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Reading Between the LinesLamborghini has issued a press release highlighting its Few-Off Roadster lineage, essentially the open-top versions of its halo cars. While the release does not introduce any new information, a report from The Supercar Blog suggests that the latest few-off model, the Fenomeno, could receive a Roadster variant as early as May 2026. That could explain why the Italian marque is suddenly revisiting its Few-Off Roadster lineage. Not that anyone’s complaining – these models typically end up ultra-limited and highly valuable, with the Fenomeno, based on the Revuelto, expected to be next in line. Lamborghini Exclusivity Dialed UpNot much detail was shared, though the open-top configuration is clearly the main highlight. Historically, Few-Off Roadster variants are typically produced in even smaller numbers than their coupe counterparts, and Lamborghini is reportedly limiting the Fenomeno coupe to just 29 examples. This open-top V12 lineage traces back to the 1968 Miura Roadster, from a nameplate widely regarded as the world’s first supercar. The modern era, meanwhile, began in 2009 with the Reventón, the first entry in Lamborghini’s Few-Off series, a flagship line comparable to Ferrari’s Icona range. It was followed by the Veneno Roadster in 2014, with the Centenario Roadster and Sián Roadster arriving in 2016 and 2020, respectively. Given that the Fenomeno is based on the Revuelto, its open-top version is expected to become the most powerful Few-Off Roadster yet. Lamborghini’s latest flagship model uses a V12 plug-in hybrid powertrain with three electric motors to produce 1,065 horsepower, or about 64 hp more than the Revuelto. Lamborghini The Hybrid Era Hits the Few-Off LineIn addition, the Fenomeno is capable of a claimed all-electric range of around 12.4 miles. That may run counter to the traditional open-air experience of a V12 roaring behind the driver, but it could still prove handy for the few owners who might occasionally want a quieter change of pace. The report states that the new Few-Off Roadster could be showcased at Lamborghini Arena 2026, a two-day brand festival at the Imola Circuit in Italy on May 9 and 10. Lamborghini is also rumored to unveil a Miura-inspired special edition of the Revuelto in August to mark the model’s 60th anniversary, echoing the Aventador Miura tribute introduced a decade ago. 2017 Lamborghini Centenario Roadster Lamborghini View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

During the 66th Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals the NHRA was celebrating its 75th anniversary and the running of the 1000th Funny Car race. For Top Fuel team owner and Funny Car and Top Fuel driver Travis Shumake, whose father Tripp, was a beloved driver throughout his career, the weekend was an emotional experience. The younger Shumake entered a nostalgia Funny Car with the livery his father race when he won the 1981 Southern Nationals, the 100th Funny Car race in NHRA history. “This was an amazing opportunity to honor my father and celebrate NHRA Funny Car racing,” said Shumake, who has been a fixture in the NHRA since 2021. “Running the Johnny Loper Little Hoss Funny Car was a thrill for the fans and for me. Throughout the weekend fans came up to our pits or stopped us in the staging lanes to say nice things about my dad and seeing him race. I want to thank the NHRA for all they did this weekend to honor Tripp.” On Friday Shumake was on the NHRA stage in the professional pits talking with FOX announcer Courtney Enders about his father’s legacy, what it was like growing up with a Funny Car dad and his own professional drag racing career. On Saturday Shumake was part of the huge autograph session representing his father along all the milestone Funny Car winners before the group was presented with framed National Dragster covers highlighting their significant wins. The presentation happened on the starting line before the third qualifying session. “The drivers who won significant Funny Car races include some of the biggest stars in the category,” said Shumake. “I was proud to represent my dad and our family. Tripp had a great career and that win at the Southern Nationals was a special achievement for sure.” Saturday night Shumake was one of the featured drivers at the Night of Champions event at the NHRA Auto Club Museum. Funny Car world champion Jack Beckman hosted several of the milestone Funny Car winners for a lively question and answer session. For Shumake, getting to spend a day celebrating his father and the Funny Car class was a highlight he won’t forget any time soon. “My career has been a wild ride with ups and downs,” said Shumake. “I look at what my dad accomplished and that motivates me to keep working hard and finding sponsors so I can have a long career in drag racing. This weekend was so special because it proved that your legacy could live forever. My dad is a part of NHRA history, and I want to continue to honor his legacy and make my own special moments. Racing in the Legacy Funny Car Series is a fun experience and I am learning every pass.” On the track Shumake was turning heads driving for Funny Car veteran Dave Bejamin, the Funny Car featured the famed Little Hoss colors of his father’s original car owner, Johnny Loper. This was Shumake’s second consecutive Legacy Funny Car Series event. Shumake added Le Tour wines, a non-alcoholic wine that tastes like the real thing as a significant sponsor for the rest of the season. Le Tour starts with real French grapes, sourced from trusted vineyards and made using traditional winemaking methods. Through a gentle dealcoholization process, the alcohol is removed keeping the flavor and structure intact. “Getting together with Le Tour wines for the rest of the season will be very exciting,” said Shumake. “I love wine and I love drag racing. Their dealcoholization process means I can enjoy both at the track. This is a great environment for them to activate and introduce Le Tour to a huge audience. This weekend was a great introduction to the sport for Le Tour.” For more information on Travis Shumake and his racing program head over to www.travisshumake.com. The post Celebratory Winternationals Weekend Highlight for Travis Shumake first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

