Kimera Automobili's going four-wheel drive for its EVO38 Collezione Martini. That and 640 horsepower in a car that weighs less than 2,500 lbs. The new EVO38 is an evolution of Kimera's 38, which was introduced in 2024. It's also a successor to the EVO37, and picks up where that car left off.

To be precise, we're looking at a curb weight of 2,425 lbs (1,100 kg), paired with a motor that drives all four wheels and delivers 640 horsepower. The Martini Kimera was a hit, and it's resulted in this pocket rocket, and diving deeper only serves to enthuse us more.

The Engine

Power comes from a 2.1-liter four-cylinder with a turbocharger. Of course, cooling and other heat-extrating upgrades were made to the motor, but also to the intercoolers, which have their own set of apparatus to supplement their performance. Under peak loads, water sprays from nozzles to cool the fins and keep intake charge temperatures down. Remember, colder air is denser, meaning more power.

The redline for this motor is set at 8,200 rpm, 500 more than the previous iteration of the Martini Kimera. As for this engine's torque figures, Kimera says it is 22% higher than before and approaches 516 lb ft (700 Nm).

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Aesthetics

As for its looks, of course, you cannot deny the Lancia look. For the EVO38, specifically, you get a front end that's "sharper and more decisive than ever," according to Kimera. New air intakes also aid cooling, and their massive cooling vents allow spectators to view the motor without removing a panel or popping a hood.

In addition to the wild bodywork, Kimera's gone the extra mile to give its customers extra choice. The previous Martini special was only available in white, but this time around, there will be more color options to choose from. These colors, as Kimera puts it, are still "inspired by the visual language of the Martini brand, each with its own soul, its own character, its own light." The color options include Pearl White, Vermouth Red, and Dry Green, as seen in the official images.

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Availability? "Vanishingly Limited Numbers"

With a 38-unit production run for the prior Martini special, this EVO38 may have an even more exclusive production run – perhaps less than 38 units. Only a handful of these cars will be made, and each color may have different rarities as well.

I'm sure Kimera's customers will see the value in this reimagined classic, especially in a Martini trim. I don't know if having the livery makes the car that much more valuable, but I cannot deny that a Martini livery is unquestionably classic.

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An exclusive report from the Washington Reporter claims that trade and tariff policies under Donald Trump are reshaping the auto industry’s manufacturing footprint. The data, sourced from S&P Global Mobility, shows that Ford Motor Company imported just 378,123 vehicles into the United States in 2025. That figure places Ford among the least import-reliant major automakers, trailing only Tesla and BMW.

Ford built roughly six vehicles in the U.S. for every one it imported. In total, more than 2 million vehicles were assembled domestically, representing 83% of its U.S. sales. Political figures cited in the report credit tariffs and tax incentives for accelerating reshoring. The White House continues to position these figures as proof of a broader manufacturing revival ahead of the midterm elections.

A Harsh Financial Reality

Ford CEO Jim Farley has not been passive in the face of tariffs. He has publicly outlined strategies to offset rising costs, including supply chain adjustments and localized production. These moves were designed to cushion the company from the volatility tied to trade policy and shifting global sourcing.

However, those efforts have not fully insulated the balance sheet. Ford reported a staggering $8.2 billion loss last year, underscoring the financial strain of operating under tariff pressure. The company has responded by increasing prices on key models, passing some of the burden onto consumers. Despite this, Ford continues to push forward with domestic production plans and major facility investments across the United States.

Tariffs Carry a Steep Cost

The broader industry impact is significant. Tariff policies tied to local manufacturing have cost automakers more than $35 billion since 2025. These expenses stem from higher material costs, disrupted supply chains, and the need to reconfigure production strategies to comply with domestic requirements.

Complicating matters further, the U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled aspects of these tariffs unconstitutional. Even so, the ruling has not translated into immediate price relief for consumers. Automakers remain locked into higher cost structures, and pricing adjustments continue to reflect that reality. The gap between policy intent and market outcome remains evident.

Resilience Comes at a Price

Ford’s trajectory stands out in a market where other manufacturers are struggling to justify U.S.-based production. Nissan admitted that it finds it difficult to build affordable vehicles domestically, citing labor and material costs. Against that backdrop, Ford’s commitment to American manufacturing appears unusually resilient.

That resilience comes with caveats. Higher production costs and elevated vehicle prices remain sticking points. If pricing begins to stabilize, the narrative could shift toward a more favorable outlook for both consumers and domestic manufacturing. Until then, Ford’s strategy reflects both the promise and the friction of a reshored auto industry.

Stellantis has been working to get back on track after a tough run, despite 2025 showing slightly positive signs, especially in the US. Jeep, Ram, and Dodge have been doing the heavy lifting, driving up shipments and building momentum after months of inventory headaches, pricing problems, and slow EV sales.

Ram and Jeep are still the main profit engines in North America, while Peugeot and Fiat hold things down in Europe and Latin America. So this latest report isn’t really a shock – it just confirms what’s already been happening.

The report says Stellantis is gearing up to put most of its money behind just four brands: Jeep, Ram, Peugeot, and Fiat. That’s a big change for a company that’s always bragged about having 14 brands under its belt.

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Regional Roles Could Replace Global Ambitions

According to Reuters, brands like Citroën, Opel, and Alfa Romeo aren’t going anywhere, but they’ll be more like regional players instead of global stars. Instead of getting big budgets for new models, they’ll have to lean on shared platforms and tech from the main four.

That probably means more badge engineering, more region-specific models, and picking markets where each brand actually sells. The report also mentions rebadging cars for certain countries, as well as tweaking designs and tuning to keep each brand’s identity intact.

CEO Antonio Filosa is reportedly on board with this plan, but he’s not looking to axe any brands outright. Some investors want to cut the weaker names, but Filosa seems to think they’re still worth keeping around where they make sense. We’ll see the full game plan in Detroit on May 21.

The Bigger Question Might Be Chrysler

But here’s what really jumps out: Chrysler isn’t on that list. Chrysler used to be the name in American family cars and big sedans, but now it’s almost silent. In the US, the Pacifica is doing all the work, the 300 is gone, and there’s nothing new on the horizon. Dealers have been begging for something fresh, but the wait just drags on.

That’s why this four-brand focus is worrying. If Chrysler isn’t getting real investment, it could fade away completely. Stellantis keeps promising new electric models and flashy concepts, but that doesn’t help when showrooms need cars people can actually drive home.

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The Lamborghini Temerario is supposed to be the brand's "entry-level" option, slotting below the flagship Revuelto. It effectively replaces the Huracan, which was a bestseller for Lamborghini during its long run as the entry model.

It made its official debut in 2024, and here we are two years later with the brand employing an interesting production and sales tactic. Engineered scarcity is a new term and internal process used by most luxury brands. It simply means that they are limiting the production and supply of a specific product.

Used Worth More Than New?

Lamborghini is employing this so-called tactic without shame; in fact, brand executives are openly admitting that engineered scarcity is necessary to protect residual value and the brand's exclusivity as a luxury high-performance car maker. This has led to the Temerario being in high demand, and exposing buyers to extremely long wait times for their brand-new Lambos.

Since demand continues to increase and supply remains on the same strategy, some people are looking elsewhere. Interestingly, some people who've already gotten their Temerarios are selling theirs on the second-hand market. What seems like a strange move might actually be smart, because these barely used examples are selling for higher than sticker price.

Two Temerarios are listed on Eurocar, a high-end dealer in California. The first one is listed at $590,000, which is $210,000 more than the car's MSRP ($380,000). This particular one has some added extras to boot, like the special Blu Glauco paint, passenger display screen, parking pack, leather pack, and a Sonus Faber sound system. A pretty loaded Temerario, with just 55 miles on the odometer.

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It Takes Two

The second car up for sale, also on Eurocar, is finished in the Giallo Auge Metallic. Although it has fewer options than the first listing, it's still being sold for higher than sticker price at $499,000. Demand for the Temerario is no surprise, considering that, despite being the baby Lambo, it delivers huge performance, with over 900 hpfrom the twin-turbo V8 assisted by hybrid power.

Currently, the wait time for a brand-new Temerario is around 6-12 months, and this isn't limited to the U.S. market. So if you're too excited to wait, these two from Eurocar are waiting, but be ready to pay above asking.

Elon Musk used Tesla’s April 22 earnings call to outline a future that leans heavily into autonomy. The headline claim? The upcoming second-generation Tesla Roadster will be the only model in the lineup designed for full human control. Everything else is expected to transition toward self-driving capability through software and hardware evolution.

He also framed the Tesla Cybercab as the brand’s de facto compact car. It is a two-seat vehicle that prioritizes space efficiency, based on Tesla’s claim that 90% of trips involve one or two occupants.

Vehicles built before 2023 are limited by older hardware. Newer models equipped with Hardware 4 are expected to unlock full autonomy via updates to Full Self-Driving. For legacy owners, Tesla is offering retrofit pathways, trade-in credits, or camera upgrades. Musk also revived his most provocative idea yet. He suggested future Teslas could incorporate some form of flight capability.

The Long-Delayed Roadster

Tesla has spent years building anticipation around the new Roadster. First shown in 2017, the car has become a symbol of the company’s ambition rather than a product on the road. Musk has teased what he calls an “epic” reveal, claiming the car will redefine performance benchmarks for electric vehicles.

Musk has openly stated that the Roadster is not being engineered with safety or autonomy as its primary focus. That runs counter to Tesla’s broader strategy. Instead, the Roadster is framed as a purist machine. It is meant to celebrate driving at a time when the rest of the lineup is moving away from it. That contrast is deliberate. It turns the Roadster into both a halo product and a philosophical outlier.

Tesla Is Betting Everything on Autonomy

Tesla’s confidence in its self-driving stack has grown more visible in recent years. Demonstrations of long-distance drives using Full Self-Driving with minimal or zero human intervention are becoming central to its messaging. These tests are designed to validate a camera-based approach that avoids the expensive sensor suites used by rivals.

The Cybercab concept pushes that idea further. It removes traditional controls entirely. No steering wheel, no pedals, and no expectation of human override. The result is a cabin that feels unfamiliar, even unsettling, because it removes the driver from the equation entirely. For Tesla, that is the point. The company is no longer iterating on the car as we know it. It is redefining what a car is supposed to be.

Ambition Meets Uncertainty

The idea of a flying Tesla still sounds speculative. Even by Musk’s standards, it stretches credibility. Yet the Roadster has been linked to unconventional propulsion concepts, or maybe even "fly" before. That leaves just enough ambiguity to keep the conversation alive. Tesla thrives on that edge between plausibility and hype.

There have been high-profile incidents, legal challenges, and ongoing scrutiny of Tesla’s systems. Critics argue that the technology is being deployed faster than it can be safely validated. Musk, for his part, remains one of the industry’s most effective marketers. He frames the future in bold terms and lets the market respond. Whether that future arrives as promised is still an open question.

General Motors continues to meet a large share of U.S. pickup truck demand, supported by its extensive domestic assembly network. One of its key facilities, Fort Wayne Assembly in Indiana, is now celebrating its 11 millionth vehicle produced – an example purchased by GM employee Ken Zawisa.

Fort Wayne Assembly primarily builds the light-duty versions of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra. Both pickup trucks are due for a major overhaul for the 2027 model year, with reports suggesting production could begin in October 2026. For now, however, the plant is marking a notable milestone since its establishment in 1986.

The High-End Silverado

The 11 millionth vehicle is a black Chevrolet Silverado 1500 High Country, the flagship luxury-oriented trim, with the ZR2 serving as the more performance-focused alternative. While the report from Waynedale News didn't disclose the full specs, the model comes standard with features like 20-inch machined aluminum wheels, chrome accents, a 10-way power driver seat, a 13.4-inch touchscreen, and a Bose Premium Sound System.

Under the hood, a 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 is standard, while a more potent 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V8 is available with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. For buyers who need more low-end torque for applications like towing, a 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel is also offered, raising torque output to 495 lb-ft.

Speaking about the historic example, Zawisa said, “It was exciting to find out my truck was the 11 millionth vehicle. I’ve probably told 100 people that it is the milestone vehicle.” He added, “I’m proud as a GM employee that we’ve built this many awesome trucks. The employees at Fort Wayne Assembly are building something every day that is important to a lot of customers.”

Powering More Than Pickups

Indiana Governor Mike Braun also attended the celebration of the 11 millionth vehicle produced. Beyond building high-demand trucks for the U.S. market, the plant continues to support the state economy by providing jobs, employing more than 4,100 workers.

This development follows last month’s announcement that GM’s Flint Assembly, which builds heavy-duty versions of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, produced its 16 millionth vehicle. GM also remains America’s full-size pickup truck leader for the sixth consecutive year and has built the largest trucks sold in the U.S. for the second year in a row, beating rivals including Ford, Stellantis, and Toyota.

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Before Nissan launches the next-generation Rogue, the Japanese automaker is offering a behind-the-scenes look at how the vehicle is built at its Smyrna plant in Tennessee. The sneak peek covers the entire process – from the initial stages, where assembly begins with raw steel, to the end of the line, where final inspections are carried out.

The Rogue is a crucial model for Nissan, competing in the lucrative compact crossover segment against rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. That makes the Smyrna plant key to supporting production of the brand’s top seller, which has recorded nearly four million U.S. sales since 2000.

See the production process below.

Where the Rogue Takes Shape

Once raw steel arrives at the facility, it moves to the stamping area, where it is formed into body panels. These panels are then sent to fitting before a network of 1,400 robots aligns and welds the chassis. Laser welding is used to join components to the frame, after which an electrostatic pre-paint coat is applied to streamline the painting process.

For the 2026 model year, the Rogue is offered in a range of color options, including two-tone combinations such as Everest White Pearl TriCoat/Super Black and Boulder Gray Pearl/Super Black.

Nissan provided a glimpse of the Smyrna Integrated Control Center before showing how the workers assemble the Rogue, from the wiring harness to the dashboard. Technicians also install the engine, a 1.5-liter three-cylinder VC-Turbo unit producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. The vehicle is available with a Japan-made plug-in hybrid version based on the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV for those seeking more power and improved efficiency.

From Factory to Driveway

The final stage is a bumper-to-bumper quality check before the vehicles are released to customers. Pricing starts at $29,490, excluding destination fees, for the S trim. Buyers seeking a more off-road-oriented variant can opt for the Rogue Rock Creek, which starts at $34,390.

The next-generation Rogue, meanwhile, is expected to arrive in late 2026 with Nissan’s e-Power system, a series-hybrid setup that has been around since 2016 but is only now beginning to reach the U.S. That technology could help make the Rogue more competitive, especially as the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V remain favorites not only in the compact crossover segment, but across the broader U.S. market.

In addition, Nissan is exploring a family of five new body-on-frame vehicles, including the return of the Xterra nameplate.

