Track Time with the Worlds Rarest & Most Exclusive First-Gen Camaro Z28s // Ep. 30
By Mecum Auctions
BMW M2 CS Racing
By info@topspeed.com (Ciprian Florea)
The 2021 BMW M2 CS Racing is a motorsport version of the company's M2 CS road-going coupe. A replacement for the BMW M240i Racing, the 2021 M2 CS Racing, comes with significant upgrades for track use and slots under the BMW M4 GT4 as the firm's entry-level race car. What makes the 2021 M2 CS Racing an authentic race car? Where can you race this vehicle? Find out in the review below.
Creator of the Worlds Ugliest Car Has Launched a new SUV
By info@topspeed.com (Kirby Garlitos)
If theres any corner that Mitsuoka has claimed in the auto industry, its the corner of quirky and sometimes hideous cars. The niche Japanese automaker is the same company that gave us the Rock Star, the Mazda Miata-Chevrolet Corvette C2 mashup. Its also the same company thats responsible for the nightmare-inducing Honda NSX-based Orochi supercar. Now, the automaker is back with another creation, only this time, it doesnt look as horrible as we feared. Its called the Mitsuoka Buddy, and... [read more]
Chevrolet K5 Blazer Electric Connect And Cruise
By info@topspeed.com (Sidd Dhimaan)
After unveiling the E-10 electric concept last year, Chevy has now unveiled a 1977 Blazer K5 electric concept for the SEMA show that previews the companys crate powertrain future. For a company that didnt seem to be as vested in electrification as other automakers until recently, this is a very big step. This concept also gives us a peek at the upcoming Electric Connect and Cruise package thats expected to come sometime next year.
10 Kei Cars That Prove Japan Has it Right
By info@topspeed.com (Kirby Garlitos)
Kei cars are probably the coolest niche car segment in the entire industry. Kei cars have become a culture unto its own, and thats been the case for the better part of 70 years. In all that time, Japanese automakers have produced a litany of unforgettable kei cars, including these 10 models that prove that small doesnt always have to be terrible.
Toyota Hilux
By info@topspeed.com (Sidd Dhimaan)
After teasers, leaks, and getting Fernando Alonso to drive the Hilux, Toyota has finally unveiled the 2020 Toyota Hilux. The truck has been launched in Europe, where the pickup truck segment is picking pace. The truck has a long history and enough credibility to make it one of the segment's top picks. But, with growing competition, Toyota, too, had to bow down to the pressure and deliver the best it could. So, for this updated model, the Japanese automaker has... [read more]
2021 Subaru Crosstrek Sport First Test: When Power Solves Everything
Being a segment leader is hard work, especially in a segment as hot as subcompact SUVs , which continues to grow rapidly. Subaru already has a solid foundation to stay on top, and now, the Forester s 2.5-liter flat-four engine is finding its way under the Crosstrek s hood in Sport and Limited trims. Will a more powerful engine be enough to keep this crossover relevant and fend off new rivals? We got a 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Sport in to... [read more]
Big Trucks & Buried Treasure
Its been a busy fall. In between work, projects, travel and moving to a different apartment here in San Francisco, it seems like there simply arent enough hours... continue reading
2020 Nissan Sentra Road-Trip Review: The Pros and Cons of Compact Car Travel
Can a car get pudgy? That was the question I asked myself every time I saw our long-term 2020 Nissan Sentra languishing in my driveway. Without a commute to MotorTrend headquarters, for the time being, the Nissan had been making jaunts no more demanding than the half mile trip to the supermarket and the mile drive to my favorite Mexican drive-through joint. It brought to mind images of a bored, cooped-up dog in desperate need of a change of scenery... [read more]
Aston Martin To Inherit Mercedes Tech, But The Cost Could Be Too High
By info@topspeed.com (Ciprian Florea)
Back in 2013, Aston Martin and Mercedes-Benz entered a cooperation through which the British company gained access to the 4.0-liter V-8 AMG engine and various components for its production models. In exchange, Mercedes-Benz received an equity participation of five-percent in Aston Martin, which eventually transformed into a 2.6-percent stake. Earlier in 2020 we heard rumors that Aston Martin needs to develop its own engine as Mercedes is slowly phasing out the AMG V-8, but it seems that the companies are... [read more]
Amazing Car for Sale: 1966 Ferrari 330 GTC
By info@topspeed.com (Sidd Dhimaan)
Ferrari has numerous models from the mid-20th century that are worth dying for. One of them is the Ferrari 330 series that the automaker produced from 1963 to 1968. First came the 330 America, then the 330 GT 2+2 that replaced it within a year and 50 examples later, and finally came with 330 GTC and 330 GTS models in 1966. The body style of the 330 GTC was designed by Pininfarina and it looked more like its predecessor, the... [read more]
The Ford Escape ST Could Humble The VW Tiguan R and Hyundai Tucson N Line
By info@topspeed.com (Tudor Rus)
As crossovers and SUVs remain crowd favorites, carmakers are looking to further milk the cash cow by offering souped-up versions for their high-riding people and grocery carriers. The latest rumor to hit the internet has to do with Ford and the fact that the Blue Oval believes slapping the ST badge on the Escape is a fantastic idea.