If you’re looking for a spectacle in Las Vegas, you’ll usually find it under the neon glow of the Strip. But true magic happens in the shadows of the Mojave. Mike Rabideau, known to the custom world as ‘Majik Mike,’ has been conjuring two-wheeled illusions out of his workshop, Majik Mike’s Designs, ... View the full article

Chad Green of Midland, Tex., drove his nitro-burning CGM Bond-Coat Ford Mustang Funny Car to the quarterfinals Sunday at the famed NHRA Winternationals drag races at the In-N-Out Burger Dragstrip in a rain-delayed event. After two sun-drenched days of qualifying at the Los Angeles County Fairgrounds racing plant, Green, who qualified sixth, and the 16-driver Funny Car field had to play a waiting game with a series of rainstorms pelting the facility throughout Sunday morning and afternoon. After the NHRA Safety Safari dried the racing surface, eliminations got a late start with Green advancing out of the first round. Green recorded a 3.963-second pass at 326.87 miles per hour over veteran Paul Lee, who smoked his rear tires in his 12,000-horsepower machine. In the quarterfinals, Green’s mount clocked a 3.970, but lost to John Force Racing’s Jordan Vandergriff, who recorded a 3.914 to advance to the semifinals. Despite the loss, Green remains in the Top 4 in the current NHRA Mission Funny Car point standings as the national drag racing tour heads to Charlotte for the NHRA Four-Wide Nationals on April 24-26 at the zMax Dragway. “Our car ran well in qualifying and the rain on Sunday kept everyone guessing on the track conditions,” said Green, a former winner at the In-N-Out Dragstrip in 2023 when he captured the NHRA World Finals. “We had an issue with the blower (supercharger) and we didn’t run the times that we should have in eliminations. We also had an oil leak against Vandergriff which also hurt. But we know what happened in both situations and we’ll be ready for the Charlotte race in two weeks.” Green’s CGM teammate, veteran Blake Alexander, had similar supercharger issues with his Pronto Auto Services Dodge Hellcat in the opening round of eliminations when he raced against the No. 1 qualifier, J.R. Todd. Alexander had a good reaction time off the starting line but his 4.049-second run wasn’t enough to Todd’s 3.889 pass. The CGM team will return to NHRA competition on April 24-26 with the exciting Four-Wide Nationals in Charlotte as Green and his son, Hunter, will drive the squad’s two nitro machines. Nitro qualifying will begin on Friday, April 24, at 5 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. EDT, with Saturday’s action scheduled for at 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. EDT. Final eliminations begin at 12 p.m. EDT on Sunday, April 26. The Fox telecast will be aired at 7 p.m. EDT/4 p.m. PDT on Fox Sports 1. The post Chad Green Drives to Quarterfinals at Rain-Delayed NHRA Winternaitonals; Teammate Blake Alexander Out First Round first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