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Cayenne Convertible Concept Looks Weird From All Angles

The front clip of the Cayenne Convertible looks fairly normal, but aft of the A-pillar, it all gets a little weird. A canvas convertible top (which would have been electrically operated if the vehicle had made production) slopes downward aggressively because this is a two-door. In profile, it doesn't look too bad, but the Cayenne drop-top is still anything but pretty, with awkward rear haunches and a Targa-style bar running behind the rear seats. The further back you go, the stranger it looks.

Porsche crafted two different rear ends because of disagreements among the team in 2002, with the left side featuring an integrated spoiler in the tapering rear end and the right side featuring a more upright fascia that would surely have improved cargo space slightly. Porsche says the one-off prototype measures just under 189 inches in length, but that's the only technical specification provided because this is not a running model, and if it were, it would twist itself to pieces.

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Porsche calls vehicles like this one Package Function Models (PFM), which means they're created only to evaluate how everything would look and fit together. As such, the roof was cut off the Cayenne without adding additional stiffeners to the body, so the prototype has to be transported wherever it goes. But that's okay because the PFM was only built to assess four criteria:

• Is the seating comfortable for all passengers with such an aggressive roofline and such short A-pillars?
• How practical is this concept with doors that are almost 7.9 inches longer?
• Is the soft-top elegant, of high quality, and able to be folded quickly?
• How should the rear end look?

Why Porsche Decided Against a Convertible Cayenne, and What Else It Considered

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The Cayenne Convertible was already shared with the world in 2022, with Porsche explaining it never reached production because forecasts about its potential profitability were not positive. Doubts over whether this concept could be made attractive also lingered, as designer Michael Mauer explained. "An SUV as a convertible is a challenge both aesthetically and formally," he said. "An SUV always has a large and heavy body. You combine this with a small top half and then cut off the roof — you get very strange shapes emerging from that."

Other strange shapes Porsche was pondering at the time included a genuine SUV coupe that would have only had two doors, and the polar opposite, a long-wheelbase version stretched by 7.8 inches. We're glad Porsche stuck with just a regular SUV, as these other ideas would have been expensive and could have caused the company to falter rather than thrive. With Porsche starting to struggle again this decade, perhaps it will conceptualize something out of left field again.

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A Victim of the Exchange Rate

The official statement arrived via Honda Korea CEO Lee Ji-hong, who cited shifting global market conditions and severe exchange rate pressures, because Honda imports its Korean-market vehicles directly from its Ohio manufacturing plant. The persistently strong US dollar essentially vaporized the company's profit margins.

Last year, Honda managed to move a dismal 1,951 cars in South Korea—a sharp 22 percent drop year-over-year. The lineup had grown uncompetitive and stagnant, relying solely on aging staples like the Accord, CR-V, Odyssey, and Pilot.

The Global Bleed

This retreat highlights a much wider operational crisis. Honda is actively bleeding ground in key international zones as it struggles to pivot in an era where battery density and software dictate market share. In China, Honda's sales plummeted 24 percent in 2025, forcing immediate plant closures as local brands consumed the market.

Globally, the automaker has recently gutted its own electric vehicle ambitions, halting development on three new EVs—including the 0 Series SUV and Saloon—to fall back on a hybrid-focused strategy, as have many other legacy auto-makers in the wake of cliff-diving electric vehicle demand.

Local Competition

In South Korea, the automotive landscape is highly localized and fiercely loyal. Hyundai and Kia have aggressively improved their technological footing, leaving little incentive for domestic buyers to look toward Japanese imports. Combine that domestic dominance with the rapid encroachment of BYD and Tesla, and Honda’s traditional internal combustion offerings look entirely misplaced in the South Korean market.

The writing has been on the wall: Nissan waved the white flag and exited South Korea in 2020, leaving Toyota as the sole Japanese legacy brand still fighting for passenger car sales on the peninsula.

Retreating to Two Wheels

To stop the financial bleeding, Honda is pivoting strictly to what it still dominates: two wheels. The brand will retain its highly profitable motorcycle division, which currently holds a commanding 40 percent share of the South Korean market. For existing car owners, Honda is legally mandated to maintain after-sales service, vehicle maintenance, and parts supply for the next eight years.

The bottom line is about resource preservation. Honda is actively trimming dead weight across the globe to redirect capital toward regions where it actually stands a chance of long-term survival. For the rest of the legacy automotive establishment, Honda’s exit serves as a blaring warning siren. If your product lineup relies on analog-era momentum and ignores the aggressive pace of innovation, your market share will evaporate.

The defect is notably dangerous because it frequently occurs as a silent failure without any prior warning to the driver. Federal safety reports indicate that the primary symptom of the fault is the ESC warning light illuminating only after the module has already failed and subsequently reset. This loss of active stability control significantly increases the risk of a crash, particularly for heavy-duty vehicles operating on slippery surfaces or carrying heavy loads.

Recall Review

The investigation into the faulty steering modules began in January 2026 after Stellantis technical teams identified a pattern of malfunctions. Engineers confirmed the manufacturing build issue in mid-March, leading to a formal noncompliance determination on April 10, 2026. The affected vehicles were all manufactured at the Saltillo Assembly Plant in Mexico during a specific production window between September 13, 2025, and November 15, 2025.

This action adds to a mounting list of technical challenges for the Ram brand. The steering recall coincides with a separate, much larger "Blackout" recall affecting 65,348 Ram trucks from the 2025 and 2026 model years. In that campaign, a software glitch causes the 3.5-inch instrument panel to go entirely dark while the truck is in motion, potentially obscuring gear selection and other critical safety indicators. The overlapping issues represent a significant reliability hurdle for commercial fleet buyers who rely on the 2500's 20,000-pound towing capacity and require functional safety systems for legal and safe operation.

What to Note

To remedy the defect, authorized dealers will replace the faulty Steering Column Control Module with a redesigned unit free of charge. Stellantis expects to begin mailing official owner notification letters by May 7, 2026. Owners are advised to check their Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) on the NHTSA website, as searchable database entries for this specific recall (No. 26V244) were scheduled to go live on April 23, 2026. Customers seeking immediate assistance can contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403 and reference recall number 36D.

This is not a preview of the upcoming Audi A9 flagship SUV, but an all-electric model that will not be sold anywhere else in the world except China. The AUDI E7X has officially been launched at Auto China 2026 in Beijing as the brand’s second production model, following the E5 Sportback.

AUDI, mind the capitalization, is a joint venture between Audi and Chinese automaker SAIC. It aims to meet demand for luxury SUVs in China, a strategy similar to the one Porsche is pursuing. According to Audi CEO Gernot Döllner, the new E7X – which measures close to the Q7 at 5,049 mm (198.8 inches) long – draws on Audi’s design heritage while incorporating futuristic details, which may explain why it looks familiar yet new.

What the E7X Brings to the Table

However, the E7X is underpinned by the Advanced Digitized Platform, which uses a 900-volt architecture, rather than the Premium Platform Electric platform found in vehicles like the Q6 e-tron. Still, the new AUDI EV packs plenty of punch, offering either 300 kW (402 horsepower) or 500 kW (670 horsepower). The latter comes with quattro all-wheel drive and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque, enough to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.9 seconds.

The 900-volt architecture also enables 4C fast charging, which can replenish the battery from 10% to 80% in just 13 minutes. The EV is available with either a 100-kWh or 109-kWh battery pack, with the larger unit capable of delivering up to 750 km (466 miles) of range on a single charge based on CLTC standards.

That cannot be directly compared with EPA estimates used in the U.S., but at least on paper, it edges past the U.S.-spec Q6 e-tron’s EPA-estimated range of around 325 miles. The Q6 e-tron is Audi’s largest electric SUV in the U.S. following the discontinuation of the Q8 e-tron last year.

Built for More Than Driving

The new AUDI E7X is also equipped with a plethora of advanced technologies to cater to evolving Chinese lifestyles, including a 21.4-inch rear-seat entertainment screen, a 27-inch AUDI Panoramic Display integrated into the dashboard, and a 26-speaker Performance Series Bose sound system. It is available in both five- and four-seat configurations, with the latter tailored for executive use.

Again, the E7X will be offered only in China, so getting behind the wheel of one can be a long shot. But as a sign of the brand's early promise, its E5 Sportback sibling won the 2026 China Car of the Year award. The E7X is set to launch in the first half of 2026, with a third AUDI model, an all-electric sedan, expected to debut in 2027.

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We previously reported on Geely developing one of the most fuel-efficient hybrid engines to date. Seeing it installed in a production-ready, driveable sedan at Auto China 2026 in Beijing brings that claim into sharper focus. This is no longer an isolated lab result or a theoretical benchmark. It is now a fully realized application, engineered to deliver that efficiency in real-world conditions.

Tucked in a quieter section of the Geely stand sits the Preface iHEV. It does not rely on spectacle. Instead, it draws attention through proportion and restraint. The stance suggests confidence rather than flash. Based on its size and presence alone, it feels like a car engineered with purpose.

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Design That Punches Above Its Class

The Preface is classified as a compact sedan, yet its footprint leans closer to mid-sized models like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. It even sits visually between the Volvo S60 and Volvo S90. It's 110.2 inches, giving it a planted and upscale stance.

Full LED lighting and chrome accents complement the "Eric Blue" finish. A darker trim option would sharpen its sporting edge. Traditional door handles are a welcome choice. The 18-inch wheels suit the car, though its proportions could support larger rims. The design feels mature and well resolved.

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Interior and Technology Blend

Inside, the Preface presents a clean, premium-leaning cabin. The white interior theme complements the ambient lighting, adding depth and a more upscale feel at night. A 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster sits ahead of a 14.6-inch central display, both powered by Geely’s Flyme Auto system on a Snapdragon 8155 chip. Apple CarPlay is supported, though Android Auto is absent, as expected for a China-market model.

Comfort is a strong suit. Ventilated seats, a 16-speaker audio system, and generous cabin space give it a near-luxury edge. Material quality is not class-leading, but fit and finish are well executed. Ergonomics takes some getting used to, though the inclusion of physical climate controls is a welcome addition.

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Powertrain and Intelligent Backbone

The Preface rides on Geely’s GEEA 3.0 architecture with support for fast over-the-air updates. Driver assistance is handled by a system with 128 TOPS (trillion operations per second) of computing power, enabling highway assist and automated parking. It positions the car competitively in the tech space.

The star of the show is, of course, the iHEV system. Combining a 1.5-liter engine with an integrated electric drive to produce 308 horsepower. It delivers a strong low-speed response and can drive electrically up to 41 mph. Fuel economy is rated at 59 mpg WLTC, beating key rivals while maintaining strong performance figures.

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From Nanjing Road to Bourbon Street?

I asked Victor Yang, Vice President of Geely Holding Group, whether the company sees an advantage in its U.S. manufacturing footprint through Volvo Cars and Polestar plants in South Carolina. Specifically, could Geely leverage those facilities to position itself as the first Chinese automaker to sell vehicles branded as made in the USA?

His response was emphatic but measured and non-committal. He said there are no current plans for the U.S. market. Still, the industrial groundwork already exists. The supply chain, the production capacity, and the brand links are in place. The denial may be official, but the strategic potential is difficult to ignore.

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The Era of Hybrids

The question now is whether a car like this can reach markets like the United States. The industry has been leaning heavily into PHEVs, REEVs, and full EVs, especially as demand patterns fluctuate. Yet the Preface iHEV presents a compelling case for a different path. It shows that conventional hybrids still have room to evolve and improve in meaningful ways.

Hybrids are not fading. If anything, they are entering a more advanced phase where efficiency no longer comes at the expense of performance. This feels like the beginning of a new hybrid arms race. Toyota may have set the benchmark, but competitors like Geely are closing the gap quickly. The result could be a golden era for hybrids that finally deliver on all fronts.

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Wagons have always had a small but dedicated fan base, even as the segment is fading in most markets. The BMW M5 Touring is the latest proof – an enthusiast’s long-roof with a plug-in hybrid system and 717 hp, priced firmly in luxury territory. It shows there’s still a real appetite for fast wagons, even if you have to pay for the privilege.

China, though, is taking the fast wagon idea in a different direction. The Avatr 06T is a luxury sports wagon from a joint venture between Chinese automaker Changan, smartphone maker Huawei, and CATL, a global battery company. It delivers up to 955 hp and is offered as a pure EV or with an extended-range setup.

Falcon-Inspired Styling and a Very Digital Cabin

Avatr claims the 06T’s design is inspired by a peregrine falcon in a dive. Ignore the buzzwords – the shape actually works. It sits low and wide, looking convincingly aggressive for a wagon.

Up front, you get Avatr’s dual-layer LED lights, with the main beams tucked into the bumper. There’s a trapezoidal cooling vent and active grille, while the sides feature flush door handles and optional electronic mirrors for better airflow. Out back, a roof spoiler, full-width taillights, rear wiper, and roof rails keep things practical – at least on paper.

Dimensionally, it measures 194 inches long, 77 inches wide, and 57 inches tall, riding on a 116-inch wheelbase.

Inside, it’s all about screens: a 35.4-inch 4K panoramic display, a 15.6-inch center screen, and two 6.7-inch screens for the optional camera mirrors. The system runs on Huawei’s HarmonySpace 5, with AI for voice commands and cabin controls. You get three interior themes, including Twilight Purple and Dai Red – so subtlety is not the goal here.

Up to 955 HP, and Still Not Coming to America

Performance is where things get interesting. The base pure electric versions use dual motors at the rear, making either 603 or 673 hp, with LFP batteries good for a claimed 405 or 460 miles (CLTC).

The flagship tri-motor version adds one up front and two at the rear for a total of 955 hp. Avatr claims 0-62 mph in 2.78 seconds, which is supercar-quick for something shaped like a grand tourer with room for luggage.

There’s also a dual-motor extended-range version with a 1.5-liter turbo engine as a generator. It manages 205 miles on electric power alone, and a claimed 777 miles total.

Pricing starts at 219,900 yuan (about $31,900) and tops out at 279,900 yuan ($40,600), which seems almost too good to be true given the specs. The catch: it’s not coming to the US, so American wagon fans will have to keep daydreaming over M5 Touring configurators.

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The Nissan Terrano is back, and this time it arrives as a global plug-in hybrid off-roader revealed at Auto China 2026. The Terrano name has historically been used on rugged SUVs in select markets, often positioned below Nissan’s largest body-on-frame offerings. This new concept signals a shift in direction. It blends electrification with traditional off-road cues, which places it in a segment that is still largely underserved. Nissan appears to be targeting buyers who want capability without abandoning efficiency.

Seeing the vehicle in person in Beijing adds weight to the announcement. The concept feels close to production, not like a design study that will be diluted later. The stance, proportions, and detailing suggest that this is not just a compliance car. It feels like a genuine attempt to re-enter the off-road conversation. For the first time in years, there is a sense that Nissan is building something with a clear identity and purpose.

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Boxy, Purposeful, and Xterra-Adjacent

The design leans heavily into boxy, upright proportions. It carries a strong resemblance to what many expect from the next Nissan Xterra. The flat surfaces, squared wheel arches, and upright glass give it a classic off-road silhouette. At the same time, it looks larger and more substantial than an Xterra is expected to be. It sits below the Nissan Patrol and Nissan Armada, but it has enough presence to stand on its own.