The Lamborghini Aventador S Takes an Avant-Garde Turn With The Help of Yohji Yamamoto
Lamborghini takes an ultra-avant-garde turn, with the help of Japanese fashion designer Yohji Yamamoto. Teasing an all-new Aventador S dressed in a distressed black-and-red color palette, the car which follows the theme of Yamamotos fall 2020 menswear collection, showcases an array of punk red plaids, dots, and painterly stripes, alongside a dizzying interior of unique upholstery accented by stylized Katakana and Kanji text in contrasting white. The Lamborghini Aventador S Takes an Avant-Garde Turn With The Help of Yohji Yamamoto... [read more]
Sing Praise to Prior Design As They Fix the BMW M4s Grille
By info@topspeed.com (Tudor Rus)
Its safe to say that BMWs new take on the front grille for the 4 Series, M3, and M4 has rapidly split its fan base in two camps. Even we raised a lot of eyebrows while looking at the press photos but a recent first contact review with the 4 Series taught us that the loathed grille looks a lot better in the metal. Still, this aspect hasnt stopped Prior Design from developing a fix for those wanting a more... [read more]
RAM Will Take On The GMC Hummer With an Electric Pickup - The Question Is When?
By info@topspeed.com (Ciprian Florea)
Electric pickup trucks are slowly becoming a thing. Major companies like Ford, General Motors, and Tesla have already announced electrified trucks, but smaller brands like Rivian and Lordstown are also working on their own competitors for this niche. And now it seems that Ram Trucks is also joining in, as confirmed by Fiat Chrysler CEO Mike Manley. The EV was announced during the company's third-quarter earnings conference, but there's no timeline yet.
2021 Hennessey VelociRaptor Ford Bronco: $225,000 but V-8, Amirite
We expect Ford will introduce a Bronco Raptor at some point. But it probably wont match the output of the new 2021 Hennessey VelociRaptor Bronco, which enters production next year. Hennessey dropped in a 5.0-liter Ford V-8 delivering750 hp, allowing the SUV to reach 60 mph in a claimed 4.5 seconds. Power is routed through Fords 10-speed automatic transmission. New fuel injectors, air-to-water intercooler, and performance intake and exhaust systems make up some of the key upgrades. The improvements continue... [read more]
40+ Photos at the RCR NASCAR Museum! Saving Racing History One Car at a Time
MotorTrend Group visits Richard Childress Racings massive NASCAR museum to check out some cool history and some cooler cars! While we were at Richard Childress Racing (RCR) waiting to shoot a story in connection with MotorTrends new docuseries, NASCAR 2020: Under Pressure, we decided to check out the Richard Childress Racing Museum and, man, were glad we did since its overflowing with vintage race cars and NASCAR history, especially if youre a Dale Earnhardt fan. So come along as we... [read more]
Chevy Might Make a Freakin' Suburban HD
You may not remember the Chevrolet Suburban HD . It was an obscure heavy-duty variant of the brand's big people mover that was sold only to fleets before eventually going the way of the dodo. It was certainly a niche vehicle, given the capability of the regular Suburban . For a few types of users, though, the HD's standard 6.0-liter V-8 engine, extra payload capacity, more rugged frame, and upgraded brakes were essential. Think fire and police departments that need... [read more]
From the Archives: OG Hummer vs. Six SUV Icons in a 1990s Torture Test!