If the Porsche Macan and BMW X3 are a little too German for your tastes, there's still a stylish Italian alternative, and it's about to be updated for the 2027 model year. The Autoblog spies have laid eyes and cameras on the updated Maserati Grecale in both combustion and Folgore EV forms, and after looking at it inside and out, it seems that the Stellantis-owned marque will be doing as much to its luxury crossover as it will to its GranTurismo and GranCabrio. That is, not much. Still, with the gas Macan ending production this summer, and its replacement only due in 2028, any update could be very valuable to the ailing Italian outfit. 2027 Maserati Grecale Gets Mild Visual Tweaks SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Grecale and Grecale Folgore prototypes are only wearing camouflage on their front bumpers, with the rest of their bodywork unchanged. That applies to the lighting systems front and rear, too, which maintain the shapes seen in current 2026 models, though they may yet gain new graphics. With the all-electric Grecle Folgore, the camouflage has been stretched over the bumper, making it difficult to discern what changes lie beneath, but it appears that the overall design of the main upper grille will be unaltered, and the lower side intake elements will retain their triangular shape. For the gas version, the changes are mildly more obvious. Related: Maserati's New Supercar Will Have the One Thing Ferrari Won't Offer The combustion-powered Grecale also carries over the design of the central intake, but the lower side intakes are now stretched and have sharper edges, perhaps in an attempt to make the vehicle look more aggressive. Perhaps this is the range-topping Trofeo version, but it probably won't matter much; for 2026, the U.S.-spec Grecale is only available with V6 power, dropping the four-cylinder turbo models previously available, and we expect the same for the 2027 model. Whatever engines are offered, we don't expect any major increases in power or fuel economy. 2027 Grecale Interior Unchanged, But Maserati Still Has a Chance to Win SH Proshots/Autoblog Our spies managed to get close enough to the Grecale mules to see inside, and they only shared a single image with us, but that's enough because there are no immediately apparent changes. The center display looks the same, the steering wheel looks the same, and the door cards look the same as before. In fact, the only element that Maserati bothered to conceal was the clock atop the middle of the dash, likely gaining a new face or perhaps redesigned hands. The luxury crossover entered production in 2022, and four years on, sales-starved Maserati isn't ready to make any major changes. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article But as noted earlier, the departure of the Macan may help the Grecale, and with a new-generation combustion X3 yet to be revealed, Maserati could have this little corner of the market to itself for a while. It's also worth noting that Maserati is preparing to embrace a new design direction, so perhaps it's not worth overhauling the Grecale too much just yet. We'll bring you more updates as we get them, but we doubt it'll be too long before the updated Grecale arrives. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class have long been two of the best luxury SUVs you can buy. In the U.S., they’ve consistently been best-sellers for the brands as they sit at a size and price point many American buyers find appealing. Often used as family vehicles, safety is a top priority when shopping for a X5 or GLE, but which one is safest? We’ve compared them based on the latest ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). While both 2026 models can be considered safe, only one of them qualified for the safety authority’s top award. Related: 2026 BMW X5 Vs. 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: 3 Key Differences Crashworthiness: Both SUVs ExcelIn the crashworthiness category, the IIHS runs three major tests: small overlap front, moderate overlap front, and side. The small overlap front involves a collision with the front corner of the vehicle, while the moderate overlap front is an offset crash between two vehicles. In each category, a vehicle is rated as Good, Acceptable, Marginal, or Poor. Here’s how the two German rivals matched up. BMW X5 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Small Overlap Front Good Good Moderate Overlap Front Good Good Side Good Good There’s not much to analyze here as both SUVs achieved Good ratings in all three crashworthiness tests, indicating their structures held up brilliantly. Digging deeper into their scores, the only minor blemish for the BMW was an Acceptable result for the rear passenger restraints and dummy kinetics. The GLE received an Acceptable score for rear passengers in one category, involving a slightly increased risk for head/neck injuries. However, only the X5 attained a Top Safety Pick+ award for 2026; the GLE received this award for 2025 but not 2026, which has to do with its crash-prevention systems. We’ll unpack this in the next section. Crash Prevention: BMW Shines, Mercedes Could Do Better BMW In this category, the IIHS evaluates the headlight effectiveness, crash prevention between two vehicles, and crash prevention between a vehicle and a pedestrian. Here’s how the two SUVs compared. BMW X5 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Headlights Acceptable Good Front crash prevention (vehicle-to-vehicle) Good Acceptable Front crash prevention (pedestrian) Good Marginal (standard system); Acceptable (optional system) While the GLE’s headlights were rated as better, the X5’s standard crash-prevention systems outperformed the Merc’s standard and optional systems. The Mercedes only received a Marginal rating for pedestrian crash prevention, failing to avoid a collision with a child crossing in front of it at 25 mph; the BMW was able to avoid a collision in the same test. In the night tests where the vehicles had to stop for a child or adult, the BMW avoided a collision more often. Mercedes-Benz To qualify for a Top Safety Pick+ award in 2026, a vehicle needs at least a Good rating for the front pedestrian crash prevention system. The GLE missed this mark, which is why only the X5 qualifies for the award. Final Verdict: BMW Is Safer For Now BMW If you happen to be involved in a crash, the BMW X5 and Mercedes GLE are equally capable of protecting occupants and helping to avoid serious injuries. But, if you want to avoid getting into a crash in the first place, the X5 is clearly out in front. Overall, the BMW is the winner. These ratings could change quickly in the months ahead. Mercedes has just unveiled a heavily revised GLE-Class for 2027, which may perform better than the 2026 model. BMW is also close to unveiling an all-new X5, which will likely improve on the current model’s already impressive safety scores. Related: Ford F-150 Vs. Chevy Silverado 1500 Vs. Ram 1500: Which Pickup Is The Safest? View the full article

Funny Car driver Spencer Hyde delivered a weekend of progress and promise at the Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip, competing in the milestone 1,000th NHRA Funny Car race. Hyde qualified No. 13 in a competitive 18-car field, powered by a strong 4.057 second pass at 312.06 mph during the fourth and final round of qualifying on Saturday. The run secured his spot in eliminations and demonstrated the continued upward trajectory of the Head Racing team. The weekend began on a high note Friday, when the Canadian driver picked up two bonus points in the opening qualifying session after recording the second-quickest run of the round. Hyde also showed impressive consistency on the starting line, turning in some of his best reaction times of the season. “This team is really gaining some momentum,” said Hyde. “We’ve been working hard on every aspect of our performance, and it’s great to see improvements, especially on the starting line. That’s a big confidence boost for me as a driver.” In Sunday’s opening round, Hyde faced off against No. 4 qualifier and four-time World Champion Matt Hagan. Despite a solid start, Hyde’s run was cut short due to loss of traction, allowing Hagan to take the win. Hagan went on to win the Winternationals and capture the 1000th Funny Car race in NHRA’s 75-year history. “We knew we had a tough draw going up against Hagan,” said Hyde. “Unfortunately, we lost traction early and that was the end of it. It’s frustrating, but these are the kind of challenges that push you to get better.” The event carried added significance as the 1,000th Funny Car race in NHRA history, a milestone Hyde was proud to be part of. “It’s really special to be part of something like this,” said Hyde. “Funny Car has such an incredible history, and just being in the field for the 1,000th race is something I’ll always remember. Of course, we would have loved to win it, but I truly believe our first win is coming soon.” Hyde also connected with fans on Saturday as a featured driver on the NHRA Stage, further showcasing his growing presence both on and off the track. The 2025 NHRA Rookie of the Year was quick to credit the effort behind the scenes, particularly crew chief and team owner Jim Head, for the team’s continued progress. “Jim Head and this entire crew have been giving me a great race car,” said Hyde. “Their dedication and attention to detail is second to none. We’re building something strong here, and I’m really grateful for all the hard work they put in every weekend.” Hyde also acknowledged the continued support of his partners, including Hyde Construction, OUTLAW Light Beer and the Caine Group. “I can’t thank our sponsors enough,” said Hyde. “Hyde Construction, Outlaw Light Beer and The Caine Group believe in what we’re doing, and that means everything. We’re working hard to deliver results for them, and I’m confident those results are right around the corner.” Hyde and the Head Racing team will be back in competition in two weeks at the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals on April 23-26 at zMAX Dragway. There will be two qualifying sessions on Friday, April 24 and two qualifying sessions on Saturday, April 25. For tickets or more information on the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals visit nhra.com. The post Spencer Hyde Continues to Build Momentum at 1,000th Funny Car Race first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