It also positions itself directly against the Ford Bronco. The key difference is that Ford’s off-roader has no hybrid or plug-in variant. The Terrano PHEV arrives with that advantage built in. The concept rides on 33-inch Mickey Thompson tires and features high ground clearance, a rear-mounted spare, and short overhangs. The overall execution looks ready for production. Even if its off-road capability remains to be proven, the visual credibility is strong and convincing.

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Big Hybrid Power, Real EV Range Potential

Nissan has not released official power figures for the Terrano PHEV. However, there are clear indicators from other projects. The Nissan Frontier Pro suggests what the brand is capable of with its ladder-on-frame, plug-in hybrid systems. That setup produces around 402 horsepower and roughly 590 pound-feet of torque. If the Terrano uses a similar configuration, it would place it well above many midsize SUVs in terms of output.

The electric-only range target is equally important. Nissan is aiming for up to 84 miles of EV driving. That figure would make it one of the more usable plug-in hybrids for daily driving. It allows owners to handle commutes without using fuel while still retaining long-distance flexibility. This combination of power and range could give the Terrano a distinct advantage if it reaches production with similar specifications.

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Bring The Xterra Already

Nissan has not confirmed plans to bring the Terrano PHEV to the United States. The company has emphasized region-specific strategies across major markets, including the UK, China, Japan, and North America. This suggests that the model could be prioritized for China, where demand for electrified SUVs continues to grow rapidly. Regulatory pressure and consumer preferences both support that direction.

This approach aligns with Nissan’s broader restructuring efforts. The company is reducing complexity in its lineup while introducing more targeted products. The Terrano PHEV fits into that strategy as a focused, market-driven vehicle. For U.S. buyers, attention will likely shift to the upcoming Xterra. If that model captures the same design intent and avoids the softer positioning of vehicles like the Nissan Pathfinder, then Nissan could be setting up a stronger return to form in the off-road segment.

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The Geely Group recently unveiled a concept at the 2026 Beijing Show that marks the 10th anniversary of one of its brands. Lynk & Co, while unknown in America for now, is a popular marque in Europe.

Lynk & Co and Zeekr are two brands that the Geely Group plans to bring in. Known for delivering a premium driving experience at a mid-range price. The brand also has campaigns in the World Touring Car Racing series with its compact sedan, the 03.

This year, Lynk & Co unveiled a new concept that's all-electric and aimed at proving the brand's mettle in the GT segment. A stark contrast to its current lineup of compact SUVs and sedans, this is the first time that the brand is branching out into a very bold category.

The GT Concept

Dubbed the "Time to Shine" GT Concept, the model undoubtedly catches attention. It features dimensions that are similar to those of other GT cars from established brands. The Ferrari 12Cilindri sits at about 15.5 feet long. Lynk & Co's GT concept is only slightly longer at 15.6 feet.

The design takes several cues from other name-brand GT carmakers, adopting a long hood, fastback roofline, massive spoiler, large wheels, and a long-slung stance with swooping lines throughout. You could say it has a bit of Toyota GR GT in it, or a bit of Aston Martin. In any case, its dimensions and appearance aren't the only interesting aspects of this car's exterior, because there is a button on the center console that lets it adjust its length and lower its ride height by 0.6 inches.

Whenever the term "active aero" is thrown out, you can expect maybe a front splitter, rear spoiler, suspension lowering, or even a rear air brake in more exotic cases. Lynk & Co's execution includes a rear spoiler that pitches up to reduce drag and add downforce, but it also includes front and rear bumpers that extend the car by an additional 3.9 inches.

Active aero like that is interesting, and while Lynk & Co haven't published the downforce gains of this system, it's one of the most interesting ways that a manufacturer hunts for downforce at speed. While it's not as niche as GM's drift-spec active aero, it's certainly a unique take on improving aerodynamics.

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An Adaptive... Interior?

If you've ever pressed a drive mode selector in a car, you can expect the throttle response to get sharper, screens to change layout, or even ambient lighting to start glowing an aggressive shade of red, but how about retracting screens to remove distractions? Yup, pressing that button will make the infotainment screens move out of the way so you don't get a face full of pixels as you drive.

On top of that, the interior is futuristic to say the least. Since the concept is for Grand Touring, it features a bespoke interior setup, with bucket seats, a very memorable steering wheel, a focused set of digital gauges, and a color scheme that is not too dissimilar from what the Geely Group has been putting in their normal road cars (which is kind of a good thing depending on who you ask).

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0 to 62 miles per hour in just 2 seconds

Lynk & Co is keeping the tech specs of this concept confidential for now, but the brand has confirmed it will be all-electric and rear-wheel-drive. According to the brand, the electric rear-wheel-drive system can launch the car from 0 to 62 miles per hour (100 km/h) in just 2 seconds. If I were to make a guess, we're definitely looking at over 1,000 horsepower of output. Also, I'm pretty sure the Geely Group will have its 4-minute charging system on board if ever this Concept makes it to market.

There is also talk about an AI-driven digital chassis, the details of which aren't yet known. It's likely that the Geely Group is taking some notes from Lynk & Co.'s TCR Touring Car Championship efforts and putting that know-how to good use in developing this concept.

Right now, the Time to Shine GT Concept is not slated for production, but will be used as a gauge of public interest. It would be wild for the Geely Group to greenlight this project; it will be going up against the likes of Porsche, Mercedes-AMG, and Aston Martin, to name a few. The question is whether it will have the brand value to be recognized.

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Brabus has released new teaser images on social media of a new coupe that, based on its silhouette and design cues, could be derived from the Aston Martin Vanquish. One of the hashtags, “Bodo” – a reference to company founder Bodo Buschmann – is believed to hint at the name of the brand’s latest project.

Few details have been disclosed, but given how Brabus typically tunes its cars to unlock more power – as seen in its 986-horsepower Mercedes-AMG GT S E Performance build – the “Brabus Bodo” is expected to push the Vanquish to the extreme.

Not Just Any Donor Car

For the uninitiated, the Vanquish is Aston Martin’s flagship model, so whatever Brabus is working on is likely shaping up to be something extra special. The Vanquish comes with an in-house 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12 that produces 824 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. Like the Ferrari 12Cilindri, the British grand tourer retains a V12, rear-wheel-drive configuration at a time when many performance cars are moving toward smaller engines and hybrid-assisted all-wheel drive.

Based on Brabus’ website, the Bodo project is said to embody the “ambition to go further” and “to push harder,” so the numbers could be remarkable. For now, the Brabus Rocket 1000 appears to be the benchmark, as it pushes output to 986 horsepower (or 1,000 metric hp) while adding aggressive carbon fiber bodywork for improved aerodynamics.

A previous report showed alleged leaked images of the Brabus Bodo V12, featuring a long hood, quad LED taillights, and a quad exhaust system. These details suggest the upcoming model could adopt a distinctly aggressive design that sets it apart from the standard Vanquish.

The Clock Is Ticking

As of this writing, the Bodo countdown stands at 20 days, pointing to a reveal around mid-May 2026. One of the few clues the company has shared is: “The 77 is more than a number to us. It is a date. It is a place. It is a statement,” suggesting the number “77” could also appear on the model’s nameplate.

Once revealed in production form, the vehicle would join Brabus’ high-performance portfolio, which is largely made up of Mercedes-AMG and Porsche-based builds. The company’s work is not limited to sports cars, though, as it also modifies SUVs such as the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and Land Rover Range Rover, even working on 6x6 versions of the Mercedes-AMG G-Wagon.

The Frontier’s V6 isn’t new, but it’s earned its stripes the hard way: by taking a beating and coming back for more. Nissan put the 3.8-liter V6 through brutal tests before it ever saw a customer, including running it flat-out at redline for 300 hours straight just to see what would break.

This engine is built in America, and now it’s the face of a big milestone for Nissan. The 20 millionth engine from Decherd is a VQ-ZV9 V6, and it’s going straight into a Frontier – one of Nissan’s toughest trucks getting one of its toughest engines.

Nearly Three Decades of Engine Building

Decherd opened its doors in 1997 and has been cranking out engines ever since. It’s one of Nissan’s oldest US plants and supplies powertrains for vehicles all over North America.

Nissan has poured about $2 billion into Decherd over the years, out of a $14 billion investment in US manufacturing. So this isn’t just another engine plant – it’s a key piece of how Nissan builds cars for North America.

David Sliger, vice president of Regional Powertrain Operations for Nissan Americas, said the 20-million-engine milestone reflects more than output numbers. According to him, it represents the craftsmanship and long-term dedication of the workers in Decherd, many of whom have spent much of their careers there.

The plant isn’t just about engines. It supports jobs all over Tennessee, especially in Franklin County, and has become a fixture in the local community. Some families have had more than one generation working there, which gives the place a real hometown feel.

Preparing for the Next Phase

Even as the 20 millionth engine is a classic V6 for a truck, Nissan is already thinking about what comes next. Nissan’s US production has jumped from 40 to 60% in just a year, with a goal of hitting 80%. The idea is simple: build more cars where people actually buy them.

That means Decherd isn’t just about gas engines anymore. The plant is gearing up to build both traditional and electrified powertrains for future Nissan and Infiniti models in the US – including the upcoming Xterra, which will get a V6 Hybrid.

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BMW currently makes one of the most luxurious back seats in the business, found in the latest 7 Series. This executive sedan features an available reclining position with an ottoman on the passenger side, if you equip the Executive Lounge specification. There is also the 31.3-inch BMW Theater Screen, which folds down from the Skylounge LED roof and offers video streaming, Zoom calling, and more.

These amenities are all wildly impressive for a car, but BMW has only offered them in a sedan up until now. Speaking with Autoblog, BMW hinted that these more eye-popping features could make their way into an SUV, specifically the company's largest model, the X7.

A More Luxurious X7

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"You have to think about the interpretation of something like [the theater screen] and how it would fit in the vehicle," said Michael Keller, Vice President Product Management Americas for BMW Group US. "There is a new X7 coming. So perhaps you could do something like that eventually."

Keller explained how the X7's dimensions and functionality are different than the 7 Series, so a rear screen may not be exactly 31.3 inches in such a vehicle.

Competing With Maybach And Range Rover

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BMW already competes with rivals like Mercedes-AMG in terms of SUV performance, but as we've mentioned above, it's been hesitant to go all-in on an executive four-seater in this segment. The BMW XM has a spacious back seat, bundling the wheelbase of the X7 in the form factor of a five-seater, but it lacks the amenities found in the 7 Series.

If the next-generation X7 does gain features like the Executive Lounge specification and BMW Theater Screen, it would be a more compelling rival for the Lexus LX Ultra Luxury, Mercedes-Maybach GLS, and Range Rover Long Wheelbase.

Late April is not when you expect to be digging out, and yet here we are. A heavy wet storm has parked itself over the Northern Rockies, and by sunrise Friday parts of Montana and Wyoming are looking at snow totals closer to February numbers than anything spring should be producing. I-90 is compromised across most of western Montana, while Monida Pass on I-15 is in the same alert. Up on US-212 through Cooke City and US-14 through the Bighorns, the forecast word is whiteout.

The shortest version: if you can wait until afternoon to drive, wait. Most of the worst conditions will have rolled through by then. If that isn't an option, the rest of this is what you're driving into.

Where the Warnings Are Worst

The Gallatin and Madison ranges south of Bozeman are catching the biggest numbers. Snow totals approach 20 inches above 7,500 feet, with valley floors expecting a more modest 3 to 6, and winds gusting to 40 mph. This is the country around Big Sky and West Yellowstone, which means US-191 and US-20 into Yellowstone's western gateway are both compromised, as is Targhee Pass heading into Idaho. The warning runs through Friday noon MDT, and you can track the current status through NWS Great Falls.

East of there, the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains get hit harder and for longer. That alert holds until 6 p.m. MDT, which matters because Cooke City and the northeast entrance to Yellowstone sit in the middle of it. US-212 climbs over Beartooth Pass, the highest paved road in the region, and it only just reopened for the season. Another 3 to 7 inches is coming at elevation, gusts on the Wyoming side run higher than on the Montana side, and avalanche danger is climbing through the day. NWS Billings is the office to watch here.

The Crazy Mountains sit directly on I-90 between Big Timber and Livingston, and although their warning expires earliest (6 a.m. MDT Friday), it's worth knowing that's the Bozeman-to-Billings stretch of interstate at its most exposed. Further north, up against the Canadian border, the Bears Paw Mountains and Rocky Boy Reservation are under the longest-running alert of the entire event: snow continues there until noon Saturday, with 4 to 9 inches above 4,000 feet and 50 mph gusts.

Over the Wyoming line, the Pryor Mountains and the northern Bighorns are carrying warnings until 6 p.m. MDT Friday. The NWS doesn't bury the message on this one: travel on US-14 through Burgess Junction could be very difficult, with whiteouts likely. If that's your planned route, pick another one.

Yellowstone and the Tetons

The timing here is awkward as Yellowstone is in the middle of its spring road-opening sequence. Crews have been working toward the first full-access weekend, and now this storm is going to push the whole calendar back. NWS Riverton has advisories across the park itself, with Pitchstone Plateau picking up as much as 18 inches.

The Tetons and Gros Ventre are in line for up to 20 inches on the highest peaks and gusts to 50 mph. The Salt River and Wyoming Ranges, further south, see up to 15 inches at elevation. Togwotee Pass on US-26/287 falls inside the same alert zone. Anyone heading into Jackson or Grand Teton this weekend should check nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/parkroads.htm before committing to a route, because what's open this morning may not be open by Saturday.

Both Interstates at Once

I-90 between Bozeman and Whitehall is under advisory until noon MDT, with 2 to 6 inches expected through Three Forks, Ennis, and Gallatin Gateway. The morning commute window, roughly 7 to 9 a.m. MDT, lands right in the middle of it.

I-15 crosses into the same alert at Monida Pass on the Montana and Idaho border, where 1 to 4 inches is on the way. Monida isn't just any pass: it's the main freight artery between Salt Lake City, Helena, and the Canadian border, and closures or slowdowns there ripple across several states. Homestake Pass on I-90 east of Butte and MacDonald Pass on US-12 are on the same alert.

Western Montana has its own complications. Missoula and the Bitterroot Valley are under advisory through Friday noon for up to 3 inches, locally around 6. Roads that get wet at these elevations freeze quickly. Lookout Pass, where I-90 crosses into Idaho, falls under the same guidance. It's one of the more difficult stretches of I-90 anywhere in the country and a major Seattle-to-Minneapolis freight route. NWS Missoula has the current picture for that side of the state. Livingston, where I-90 meets US-89 heading north into Yellowstone through Gardiner, sees another 1 to 3 inches and 30 mph gusts through Friday noon.