The reveal of the new GMC Hummer electric pickup had us digging through the archives for more Hummer stories. Heres one of our favorites, a 1999 Death Valley torture test pitting the AM General Hummer (also known as the Hummer H1 ) up against the Ford Excursion, GMC Yukon XL, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Land Rover Range Rover, Mercedes-Benz ML430, and the Toyota Land Cruiser. Enjoy it; we sure did.Ed. Our premise for this test is simple:Todays mega-dollar, leather-swathed, SUVs are... [read more]
2021 Nissan Frontier: Everything We Know About the Midsize Pickup
After more than 15 years on the market with only minor styling tweaks, the Nissan Frontier finally receives a notable revision for the 2021 model year. Despite its age, the midsize pickup s mechanical bits are due to carry over largely unchanged. Thats not necessarily a bad thing, as the Frontiers frame is a stout piece that affords the Nissan truck class-competitive towing and payload figures . The 2021 Frontiers new exterior and interior designs ought to fix the current... [read more]
Mystery Jeep Pickup Concept a Vessel for New Mopar Parts Rollout
Instead of its annual jam-packed gathering in Las Vegas, the SEMA show is hosting a virtual event this year to celebrate the aftermarket parts industry and culture. This predictablein 2020twist hasnt stopped Mopars plans to showcase some sweet Jeep Performance parts. Ahead of the event, Mopar has released a sketch of its new Jeep concept that will debut at the modified 2020 SEMA show. The concept appears to be a decked-out Jeep Gladiator . Whatever it is gets a box... [read more]
The Mitsuoka Buddy Is a Rebodied Toyota RAV4 That Puts the Fun in Funky
It was only a few days ago that Suzuki revealed the Across , a rebadged and lightly restyled Toyota RAV4 (and not sold in the United States). We thought it was strange, interesting, and unique. Unfortunately for Suzuki, Mitsuoka just dropped its own restyled RAV4, the Buddy, and it makes the Across seem positively ordinary. Mitsuoka is most famous for the exquisitely bizarre Orochi , a mid-engined V-6-powered sports car named after a Japanese dragon and looking for all the... [read more]
Volkswagen Golf GTi Clubsport
By info@topspeed.com (Dim Angelov)
For over 40 years the Golf has been defining and refining the hatchback formula. With generation eight, we get plenty of performance. And with the recent rise in performance in the hot hatch scene, the German brand had to bring a bigger gun in order to stay competitive. The Golf GTI Clubsport Mk8 is tailored specifically to the harsh terrain of the Nordschleife. Could they have made the ultimate hot hatch, or is it just an overly stiff grocery-getter? Lets... [read more]
The Genesis GV70 Comes to Take Its Piece of the Compact SUV Segment
By info@topspeed.com (Sidd Dhimaan)
Genesis has finally stepped on the A-pedal. Launches are happening often now, and wed like to see the trend continue because the products coming out of the oven are pretty good. Hyundais luxury brand recently unveiled the GV80 SUV, and now it has taken the wraps off its sporty crossover, the GV70. Given how the compact SUV/crossover market is booming, this might be one of the most important products in Genesis portfolio. Can it become the companys best-seller?
The Genesis GV70 Comes to Take Its Piece of the Compact SUV Segment
By info@topspeed.com (Sidd Dhimaan)
Genesis has finally stepped on the A-pedal. Launches are happening often now, and wed like to see the trend continue because the products coming out of the oven are pretty good. Hyundais luxury brand recently unveiled the GV80 SUV, and now it has taken the wraps off its sporty crossover, the GV70. Given how the compact SUV/crossover market is booming, this might be one of the most important products in Genesis portfolio. Can it become the companys best-seller?
MotorTrend Teams With RCR to Sponsor Tyler Reddicks No. 8 Car for Xfinity 500
When NASCAR roars into the Xfinity 500 Cup Series race in Martinsville, Virginia, on Sunday, November 1, 2020, there will be a new look to one of the cars in the pack. You see, MotorTrend has teamed up with Richard Childress Racing (RCR) and driver Tyler Reddick to be the lead sponsor on the teams No. 8 Chevrolet ZL1 Camaro! Related: Get an inside look into this unforgettable 2020 NASCAR season and prestigious playoffs. Stream the new MotorTrend docuseries, NASCAR... [read more]
Mini Cooper JCW F350 by Manhart
By info@topspeed.com (Kirby Garlitos)
Manhart Racing is back with a new aftermarket program. This time, the German tuner has set it sights on the Mini John Cooper Works GP, the 301-horsepower performance-spec version of the Mini JCW. Its an intriguing choice on the part of Manhart Racing. On its own, the JCW GP already fits the profile of an edgy hot hatch with enough power and performance characteristics to make some of its rivals look tame by comparison.