(Photos by David Whealon) – The PDRA Carolina Nationals from Darlington were cold and challenging, but we’ve got a bunch of photos from David Whealon showing just how cool the cars and racing action were. While they were not able to finish the event, because of weather and cold track temps, the final two rounds of eliminations will be contested at this weekend’s East Coast Nationals at Darana Motorsports Park GALOT. That means fans and racers are in for three big days of racing with Thursday’s action finishing up the Carolina Nationals eliminations, followed by qualifying and eliminations for the East Coast Nationals themselves. With Pro Nitrous, Pro Boost, Extreme Pro Stock, Outlawy 632 and more on hand, you know that some awesome racing was happening. The car counts were strong and the competition was unrelenting throughout eliminations in all categories. The post Drag Racing Photos: The PDRA Carolina Nationals 2026 Were Cold But The Action Was Hot! Check Out All Of Our Galleries Starting Right Here! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The Numbers Get RealSlate Auto initially drew attention with plans to sell electric vehicles for under $20,000. However, that pitch shifted after the loss of the $7,500 federal tax credit last September 2025, prompting the company to revise its expected starting price to the mid-$20,000 range. Even so, Slate Auto continues to show signs of momentum, including backing from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. The latest is a $650 million Series C funding round led by TWG Global, according to Automotive News. It will help support manufacturing at the startup’s plant in Warsaw, Indiana, as the company works to deliver its first electric pickup truck later this year. Slate Auto Back to BasicsThe affordable price tag has been made possible by stripping the electric truck of features such as power windows and infotainment screens. Customers can then add and install extra equipment over time, much like building a PC by upgrading components such as memory. This approach allows buyers to get into an all-electric vehicle without paying a premium, especially considering that EVs such as the Tesla Model 3 still start at around $40,000. The exact pricing has not yet been disclosed, though more than 160,000 people have already placed a $50 refundable deposit. Nevertheless, the model is expected to become one of the most affordable EVs in the U.S., undercutting vehicles such as the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf, which both start at around $30,000. More automakers like Ford have also signaled interest in affordable EVs, even as many, including Rivian, have acknowledged how difficult it is to make them profitable. Slate Auto Cashing In on the VisionA report from TechCrunch states that Slate Auto has raised roughly $1.4 billion to date. TWG Global has been investing in the company since 2024, with its most recent funding round seen as a boost as production nears. In addition to securing funding, the startup has also made a structural change by appointing Peter Faricy as its new chief executive officer. Faricy, a former vice president of Amazon Marketplace, is expected to help build a similar platform that makes it easy for customers to purchase vehicle accessories. Chris Barman, who served as CEO when the brand launched in 2022, has since shifted to overseeing manufacturing, engineering, and design. Slate View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Thule's new Widesky rooftop tent is pretty big, but still able to be fitted to a side-by-side. But the coolest thing about it is that it comes complete with a sofa. View the full article