The Passes Between Montana and Idaho

South of I-90, the two main automotive crossings between Montana and Idaho are Lolo Pass on US-12 and Lost Trail Pass on US-93. Both carry advisories until noon MDT Friday, with another 3 to 8 inches coming. Cross into Idaho and the same system is still producing: Highway 28 and the passes around Salmon get anywhere from a few inches in the valleys to more than a foot at elevation, with gusts to 35 mph.

Before You Drive

Most of this clears by Friday afternoon. The Yellowstone and Teton advisories run slightly later, and the Bears Paw warning holds until Saturday noon.

A few practical things. Call 511 in the state you're driving through. Montana (511mt.net), Idaho (511.idaho.gov), and Wyoming (wyoroad.info) all run road condition services, and they're more current than anything else you'll find. Check weather.gov for your specific destination rather than relying on a regional forecast. If your route goes over any of the passes in this story, the simple answer is to leave in the afternoon rather than the morning. Chains go in the vehicle if you're headed toward Big Sky, West Yellowstone, Cooke City, Togwotee Pass, or over US-14 in the Bighorns. One thing worth remembering: all-wheel drive helps you start moving. It does nothing for stopping on ice, and every bridge and overpass in the warning zone is icing over as the wet pavement refreezes.

By Friday afternoon, most of this is over. The weekend looks largely clean outside northern Montana. Getting through Friday morning is the part that takes some thought.

BMW M2 RR Edition Gets Updated Looks with Fresh Aero

All the M2s and all the liter bikes come with black paint and red accents, with the former finished in fan favorite Black Sapphire Metallic and the latter in a hue called Black Storm Metallic. The M2 RR Edition also gets a 20-millimeter drop thanks to M Performance suspension with red springs, bringing its 20-inch front and 21-inch rear M Performance wheels in Jet Black closer to the arches. The car also gains red inserts on its front and rear splitters, and both a roof spoiler and a wing on the trunk. To round the exterior treatment off, a specially developed Akrapovič exhaust has been produced, though there are no changes to the output of the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged straight-six S58 engine, which makes 473 horsepower.

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Inside, BMW has sadly elected not to fit the M Carbon bucket seats from the M2 CS, instead upholstering the standard perches in black and red leather with red contrast stitching, matching the noon marker and M buttons on the steering wheel. Perhaps as a nod to the feeling of freedom provided by a superbike, the M2 Edition RR also gains a sunroof, adding roughly 50 lbs of weight compared to the carbon roof. Finally, buyers will get to choose from either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission, with five of each being offered.

BMW's M2-Inspired Bikes Get Light Touches

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Like the M2 RR Edition, the S 1000 RR M2 Edition and M 1000 RR M2 Edition get Akrapovič exhaust systems but no extra power. The former adds to its sinister look with red-accented front fairings, a tinted windshield, an M-embossed seat, a red-accented passenger seat, and red-accented Design Option wheels. The latter is a little fancier, with red accents on its M Carbon wheels and tank, as well as red M front winglets that make the bike look ready for MotoGP. Pricing for the S 1000 RR M2 Edition is set at R406,950 (~$24,580), while the M 1000 RR M2 Edition will cost R882,100 (~$53,280). Pricing for the M2 Coupe RR Edition hasn't been revealed, but it probably won't be cheap.

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The End of a 28-Year Volkswagen Era

Volkswagen first brought Bugatti back to life in 1998, a few years after the EB110 was discontinued. Under VW ownership, the French hypercar maker delivered icons like the Veyron and later the Chiron, cars that redefined what hypercars could be.

In 2021, Bugatti entered a new era with the creation of Bugatti Rimac, a joint venture designed to add electrification to the mix. Porsche held a 45% stake in the joint venture, along with a 20.6% share in the Rimac Group. Now, with both holdings sold entirely (for an undisclosed amount), the Volkswagen era is officially over. Control now shifts to Mate Rimac and a new group of global investors, effectively wiping the slate clean and setting the stage for a very different future.

What Bugatti Looks Like Without Volkswagen

Whether Mate Rimac wants to admit it or not, Volkswagen’s engineering depth influenced Bugatti in more ways than many realised. One of the clearest examples came when Mat Armstrong uncovered shared components between the Chiron Super Sport and more mainstream Audi and VW models, highlighting just how interconnected the group really was. Without that ecosystem, will Bugatti continue sourcing components from the wider industry, or will Rimac push for more bespoke, in-house solutions?

While the Mistral marks the final chapter of its W16 era, the Tourbillon gives us a taste of what's possible with Rimac's guidance. Its naturally aspirated 8.3-litre V16 engine, paired with three electric motors, produces a combined 1,775 hp and showcases just how impactful electrification can be.

Porsche Refocuses as Bugatti Starts Over

Recently, Porsche has seen quite a tough time, with operating profit collapsing by 92.7% to just $478 million in 2025, and its profit margin declining from 14.1% to just 1.1%. In response, Porsche AG CEO Dr Michael Leiters said that they "will focus Porsche on the core business," with their most recent announcement being the all-electric Cayenne Coupe. Stepping away from Bugatti will allow Porsche to focus its resources where they matter most

As for Bugatti, though, this marks a hard reset. Without Volkswagen’s backing, there's no shared parts bin and no established formula they have to follow. What comes next will define the brand for decades to come, and for the first time in years, no one knows what comes next.

The Volkswagen Golf has played just about every role you can imagine: practical hatchback, hot hatch, diesel workhorse, plug-in hybrid, and even performance icon as the GTI and R. The next big leap is the all-electric ID. Golf, already teased as part of Volkswagen’s EV roadmap. But before the Golf goes fully electric, there’s one more chapter to add.

Enter the new Golf Hybrid: Volkswagen’s first full hybrid take on its iconic hatchback. It lands alongside the T-Roc Hybrid and slots neatly between the eTSI mild-hybrids and the plug-in eHybrid models already on sale in Europe. The key difference is that you don’t need to mess with charging cables or wall boxes. Volkswagen says the idea is to deliver better efficiency without forcing owners to rethink their daily routines.

How the New Golf Hybrid System Works

Under the hood, you’ll find Volkswagen’s 1.5-liter TSI evo2 turbo four-cylinder, teamed up with two electric motors. One motor drives the front wheels, while the other acts as a generator. The result is a system that can quietly switch between electric-only cruising, series hybrid mode, or parallel hybrid drive, depending on what the road throws at you.

In city traffic or at low speeds, the Golf Hybrid can glide along on electric power alone, with the gas engine taking a break. Step on the throttle or ask for more power, and the engine wakes up – not to drive the wheels directly, but to generate electricity through the second motor. Volkswagen calls this serial drive mode.

Once you’re up to about 37 mph, especially out on highways or open roads, the system shifts to parallel drive mode. Now the gasoline engine takes the lead, with the electric motor stepping in to help during quick bursts of acceleration or passing maneuvers.

A 1.6-kWh lithium-ion battery sits under the rear floor, storing power for the hybrid system. Volkswagen will offer two output levels, though exact numbers are still under wraps. Drivers can pick between Eco, Comfort, and Sport modes.

Why America Probably Won’t See It

The new Golf Hybrid is scheduled to launch in Q4 2026, starting in Europe alongside the T-Roc Hybrid. It makes perfect sense there, especially as stricter Euro 7 emissions regulations approach and smaller hatchbacks need every possible efficiency advantage to stay competitive.

For Volkswagen, this fills a key gap. If you don’t want a basic mild hybrid but aren’t ready for the cost or charging routine of a plug-in, the Golf Hybrid lands right in the middle. It’s less expensive than a plug-in, more efficient than a mild hybrid, and still feels like a Golf.

If you’re in the US, don’t get your hopes up. Volkswagen dropped the standard Golf here after 2021, leaving just the Golf GTI and Golf R. With the regular hatchback gone, the new full-hybrid is likely to stay a Europe-only story.

So for now, Americans waiting for an electrified Golf will have to sit tight and see what shape the future ID. Golf takes.

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Urus SE Tettonero Lets Creativity Run Wild

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The special-edition Urus SE is available with six paint finishes for the exterior: Arancio Xanto (orange), Bianco Asopo (white), Grigio Telesto (grey), and Viola Pasifae (purple). Those of you keeping count will note that I've only listed four colors so far, and that's because the last two, Giallo Tenerife (yellow) and Verde Mercurius (green), deserve a special mention since they've never been available for the Urus before now. The verdant shade is the same one the Lamborghini Temerario debuted in, and it shifts its hues as your vantage point or lighting changes. Nero Shiny (black) paint is applied, not just to the roof, but to the whole upper section of the bodywork and its spoiler, along with the exhaust tips. You also get access to a choice of wheels in 21-, 22-, or 23-inch diameters, wrapped in Pirelli P Zero rubber, and the brake calipers come in six different colors that can be matched to external livery colors, which we get into next.

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In terms of external accent colors, Sant'Agata offers Arancio Borealis (a different orange), Bianco Monocerus (a different white), Giallo Auge (a different yellow), Grigio Nimbus (a different grey), Rosso Mars (red), or Verde Mantis (a different green). You can also add the "63" logo (referencing the year of Automobili Lamborghini's inception) to the lower front doors. With more than 70 possible configurations, you can come up with a truly unique look, with or without carbon fiber for the front splitter, mirror caps, and rear diffuser. The configurator is already live, but before you head over there to stretch the bounds of taste, let's see what the Tettonero Capsule offers inside.

Lamborghini's Tettonero Capsule Gets a Lavish Interior

Inside, the passenger side of the dashboard gets a carbon fiber trim with a silk-screened printed logo of the Urus, along with another carbon fiber plaque celebrating a decade of the Ad Personam Studio, Lamborghini's in-house personalization department. Carbon fiber can also be added to the transmission tunnel, the instrument cluster, and the door cards, with upholstery in Dinamica leather and Corsa-Tex microfiber suede fabric. Lamborghini wants your interior to be finished in Nero Ade, or black, but you can choose from six contrasting colors that can be matched to the aforementioned livery options: Viola Acutus (purple), Bianco Leda (white), Giallo Quercus (yellow), Arancio Dryope (orange), Verde Viper (green), and Grigio Octans (grey). On top of that, another 12 colors can be chosen from when deciding on embroidery for the seats, headrests, and upholstery.

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Lamborghini hasn't revealed pricing, but you can be sure that something as low-volume as a 630-unit Lambo won't come cheap. We quite like the color combo of the example in the official images (which were shot at the Pirelli HangarBicocca, a Milanese institute focused on producing and promoting contemporary art, sited at a reconverted industrial plant), but what would your ideal spec be? Let us know below.

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Earlier this year, Mitsubishigave the Outlander PHEV a solid refresh – sharper front-end, cleaner cabin, and tweaks that kept it competitive with the likes of the Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson. The changes didn’t just update the look; they made the plug-in Outlander feel more refined and kept it right at the center of Mitsubishi’s lineup.

Now it’s the regular Outlander’s turn. For 2026, Mitsubishi is rolling out the first mild-hybrid Outlander in the US, adding a 48-volt system to the standard model. It’s a move that bumps up efficiency without making buyers jump straight to a full hybrid or plug-in.

This update helps Mitsubishi keep the Outlander in the game as electrification becomes the norm in this segment. The bigger story is that the automaker has managed to do it while keeping the base price at $29,995 – a number that still stands out in today’s market.

First Mild-Hybrid Outlander Arrives

The big news for 2026 is under the hood: a Mitsubishi-designed 1.5-liter turbo engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. You can get it with either front-wheel drive or Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control all-wheel drive.

Aside from the new powertrain, Mitsubishi is keeping most of the upgrades from the 2025 refresh. That includes better seat materials, redesigned cupholders, a bigger center armrest, smarter phone charging spots, and more sound insulation. Higher trims add cooled front seats and your choice of an eight- or 12-speaker Yamaha audio system, depending on the spec.

On the outside, the Outlander keeps its refreshed front end – new grille, bumper, and hood tweaks that help cut wind noise and tighten up the fit and finish. New 18- and 20-inch wheels update the look, and all the lighting is now LED, with smoked taillights for a bit more style.

Mitsubishi is also adding a new LE trim for 2026, which sits between the ES and SE. It brings 20-inch black wheels, adaptive cruise, synthetic leather seats, a wireless charger, a multi-view camera, and a black headliner – all without bumping the price into premium territory.

Pricing Keeps It Competitive

Mitsubishi backs the 2026 Outlander with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and two years of limited maintenance. For buyers who care more about monthly payments than horsepower, that’s still a big deal.

The pricing lineup is wide enough to cover both budget-focused shoppers and those looking for more features.

Prices exclude $1,745 destination fee.

With a starting price under $30,000, the mild-hybrid Outlander gives Mitsubishi something you don’t see much anymore: an electrified compact SUV that’s still within reach.

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The rollout will cover the full spectrum of electrified powertrains, from battery electric vehicles and extended-range electric vehicles across midsize to large segments. The target is clear. Hyundai wants to sell around 500,000 cars a year in China by the end of the decade, which would roughly double China's current contribution to its global sales. China accounts for more EV sales than the rest of the world combined, making it the single most important battleground for any automaker. For Hyundai, China will become a proving ground for the software, battery tech, and design language that will inevitably filter into its US lineup.

A Decade of Decline That Made This Necessary

Hyundai's China story over the past ten years is a cautionary tale about how quickly a strong market position can unravel. China once accounted for about 25 percent of Hyundai and Kia's combined global sales in 2016. That figure has since cratered to around 3 percent, with market share slipping from nearly 10 percent to just 1.6 percent. The trouble started with geopolitical friction and deepened as Chinese domestic brands accelerated their EV pivot, while foreign automakers were slowed by pandemic factory shutdowns. China has rapidly transitioned away from internal combustion engines, and brands like BYD have captured precisely the buyers that Hyundai once relied on. Slow localization and a late EV response left Hyundai exposed. The 20-model offensive, including plug-in hybrids to appeal to younger buyers, is an attempt to fix that.

The Design Language That Could Influence Your Next Hyundai EV

To that end, Hyundai has developed a China-specific design direction it calls Origin. It's a sharp departure from the retro aesthetic of its global Ioniq lineup. Hyundai's head designer Simon Loasby described the approach as being something entirely new, aiming for a powerful road presence and immediate visual impact. While the ‘Origin’ design language is China-specific for now, Hyundai has a history of letting regional experiments influence global styling. If it resonates, elements of this sharper, more aggressive aesthetic could find their way into future US-market EVs.

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Diving deeper, partnerships with firms like Momenta aren’t just about Chinese consumers. They give Hyundai access to a faster-moving software stack that could shape future driver-assistance systems across markets. Ultimately, if Hyundai cannot compete on cost and scale in China, it becomes harder to subsidize aggressive pricing in the United States, where EV adoption is still price-sensitive.

