Automobile News & Reviews
Maybe a BMW M8 Touring Isnt a Bad Idea After All
Back in the 1980s, BMW put together a one-off M8 based on the original 8 Series, and, ever since then, fanboys have been itching for another one. Well, we finally saw the BMW 8 Series flagship reintroduced to the market, and it didnt take long for BMW to introduce the M8 in both coupe and Gran Coupe form. Prayers have been answered, velvet robes have parted, and the universe is finally at peace. But, what if BMW went all in... [read more]
Fords SEMA-Bound SUV Lineup will Feature Portable Fridges, Camping Tents, and Video Cameras
The 2019 Ford Escape, 2019 Ford Explorer, and 2019 Ford Expedition are all fresh in the eyes of many, making them ideal candidates to get showcased at the 2019 SEMA Auto Show. In keeping with form, thats exactly what Ford is doing. The Blue Oval is bringing eight custom SUVs to SEMA, including three Escapes, three Explorers, and a pair of Expeditions. Each of these SUVs come with different flavors of personalization that showcases the variety of ways current and... [read more]
Aston Martin DBX Undisguised: Details Revealed in New Photos
Ignore the dogs. Weve already seen photos of the upcoming Aston Martin DBX wearing trippy camouflage and bright red lipstick , but a new batch of undisguised detail shots provide fresh clues about the super-SUV. Bundled with a news blast covering accessories that can be optioned on the high-performance high-rider, the photos hint at its capabilities, as well as similarities and differences between other Aston Martins. Take a moment to stretch before proceeding, because were about to reach. The crew... [read more]
2019 Safest Small Pickup Trucks
A lot of stress is being given to safety features in vehicles today. Although cars and SUVs use this as a selling point, trucks never really came loaded with a lot of safety tech. However, things are changing now for good, and automakers have upped their game. The 2020 Ram 1500 bagged the Top Safety Pick + award, something unheard of in the truck segment. Theres no doubt that the larger trucks are a lot more equipped than the compact... [read more]
The Canoo Electric Car: 6 Thoughts After Visiting the EV Startup
We first reported on the intriguing Canoo electric-car startup last month what follows are six thoughts from Kim Reynolds, one of the most knowledgeable EV experts in automotive journalism today. That misspelled name So, could you tell me about the name, Canoo? Three weeks ago, I typed the address of a new EV startup called Canoo into Google Maps. Canoo? That strange name was the first thing I was going to ask about when I got there. Pulling up to... [read more]
SEMA Sues DOT for Failure to Implement Replica Car Law
The year was 2015 and it was surprisingly good news the seemingly car-unfriendly Obama Administration with Barack Obamas signature on it passed the FAST Act allowing replica car manufacturers to sell turn-key replica and continuation cars to the American public. A great example of the type of cars we are talking about is the Superformance Corvette Grand Sport a GM-licensed replica. Then contrary to great expectations from the new administration NHTSA continued to stall for several years prompting SEMA on... [read more]
The Top Muscle Cars of the 60s and 70s
The early 60s all the way up to the 70s was a golden age for the American automotive industry if only for the simple fact that muscle cars were growing not just in number, but in overall stature. The muscle car arms race of the that time yielded plenty of options for customers looking for more power and metal-twisting torque from these vehicles. And the models only grew in popularity as more and more people began clamoring for the biggest... [read more]
The Slick Slantback
I cant say I remember exactly who I got the pictures below from, let alone when I got them, so apologies if they've been shared before Ive always... continue reading