The Comeback We Didn't ExpectFor the most part, American automakers have all but abandoned sedans in the home market. Ford doesn't have anything to offer in that class, while GM has only Cadillac to sell these four-door cars. As for Stellantis, its lone offering is the Dodge Charger. You can literally count all the American sedans sold stateside with one hand. The irony is, GM and Ford are still selling sedans outside the U.S. GM's Chinese operations still have loads of them, while Ford has a model in select markets. Sure, crossovers now dominate the sales charts in America, but we can't help but think that American automakers gave away all their potential sales to rivals. Lately, though, there has been a turnaround. With rising average new-car prices, Ford and Stellantis, in particular, are looking to either reintroduce or introduce more sedans to their respective rosters. Even GM wants in on the fun, by the looks of things. So, with all major American automakers considering these at the very least, it looks like the American sedan will soon stage its comeback. Exciting times, indeed, especially for those with crossover and SUV fatigue. Dodge Chrysler's Much-Needed Second ModelSure, the Pacifica is the nation's best-selling minivan, but a car company cannot survive for long with just one model in the range. Chrysler desperately needs a second vehicle, and recently, it hinted at a sedan revival that will be 'unlike anything seen before.' There was mention of the possibility of it 'blending segments,' so it might be a lifted sedan of sorts, since people can't get enough of crossovers these days. It's a bolder, riskier approach, but it still doesn't rule out the possibility of it looking more traditional. A Charger-based 300 could work and help bring back Chrysler to its Halcyon days, provided it makes the right noises. Cole Attisha Using Gemini 3 Pro Ford's PlanCEO Jim Farley had made it clear that sedans are back on the table. However, what he didn't say is what kind of sedan the company could release down the line. Subcompact and compact sedans seem out of the picture, so there might be a chance we're looking at a mid-size or even large sedan in the future. As mentioned, Ford has the Taurus and Mondeo for China and the Middle East. So far, the Taurus has been doing consistently well, and the Mondeo has been steady. Both are effectively the Fusion had Ford not discontinued it in 2020, and it's not just a reskin of the old car. Another possibility is for Ford to use the rear-drive Explorer platform to build a large sedan. Maybe they can call it Crown Victoria, but we're just thinking out loud. Ford GM to Give Buick a Sedan?While there's no word from GM, there's a good chance that at least one of its brands is set to receive a sedan. There have been recent reports that Buick is adding a sedan to its lineup after years without one. It could be derived from the Cadillac CT5, a model that's underpinned by the Alpha 2 platform. There's also the possibility of GM tapping into its resources in China to bring in the Lacrosse from there. The Lacrosse was discontinued in the U.S in 2019, but continues to thrive in China. The Chinese Lacrosse is likely the most cost-effective solution if GM wants to give Buick a sedan as soon as possible. The question now is whether these planned and rumored future American sedans can still appeal to customers. It's one thing to say that people want one, but it's a totally different matter when it comes to actual purchasing. The cars can't be cookie-cutter sedans if these automakers want any chance against well-established rivals. It won't be easy, but it might be worth a shot. Buick View the full article

As the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series enters its 13th season, the all-eighth-mile series is once again helmed by Series Director Tyler Crossnoe. After stepping away from his position as the vice president at Virginia Motorsports Park over the winter, Crossnoe is now locked in on the PDRA and its seven-race season. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI 199, the Interview Issue, in March/April 2026. Offseason initiatives have included improvements to existing elements, but also all-new programs. Pre-race promotions will reach more eyeballs, racers who win and even qualify will walk away with more money, and fans who attend races in-person or watch live on FloRacing will witness improved shows optimized for both fans and racers. Drag Illustrated grabbed a quick interview with Crossnoe over the offseason to get his thoughts on the upcoming season. What’s your mindset going into the 2026 season? We are spending a lot more time on the series than ever before and trying to fine-tune a lot of details that have needed some time in the past. I am motivated to continue to improve the series each time we show up to the racetrack and continue to make small changes throughout the season to improve the overall product for everyone involved. The PDRA was built on a great place to race for all competitors and putting on a great show for the fans in the process. We plan to continue that in 2026 and do it better than ever. What has you most excited about this season? I think I am most excited about all of our changes and additions. Change is hard at times but sometimes, change can be exciting. Adding the Triple Threat Bracket Series to the PDRA folder is one of my favorite changes for the season after the years of building it through our time at VMP. I’m a bracket racer at heart and enjoy competing when I have time to get behind the wheel, but I always enjoy trying to promote events that I would circle on my calendar as a racer. The purse increases for the Red Line Oil PDRA series are exciting to give back more than ever to the racers. I think for the first time in the series’ history, all Pro classes are paying out qualifying money equal to the entry fee so effectively, if you qualify, your entry fee is paid for, which for me is extremely exciting to see for the future of the sport. What can racers and fans expect from the series for 2026? Racers can expect our professionalism and consistency that we’ve always brought to the table, but striving to do better each and every event. While there will be hurdles to overcome at all events, it is our goal and promise to always put our best foot forward, no matter the hurdles. Fans can expect the best eighth-mile drag racing on the planet as we’ve delivered in the past. Our biggest goals for the 2026 season do come through our new FanZone area on the midway that we debuted in 2025. We are going to put more emphasis on creating the ‘extras’ at the PDRA events this season, giving our racers and teams chances to get in front of the fans more and build on storylines through the year. For our fans across the globe who may not can attend in person, our partnership with FloDragRacing continues for the entire 2026 season for live streaming of all the Red Line Oil PDRA Series events from Darlington to the World Finals in Virginia. The post Locked In: With Renewed Focus, PDRA’s Tyler Crossnoe Sets The Tone For 2026 first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