An Interview with McDripp
Thought I'd share this fun interview with with world famous pin striper Fineline McDripp, drawn and written by Carl Kohler for the March 1957 issue of Car Craft.... continue reading
10 American Concept Cars That Should Have Be Mass Produced
By info@topspeed.com (Dim Angelov)
Often, car companies like to give us hints at their future through their concepts. Sometimes, these prototypes aim to break established boundaries, while others pay homage to iconic models from the past and show us how a modern-day version could look like. Since these cars are not required to cover all tedious requirements a production version has to, the designers can go crazy with their creativity. Its no surprise then that concept cars are often the biggest head turners at... [read more]
BMW M4 Competition x Kith
By info@topspeed.com (Kirby Garlitos)
Not one to be in the dark in the world of fashion, BMW has launched a collaboration with New York-based fashion and lifestyle brand Kith to create a limited edition version of the 2021 BMW M4 Competition. Called the M4 Competition x Kith, the special edition performance coupe comes with a host of exclusive features and details that highlights the partnership between the German automaker and the American lifestyle brand. The M4 Competition x Kith is limited to just 150... [read more]
Ares Design Looks To Fix All Thats Wrong with the 2020 Chevy C8 Corvette
By info@topspeed.com (Tudor Rus)
Its one thing to have the likes of Callaway turn your Corvette into a shooting brake or simply slap it with a widebody kit and its a whole different affair to turn the coupe into an out-and-out speedster. That said, Ares Design doesnt seem to get any rest when it comes to tweaking the C8 Corvette. The tuners latest project is all about turning the C8 Corvette into a sleek and quick speedster.
Hyundai i20 N
By info@topspeed.com (Ciprian Florea)
The 2021 Hyundai i20 N is the high-performance, range-topping version of the subcompact i20 hatchback. The third N-badged model from the Korean company, the i20 N joins the slightly bigger i30 N and Veloster N. Unlike its larger siblings, the i20 N features a smaller, less powerful engine, but it looks just as mean on the outside. Does it have enough oomph to compete with popular models like the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Ford Fiesta ST? Is it a match... [read more]
Forget The Drama - SSC Should Just Run the Tuatara Speed Record Again
By info@topspeed.com (Ciprian Florea)
SSC made headlines earlier this month when it announced that it had set a new world record for production cars with the Tuatara. The American company revealed that its latest supercar hit an average top speed of 316 mph during a two-way run on a closed road in Nevada, taking the official record from Koenigsegg and also breaking the unofficial record of the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+, the first production car to surpass the 300-mph mark. But famed YouTubers... [read more]
George Woodman Reimagines The Yamaha XSR 700, in Project Hommage
Biarritz, France, in an amazing atelier, is where youll find George Woodman creating customizations as unique works of art. With a flair for transforming both old and beloved classics into something of the future, George celebrates the achievements of his first custom, The Smoking Black Fish on a 1929 FN which has since earned its residency at the famous Haas Museum in Dallas. George Woodman Reimagines The Yamaha XSR 700, in Project Hommage Inspired by success and an old race... [read more]
Jaguar E-Pace
By info@topspeed.com (Sidd Dhimaan)
Jaguar and Land Rover have been quite active in recent months with the 2021 model year updates. We saw the F-Pace, Velar, and the XF Sportbrake among other products being updated in recent months. This time, its time for the E-Pace to be updated. Although it comes with similar updates like its other family members, which include new mild- and plug-in hybrid options and tweaked interior and exterior, the E-Pace comes with another big change a new architecture. Will this... [read more]
The Wolf of G Street: 1991 Mercedes G-Wagen Cabrio Restomod Is Stunning
The Mercedes-Benz Gelndewagen only recently saw a meaningful evolution. For decades, its roots as a military vehicle were barely disguised, but in America, we only saw a small sliver of the G-Wagens potential. Abroad, do-work short-wheelbase models roamed the European countryside , much as contractor-grade pickups do here. And yes, there were even convertible versions, which offered the charming possible combination of austere interior fittings, open-air motoring, and a clattery dieseland uncompromised off-road prowess, of course. Enter Expedition Motor Company... [read more]
How Is a NASCAR Race Car Built? Behind the Scenes at Richard Childress Racing
We visit Richard Childress Racing for a behind-the-scenes NASCAR shop tour to see how the team puts together a Cup or Xfinity car from chassis to race-ready! Were not going to lie, working here has its perks, and one of them is getting to tour really cool places. To gear up for the new MotorTrend docuseries, NASCAR 2020: Under Pressure , MotorTrend Group was invited to check out Richard Childress Racing (RCR) and see how the racing team goes from... [read more]
Why Aren't Automotive Headlights Better Than They Are
By Nordstroms Automotive inc.