2020 C10 Nationals Update: Make Plans Now!
The C10 Nationals event is proud to announce Classic Parts of America as the new title sponsor starting in 2020. The ClassicParts.com C10 Nationals is the worlds largest 1947+ Chevrolet/GMC Truck & SUV event. This premier truck event takes place at the Texas Motor Speedway on May 2930, 2020 and features activities like autocross, chassis dyno testing, drag racing, a burnout contest, vendor midway, swap meet, NASCAR rides, track cruise, trophies, giveaways, and much more. Truck pre-registration is $55, while... [read more]
Mercedes Says Screw Displacement: Were Putting a Hybridized M139 Four-Cylinder in the 2022 AMG C63
The new M139 four-cylinder turbocharged engine that powers the new Mercedes-AMG A45 is a prime candidate to replace the 4.0-liter bi-turbo V-8 powerhouse found under the hood of the Mercedes-AMG C63 super-sedan, with a little help from the wonder of electricity. As a result, the next-generation 2022 C63 will be powered by a 2.0-liter turbo engine boosted by a 48-volt electric system - and before you start frowning, get this: the new powertrain will be just as potent as the... [read more]
Ford Explorer, Escape Custom SUVs for SEMA Range From Mild to Wild
This time of year, the days may be getting shorter, but we can already feel the SEMA lines getting longer. The well-established custom-car, accessories, and tuner show in Las Vegas, Nevada, is just around the corner, and while weve already seen what Ford has in store for some Ranger and F-150 pickups at its booth , now we get to learn about its plans for the 2020 Escape , Explorer , and Expedition SUVs. Read on to learn about the... [read more]
Hyundai Veloster Grappler Concept
Hyundai has presented an alternative look at the Veloster, one that puts an off-road spin to the otherwise plucky hatchback. The model, called the Veloster Grappler Concept, is sporty, rugged, and can go anywhere your heart desires. It will be presented at the 2019 SEMA Auto Show, but like most concepts that attend SEMA, theres no indication that the Veloster Grappler, or even a derivative of the concept, will end up in production. All the same, the Veloster Grappler Concept... [read more]
The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 is Faster-Accelerating Than These 10 Pricier Cars
MotorTrend has been performance testing cars for 70 years, and over that time weve recorded the 0-60 times of thousands of cars. We recently retested the first car to ever grace MotorTrends cover, a 1949 Kurtis Sport Car , which did 0-60 mph in an exceptional (the wrong kind of exceptional) 15.3 seconds. Today, some performance cars can even break the 3-second barrier. And now that we've tested the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 , we know that the sub-$100,000 mid-engine... [read more]
2020 Hyundai Palisade vs. 2020 Kia Telluride: Korean Cousins Square Off
The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade are built on the same platform. They have the same engine, with the same output, connected to the same transmission. They have the same number of seats, similar features and technology, as well as near-identical practicality. Therefore, cross-shopping the two proves youre a car enthusiast. Why? Because when vehicles are so similar on paper, youre forced to delve into subtleties and details to decide which is better. Look, if you just wanted a seven-seat... [read more]
The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Arrives With Its Sights Set on the Mercedes CLA-Class and Audi A3
The 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe is now a real thing. Seen previously in numerous spy shots sporting enough camouflage to make the military envious, the 2020 2 Series Gran Coupe brings a premium element to the nameplate. Two versions of the 2 Series Gran Coupe the 228i xDrive and the M235i xDrive will be available in the U.S. market beginning next year.
2019 Safest Large Pickup Trucks
Pickup trucks these are days are not only about their hauling and towing capacities; they are fast, they often come with a luxurious cabin, and are loaded to the gill with high-tech features. So, why should they lag behind in terms of safety? People use trucks today as their daily driver, and family haulers, and they are concerned about safety. Automakers have started offering safety features, but which one tops the list and which truck scrapes the bottom of the... [read more]
2019 Safest Pickup Trucks
Pickup trucks these are days are not only about their hauling and towing capacities; they are fast, they often come with a luxurious cabin, and are loaded to the gill with high-tech features. So, why should they lag behind in terms of safety? People use trucks today as their daily driver, and family haulers, and they are concerned about safety. Automakers have started offering safety features, but which one tops the list and which truck scrapes the bottom of the... [read more]
2020 Volvo XC40 Recharge First Look: The First of Many Volvo EVs to Come
Volvo isnt being shy about it: We need to change our ways to combat climate change issues the world faces today. Cars in particular including, by Volvos admission, its own are primary contributors to greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion that pose a massive problem for society today. Rather than take a fatalistic approach and suggest that we end driving entirely, Volvo thinks theres a smarter, more holistic way. This new approach is better for the planet, but at the... [read more]
Hyundai Veloster Grappler Concept Takes Quirky Hatchback Off-Roading
Hyundai is taking its asymmetrical Veloster hatchback off the beaten path with the Grappler Concept. Equipped with body cladding, a raised ride height and a different front bumper with improved approach and departure angles, the Veloster Grappler Concept looks ready for all kinds of dirt adventures. To add to its off-road performance theme, the Hyundai Veloster Grappler Concept gets oversized all-terrain tires, rally-themed Method Racing alloy wheels, and a Borla exhaust. Further adding to the cars rugged looks are a... [read more]
BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe with M Performance Parts
The 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe M Performance Parts is a factory-customized version of the newly unveiled four-door sedan. Just like any BMW model available, the 2020 2 Series Gran Coupe can be customized with a series of design elements crafted by the M division. While most of these parts are supposed to enhance the car's looks inside and out, the package also includes some elements that improve performance. Let's find out more about that in the review below.
BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe with M Performance Parts
The 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe M Performance Parts is a factory-customized version of the newly unveiled four-door sedan. Just like any BMW model available, the 2020 2 Series Gran Coupe can be customized with a series of design elements crafted by the M division. While most of these parts are supposed to enhance the car's looks inside and out, the package also includes some elements that improve performance. Let's find out more about that in the review below.
Shannon Goes Road Racing
We get a call back from a listener who took our advice (just for entertainment by the way) and he calls us back. See what happens. Press "Play" below to listen to this episode
BMW i3 - Driven
There arent too many models out there that can legitimately lay claim to being funkier than the Nissan Juke, but the BMW i3 is one of them. It was introduced in 2013 as BMWs first step into the electric market with a single purpose in mind to see if people would actually be interested in an electric BMW. Well, the i3 has served its purpose very well and actually received a lot of attention. Whether that attention was received because... [read more]
Future 2020 Honda Fit Shows Its Profile in New Teaser
The next generation 2020 Honda Fit (Jazz in global markets) has been teased ahead of its official debut at the 2019 Tokyo Auto Show. One of the most noticeable features on the new car is its length; its nose appears to be longer than the current generation Fit giving it a more car-like profile. The current Fit has a shorter nose that makes it look a little more unusualeven minivan-like in some angles. Other than the longer nose, the new... [read more]
What Do the Corvette Codes Z51, Z06, and ZR1 Mean?
Corvettes are fastthis much is clear. Whats less clear is why theyre so fast. Sure, a big V-8 engine in the front or middle is the obvious answer, but Chevrolet employs a structure of three-character codes to essentially designate Corvettes as fast, faster, and fastest. Thats the gist of the Z51, Z06, and ZR1 titles commonly associated with Corvettes. Lets break down what the Corvette codes mean and see how they affect performance. Corvette Z51 Where Stingray is the standard... [read more]
Eight Supercars and Sports Cars Slower Than a 2020 Toyota Supra
It seems that Toyota s numbers for the new Supra are lets say, conservative. Toyota claims the Supras BMW -sourced force-fed inline-six makes 335 hp and 365 lb-ft of torque at the crank, but we took it to a dyno for more testing. It put down 332 hp and 387 lb-ft at the wheels , which, factoring in an approximate 15 percent drivetrain loss, suggests the engine is generating a lot more grunt than Toyota tells us. In terms of... [read more]
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Lamborghini?
Owning a supercar is the dream of many gearheads, but with anything coming out of Maranello or Sant'Agata Bolognese these days trading hands for well over $200,000, it's almost impossible for most people to actually boast that they have such a car in their garage. Even a basic Porsche 718 Cayman isn't cheap when compared to a standard Toyota Corolla or anything else that people buy in droves. That's why your best bet is to simply rent one of these... [read more]
Life Support Renewed as Dodge Plans a Track-Focused, ACR-Badged Challenger
It first ruled the drag strip, and now it might be time to rule the race circuit. Or at least aim to...