The Crossover Corolla Getting Ready for Its Next StepThe Toyota Corolla Cross only showed up in the US in 2022, but it’s been on sale elsewhere since 2020. That means it’s still a fresh face in automaker’s lineup, but it’s already closing in on the usual window for a full model change. Now, there’s a clearer idea of when the next step is coming. According to the latest issue of Japan’s Best Car magazine, the all-new Corolla Cross is penciled in for 2028. They’ve also dropped some early hints about what Toyota is working on, from hardware tweaks to the overall direction. It’s early, but the idea of a more advanced, hybrid-heavy Corolla Cross fits right in with Toyota’s recent moves. The current model already leans into electrification in many markets, and the next one looks set to push even further. Toyota What to ExpectThe report says the next Corolla Cross will stick with an updated TNGA-C platform, keeping front-wheel drive as standard and offering all-wheel drive as an option. No big surprises there. The real story is that Toyota seems to be focusing on refining what works, especially for buyers who need them. The biggest change is under the hood: the next Corolla Cross is expected to go all-hybrid just like the RAV4. The main setup will be a new 1.5-liter inline-four paired with Toyota’s sixth-gen hybrid system. Expect less friction, a tighter package, and better efficiency, thanks to new battery tech and silicon carbide semiconductors. If you want something with a bit more bite, there’s talk of a Corolla Cross GR Sport. This one could get a plug-in hybrid setup with about 200 horsepower, plus a more advanced suspension: struts up front, double wishbones at the back. Inside, the next Corolla Cross is expected to adopt Toyota’s newer Arene software system, similar to what’s seen in the latest RAV4. That likely means a larger infotainment display – potentially up to 12.9 inches – and a fully digital instrument cluster measuring around 12.3 inches. The next model could also stretch a bit, with reports pointing to 183 inches in length and a 108-inch wheelbase. That should mean a roomier cabin. Toyota Influenced by the RAV4’s DesignTiming-wise, the same report pegs the launch between spring and summer 2028. That would put the Corolla Cross right after the next-gen Corolla sedan, which is rumored for 2027. As for the design, Best Car’s early renderings show a lot of RAV4 influence, especially up front and in the lighting. The look is more squared-off and rugged, which lines up with what buyers want in compact crossovers right now. That said, it’s smart to keep expectations in check. Like most reports from the Japanese publication, this is preliminary information and not confirmed by Toyota. These details give us a peek at what could be coming, but nothing’s set in stone yet. For now, it’s a waiting game. But if these reports are on the money, the next Corolla Cross could be a more refined, more electrified, and slightly more upmarket version of a model that’s already a global staple. Toyota View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The problem relates to 'inappropriate materials' being used, such that they may deform and become inoperable when the front axle shaft is tightened.View the full article

Last week, General Motors announced that it had attracted the designer of the F87 BMW M2 to lead its Advanced Design studio in Pasadena, bringing European influence to future American cars, and now the reverse has happened at McLaren. The British marque has poached a designer from an American company, appointing Kemal Curic as its Chief Design Officer, and that's a big deal. Curic was at Ford since 2004 and not only led design for its luxury brand, Lincoln, but was also responsible for the styling of the S550 Mustang, and now he'll be in charge of pretty much everything at McLaren, from the way its cars look when you first see them to the way they feel inside and how you interact with them through screens. McLaren's New Design Boss Has Big Shoes to Fill McLaren Automotive Curic replaces Tobias Sühlmann, who went to Porsche at the beginning of this year. Sühlmann worked on the Solus GT and also spent time at Bugatti, Aston Martin, and Bentley, the latter where he helped design the Batur. But Curic isn't stepping too far out of his comfort zone by moving to McLaren, as before he worked on the 2015 Mustang, he designed several European-market cars, including the Fiesta, Mondeo, Kuga, and third-generation Focus. At Lincoln, he led design for the Chinese-market Zephyr as well as America's Nautilus and then the Navigator, so McLaren is gaining a designer who knows how to create cars that appeal to a wide variety of demographics. Related: McLaren’s New Hybrid Tech Could Boost Acceleration at Speed If design isn't already too far along, Curic will have considerable input on the upcoming V8-powered McLaren SUV, which could either prove as successful as the Bentley Bentayga and help attract a whole new type of customer or be shunned and ignored as "not a true McLaren." In other words, he'll have his hands full, and not just with exteriors, either. McLaren Is Undergoing Transformation McLaren Curic's role as McLaren Chief Design Officer will encompass exterior design, interiors, and CMF (color, material, and finish), as well as digital design, so he'll effectively have final say on everything McLaren is working on as it tries to reinvent itself. Along with Sühlmann, McLaren lost CEO Michael Leiters to Porsche, with the latter being replaced by Nick Collins in 2025. Collins, Curic, and the rest of the McLaren leadership are overseeing a comeback plan that will be revealed in the summer, and this will include a replacement for the 750S and additional mid-engine supercars, but no EVs. Exciting times indeed. View the full article

