that there would only be 30 units produced for the entire global market. Fortunately, that report came off the back of a preview given to U.S. and Canadian dealers, so we can be sure that this product will be offered in North America. With summer fast approaching and Mercedes sharing these new images, we expect a reveal within the next couple of months. If not, definitely by the end of the year. View the full article

Volkswagen Group’s Scout Motors is considering a potential stock market listing or strategic asset sales, the CEO of the U.S. electric truck brand said in an interview with Germany business daily Handelsblatt. Scott Keogh admitted that Scout is exploring new funding options and noted that the brand was designed from the outset to pursue a potential stock market listing or to allow strategic investors to take a stake. Outside Capital "An Option That Is on the Table": Scout CEO Scout Motors The executive noted that Scout was deliberately set up as a standalone entity, with outside capital seen as “an option that is on the table.” Keogh pointed to U.S. investment funds focused on what he called the country’s “industrial renaissance” as potential Scout investors; he didn’t name any such funds, though. Volkswagen Group’s main goal with its new U.S. brand, which it resurrected after acquiring International Trucks’ parent company Navistar in 2021, is to increase its small U.S. market share by gaining a foothold in the high-volume and high-margin truck and SUV segment. However, there are growing internal doubts over the opportunity of launching a new electric unit at a time when EV demand is dwindling in the United States, Handelsblatt reported. That said, Keogh has defended Scout’s bet on robust battery-powered trucks and SUVs like the Terra pickup and Traveler SUV, especially the gas-powered range-extender versions that were first announced in October 2024. While they weren't part of the original plan, they have attracted 87% of the total number of over 170,000 pre-orders as U.S. demand for hybrids has remained strong. Keogh also noted that the business case for Scout’s flexible platform may be greater than just Scout’s own pickup and SUV, with the executive adding that an Audi model built on the same architecture is a possibility. Is VW Eyeing a Rivian-Like IPO? Scout Motors As Automotive World points out, it looks like Volkswagen is taking a page from Tesla’s and Rivian’s book by taking Scout Motors public and pitching it as a high-valuation EV startup. Basically, VW may be trying to replicate the successful initial public offerings of Tesla and Rivian, which managed to achieve market capitalizations far higher than the actual value of their businesses at the time of the IPOs. However, it remains to be seen if that's a realistic target at a time when the U.S. EV market is in decline. Rivian's IPO, for example, took place at the height of the EV boom in 2021, raising $11.8 billion for the company. Additionally, by positioning Scout Motors as a separate unit, VW would be able to shield itself legally from the dealer franchise disputes stemming from the direct-to-consumer sales model adopted by the truck and SUV brand. Scout is facing lawsuits in several U.S. states because of its plan to sell its products directly to consumers, bypassing VW’s traditional franchised dealership network. Scout Motors View the full article

A Corolla Cross Built for Beach DaysWhat’s not to like about the Toyota Corolla Cross as a family vehicle? It is less expensive than the more popular RAV4 and delivers strong fuel economy, with the hybrid version rated at 42 mpg combined. A Japanese interior supplier, however, thinks it can be made even more versatile with a concept called the Weekend Coast, which essentially turns the cargo area into a mini lounge. According to Carscoops, the company behind this creation is Hayashi Telempu, an interior supplier that works with several automakers, including Toyota, Ford, and General Motors. The concept features retractable seats and a footrest, allowing occupants to sit behind the Corolla Cross when the tailgate is open. It is an ideal setup for a day at the beach, as suggested by the Weekend Coast name and its colorway. Hayashi Telempu The Coastal Theme Goes All InThe colorway uses white as the base, with light blue accents on the seats and two-tone exterior paint. Given the reupholstering and the additional seating built into the cargo area, it likely will not be cheap, though the company has reportedly not released pricing yet. The Weekend Coast was showcased at the Field Style Tokyo Show in Japan, offering a custom interior for customers who want something different. It is a compelling addition, especially for those who frequently take trips to the beach. For city dwellers, however, the appeal may be less obvious. Still, the event could help the company gauge what consumers actually need – or whether they see value in the idea at all. Toyota Getting Even More Adventure-OrientedBoth the Japan- and U.S.-spec Toyota Corolla Cross ride on the same platform, though they are packaged differently. The U.S.-spec model leans toward a more rugged appeal, reflecting the market’s strong preference for SUV-like styling. In a way, that complements the Weekend Coast concept – not necessarily because of its design, but because of its added functionality, especially for weekend trips and outdoor use. However, the report did not mention availability yet, though interested Corolla Cross owners may want to keep an eye out for it. For reference, the Corolla Cross starts at $25,235 excluding destination fees. The crossover also received a facelift for the 2026 model year, while rumors suggest it could become hybrid-only by 2028. Toyota View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