Headed To The Bayou
Now here's something I don't do very often I'm going to a car show. I actually had commitments with the kids this weekend and didn't think I... continue reading
10 Relatively Affordable Camper-Van Conversions for Living That Van Life
Looking to get out thereyou know, really out therebut tents are a no-go and you dont want to drag a trailer to sleep in or drive something the size of a house? Then youre looking for a camper van. These handy homes away from home are based on normal-sized trucks and vans, meaning they should fit in normal driveways and parking spaces and be fairly easy to drive. Weve gathered up 10 worth considering for going #vanlife, although fair warning... [read more]
The 3D-Printed Lamborghini Aventador Replica Can Now Get From Point A to Point B
In the past three months, the Backus garage Lamborghini build has evolved from parts being printed on three different 3D printers to a fully functional model that can run, or, at least in this case, back up from a homes driveway to the family garage.
The Montreal Vision GT - a Car Alfa Romeo Needs to Build
Now a rather small automaker with no so many models on offer, Alfa Romeo was once one of the world's most important nameplates and the creator of several iconic cars. The Alfa Romeo Montreal is one of them and Italian designer Luca Serafini just created a modern version of the two-door sports car. Affectionately named the Montreal Vision GT, like the official Vision Gran Turismo concepts various automakers have created since 2013, this virtual car is a cool design that... [read more]
2020 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2020 Porsche 911 Comparison: Two Icons on Equal Footing
Last corner. Hairpin, zero camber. Be patient with the throttle, or itll just push. Start to unwind the wheel, roll hard into the throttle. Let all that weight in back dig in and put the power down hard. Front straight, lap Vmax will be the instant before you brake. Keep your foot in it, keep your nerve. A little farther, a little farther, now maximum brake. Too far, too late. Not slowing fast enough, briefly fixate on the weeds youre... [read more]
2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Debuts in 228i xDrive and M235i xDrive Flavors
BMW has finally taken the wraps off the new 2020 2 Series Gran Coupe. Munichs response to the Mercedes-Benz CLA will be built in Leipzig, but most importantly, it will also find its way to the U.S. as BMWs entry-level model, alongside the 2 Series Coupe.The Gran Coupe, however, will be offered in two iterations, both based on an all-wheel-drive layout.
Watch How Fast a Mercedes-AMG E63 Can Eat Through A Pair of Tires
The Gumbal YouTube channel is a great follow if youre the type who makes incredible videos of cars doing car things as part of your daily routine. Recently, we caught a video of a Mercedes-AMG E 63 S sitting right smack in the middle of the Bimmerworld 2019 event. Youre probably wondering what a Mercedes-AMG E 63 S is doing in a BMW event, and while it would be fun to make some silly story about the circumstances of its... [read more]
Volkswagens Priority List Starts With Pair of SUVs and Electric ID 4
Scott Keogh has a lot of product to prioritize. The CEO of the Volkswagen Group of America still wants a pickup truck, the electric dune buggy , and Microbus, but first he must concentrate on more immediate and crucial product launches to best use limited resources. Keogh talked to MotorTrend in Chattanooga, where the new 2020 Atlas Cross Sport rolled off the line. It is the two-row version of the seven-passenger Atlas midsize SUV and gives Volkswagen a second entry... [read more]
Hyundai i10
The 2020 Hyundai i10 is the third-generation version of the subcompact hatchback. A success story for Hyundai in Europe, the i10 is now bolder on the outside and smarter on the inside. Under the hood, the 2020 i10 is pretty much similar to its predecessor as it features the same engines, but it has a new automated manual transmission. Hyundai also added extra safety features, turning the 2020 i10 is one of the most advanced vehicles in its niche. The... [read more]
Review: How the 2020 Bentley Flying Spur is the Definitive Modern Bentley Sedan
The previous two generations of the Bentley Flying Spur had Volkswagen DNA under their luxurious skins, their platforms shared with VW s highly underrated Phaeton sedan. The 2020 Bentley Flying Spur shares its platform with a Porsche . And its the better car for it. In fact, the 2020 Flying Spureffortlessly fast, opulently detailed, and brimful of raffish charmis the best Bentley sedan of the modern era. Powered by Bentleys mighty W-12 engine, the 2020 Flying Spur is built on... [read more]