JLR Recall Affects Loads of Luxury SUVs

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The recall has been issued because the DC-DC converter could fail, affecting the following vehicles:

• 2021-2022 Jaguar E-Pace (528 units)
• 2021-2024 Jaguar F-Pace (4,449 units)
• 2020-2024 Land Rover Defender (53,644)
• 2021-2024 Land Rover Discovery (6,323 units)
• 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport (381 units)
• 2020-2024 Land Rover Range Rover (34,930 units)
• 2020-2023 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque (2,994 units)
• 2019-2024 Land Rover Range Rover Sport (61,616 units)
• 2021-2024 Land Rover Range Rover Velar (5,304 units)

When an automaker issues a recall such as this, it will estimate a percentage of the recalled number expected to potentially have the problem, and this will often be a single-digit figure, but in this case, JLR estimates that every vehicle named in the recall report has a faulty DC-DC converter, a problem that has been plaguing the company's SUVs worldwide, not just in the U.S.

Related: Jaguar Canceled Four New Cars Before Deciding to Go All-Electric

JLR's Product Safety and Compliance Committee first reviewed this issue in September 2024 and concluded that, because symptoms progressed gradually, the fault did not pose an unreasonable risk to safety. More reports kept coming in, however, so a dedicated engineering task force was set up to investigate, though its efforts were stunted by JLR's massive cybersecurity failure last year. JLR continued work in November 2025, and in April, the NHTSA explained that it viewed this as a safety problem, not a customer satisfaction issue. So how do you know if your SUV or crossover has the fault?

JLR Safety Issue Shows Several Warning Signs

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According to the NHTSA recall report, the problem is first revealed to customers through a red warning message that appears on the dash within 10 seconds of the converter's failure, telling them to stop safely because of an electrical fault. As the 12-volt system progressively loses charge, other warnings appear, including but not limited to warnings for failures of the lane-keep assist program, suspension, and stability control system. If the driver keeps going, the vehicle shifts into neutral, showing a gearbox fault on the cluster. JLR says the vehicle will stay on for a while, but then the center screen and the climate control both stop working. Finally, the engine shuts off, and ultimately, the battery becomes too depleted to maintain power to the exterior lighting systems.

In other words, as soon as the first warning appears, owners of the affected vehicles should find a safe place to pull over as quickly as possible, or they could become stranded, potentially in the dark, becoming a hazard to themselves and other road users. Given the winter storm warnings still plaguing many highways, this is especially concerning. Dealers will be notified on the 1st of May, but customers will only get an interim notification in June, and with the remedy still in development, JLR doesn't know when it will be able to solve the issue.

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Celebrity Ownership, Ultra-Low Miles

Finished in Dark Matter Gray Metallic, a final-year exclusive shade, this GT500 is essentially showroom fresh. Navarro, known for his work with Jane’s Addiction and Red Hot Chili Peppers, adds a layer of celebrity appeal that collectors value. Beyond that, the car’s rare four-seat configuration and color combination make it just one of 145 four-seat examples built to this specification. This GT500 is part of the S550-generation Mustang, representing the era when the GT500 sat at the very top of Ford’s muscle car hierarchy before the newer S650 era arrived and the GTD took over.

Power, Provenance, and Added Value

Under the hood sits Ford’s supercharged 5.2-litre Predator V8, producing 760 hp, mated to a 7-speed DCT. That same engine family lives on in newer performance models like the Mustang Dark Horse SC. Originally carrying an MSRP of $86,545, this GT500 ultimately sold for $102,750. While its rarity and low mileage played important roles in that valuation, there's more to the story. Included in the sale were several signed items from Navarro, including a PRS SE Custom 24 electric guitar, a Black Kross case, and a Shelby plaque.

A Deal, Despite The Premium

Interestingly, the final price still sits below market trends. According to Classic.com, the average 2022 GT500 has traded for $114,111 over the past year. That means the winning bidder secured a low-mileage, celebrity-owned example for roughly $10,000 under market average, with signed memorabilia included. While it still sounds absurd to pay over sticker price for a used Shelby Mustang, this might be one of the rare justified instances.

It started with Teslas putting supercars to shame. Now, it's a whole industry-wide push to see whose grocery getter can make the quickest school run. Everything from electric off-roaders to BYD's latest flagship SUV already breaks the 600-plus-horsepower mark. So how does Porsche respond to that with their top-of-the-line flagship SUV? Well, it pushes four digits and sticks it to the other Chinese brands at Auto China 2026 in Beijing.

At 1,140 horsepower, the new Porsche Cayenne Coupe Electric makes going out with the family an exhilarating experience. Simply put, the highest trim level makes hypercar levels of horsepower, enough to really put a smile on your face and freak out whoever is brave enough to sit at the back, at least we assume it will.

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A New Design

With a roofline derived from its most storied nameplate, the 911, Porsche tacks on the coupe name onto the Cayenne Electric. This results in a sporty yet elegant silhouette that is unmistakably Porsche. Known as the "flyline," it gives the impression of speed while standing still, while paying homage to the model that made Porsche what it is today. The A-Pillar follows the same ethos as the rear, sweeping up and over the cabin in a way that only a Porsche can.

Porsche also fitted the Cayenne Electric with an adaptive rear spoiler, which blends with the rest of the body lines when stowed away. On the move, it rises to reduce drag while going at speed. The front fascia is nothing too new; in fact, it takes many of its cues from the Macan Electric. This brings the new Cayenne electric in line with the rest of Porsche's electric offerings, and allows the German marque to spread its ethos across multiple premium segments.

Porsche's Head of Exterior Design, Thomas Stopka, says that "precisely drawn lines, wide proportions, and high-gloss black side window strips form a design that exudes sportiness in every detail, extroverted and clearly positioned, the new Cayenne Coupe Electric is a sports car through and through."

The new design also benefits the aerodynamics of the electric SUV. Porsche claims it has achieved a drag coefficient of 0.23, whereas the typical SUV comes in at 0.25. The result is a better efficiency boost of up to 11 more miles of range.

In total, the new Cayenne Coupe Electric can go up to about 415 miles (669 kilometers) on a single charge, depending on the model. The Porsche Active Aerodynamics system also includes additional air flaps that improve cooling, and it works in tandem with the aforementioned adaptive rear spoiler.

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Power

At launch, the all-electric SUV lineup will include three variants. In typical Porsche fashion, we will have the Cayenne Coupe Electric, Cayenne S Coupe Electric, and Cayenne Turbo Coupe Electric.

At its base trim, we can expect 402 horsepower with the ability to overboost with Launch Control. With this, the base Cayenne Coupe Electric can achieve up to 435 horsepower, though momentarily. The rest of the lineup follows the same pattern, but with more and more power.

The Cayenne S achieves up to 536 horsepower, and with overboost, it can make up to 656 horsepower. While the top-of-the-line Cayenne Turbo Coupe Electric produces 845 horsepower, with a peak overboost of 1,140 horsepower under maximum effort. For 0-60 miles per hour times, you're looking at about 4.8 seconds for the base, 3.8 seconds for the S, and 2.5 seconds for the Turbo.

With 800-volt technology, Porsche can charge the car almost as fast as it goes. Sure, it's not as fast as other Chinese brands; however, it does get pretty quick, with up to 390 kW of charging via a DC fast charger. Given the right conditions, the model can even go up to 400 kW. The Cayenne Coupe Electric is also capable of charging via AC, with up to 11 kW using the vehicle's standard on-board charger and up to 22 kW for high-power AC connections. The 22 kW AC charger is an extra.

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Additional Headlines

On top of all of that, it's more or less the same story with other performance Porsche SUVs. You get adaptive air suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard for the S and the Turbo variants, but the Porsche Active Ride suspension system is an optional extra, along with rear-axle steering.

Other features include the Porsche Driver Experience with digital and driver-oriented elements, including a fully digital instrument cluster, central Flow Display, and a passenger display and AR heads-up display as an option. It's also good to know that Porsche keeps a number of physical controls in the cabin, even though this is quite an advanced and futuristic model with otherworldly levels of power.

There is also a Coupe-specific option that buyers can tick: the Lightweight Sport package, which can reduce the car's weight by up to 38.8 pounds. Now, that might not seem like a lot, but it also pleases the eye, thanks to a lightweight carbon roof, a carbon insert, and 22-inch wheels with high-performance tires exclusive to the package. Also included are a lightweight Pepita-pattern cloth, the Race-Tex headliner, and open-pore carbon surfaces. Additional options for the lightweight sport package include black leather upholstery and a 2+1 rear seat system.

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This is it, we're in the endgame now. Gunther Werks is signing off on Porsche 911 Speedsters with its final and wildest build yet. Called "Project Endgame," it means more than just the ultimate; it also means the final rendition in the Gunther Werks Speedster program.

For non-Porsche enthusiasts, Gunther Werks is a well-known brand that uses modern engineering and technology to recreate and reimagine classic 911s. When simply owning a Porsche isn't enough, the folks over at Gunther Werks can probably draw up a commission – provided you have what it takes to afford their work.

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The Endgame

Gunther Werks made a name for itself with classic Porsches. Their Speedster builds are particularly popular. However, this is the final rendition of the Speedster program, which means it's far from an ordinary Gunther Werks project – not to say their other projects are lacking.

Exquisite detailing and thoughtful modernization. While classic Porsche purists might scoff, it's hard to invalidate the time and effort that Gunterh Werks puts in. Starting with the exterior, while it is built on the bones of a Porsche 993, it wears modern aerodynamics in the form of wider wheel arches, a big wing, and LEDs all around, tying everything together.

The exterior panels of Project Endgame are made from carbon fiber. Thanks to Gunther Werk's meticulous attention to detail, the brand claims that it's around the weight of a Toyota GR86, about 2,600 lbs (claimed figures, unsure if wet or dry), but just wait until we get to the power under the hood (trunk).

It continues to the interior. Not a single stone was left unturned. Every part is in theme, from the seats down to the steering wheel. Thankfully, we don't see a digital display here because that might have taken things too far.

Power comes from a flat-six, but it's not your typical Gunther Werks heart beating behind the driver. Instead of around 400-plus horsepower, which is about the sweet spot of these "wild" builds, Gunther Werks went all out and put a twin-turbo flat-six from Rothsport Racing that puts out a whopping 840 horsepower and 660 lb-ft of torque that revs out all the way to 7,500 rpm.

Only the rear wheels are driven on this car, and all that power and torque courses through a six-speed manual transmission. Also, the intercoolers are plated in 24 karat gold, and while that may be an exercise in excess, gold actually helps bring intake charge temperatures down. This is the same engine that Gunther Werks used in its color-shifting 911 project, which also happens to make 840 horsepower.

To fit all of this in, a lot of thought was needed. Guntherwerks had to extend the rear quarter panels of the 993 to accommodate the massive twin-turbo power plant. That, and make sure that its massive rear wheels fit.

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Bespoke

While this will be the final project Speedster for Gunther Werks, Project Endgame is also the first car built under GWX, Gunther Werks' bespoke coachbuilding program. Under this, clients will be able to push the limits of personalization.

"Project Endgame is unlike any Speedster we've built before, with every element precision-engineered and designed in absolute collaboration with the client. Even the most granular details were taken into account and refined," said Peter Nam, the boss and founder of Gunther Werks.

Details such as the gold plating, not only on the intercooler, but also on the mirrors, headlights, and gear lever, are just some of the parts that the program can deliver. Because of this, Gunther Werks will continue to push the boundaries of opulence, detail, and bespoke craftsmanship in its future projects thanks to GWX.

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On the surface, Honda’s latest Civic update in Japan doesn’t look like a big deal. There’s a new e:HEV RS grade coming in June 2026, and pre-orders are already open. But the real story isn’t about the RS badge.

The e:HEV RS badge isn’t new if you’ve followed the Civic in other markets. What’s worth paying attention to is what Honda is adding this time: the S+ Shift system, which first showed up in the Prelude hybrid coupe.

If you’re looking for big visual changes, you won’t find them here. The updated Civic looks almost identical to the refreshed US model – no bold redesigns or obvious hints that this is the sportier version. The real changes are under the skin, and you’ll notice them most from the driver’s seat.

Prelude Tech Finds Its Way Into the Civic

Honda’s goal with the Civic e:HEV RS was to make it feel lighter and more precise, without losing the efficiency of the two-motor hybrid setup. The main change is the S+ Shift system, which is meant to make the hybrid more engaging from behind the wheel.

S+ Shift doesn’t turn the hybrid into a manual, but it does try to mimic the feel of a manual. It tweaks the way the car accelerates, changes the engine sound, and adjusts how the system responds, all to give you a rhythm that’s closer to what you’d expect from a sporty manual – even if there’s no clutch pedal.

The Civic e:HEV RS also gets its own suspension tuning for sharper steering and better body control, plus a D-shaped steering wheel to drive home the sporty feel. Honda’s aiming for that sense of connection between driver and car – something you usually hear about in Type R models, only this time with much better fuel economy.

Could This Be Coming to America Next?

For US buyers, the bigger question is whether these updates are coming here next. The current facelifted Civic already looks like the Japanese version, so it’s likely these changes are setting the stage for a North American update instead of a full redesign.

Honda has already said there’s strong global demand for hybrids, and the Civic Hybrid is a big part of that plan. Adding S+ Shift to the US Civic for 2027 would make sense, especially as Honda looks for ways to keep enthusiasts interested while going further into electrification.

The Prelude might be the showcase for Honda’s new hybrid performance, but the Civic is where it could really catch on. If Honda wants to show that hybrids can still be fun, the Civic is probably the best place to prove it.

For now, Japan gets the first taste, but this feels more like a preview of what’s coming next than just a local update.

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Off the back of the model being prematurely leaked before its prime time at the Beijing Motor Show, with 643 horsepower from pure battery power, it's still enough to make an impact. Images of the EV SUV leaked ahead of time, but none showed the raw power (figures) that BYD was packing under the hood (floor).

That's not all: not only will there be 643 horsepower under your right foot, but BYD is also claiming a range of 550 miles (900 kilometers) on a single charge.

Flagship Size, Features, and Power

BYD unveiled the Sealiion 08 at this year's Auto China 2026. It serves as the flagship to the brand's Ocean Series of models, which takes inspiration from the marine ecosphere. Other notable names include the other "lesser" Sealions, the Seagull, and the Seal. The Sealion 08 takes all of that and more, boasting massive dimensions coming in at 16.78 feet long, 6.55 feet wide, and 5.90 feet tall, and all on a wheelbase that's almost ten feet in length — wheel to wheel. For context, that's about the size of a Mercedes-Benz GLS, which is about a third of a foot longer than the BYD.

The interior of the Sealion 08 will come in two flavors, one with five seats and one with six seats. The six-seater will likely have two captain's chairs down the middle and a pair of fold-out seats at the back, while the five-seater configuration will definitely adopt a standard bench for the middle row and no seats at the back. There also appears to be a "nub" on the roof, which suggests this model will include autonomous driving functionality.

Apart from that, the Sealion 08 will also use BYD's latest dual-chamber air suspension technology, paired with the brand's rear-wheel steering system. The all-electric SUV will also be all-wheel drive, and its highlights include a dual-motor setup and acceleration from 0 to 60 miles per hour in around 5 seconds. Equally as fast is the Flash Charging technology BYD installed in this SUV, which can charge the battery back up in five minutes with the right charger.