With average gas prices in the country in the $4.50 range today, it’s no wonder folks are trying to get better gas mileage right now. For many of the drivers across the country it is going to depend on what you drive as to how much mileage improvement you can see with some of these tips and tricks. If you drive a truck, like jillions of other Americans that have no need for one, then making improvements of just a couple miles per gallon can have a big impact on the percentage of gain you get from some of these. While someone that drives a car or truck that actually gets decent mileage already might only see a couple percent gain with the same actual mileage improvement. So what things really work when it comes to increasing mileage? There are a lot of different products and practices that will make a difference, but how much is that difference? Watch the video below and see what it takes to make a 22.4% increase in gas mileage. Video Description: Fuel-saving devices were tested to see whether they actually improve fuel efficiency across multiple drives and several different vehicles. We also installed and tested a high-flow exhaust system and a cold air intake system, then compared those results against common MPG claims. Other fuel-saving methods were analyzed as well, including inflating tires to the maximum recommended pressure and slowing down to improve fuel economy. The goal was simple: find out what really works, what barely helps, and what might just be a waste of money. Products Tested: High Flow Exhaust, Cold Air Intake, SUPERCHIPS FLASHPAQ Tuner, Ferox Fuel Additives, Obdiicats, Turbonator, ecoOBD2, nitroOBD2, and the NeoSocket. I purchased all the Fuel Saving Devices to ensure an unbiased review. So, thank you for supporting the channel. The post Did Project Farm Really Improve Gas Mileage by 22.4%! Don’t Get Scammed and Do What Works! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Audi pulled the plug on the Audi R8 in 2024, but the German brand is not ruling out a return just yet. According to Rolf Michl, the idea of a new halo supercar is still alive behind closed doors. If it returns, it could once again share its foundations with a Lamborghini. That said, a revived R8 would need to make financial sense in an increasingly difficult automotive market. A New R8 Must Be Profitable Audi Speaking to GoAuto, Michl explained that modern performance cars can no longer exist purely as halo cars. Development costs, tightening emissions regulations, changing buyer demands, and the rapid shift toward electrification mean every vehicle now needs to make financial sense. “In really challenging times, every car has to be a business case,” Michl said. “It wouldn’t make sense just to calculate a brand-levering effect.” We are already seeing this strategy reshape its lineup, with Audi axing smaller models like the Audi A1 and Audi Q2 to make room for higher-margin EVs. With BMW outselling Audi in the US, pressure is mounting on the brand to strengthen both profitability and brand appeal. Fortunately, Audi already has an obvious blueprint for a third-generation R8. Just like previous generations shared their underpinnings with Lamborghini models, a next-generation R8 could borrow from the new Temerario. That plug-in hybrid setup pairs a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 with three electric motors to produce a combined 677 kW (908 hp). Why A Hybrid V8 R8 Wouldn’t Be A Bad Thing Cars and Bids Some enthusiasts were disappointed when Lamborghini replaced the Huracan’s naturally aspirated V10 with a hybrid V8 in the Temerario, despite its 10,000 rpm redline. However, the same criticism may not apply as strongly to the R8. The original R8 launched exclusively with a V8 engine, while the V10 arrived three years later. In many ways, a V8-powered successor would actually reconnect the R8 with its roots rather than move away from them. Audi also appears convinced that hybrid powertrains remain the sweet spot for modern supercars. “With a hybrid car, you still have the sound… but you still have the electrical part, and the benefits from it,” Michl explained. Audi’s Concept C Won’t Replace The R8 Audi Audi’s upcoming Concept C sports car is expected to enter production in 2027, but it is unlikely to serve as a spiritual successor to the R8. The Concept C will be fully electric and positioned somewhere between the old TT and R8 in both size and performance. If Audi eventually revives the R8, it would once again become the only one of Germany’s major luxury brands with a true mid-engined supercar on sale. With Audi focusing on compact EVs and larger SUVs nowadays, a hybrid R8 halo car could be exactly what the brand needs right now. View the full article

LB-Figthers Design In the JMSDF-MCAS Iwakuni Friendship Day 2026, which happened on May 3, 2026, Liberty Walk Kato unveiled a newly-built Dodge Challenger for the occasion. It features a fighter-jet-styled livery paired with a Liberty Walk wide body kit and fitted with custom LB Works x AME wheels and wrapped in Yokohama Advan Tires. Parked and photographed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, the venue served as the perfect backdrop for Kato-san's latest project, which also features custom parts, wheels, and a wrap you could probably take inspiration from. The kicker here is that Liberty Walk hasn't yet listed this version of its Challenger wide-body kit on its website, but it does have the older version up for grabs, priced at $5,780 for the full kit. Custom Wheels The wheels alone are something that you won't easily find in either brand's catalogs. AME Wheels has been a consistent partner of Liberty Walk throughout the years, designing, developing, and producing custom forged three-piece wheels to fit LB's wild designs and custom big brake kits. You can also see two companies at work on other projects, such as the convertible R35 GT-R, the Meiji FD3S, and the LB40 AZ-1, to name a few. With that partnership, Liberty Walk's team can make its creations fit perfectly and then some. Liberty Walk View the 13 images of this gallery on the original article Custom Body Kit As usual, Liberty Walk has a knack for cutting into cars, some of which are the most expensive exotics that the world has seen, other American muscle cars, and others are obscure kei cars that are made to look like exotics. In any case, the wild world of LB knows no bounds when it comes to what can and cannot be cut into, and this Dodge Challenger is no exception. From the front, to the sides, and the back, we get full widebody coverage on this muscle car. Fender flares house the aggressive LB x AME wheels, while the front of the car features a cool front splitter that differs from the one Liberty Walk advertises on its website. It's probably a new product from the brand, but other stuff, like the rear spoiler, is reused from the standard kit. Wrapping around the wide body is a signature custom livery, inspired by fighter jets. You can see how Kato-san took the idea of a worn fighter and ran with it on its new Challenger. A matte finish with a faux patina on all the rivets gives the car the impression that it's been through a few dogfights. Arrows and triangles guide your eyes around the vehicle, pointing to key elements like the wheels and fenders, and create a nice effect throughout. Plus, the other partner cars to this Challenger are a Corvette C8, a GT-R, and a trailer truck, all adopting the same LB Fighter look. Finally, the world-famous Liberty Walk Ferrari F40 also made an appearance at this event. Liberty Walk View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article