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  • 2027 Audi RS5 Avant & Sedan leaked ahead of official debut!

    2027 Audi RS5 Avant & Sedan leaked ahead of official debut!

    Audi is gearing up to debut the all-new RS5 Avant soon. The carmaker has just dropped a teaser video on social media ahead of the unveiling. But we already have the first images with us.

    The new Audi RS5 will be available in both Avant and sedan body styles. The car looks uber sporty with the Singleframe grille upfront and muscular wheel arches. There are massive vents on the front bumper and an aggressive rear diffuser with twin oval exhausts, just as you would expect from an RS model. The car has sleek LED headlights with pixel LED DRLs and slim taillights around the rear connected by a light bar.

    Inside, the new RS5 comes with a massive central touchscreen and a digital cockpit. It has a sporty steering wheel wrapped in Alcantara and body-hugging bucket seats with RS logos.

    Under the bonnet will be a plug-in hybrid powertrain, featuring a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 generating a combined output of 639 hp. It will be capable of accelerating from 0-62 mph in around 3.4 seconds and is expected to have an electric range of 50 miles.

    We’ve learned through sources that the order books for the new-gen Audi RS5 will open around mid-March, with first customer deliveries expected in June.

     

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  • Mini Targets the Overlanding Boom With a Tougher Countryman

    Mini Targets the Overlanding Boom With a Tougher Countryman

    The Outdoor Life

    If one thing changed over the past few years since the pandemic, more people have become interested in outdoor life. As this lifestyle gains more popularity, people are also now more inclined than ever to go for taller and rugged vehicles to support their overlanding dreams.

    The market is saturated with nameplates and models that cater to this outdoor segment; for some manufacturers, this segment could be lucrative. Mini isn’t a brand known for going off the beaten path, apart from some rallying accolades, but it seems the company wants a piece of that pie based on this recent interview.

    MINI

    Rugged Countryman

    Speaking to Motor1, Mini’s head of design, Holger Hampf, was candid, saying he has ambitious plans for the Countryman line. Hampf believes there is a significant opportunity to position the Countryman in the outdoor lifestyle segment.

    He added that the car has always given people independence and freedom, as evidenced by outdoor activities. He believes Mini can continue to explore this. He added that this trend will continue over the next couple of years, and he is curious to see “where else Mini can play.”

    His claims and aspirations make sense: the Countryman has always been Mini’s Crossover offering, with raised ride height and AWD powertrains. Even the top-of-the-line EV version comes with an AWD system. The current-generation Countryman is also quite sizeable, measuring 13 centimeters longer and 6 centimeters taller than the previous generation.

    Racing Pedigree

    To those who don’t know, Mini has a very successful rally racing history. In the ’60s, the original Mini won notable rallies, including the Rally of Monaco. In recent years, the brand returned to off-road racing with the gruelling Dakar. They used a Countryman as the platform to win four straight Dakars from 2012 to 2015. Currently, a Countryman is competing in the American Rally Association for 2026.

    Looking at the market right now, we’re seeing brands offer variant-specific models for these customers, such as Subaru’s Wilderness models and Mini’s potential similar offering. We’re even seeing brands offer off-road versions of sports cars like the Porsche 911 Dakar and the Lamborghini Sterrato. The pedigree for ruggedness is there; all that needs doing is an out-and-out variant for those who want a Mini for the outdoors.

    2012 Mini Countryman Cooper S John Cooper Works front 3/4 view

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  • Why Is the 991 Porsche 911 GT2 RS Skyrocketing in Value? – duPont REGISTRY DriftBreath

    Why Is the 991 Porsche 911 GT2 RS Skyrocketing in Value? – duPont REGISTRY DriftBreath

    The Porsche 911 GT2 RS has always represented the upper echelon of the brand’s motorsport-inspired GT road cars, but in recent years, the 991-generation GT2 RS has grown to become one of the most collectible Porsche 911 models in the modern market. Porsche purists know the GT2 badge carries a special weight, being the car that combines the raw thrill of turbocharged power with rear-wheel-drive purity, often making it the most extreme variant in any generation of 911. For those browsing today’s inventory of Porsche 911 GT2 RS for sale, this car represents both a brutally fast driver’s car and a rare investment opportunity in a rising modern classic.

    A silver 991 Porsche 911 GT2 RS sports car, renowned for its skyrocketing value, is parked on an empty road under a clear blue sky.
    997 Porsche 911 GT2 RS

    Tracing the GT2 lineage reveals why the 991 RS holds such a special place in Porsche’s history. First introduced in the mid-1990s with the 993 GT2, Porsche built the car as a homologation special for GT racing. It was a stripped-down, rear-wheel-drive 911 Turbo with aggressive aerodynamics and insane performance, and its exclusivity only fueled its appeal. Later generations, including the 996 GT2 and the 997 GT2 RS, pushed this perspective further, each representing a more hardcore take on what a 911 could be. By the time Porsche engineers applied the formula to the 991 platform, they had perfected a balance between usability, performance, and luxury, creating what many argue is the most complete GT2 RS to date.