The battery technology in BYD's new flagship is, without a doubt, top-of-the-line. Predictably, all the brand's latest and greatest are present in this release. Thanks to the Blade 2.0 cell, we get a massive 550-mile range (BYD claims about 900 kilometers on a single charge).

The brand hasn't revealed its battery capacity yet; however, reports indicate it's rated at about 130.5 kWh, similar to the BYD Great Tang. The total combined power of the front and rear motors is 643 horsepower, which is by no means a slouch. It is competitive, however, given that other Chinese brands seem to be fitting their grocery getters with enough power to give sportscars are run for their money.

Over 600 Horsepower, Less than $50,000

This might be one of the most affordable ways (if you can buy it) to get an easy 600 horsepower in your garage. According to sources, the BYD Sealion 08 sells in China for just ¥300,000 CNY, which translates to about $44,000, give or take.

Considering the vehicle's size and the features I assume will be next-level and plush, the Sealion 08 looks like a contender that will give other premium Chinese EV makers a run for their money. We could also perhaps see this vehicle get a Denza version.

Nissan Z Convertible Is Possible, But We Have to Wait

Pandikuthira explained that it won't be as easy as just cutting the roof off the existing Nissan Z: "It takes a lot more work, obviously, because there's things you have to do with stiffness and stuff like that, but we have had a convertible in the two previous generations of Zs, and they sold very well. There was a large part of the mix [that were convertibles]." When pressed on how realistic hopes for a Z drop-top are, the exec said that it all depends on how things go for Nissan in the near-term. "Let's see how successful the company is in the next two years," said Pandikuthira, which is when he previously confirmed we'll get concrete info on the R36 GT-R. "If we meet those targets that we outlined and things are going really well, [a convertible] could be something we play with on a Z."

Related: Nissan Is Cutting 11 Models as It Tries to Turn Itself Around

Nissan's new leadership, headed by CEO Ivan Espinosa, is clearly ambitious and motivated, but let's not forget that before Espinosa arrived, most conversations around Nissan were centered on its mere survival. It's also worth remembering that while sports cars like the Silvia and Z Convertible would increase brand appeal, they would account for a relatively small percentage of overall sales, and that makes them risky from a financial standpoint. In 2025, Nissan sold just 5,487 Zs, and that was a 73.4 percent increase over the previous year. With a total of 926,153 vehicles sold in the U.S. over all model lines last year, that means the Z represented just 0.5 percent of overall sales.

Autoblog's Take

As journalists, it's our job to be pessimistic, and the facts that Nissan still needs to rely on partnerships with the likes of Honda and is struggling in its home market mean there's no guarantee that the enthusiast vehicles like the Z convertible will be approved, even if fans of the brand clamor for them. It's also our job to be realistic and fair, and the fact that the next GT-R won't be electric shows an understanding of the market. Nissan has also satisfied the demands of those begging for a manual Z Nismo, proving the automaker has car junkies making decisions alongside the accountants. Of course, creating a drop-top Z with good structural rigidity is a tougher engineering task than refining a six-speed transmission for increased output, but with Espinosa and Pandikuthira in charge and streamlining everything at the company, we see no reason not to be cautiously optimistic about Nissan's future and its lineup. If other new products are well received in the next couple of years, Nissan will have some breathing room to expand the lineup with something like a Z convertible and/or a Silvia.

Note: The images in this article are AI-generated renders and should not be considered official Nissan concepts.

For a while now, the MG Cyberster has been sitting in a pretty unique spot. It’s one of the few true electric roadsters on sale today, and more importantly, one of the only proper two-seat EV convertibles. Now, it looks like it may finally have a serious rival.

BYD introduced the Formula X at Auto China 2026, a two-door convertible from its newer performance brand, Fang Cheng Bao. Where the MG Cyberster feels closer to a grand tourer, the Formula X is clearly targeting a more exotic, supercar-like experience.

Fang Cheng Bao is a recent addition to BYD’s lineup, launched in 2023 after brands like Dynasty, Ocean, Denza, and more famously, Yangwang. It started out focused on rugged SUVs and lifestyle vehicles, but the Formula X signals a clear move into performance cars.

Built Like a Show Car, Headed for Production

The Formula X borrows a lot from the Fang Cheng Bao Super 9 concept, following the brand’s current design language. It sits low and wide, with proportions that are unmistakably supercar-inspired. The brand calls it a 'golden ratio' silhouette and a 'hunting leopard' stance, which, while dramatic, does match the overall look.

Up front, the “Sharp Leopard Eye” headlights give it a very aggressive face, while the body itself is packed with aero details. There are 19 separate air vents spread across the exterior, along with large diffusers, sculpted side sections, and an active electric rear spoiler. At the back, the “Infinite Ring” taillights keep things futuristic without looking overly complicated.

A full carbon fiber body helps keep weight down and shows that the Formula X is more than just a design study. The doors are a mix between gull-wing and scissor styles, adding some visual drama.

Global Ambitions

Inside, the Formula X is designed as a true driver’s cockpit, and it avoids the trend of replacing everything with oversized touchscreens.

The cabin features a wraparound layout in gray and green, with physical buttons, integrated sports seats, a retractable steering wheel, and a four-point harness. The setup feels more suited to the track than to casual city driving.

BYD plans to start production and sales of the Formula X next year. For now, Fang Cheng Bao is focused on China and a few international markets – probably including Canada – with no signs that the Formula X will be offered in the US. Regulations, pricing, and BYD’s lack of a US dealer network make that unlikely.

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Related: 12.1 Million Recalls Later, America’s Auto Industry Has a Serious Problem

Audi e-tron Braking Recall

The recall affects 18,853 Audi e-tron and e-tron Sportback models. For the e-tron, 2019 to 2024 model years are impacted, while certain Sportbacks between the 2020 and 2024 model years are affected, too. Audi rebranded the e-tron SUV as the Q8 e-tron from the 2024 model year onwards, which means that certain Q8 e-trons will also be affected.

So, what exactly is wrong with these Audis? According to documentation on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website, the fastener connecting the brake pedal and brake booster may have been incorrectly assembled. This can lead to the brake pedal detaching from the brake booster. Perhaps the most concerning statement in the recall report is this: “If a complete separation occurs, vehicle braking would only be possible using the emergency braking function, increasing the risk of a crash.”

Relying on emergency braking alone is a scary thought, which is why this recall should not be taken lightly. Thankfully, as of April 9, 2026, Audi says it’s unaware of any injuries, claims, or crashes involving this brake flaw.

What Owners Should Do Now

Audi intends to mail notification letters to owners of affected e-tron models by June 12, 2026. If you would like more information before then, you can contact Audi’s customer service center on 1-800-253-2834, using the recall number 46P7. Alternatively, you can use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check if your specific vehicle is part of the recall group. This can be done on the NHTSA website.

If your vehicle is affected, a dealer will inspect the pushrod screw joint in the brake booster. If required, it will be torqued to the correct specifications, and Audi will be offering a reimbursement plan for this job.

This recall is an expansion of another recall (24V621) issued for the same problem in August 2024. At that time, only 206 examples of the 2019 e-tron SUV were recalled. Audi has clearly determined that more models than expected have the same problem.

Related: Audi Recalls Over 356,000 Vehicles Across 19 Models

One of the questions we had when Mercedes launched the C-Class was: "Where is the ICE variant?" When BMW launched the new 3 Series, they told us to wait; it's still coming. However, Mercedes-Benz wasn't as clear right off the bat.

German publication, Autobild, sat down with MB head honcho, Ola Källenius, to ask about the C-Class's future, knowing that this is the first time that the nameplate has received the full-electric treatment.

The First All-Electric C-Class

When asked how the model turned out after its development, Källenius said that the C-Class still has to maintain a sporty drive while remaining composed. Thanks to the air suspension, rear-axle steering, and long wheelbase, Källenius mentioned that it almost feels like a class above.

Putting this into more real terms, the C-Class that Källenius is describing is likely the one that will come with all the bells and whistles. It could also hint that Mercedes is going up in price with the C-Class and possibly butt heads with other higher-end nameplates in its lineup.

After that, Källenius goes into the technology that the new C-Class comes with, stating that it is the latest and greatest from the German automaker, taking advantage of AI, with a sea of pixels taking center stage on the dashboard.

Autobild counters by asking whether Mercedes-Benz addressed customer complaints about the infotainment systems of prior models. Källenius assured that his team placed emphasis on ease of use and put everything that is needed at the front of the system. That means less digging – or so we hope.

Price, Other Variants, and the Answer

When asked about the price of the top-of-the-line C-Class 400, which is set to retail at €70,000, Källenius said there will also be more affordable entry-level models to be unveiled at the end of the year. Referring to the all-electric C-Class variants, Källenius stated that entry-level versions will use cost-effective LFP technology, otherwise known as Lithium iron phosphate.

Will we see another AMG C-Class? Källenius said that there will be something, but he refused to comment further. I do believe there is room for AMG to play in electric vehicles, but in the following question we finally get our answer.

Yes, according to Källenius, we will continue to see combustion engines in the hoods of C-Classes, but there is a catch. Later this year, the combustion engine variant will be released and be Euro 7 compliant. There will also be a plug-in hybrid variant with a supposed all-electric range of 62 miles (100 kilometers).

In terms of filling out a lineup, we're happy to see ICE C-Classes in the future of Mercedes-Benz, even happier that AMG is going to play around with the model, and ecstatic that Källenius has even confirmed a plug-in hybrid wagon variant for the C-Class. He also stated that a pure-electric C-Class wagon isn't on the books for now.

Not Yet All Electric For Now

Mercedes-Benz is doing something like what BMW is doing. Putting an electric emphasis on one of its most popular models seems to be the popular move right now. Love it or hate it, it appears that Mercedes isn't going to leave the C-Class as an electric-only model for long.

Källenius stated that we have a lot to look forward to from the new C-Class, and hopefully, we will get more details as the year progresses, perhaps even a sneak peek at what AMG's working on.

The Nissan Rogue, known as the X-Trail in other markets, is about to enter a new generation for 2027. This isn’t just another update – it’s shaping up to be one of Nissan’s most significant launches in recent memory. With e-Power technology now part of the package, the next Rogue is clearly aimed at heavyweights like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid.

At the official reveal, Nissan gave us the usual exterior shots and broad product details, but the interior was noticeably absent. When that happens, it’s often a sign that either the company wants to save the cabin for a separate debut or it just wasn’t quite ready to show off yet.

Fortunately, leaked photos from the Middle East have surfaced, giving us an early look inside the 2027 Rogue – well before Nissan planned to let us in.

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New Cabin Layout, Familiar Nissan Ideas

The first thing that stands out is the center console. Nissan went with a switch-type shifter, much like what you’ll find in the Leaf. The bridge-style layout with pass-through storage underneath carries over from the current Rogue, so it’s a familiar setup for anyone upgrading from the outgoing model.

For the HVAC controls, Nissan went for physical buttons and satin-silver toggle switches, which is a relief for anyone who’s not a fan of touch-sensitive panels. The dashboard appears to feature dual 12.3-inch displays – one for the instrument cluster and another for infotainment. Higher trims will likely get a larger 14.3-inch screen.

The steering wheel sticks to Nissan’s latest design language, with the same two-spoke layout you’ll also see in the new Leaf. There are clear controls for toggling between the LCD meter and navigation, plus buttons for ProPILOT features. The real giveaway is the driver monitoring system mounted at the top center of the wheel, which hints that ProPILOT 2.0 with hands-off capability is coming – at least for the higher trims.

What To Expect From The 2027 Rogue

The 2027 Rogue has to deliver more than just a fresh look. With the Toyota RAV4 already moving forward with a full-hybrid lineup, buyers are paying close attention to how Nissan handles electrified performance, interior quality, and pricing.

Based on the leaked photo, Nissan appears to be prioritizing practicality and a premium feel over futuristic gimmicks. That could turn out to be the right call. If the hybrid system delivers and the price stays in check, the next Rogue might just outshine the model it’s replacing.

For now, this leaked image is probably the best look we’ll get until Nissan decides to pull the covers off the full cabin – hopefully sooner rather than later.

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The Nissan Terrano nameplate has long been associated with rugged, body-on-frame SUVs built for rough roads and proper off-road use. Depending on the market (it’s called the Pathfinder in America), it was a familiar badge attached to vehicles that prioritized toughness over trends. Over time, the name quietly disappeared, replaced by newer crossovers and SUVs that leaned more toward urban comfort.

Now the Terrano is back. Nissan showed off the new Terrano PHEV Concept at Auto China 2026, giving the old name a modern update. Yes, it’s a plug-in hybrid, and yes, it’s still labeled a concept. However, Nissan CEO Ivan Espinosa says the production Terrano PHEV will be revealed within a year. So this isn’t just a design exercise – it’s an early look at what buyers will actually get.

Built Like It Means It

Nissan says the Terrano PHEV is built for both weekday commutes and weekend escapes. It’s meant to handle city traffic and dirt trails without forcing buyers to pick one or the other.

The Terrano PHEV looks the part. It’s boxy, upright, and wears thick cladding, chunky tires, and a full-size spare on the tailgate. It’s clearly aimed at the new wave of adventure-style SUVs in China that blend off-road looks with electrified tech.

A few touches still say ‘concept car’ – like the cube lights and roof lamps – but most of the design looks ready for production. Nissan isn’t hiding the direction here.

Nissan hasn’t shared full specs yet, but the Terrano will likely borrow a lot from the Frontier Pro PHEV. Expect a dual-motor plug-in hybrid setup with about 408 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque.

Details are still thin, but as a plug-in hybrid, it should manage about 84 miles of electric-only range on the CLTC cycle. That’s enough for most daily drives without firing up the engine.

It should also get Nissan’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, which shuffles torque front to back as needed. A five-link rear suspension and an electromechanical rear diff lock are expected too, so it’s not just about looking tough – it should actually back it up off-road.

Global Plans, But Probably Not America

Nissan plans to launch the Terrano PHEV in select global markets, just like it did with the N7, Frontier Pro PHEV, and NX8. Latin America, ASEAN, the Middle East, and a few other regions are on the list.

The US won’t get this Terrano. Instead, Nissan has a different plan for North America: the new Xterra, which will use its own V6 hybrid system designed just for the US, not this China-developed PHEV setup.

So while the Terrano goes global, the US will have its own chapter in Nissan’s off-road return.

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Independently, both Mercedes and Samsung rank among the leading R&D investors globally. The automaker aims to secure a technical edge against rivals by also entering an R&D alliance to collaborate on the development of next-generation battery technology.

This maneuver is a direct response to a brutal financial reality. Mercedes-Benz recently reported a staggering 57 percent collapse in operating profit for the 2025 fiscal year. Battered by $1.2 billion in tariff costs and a 21 percent sales contraction in China, the automaker is executing a sweeping "Next Level Performance" cost-cutting strategy. The explicit goal is to reduce material expenditures by 8 percent by 2027. Tapping Samsung SDI is a calculated mechanism to slash supply chain logistics and bypass margin-crushing bottlenecks.