The EV Struggle Is RealBMW had a tough year of selling EVs in the United States in 2025. Pure EV sales in 2025 dipped by 16.7% compared to 2024, with the largest drop in Q4 of 2025, falling 45.5%. While BMW isn't the only brand to be hit by slow EV sales, it's eager to regroup. However, the first quarter of 2026 is proving that it's tougher than it seems, EV sales are down 50% comapred to Q1 2025. Moves are being made, and one significant change is coming. BMW Shifting StrategiesBMWBlog was able to get an exclusive insight into a major change to BMW U.S. EV plans moving forward. BMW confirmed to the publication that the iX, considered the brand's flagship EV SUV, will be discontinued in the American market. This will end the iX's 5-year run in America, and marks the shift of the current BMW EVs into the Neue Klasse models. However, the iX will continue to be sold elsewhere in the world until 2027. The exclusive quote from the BMW executive highlights their pride in what they achieved in the U.S. with the iX. It served as a technological showcase for the brand, allowing them to push the boundaries of design, manufacturing, and sustainability. The executive also acknowledged that market dynamics led to this decision to transition to the new generation of BMW EVs under Neue Klasse. Furthermore, the brand executive also reaffirmed BMW's commitment to the U.S. market through the next phase of their EV push. Through Neue Klasse, the iX3 will usher in the new generation of EVs powered by the Gen6 eDrive Technology. The iX3 is just the jumping-off point, with future Neue Klasse cars coming. BMW China Neue Klasse RisingBMW's Neue Klasse line is dubbed a complete reboot of the brand's EV philosophy and push. Taking into account the changes in preferences when it comes to what people want from electric mobility. Headlining this new class of cars is the recently announced iX3, which will be the first model introduced under this reboot. The iX3 is a mid-sized SUV that debuts the new Gen6 battery technology, enabling a full range of 497 miles (WLTP), with faster charging capabilities as well. U.S. arrivals of the iX3 are expected sometime in Q3 of 2026, followed by the first-ever BMW iX5 SUV. Earl Lee/Autoblog View the full article

Ducati’s Voyagers 2026 contest rewards real journeys with global exposure, factory access, and WDW 2026 perks. View the full article

Old race cars are cool, but old race cars owned and raced by the same people for decades is even cooler. That is exactly what this cool 1955 Chevrolet is. Rene Garza is the man behind this great ’55, and we love him for it. We’re going to let Tommy Lee Byrd, the Hot Rod Hoarder, tell the story only as he can. This is greatness. Video Description: Rene Garza has been winning races for more than 50 years, always in the same car! This 1955 Chevy 210 was his daily transportation through high school and he turned it into a drag car in 1972 with help from John Lingenfelter. The car has ALWAYS used a 265ci small block Chevy and he has run in the Super Stock ranks from day 1. He has been classified in O, P and T classes through the years. Many of the details on this car have been in place for decades, including the Dana 60 rear end, which was installed in 1976 by Larry Nelson from Jegs. The car weighs 3,450 pounds and still has a tiny small block, so it takes a 6.83 rear end gear and 7,000rpm stall converter to get this thing rolling. The car has won LOTS of races, and even though Rene Garza is no longer driving it, he’s kept it in the family by having his son Joey drive. The car is a fixture at NHRA events, as well as the Tri-Five Nationals. The post Super Stocker Feature: This Classic Tri-Five has been a 265ci powered Small Block Race Car Since 1972! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

It’s time for some IHRA Stock and Super Stock video, this time from our friend Bobby Fazio at the IHRA Pro Am at Virginia Motorsports Park. We’ve shared other photos and video from the event already, but as far as we are concerned you can never have enough Stock and Super Stock video so here we go! Video Description: We had perfect weather for the recent IHRA event at the newly acquired Virginia Motorsports Park! I was on the property pulling double duty—working on Lenny Lottig’s Mountain Motor Pro Stock car, but I made sure to grab the camera and head to the line whenever I had a spare minute. The Stock and Super Stock racers were taking full advantage of the great conditions, and I captured some high flying action. The post 2026 Virginia Motorsports Park IHRA Pro-Am Series Super Stock And Stock Eliminator Drag Racing appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

For both Ducati and motorcycle fans in general, there's a new postage stamp to add to your very special philatelic collection.View the full article

Betting Big on AmericaFord has long championed its commitment to America, and last year was no exception. The Blue Oval recorded the highest level of U.S. vehicle assembly in 2025, reinforcing its support for jobs and communities stateside while continuing to meet mobility needs with models like the F-150. A combined 1.8 million Ford vehicles were assembled and sold in the U.S. last year. The graph in the press release comparing industry assembly and sales did not disclose the names of the closest competitors, though they likely include General Motors and Toyota, the latter of which operates the world's largest factory in Kentucky. Ford also recorded 378,000 imports, meaning it assembled more than six vehicles in the U.S. for every one it imported, along with an industry-leading 311,000 exports. It is worth noting, however, that BMW was America's biggest car exporter by value last year. Ford A Familiar LeaderboardNeedless to say, the Ford F-Series was not only the brand’s best-selling model but also the top-selling vehicle in the U.S. in 2025. It was followed by the Chevrolet Silverado, underscoring Americans’ strong demand for pickup trucks. The Toyota RAV4 ranked third, with the Honda CR-V and Ram trucks rounding out the top five. Looking ahead, Ford plans to expand its passenger electric vehicle lineup, currently centered on the Mustang Mach-E, amid reports that the F-150 Lightning is shifting toward a range-extended truck. Reports also say the automaker is developing an affordable electric truck targeting a roughly $30,000 price point, along with new EVs aimed at rivals like the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, the two best-selling electric vehicles in the U.S. Moreover, a return to sedans also appears to be on the table. Ford Backing American WorkersFord noted that there are places where it could reduce assembly costs, but it chooses to keep production in the U.S. to continue supporting American jobs and communities. That commitment helped Ford lead Time magazine’s inaugural “America’s Most Iconic Companies” list, ahead of brands like Apple and McDonald’s. It also says it employs about 56,300 manufacturing workers in the U.S., more than any other automaker. The Blue Oval brand plans to hire more workers across the U.S. in the coming years to support its upcoming models, including new gas, hybrid, and electric vehicles. It aims to maintain that momentum, noting that it does not “plan to give up that top spot any time soon.” Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A new patent from Autoliv details what appears to be a self-adjusting motorcycle helmet chinstrap, complete with an electrical strap. But is this complexity for complexity's sake?View the full article