1991 Crown Vic has driveability problems. Charging Batteries in the house. Battery Drains. Poor Automotive Headlights. Aftermarket Headlights. 2013 Honda Civic S.i. has Clutch Problems. Shannon wants to sell Under The Hood show Speedos. A frontline worker wins the Goodyear Brake Package with pads rotors calipers and installation! High Octane e85. 6 volt tractor wants a 12 volt system. Chris is sad about leaving the Classic Car Club. Press "Play" below to listen to this episode
In Memory of Fat Jack Robinson
The Hot Rod Builder Who Helped Revive Fat-Fender Hot Rods We've been talking a lot about fat-fender hot rods lately. This movement owes much of its popularity to builder Jack Robinson. We were very saddened to learn of his passing on October 20. Fat Jack, as everybody called him, was a lifelong hot rodder. He has said that he got his first car, a fat-fendered Ford sedan, when he was 9 years old. That car was followed four years later... [read more]
2021 Audi A6 Gets More Standard Power and a Sportier Look
Audi isnt waiting for a new model year to give A6 customers more horsepower. Having undergone a mid-model year refresh, the 2021 Audi A6 features a more powerful four-cylinder engine as standard equipment. The base models 2.0-liter mill pumps out 13 extra ponies for a total of 261 hp. Torque remains constant at 273 lb-ft. Fittingly, the model adopts the Sport 45 moniker. Once again, the A6 features a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that routes power to all four wheels. A... [read more]
Watch Out Hummer EV, Ram's Working on an Electric Pickup
We confess we like listening to earnings calls because there are always product tidbits sprinkled among the numbers. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles third-quarter earnings call did not disappoint, and chief executive officer Mike Manley confirmed an electric Ram pickup is in the works. There will be a Ram electric pickup in the marketplace, and I would just ask you to stay tuned for a little while, and I will tell you exactly when that will be, he said. There is some... [read more]
1981-1988 Chevy Monte Carlo: 60% of the Time, Driving One Worked Every Time
The Chevrolet Monte Carlo is like your dad. Chances are you think of it in its later yearsuncool, unremarkable, and incapable of getting a second look from the hottie that your mom once was. No question, the 1995-2007 front-drive Monte Carlos were about as uptight as a car could possibly be. But the earlier Montes1970-1988, and particularly the 1980s carsnow those were hot stuff for young Cassanovas like your dad. Birth of the Chevrolet Monte Carlo The Monte Carlo first... [read more]
Porsches Latest Advertising Gimmick for the Taycan is the Definition of Hypocrisy
By info@topspeed.com (Ciprian Florea)
Porsche is revving up to introduce the Taycan, its first all-electric vehicle, and its latest ad for the four-door includes some amazing footage of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest structure and building in the world. But is this a smart way to showcase an all-electric, green car? Considering that Burj Khalifa was built in Dubai, a place where most wealth comes mainly from oil?
How a Penny Helped Dale Earnhardt Win the 1998 Daytona 500
A little girl, a legendary racer, and a slug of copper make for a great racing story. NASCAR is full of big stories, big power, big personalities, and big events. But this story started about as small as it could, with a little girl and her lucky penny. Wessa Miller was the little girl, and she just loved racing and one driver in particular: Dale Earnhardt. She also suffered from spina bifida. Related: Get an inside look into this unforgettable... [read more]