The Brass Tacks

The urgency of this shift crystallized on April 20, 2026, when Samsung SDI and Mercedes-Benz officially signed their first-ever EV battery supply partnership in Seoul. The agreement guarantees a steady pipeline of high-energy, high-nickel prismatic cells specifically engineered for the German automaker’s upcoming compact and mid-size electric SUVs and coupes.

While entry-level competitors rush toward cheaper LFP (lithium iron phosphate) alternatives, Mercedes is doubling down on high-nickel chemistry to maximize energy density and driving range. The partnership, as mentioned earlier, also expands beyond procurement, establishing a joint development framework for next-generation battery architectures to reinforce Mercedes-Benz’s position in the premium EV sector.

Do American EV Buyers Benefit?

For the American motorist, the implications of this multi-billion-dollar supply shift are sobering. The high-nickel NCM chemistry promises tangible upgrades in thermal management and raw performance, but it will not democratize luxury. Despite the company’s internal directive to trim material costs, battery packs still represent nearly 40 percent of an electric vehicle's total production value. Since the introduction of EVs, this economic fact remains unchanged.

The partnership between Stuttgart and Seoul marks the end of experimental electrification and the beginning of raw industrial survival. For the everyday buyer, the lesson is one of extreme patience. Supplier diversification is a corporate shield designed to protect profit margins, not a mechanism to lower your monthly car payment. Mercedes is arming itself with premium tech to maintain its luxury status. If you are waiting for a budget-friendly electric Mercedes-Benz, look elsewhere. Hold onto your cash, give the volatile market time to stabilize, and let the early adopters subsidize the expensive research and development necessary for the next decade of luxury transport.

ECD Automotive is a restoration company that specializes in British cars. If you look through the company's website, you'll see that they've built up a reputation for working on the classic Land Rover Defender. Over the years, it has also expanded to other models, such as the Jaguar E-type, Ford Mustang, and even the Porsche 993.

That said, ECD wants to show its eagerness to evolve by building new models – this time from America: the Chevy Blazer K5.

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American Icon

The K5 generation of the Chevrolet Blazer is an American icon, used over multiple decades by numerous Americans for different purposes. It has etched itself in the very fabric of the history of American cars. ECD has just created its own version, paying tribute to the K5 Blazer, while adding the touches that make it a true ECD project.

Originally built as a showcase piece, ECD points out that it was always going to be something they'd offer to the public as well. As such, orders for K5 commissions are now open. ECD applies a lot of the hard work, precision craftsmanship, and engineering it uses on its other projects to the K5. From the striking, well-executed paint job to the finer interior designs and details, the ECD K5 is truly unique.

ECDs take on the K5 Blazer to create a truly lifestyle-oriented car, honoring the Blazer's open-air motoring platform, wide stance, and backroad driving capabilities. This K5 build was engineered to respect those philosophies while also incorporating a modern approach, with comfort, reliability, and everyday driveability.

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Bespoke Touch

Since this is a bespoke restomod, ECD mixed in one-of-a-kind touches. The paint job is a period-correct two-tone of Chevy Dark Olive Poly and Frost White with a classic billboard stripe. While the interior's been adorned with buffalo-vinyl seating, it's paired with Pepita green houndstooth inlays. The climate control, audio system, and digital gauges have all been given a modern touch.

Under the hood is a modern 6.0-liter V8, based on the client's request for a smoother driving experience. Prices for an ECD K5 build start at $245,000.

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EV Slowdown Hits Hard

Honda's decision to cancel key EV programs has triggered massive write-downs, says TV Tokyo BIZ Digest. Honda had once committed to a fully electrified future by 2040, but slowing EV demand has forced a rethink. EV sales in the US declined by 41% in January 2026, year-on-year, and the expected surge in adoption has not materialised at the pace many automakers had anticipated. The decline in demand, combined with Honda's retreat from America's EV space, has resulted in the recent cancellation of the project between Honda and Sony, called the Afeela 1 electric sedan.

Industry-Wide Reality Check

Honda is not alone. Reuters reports that automakers have collectively written off $55 billion due to EV-related projects, with Stellantis responsible for $26.3 billion and General Motors$8.5 billion. Even brands that once pushed aggressive electrification timelines are now easing off. While plans to introduce an affordable EV remain on the table for Ford, it and others like Kia, Nissan, and Porsche have all scaled back or delayed EV plans after overestimating EV demand. Instead, many are shifting their focus to hybrids, PHEVs, and EREVs.

What Comes Next for Honda

Honda has faced a turbulent few months, from the controversial return of the Prelude to talks of collaborating with Nissan on a North America-focused project. After cancelling the three US-bound EVs: the Honda 0 Saloon, Honda 0 SUV, and the Acura RSX, it seems the US won't be getting any new Honda models until 2027. That said, its ICE-powered lineup still holds strong appeal, with models like the Civic continuing to sell strongly. Honda’s next move will focus on balancing electrification with ICE power, while still working toward its long-term goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.

Volkswagen AG is doubling down on austerity. CEO Oliver Blume, in an interview with Manager Magazine, confirmed the group will cut another one million units of annual production capacity, bringing its global ceiling down from a once-ambitious 12 million cars to roughly 9 million. The move reflects a stark mismatch between output potential and real-world demand, with the company struggling to consistently exceed 10 million in annual sales since 2020.

The capacity cuts inevitably translate to workforce pressure. While Blume continues to position plant closures as a last resort, the reality is that fewer cars built means fewer hands needed. Volkswagen has already trimmed capacity in China and is now targeting Europe for further reductions, with brands like Audi sharing the burden. Against a backdrop of rising tariffs, geopolitical instability, and weakening demand, the company’s manufacturing footprint is being aggressively reshaped.

Cost Cuts Go Full Throttle

Back in early 2026, Volkswagen outlined a sweeping cost-reduction strategy aimed at cutting 20% of its total expenses within a few years. That plan is now being fast-tracked as the company grapples with declining margins, reportedly just 2.8%, and underperforming core segments. Traditional strongholds like sedans and hatchbacks are no longer delivering the volume they once did, forcing a fundamental rethink of product and production strategy.

Blume has been candid about the structural challenges. “Tariffs in the USA, immense competitive pressure in China, the shrinking European market, and now the war in the Middle East,” he said. “These developments are not simply passing. This is the new normal.” He added that “overcapacities are not sustainable for our company long term,” emphasizing that past volume expectations are now “unrealistic” in today’s fragmented and protectionist global market.

Downsizing to Survive

The Volkswagen Group is continually trying to keep itself afloat. The aggressive capacity cuts, shrinking model lineup, and relentless cost targets all point to a company bracing for a prolonged period of stagnation rather than growth. With EV plants underutilized and global expansion plans cooling, Volkswagen is effectively downsizing to survive rather than scaling to compete.

The risk is that this retrenchment comes at the expense of future innovation. With margins thin and billions needed for electrification and software development, Volkswagen may find itself forced to delay or dilute next-generation vehicles. In an industry rapidly pivoting toward EVs and digital ecosystems, falling behind now could have long-term consequences that no amount of cost-cutting can easily fix.

For years, modern car theft has been tied to relay attacks, signal amplification, and electronic exploits targeting brands like BMW, Land Rover, and Mercedes-Benz. All that high-tech, movie-style stuff you’d expect. This case, reported by WKMG News6 in Orlando, shows a far simpler method. Authorities say five suspects managed to steal 33 high-end vehicles worth over $2 million simply by opening unlocked cars and finding the keys inside.

The investigation, which ran for nearly 18 months, outlines a method that relied on access rather than technology. The group allegedly entered gated communities by following residents through security gates, then selected targets such as Lamborghini and Ferrari models. Surveillance footage reportedly shows suspects testing door handles before driving off in seconds. In several cases, the cars were taken while owners were nearby, highlighting how little resistance the thieves encountered.

Easy Peasy, Lemon Squeezy

Even with broader data suggesting theft rates are easing, this operation stands out due to scale and method. Beyond the vehicles themselves, investigators say the group exploited items left inside the cars. Credit cards and cash were used to purchase electronics and gift cards, with losses estimated at around $1 million in additional fraud.

The group’s activities were highly organized. A Tesla Model 3 was allegedly used to scout neighborhoods and move suspects between locations. Once stolen, vehicles had their GPS systems removed and were parked temporarily before being transported out of state using tow trucks. In one incident, a stolen BMW led to a high-speed chase that ended in a severe crash, yet authorities say activity continued afterward. The case underlines that advanced security systems offer limited protection when basic precautions are ignored.

The Lowdown

Keyless entry systems remain a known vulnerability, particularly for high-end vehicles. Digital attacks continue to be a concern across the industry. This case shows that simple oversight can be just as effective for criminals. An unlocked car with the key inside removes the need for any technical skill.

Whether it is a Rolls-Royce or an everyday vehicle, owners need to rely on basic habits. Lock the car, take the key, and remain aware of your surroundings, even in gated communities. The losses in this case show how quickly small lapses can escalate into major theft.

Related: 2027 BMW i3 Vs. 2027 Mercedes C-Class: Side-by-Side Gallery

Rear-Seat Comfort From a Class Above

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The standard i3 appears to be more compact than the G20 3 Series, especially with its abbreviated overhangs. With the long-wheelbase i3, the rear door has been stretched, as has the rear-quarter glass above it. This appears to balance the proportions of the sedan a little better. BMW says the i3 and iX3 wheelbases have been stretched to over three meters (around 118 inches); the standard models have wheelbases measuring 114 inches. 

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While no interior images of the long-wheelbase i3 were shared, the iX3’s cabin looks exceptionally spacious and plush. The model seen here even has headrest cushions, something we’re only used to seeing in a 7 Series. Being an electric model, occupants also benefit from a flat floor, so the center rear-seat passenger should be comfortable, too.

Both vehicles also come with a new, semi-concealed door handle that meets new national safety standards. China recently banned flush-style door handles due to the fact that they can prevent escaping a car after a crash. These new BMW EVs have handles with an electric and mechanical design.

“Through these new models exclusively for China, we are combining BMW’s globally leading technology platform with localized solutions developed around the needs and preferences of Chinese customers to create a truly superior luxury experience,” said BMW Group Chairman, Oliver Zipse.

America’s i3 and iX3 Are on the Way

In the U.S., the i3 and iX3 will stick with the shorter wheelbase and completely flush door handles. In most other respects, they are similar to the China-spec models.

The iX3 will arrive first, starting in summer 2026. It produces 463 horsepower, has up to 400 miles of range, and will start at around $60,000 for the first 50 xDrive dual-motor variant. However, additional single- and dual-motor models will join the lineup in 2027.

The i3 sedan will only arrive in U.S. showrooms in 2027. Also available in 50 xDrive guise initially, it matches the iX3’s 463 hp and 400-kW DC fast-charging capability. However, the i3 has a better range of up to 440 miles. The sedan body style should be lighter, improving performance and efficiency.

Both vehicles have BMW’s new Panoramic iDrive system with a center touchscreen and a new driver’s display at the base of the windshield. Pricing for the i3 isn’t known, but it will likely be slightly cheaper than an equivalent iX3.

In just the first quarter of 2026 alone, a historic 12.1 million vehicles have been recalled across the United States. This staggering volume is overwhelming dealership service departments and forcing millions of motorists to drive compromised vehicles. The crisis is heavily skewed by major domestic manufacturers, heavily impacting the consumer market with critical flaws in their best-selling units.

Record High Recalls

This failure is not a sudden development. The groundwork for this crisis was laid as automakers aggressively pushed complex software architectures and scaled production to meet demand. The current wave of defects follows years of escalating hardware and software integration issues across the industry. For example, a software bug in Ford's integrated trailer module causes a total loss of trailer brake and turn signal functionality, prompting a staggering recall covering over 4.3 million trucks and SUVs.

The situation escalated dramatically following a barrage of high-profile federal directives. The NHTSA and Ford announced a massive recall affecting roughly 1.4 million F-150 pickups built between 2014 and 2017. The issue is a transmission glitch that causes unintended, sudden downshifts, which is a massive safety liability at highway speeds.

Simultaneously, 235,000 Kia and Genesis vehicles were recalled over a critical fuel leak issue. This rapid succession of federal actions across major brands has thrust the industry’s manufacturing flaws into the national spotlight, exposing vulnerabilities in modern vehicle assembly.

The (Failing) Strategy

This crisis is not a sudden manufacturing anomaly; it is the direct consequence of a deliberate, industry-wide cost-cutting movement to maximize profits and keep the boards of directors happy. Over the last decade, automakers prioritized scaling complex software architectures rather than traditional rigorous physical stress-testing to maximize profit margins. By consolidating critical vehicle functions—such as braking, steering, and engine management—into centralized, digitally controlled modules, manufacturers significantly reduced physical assembly costs and material expenditures, while also ensuring that the customers have no choice but to bring the cars back to the manufacturer for all service and repair work.

This strategy has effectively replaced mechanical durability with digital fragility. It created a framework of planned obsolescence, where the lifecycle of a vehicle is no longer dictated by the endurance of its engine block, but by the stability of its proprietary code.

The volume of recalls marks the highest quarterly total in recent years, driven not by disparate mechanical wear but by highly concentrated, massive electronic campaigns. Ford alone accounted for 7.6 million units. A single electrical system failure—which caused a total loss of trailer brake functionality—forced the recall of over 4.3 million Ford trucks and SUVs simultaneously. The data definitively illustrates that isolated mechanical flaws have been entirely eclipsed by catastrophic software architecture failures across mass-market lineups.

This digital vulnerability accelerates the obsolescence of modern vehicles and severely undermines the consumer's right to repair. Automakers actively encrypt their software architectures, locking out independent mechanics and third-party repair shops. When a centralized module fails, independent garages cannot access the proprietary code necessary to reset or patch the system. This effectively bricks otherwise mechanically sound vehicles, forcing owners into backlogged dealership service bays and rendering the traditional, affordable repair market obsolete.

So, What Do We Buy?

It’s difficult to pick a manufacturer that’s doing a good job with quality these days. Even OEMs like Hyundai (Genesis & Kia), Toyota/Lexus, and Honda are struggling to avoid issues, but certainly are doing better than most other manufacturers in terms of quality control. If I could step out of my newsroom shoes and give you advice as objectively as possible, I would say buy something made before 2016, but if you absolutely must buy something new, base model variants with minimal electronics are the way to go.

We all know that sports cars are the very definition of grown-up toys. Our inner children are tickled and delighted by the prospect of owning and driving some of the world's best-performing cars.

Porsche has always leaned into this mindset by offering very unique special editions that cater to your inner child. Its latest collaboration will see it work with Disney and take on the theme of real toys.