The Lucid Air Pure is widely recognized as the most energy-efficient EV you can buy right now, achieving 5.0 miles per kWh. But that's assuming the half-shafts are still connected to the drive motor on the rear axle. According to a recall filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the rear-driven base model of the Air may have loose half-shaft bolts, potentially resulting in the half-shafts being disconnected from the drive unit and leaving drivers stranded. The recall affects 2024-2026 model years, but the good news is that not too many vehicles are named in the recall. Thousands of Lucid Airs Could Lose Power Again Lucid The NHTSA recall report states that 3,627 Lucid Air Pure sedans are potentially involved in the recall, which follows Lucid's earlier recall for a similar issue from 2024 (SR-25-03-0). That earlier recall only potentially affected 1,539 vehicles from the 2024 and 2025 model years, and the NHTSA recall report stated that the impacted EVs were built using a design for the rear subframe wiring harness "that was inadvertently shortened from the original design length." As a result, affected vehicles could face excess stress on their harness connectors, potentially leading to intermittent or complete disconnection from the drive unit, which would mean the drive unit could stop supplying power to the axle. In the latest Air recall, Lucid says affected vehicles have under 25,000 miles on their odometers, have not already had a drive unit replacement, and were not part of the earlier recall, showing that two completely different problems can sometimes lead to the same unfortunate outcome. Related: New Lucid Gravity Recall Isn't Even Lucid's Fault The NHTSA says the main reason the Air Pure's half-shafts could be loose is "interruption of the torque operations during the adhesive curing window," potentially resulting in bolts with damaged adhesive or contamination of the half-shafts. It could also be that bolts with cured adhesive were reused after torquing was interrupted. Either way, the bolts (M10x1.5) will need to be replaced. Lucid Air Pure Owners Getting Hardware and Software to Address Loose Bolts Lucid Motors Lucid says it is implementing the same remedy as in an earlier October 2025 recall, but is also working on a software detection strategy with a revised algorithm to enable "continuous, real-time, on-vehicle evaluation" of each impacted Air Pure to determine if a vehicle may be at risk of having its half-shaft/s disengaged while driving. With this, drivers will at least be warned if the problem is rearing its head before they're left stranded. Owners will be notified of the recall by first-class mail with instructions to contact a Lucid Service Center, but these letters are only planned for May 22. Until then, Lucid hopes that the over-the-air software update will allow it to limit bolt replacement to only the vehicles at risk, rather than replacing hardware on all Air Pure models. View the full article

Master the balance of torque and drivability. McLeod’s Will Baty breaks down clutch friction, MOI, and the physics of a perfect launch.View the full article

A Cult Favorite Goes ElectricAt its recent Vision event in Japan, Nissan unveiled one of its most unconventional future models yet – the all-new, all-electric Nissan Juke. While more mainstream reveals like the new-generation Nissan Rogue e-Power and returning Xterra grabbed headlines, the Juke’s return in EV form is arguably the bigger story for – at least for us. First introduced stateside in 2010, the Juke immediately carved out a niche with its polarizing design and playful driving dynamics. That identity only grew stronger with projects like the GT-R-powered Nissan Juke-R, cementing its cult status. Now, the third-generation model aims to carry that same spirit into the electric age. Hyper Punk Concept IRLIf the new Juke EV looks every bit like a concept car brought to life, then it’s mission accomplished for Nissan. Its styling clearly channels the Nissan Hyper Punk Concept from the Japan Mobility Show in 2023, with angular surfacing and a distinctly digital, almost retro-futuristic vibe. It’s the kind of design that feels like a throwback to early Gran Turismo-era polygons, reimagined with modern EV proportions. Beneath that radical skin sits something more familiar. The Juke EV will ride on the same CMF-EV platform as the Nissan Ariya and Nissan Leaf. While Nissan hasn’t disclosed full specifications yet, the shared architecture points to actual, real-world driving dynamics and the possibility of advanced features like vehicle-to-grid capability. Nissan So Now, You Want an EV?For now, the Juke EV is being positioned primarily for Europe, with production set at Nissan’s Sunderland facility in the UK. That makes sense given the nameplate’s enduring popularity there. In a crowded segment, the Juke has consistently stood out by leaning into its quirks rather than dialing them back. That leaves the U.S. in a bit of a gray area. Nissan has since shifted its entry-level crossover focus to the Nissan Kicks, a more practical but far less expressive alternative. Whether the Juke EV returns across the Atlantic remains unclear. But if it does, it could be exactly the kind of personality-driven EV that helps win over skeptics, proof that going electric doesn’t have to mean going bland. Nissan View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article