The XMT Takes the Jeep Gladiator Back to its Military Truck Roots
The Jeep Gladiator JT hasnt been around for very long, but its already proven to be extremely popular . So popular, in fact, that Jeep and Mopar debuted six Gladiator concepts for the 53rd annual Moab Easter Jeep Safari earlier this year. This latest concept, however, comes as a result of a partnership between Jeep and AM General. You might remember AM General as the company that turned the Humvee into the Hummer H1. Its called the Gladiator XMT, and... [read more]
2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe First Look: BMW Enters the Compact Sedan Game
BMW has finally taken the wraps off what will be the least expensive model in its U.S. lineup that isnt an SUV, the 2020 2 Series Gran Coupe . Unlike the two-door 2 Series coupe and convertible, the four-door Gran Coupe rides on the same front-drive-based underpinnings as the X1 and X2; however, for the U.S., it will only come in all-wheel drive configuration. Two models will be offered: the 228i Gran Coupe xDrive and the potent M235i Gran Coupe... [read more]
Watch an Idiot in a Mercedes-AMG C63 Go Full On Ford Mustang Into a Tree
First I cried. Then I laughed. Then I cried again. This video reminded me of something Dr. Sheldon Cooper once said: One cries because one is sad. For example, I cry because others are stupid, and it makes me sad. This dude should be arrested not for being negligent, but for being stupid. He literally crashed a Mercedes C63S AMG into a tree while trying to impress the crowd and ended up looking like a fool. Worth it? Hells naw!
Jeep Wrangler vs. Mercedes G-Class Video: Two Off-Road Icons Clash in Moab
--> When you think off-roading, the first car that probably comes to mindif youre an Americanis the Jeep Wrangler ; an icon of go-anywhere, do-anything capability, especially in Rubicon trim . But if you live elsewhere in the world, you might think of the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen, another rugged SUV with military heritage thats an off-road icon in its own right. Over the years, the G-Wagen has become better known as a luxury symbol than one of off-pavement prowess. Has the... [read more]
Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
BMW has the X6 and X4, Mercedes-Benz the GLE and GLC Coupe, Audi created the Q8, and Porsches Cayenne Coupe is fresh off the press. So here comes Volkswagen, trumpeting its intentions to join the SUV-coupe craze with a sloping-roof design that uses the Atlas as a starting point. Ladies and gentlemen, this is the U.S.-only Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. Yes, its an SUV-coupe of sorts, because guess what: thats precisely what was missing from VWs stable, a model that... [read more]
The 2020 Shelby Mustang GT500 Will Land In Australia, but the Price Will Make Your Ass Hurt
Good news, Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 fans in Australia. The fastest Mustang ever built will be coming to the Land Down Under! Bad news, Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 fans in Australia. The fastest Mustang ever built will carry a price tag thats going to beat your bank accounts senseless! Thats the predicament our mates now face. On the one hand, the possibility of owning a Shelby GT500 has never been this close to reality, at least if a new law... [read more]
Bard Find of a Different Kind
I love the thrill of the find Locating a killer old car thats been squirreled away for years, hidden from the world and covered in dust for untold... continue reading
How to Have a Loved One Relate to Your Car Obsession: Top Gear Tuesday
The ultimate collection of Top Gear is now available on the MotorTrend App, the only subscription streaming service dedicated entirely to the motoring world. Sign up for a free trial to start binge watching right now! Im not into cars. But I can easily sit throughand enjoyan episode of Top Gear , and for gearheads, that should be encouraging. Like many hobbies, having a deeper relationship with a subject comes at a price once a person starts bathing in the... [read more]
Custom Ford Ranger SEMA 2019 Lineup
The SEMA show will bring in a lot of automakers and aftermarket companies this year. The latter benefits more from it as they are overshadowed by big automakers that generally have dedicated entire auto shows solely to them. This year, Ford has decided to bring in a set of concepts based on the Ranger. The company has teamed up with many players and has come up with trucks catering to different segments. The trucks will be showcased at the 2019... [read more]