911 Toy Story Edition

Porsche announced a partnership with Disney for the upcoming release of Toy Story 5 on June 19, 2026. This partnership will result in three special-edition Porsche 911s; each car will be themed after the movie's main characters, Buzz Lightyear, Woody, and Jessie.

Porsche says each car will draw inspiration from the movie's plot, in which the toys navigate an increasingly digital world. The three bespoke models will mirror this by "blending timeless storytelling with modern innovation," and all of the cars will capture the very essence and personality of the characters they're based on.

Bob Pauley, Pixar Production Designer, said that his time with the Porsche Sonderwunsch team was spent interpreting each character through the materials, color, and form of the special-edition 911s. He further explains that they made sure to stay true to the character without being literal.

A special teaser video was also released (see above) as part of the collaboration's marketing, tying into the notion that toys can be handed over to the next generation, just as Porsche says is possible with its cars.

All three 911s will be sold together, with the proceeds going to three different charitable causes that help children in need.

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Porsche x Disney

This isn't the first time Porsche and Disney have come together to bring a movie character to life. Fittingly, in 2022, they worked together to create a real-life road-going version of the beloved Cars movie character, Sally. In the movie, we know Sally takes the form of a Carrera 911, and it made perfect sense for an actual Sally Carrera to exist.

The 2022 Sally Carrera project featured numerous easter eggs from the movie and included a custom color called "Sallybluemettalic" that captured the character's hue. It was sold in an auction for $3.6 Million, setting a record price for a new Porsche sold at auction. The proceeds of the sale went to Girls Inc. and USA for UNHCR to support young women and refugees from the war in Ukraine.

"If you look at the brand identity of those three, the O'Reilly Series struggles a little bit just from the car perspective and you see it a lot because we refer to it often as whoever the entitlement sponsor is,” said Probst, who is also NASCAR’s chief racing development officer.

The executive added that bringing EVs into the second-tier division would be part of a long-term vision for the sport’s evolution into the 2030s, which may also include experimenting with a hydrogen combustion engine in the next five years.

Remember the EV Prototype NASCAR Built in 2024? Now It Wants to Race It

Now, you may be aware that NASCAR’s R&D unit built its first electric vehicle prototype in 2024, a crossover utility EV developed with help from ABB. Chevrolet and Ford have designed skins for the prototype since then, but the public’s reactions were mixed.

Probst said NASCAR is evaluating the potential of one day using that EV in the O’Reilly Auto Parts series (formerly known as the Xfinity Series).

“Long term, you see it as, we do have that CUV body that we developed for our electric vehicle. I’m not sitting here saying today we’re breaking news it’s going to CUV, but these are the things that are on the roadmap to consider, so you’d have a Truck, a CUV and a Cup, that’s three very different bodies that are relevant for our OEMs today to create that brand identity for each series,” Probst said.

While the executive suggested the shift toward EVs would happen in the long term, his comments did not go down well with NASCAR’s hardcore fans. For them, NASCAR is all about V8 internal combustion engines, so the talk of stock car racing potentially going electric—even in a second-tier series—is a big no-go.

Fans Are Fuming Over the Prospect of NASCAR Electric CUV Racing

Nothing shows how out of touch @NASCAR leadership is with the fans of their sport more than this. Best racing in all of the top 3 divisions and they want to change it. Typical.

— Aaron Murphy (@adm_217) April 21, 2026

Probst received significant backlash for his comments, with fans voicing strong opposition to the idea of introducing crossover EVs into the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, which is currently dominated by V8 coupes and sedans. Many fans see the series as the sport’s most competitive and entertaining division.

Adam Stern’s posts on X.com got flooded with comments from NASCAR fans who seriously disagree with the Probst’s EV plans. “Let’s not ruin the O’Reilly cars and add electric vehicles,” one fan wrote, while another one said this “would be disastrous for NASCAR.”

“Ruin the best series you have. Good idea,” another fan said. "Nothing shows how out of touch NASCAR leadership is with the fans of their sport more than this. Best racing in all of the top 3 divisions and they want to change it. Typical," said another one. And most of the 400+ comments are in the same vein, if less courteous.

Dale Earnhardt Jr Blasts NASCAR's EV Racing Plans

But it’s not just fans who oppose the idea. Dale Earnhardt Jr, one of the legends of the sport, has warned NASCAR against electrification.

“I would say that the O’Reilly Series has got a lot of good things going right now,” Earnhardt Jr said on the Dale Jr Download podcast as reported by Speedcafe. “Viewership is continuously on the rise and our cars we can all kind of relate to those cars when we look at them when we see them on the race track. Making a switch to anything unlike what we have would be a massive mistake and it would probably be the end of the rise.”

Earnhardt Jr, who runs a multi-car team in the O’Reilly Series under the JR Motorsports banner, added that he would not be interested in competing anymore if NASCAR made the switch.

“I’m certainly not interested in that car or that body or any of that,” he said. “Quit fiddling with everything and feeling like everything needs to be improved, fixed, changed. The series is doing really good. I don’t like the thought of the series changing vehicles and wouldn’t want to be… I don’t know how to say it, I’m just wouldn’t be interested in that.”

For years, the world's richest man, Elon Musk, has been vocal about rejecting what he once called “shady” tax loopholes. Yet a recent Reuters investigation suggests that Tesla leveraged one of the oldest tricks in the multinational playbook: profit shifting. By routing roughly $18 billion in profits through subsidiaries in the Netherlands and Singapore, the automaker likely avoided at least $400 million in U.S. taxes.

The mechanism is familiar to tax specialists. Tesla appears to have assigned intellectual property rights, think patents and proprietary tech, to offshore entities, allowing profits tied to those assets to be booked in low-tax jurisdictions. The Dutch unit, structured as a non-resident partnership with no employees, acted as a conduit, funneling earnings to a Singapore holding company that also paid no tax on the income. It’s all legal, and hardly unique, but it directly contrasts Musk’s public stance on tax avoidance.

Tariffs Push Production Home, No One Said Anything About Profits

While rising tariffs and geopolitical pressure have nudged automakers to localize manufacturing, often at higher cost, Tesla’s strategy shows you don’t necessarily need to bring profits along for the ride. Even as much of its revenue base remained U.S.-centric, filings reveal that a disproportionate share of profits was recognized abroad. That imbalance is what enabled the tax savings in the first place.

The numbers are striking. Tesla has historically reported far larger tax obligations overseas than in the United States, despite the latter accounting for roughly half its sales. Since 2003, foreign tax liabilities have totaled $6.4 billion, dwarfing its lone reported U.S. tax estimate of $48 million in 2023. The implication is clear: where profits are booked matters far more than where cars are sold, and Tesla optimized accordingly.

The Savings Are Real—But So Is the Pressure Building Around Tesla

From a balance-sheet perspective, shaving $400 million off a tax bill is a win. But the broader context is shifting. Tesla’s relationship with policymakers has grown more complicated, and scrutiny around corporate tax practices is only intensifying. Even if the offshore structure has already been scaled back, as hinted by a sharp increase in U.S.-reported profits in 2025, the reputational calculus is harder to unwind.

There’s also a strategic undertone here. As margins tighten and political headwinds mount, Tesla will need to keep finding efficiencies wherever it can. Whether that means operational streamlining, pricing adjustments, or more aggressive financial engineering is an open question. What’s clear is that the era of easy wins, whether from subsidies, tax credits, or regulatory arbitrage, is fading. The next phase will demand a different kind of discipline, one that extends beyond clever accounting.

Despite damages caused by a tornado to the plant in Normal, Illinois earlier in the week, the company has started production of R2 SUVs destined for customers on April 22, noting that deliveries are set to follow later this spring.

After building test prototypes and Manufacturing Validation Builds (MVBs), the factory has shifted to building R2 vehicles for clients. These first vehicles will undergo their final quality and validation checks internally before being shipped to Rivian service centers across the United States.

A Historic Moment for Rivian That Can Shape Its Future

“We are really excited to be producing R2 for our customers. The vehicle is incredible – it’s the result of all the hard work and dedication of the Rivian team. I can’t wait for customers to experience R2!” - @RJScaringe

Read more: https://t.co/R5K09Eufut pic.twitter.com/jfb0IY4xfK

— Rivian (@Rivian) April 22, 2026

“We are really excited to be producing R2 for our customers,” said Rivian Founder and CEO, RJ Scaringe. “The vehicle is incredible — it’s the result of all the hard work and dedication of the Rivian team. I can’t wait for customers to experience R2!”

Reaching this important milestone means that the R2 manufacturing process has been verified and the plant can churn out customer vehicles. It has quite a big backlog, as Rivian reportedly received well over 200,000 reservations. Now, that doesn’t mean Rivian has got 200,000 orders in the bag; a reservation is made with a $100 refundable deposit, so it’s pretty easy for a customer to pull out.

The company will have a more accurate picture of R2 demand starting in June, when customers will be invited to configure their R2 vehicles, according to Rivian CFO Claire McDonough’s comments to Reuters. The configurator will allow reservation holders to finalize their builds and commit to a firm order. Rivian says it is on track to start deliveries of R2 vehicles to customers later this spring, which likely means sometime in May.

The production start of the R2 is a make or break moment for the company as a successful rollout of the R2, which competes with the Tesla Model Y among many other midsize EVs, can turn the brand from a maker of high-end lifestyle SUVs and pickups into a serious EV player.

McDonough said that once R2 production reaches a higher run rate in 2027, it will cost the company less than half as much to build an R2 as the R1S. The savings will obviously help put Rivian on a firmer path to profit. The EV maker expects to deliver 22,000-23,000 R2s this year if demand remains steady and the production ramp goes as planned.

Loaded Rivian R2 Performance Launch Edition Is the First Trim to Reach Customers

Deliveries will start with the Rivian R2 Performance Launch Edition, a range-topping trim priced at $57,990 that features a dual-motor AWD powertrain rated at 656 horsepower and 609 pound-feet of torque. It uses a 87.9-kWh battery that enables an EPA-estimated 330-mile range.

This launch model is capable of accelerating from zero to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds and has a top speed limited to 110 mph.

The R2 Performance Launch Edition is equipped as standard with a semi-active suspension, dynamic lighting, and rear drop glass, among other things. Launch Edition customers also get goodies like an exclusive exterior paint, a unique key fob, and a lifetime subscription to the Autonomy+ package for hands-free driving capabilities.

Following the Launch Edition model, Rivian plans to start production of the $53,990 Premium trim before the end of the year, with the R2 Standard to follow in the first half of 2027 with a starting price of $48,490. The promised $45,000 R2 base model will be the last to arrive, sometime in late 2027.

Horse Powertrain is making a bold play just as the industry starts hedging its EV bets, offering a pathway to convert electric platforms into hybrids. The concept centers on modularity, allowing automakers to integrate combustion engines into existing EV architectures without a ground-up redesign. It’s a strategy that could save billions in development costs while buying time as markets stabilize.

Related: New Powertrain Turns EV Platforms Into Hybrids Without Redesign

That paradigm underpins the debut of the Horse W30, the company’s first V6, and a clear signal of where it sees demand heading. This 3.0-liter unit is designed from the outset for hybrid applications, with flexible transverse and longitudinal mounting. It’s engineered to slot into a wide range of vehicles with minimal compromise, giving manufacturers a plug-and-play solution if they need to pivot quickly away from full electrification.

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Big Power, Smarter Efficiency

Rather than chasing gains through larger batteries or more powerful motors, Horse is focusing on system-level efficiency. Advances in material science, including the use of higher-grade steels, are improving motor efficiency and reducing energy loss. The goal is to extract more performance from less hardware, keeping weight and cost in check.

The W30 delivers on that brief. Weighing just 353 lbs, a full 22 lbs lighter than any comparable V6, it produces up to 536 hp and 516 lb ft of torque, revving to 8,000 rpm. Integrated exhaust manifolds and turbochargers mounted directly to the cylinder heads improve thermal management and throttle response. Paired with the 4LDHT hybrid transmission, the setup uses a P1 motor for charging and crank support, and a P3 motor for propulsion, balancing output and efficiency without inflating battery capacity.

The Age of Hybrids

The industry is in recalibration mode. EV adoption is still growing, but not at the pace many expected, and infrastructure remains uneven across key markets. That’s forcing automakers to rethink timelines, and hybrids are emerging as the most viable bridge between regulation, cost, and consumer demand.

I'm excited for this engine, particularly that 8,000 RPM redline. From a buyer’s standpoint, the appeal hasn’t changed. Hybrids offer a strong range, quick refueling, and increasingly impressive efficiency without requiring lifestyle changes. Systems like the W30 raise the ceiling further, adding serious performance into the mix. With production slated for 2028, it’s a signal that hybrids are gearing up for a sustained new golden age.

Lamborghini Revuelto SV Gets Angrier Bodywork

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At the front, the more extreme Revuelto variant dispenses with the open intakes below the headlights of the regular supercar, adding angular bodywork that calls to mind the Huracán STO and makes the car appear even more aggressive than usual. These slashes are connected to a deep chin spoiler that will increase downforce on the front axle, but the hood seems unchanged, perhaps indicating that this won't wear an SV badge; Lamborghini likes to change things up in the naming department. Add downforce at the front, and you need more at the back. The Revuelto SV duly obliges with a large wing, and it's unclear if this is attached to the same adaptive rear spoiler that the exiting Revuelto has or if it will be a permanently static fixture. Either way, the wing has holes through its outer elements to balance downforce and drag, and there are additional vents above the taillights, which sandwich a new exhaust system with four round tips in a hexagonal finisher.

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Elsewhere, the side skirts and rear diffuser appear unchanged, but Lamborghini may introduce additional bodywork later. The wheels also appear to be nothing special, but unlike those of the regular Revuelto, which are wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza Sport rubber, these don Bridgestone Potenza Race R rubber that is barely legal. The Aventador SVJ was a Nürburgring Nordschleife production car lap recordholder in 2018, setting a time of 6:44.97, and perhaps Sant'Agata wants the title back. To do so, it'll need to beat the Mercedes-AMG ONE, which set a time of 6:29.090. Whether Lambo shoots for the record or not, we expect revised suspension, lightweight wheels, and a relatively stripped interior.

Revuelto SV Is One of Several New Lambos Coming This Year

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Last month, Lamborghini announced that it would reveal several new cars in 2026, and while the automaker was not specific about what to expect, it said that these new arrivals would appear at major car shows like the Goodwood Festival of Speed and Monterey Car Week, taking place in July and August, respectively. Rumors suggest that, along with this Revuelto SV, an open-top Fenomeno may be among the reveals scheduled for this year. We've also captured spy shots of a drop-top Temerario, and there have been unconfirmed reports of Revuelto S and Revuelto Roadster variants, too. The Urus SUV is also expected to gain a new Performante variant, so Lamborghini has lots in store for enthusiasts. And with this hardcore Revuelto wearing an attention-grabbing camouflage wrap, it's clear that the Italian automaker will be showing off at least some of what's it's been cooking soon.

Related: This Is Your First Look at the Lamborghini Temerario Spyder