    A silver 991 Porsche 911 GT2 RS sports car is parked indoors on a tiled floor, viewed from the side against a plain gray wall—a stunning example of value in a model known for its skyrocketing desirability.
    991 Porsche 911 GT2 RS

    From the outside, the 991 GT2 RS leaves no question about its track-focused intent. Lightweight carbon fiber panels, functional aero components, a massive rear wing, and magnesium wheels all play a role in its race-inspired design. Inside, the cabin blends Porsche’s race-bred materials with surprising comfort, with Alcantara, carbon fiber, and deep carbon bucket seats, but with infotainment and air conditioning intact. Buyers exploring collectible Porsche 911s will also find value in desirable options like the Weissach Package, which shaved additional weight and introduced exposed carbon details. Today’s Porsche 911 GT2 RS listings on duPont REGISTRY showcase a wide range of rare colors, which only adds to both desirability and long-term value.

    Interior of a modern 991 Porsche 911 GT2 RS with black and red leather seats, a red steering wheel, and detailed dashboard controls—a setup whose value is skyrocketing among sports car enthusiasts.
    991 Porsche 911 GT2 RS

    Where the GT2 RS truly cements its reputation is under the rear decklid. The 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six delivers an impressive 700 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful 911 ever produced at the time of its launch. Paired with a PDK dual-clutch transmission, the GT2 RS sprints from 0-60 mph in just 2.7 seconds and carries on to a top speed of 211 mph. Beyond the numbers, though, it’s the raw turbo thrust, razor-sharp handling, and rear-wheel-drive drama that keep collectors and drivers captivated.

    A silver 991 Porsche 911 GT2 RS sports car is parked indoors on a tiled floor, viewed from the rear side, showcasing its value with a large rear wing and striking gold wheels.
    991 Porsche 911 GT2 RS

    Porsche capped production of the 991 GT2 RS at around 1,000 units worldwide, assuring exclusivity while still allowing a select group of owners to experience it. Auction results and private sales show that values remain strong and, in many cases, are appreciating, especially for low-mileage and highly optioned examples. Looking ahead, the 991 GT2 RS seems destined to remain one of the most desirable and collectible Porsche 911s of all time.

    All Porsche GT2 RS Inventory

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  • See Even More Photos of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade

    See Even More Photos of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade

    See Even More Photos of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade

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  • This Chevy Equinox EV Was Fine. Then It Dropped To 0% And Bricked

    This Chevy Equinox EV Was Fine. Then It Dropped To 0% And Bricked

    • One Equinox EV was bricked after its state of charge dropped from 46% to 0% and it lost all power.
    • The car’s app warned of a high-voltage battery fault a week earlier and suggested a dealer visit.
    • Others report similar high-voltage battery issues; the NHTSA cites a software error as a potential cause.

    Even though electric vehicles have far fewer moving parts than combustion cars and are generally pretty reliable, they can still break down without notice. Tom Moloughney’s Chevrolet Equinox EV unexpectedly bricked itself a few days ago, even though it had been running problem-free until then and it’s only done around 9,500 miles since new.

    Tom posted a video on his channel, State of Charge, explaining what happened. He started up the Equinox after it had been sitting for about six days and it showed that it had 46% battery remaining. He began driving the car, but it suddenly dropped to 0% and lost all power. The steering didn’t lock up and Tom was able to slide down the road and back into his driveway before calling a tow truck to pick the car up and take it to the dealer.

    When the truck arrived an hour later, they started the car back up again and it was again showing 46%, and they were able to drive it under its own power onto the flatbed.

    Tom notes that while the car had not previously exhibited any issues, the myChevrolet app on his phone alerted him a week earlier that there was a problem with the high-voltage battery. He made an appointment with his local Chevy dealer but couldn’t keep it for obvious reasons.

    The car sat for six days before Tom drove it and it failed. When he parked it, it had 58% in the battery and on the day it failed, it showed 46%. Tom says that losing 12% while sitting is a bit excessive and this too could indicate a problem with the battery pack.

    He hasn’t heard back from the dealer yet, but Tom suggests the problem could even be something as simple as a faulty 12-volt battery. Even though EVs have a huge battery that takes up their entire floor, all still have a traditional 12-volt battery to power ancillaries and when it fails, it can make the car think it has a bigger problem. If the 12-volt battery fails, it could disrupt the battery monitoring system and lead the car to think the high-voltage battery is at fault.

    Digging around, I found several reports from Equinox EV owners who said they got the same high-voltage battery error message, but I didn’t find one that also correlated with the car suddenly bricking. I did find a document from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) stating that this error also occurs in the Blazer EV and the Cadillac Lyriq, Optiq and Vistiq, and that it’s usually just a software error that can be fixed by clearing error codes.

    One Equinox EV owner posted in a Facebook owners’ group to describe an issue very similar to what Tom described. They describe the state of charge suddenly going from 65% to 0% and losing power while in traffic, followed by a message telling them to “service the lithium-ion battery immediately.” That Equinox also ended up on the back of a flatbed truck on its way to a dealer, and more users in the comments said they had experienced it as well.

    Only one of the commenters said they heard back from the dealer after experiencing the same thing and the issue stemmed from “a corroded pin on one of the battery cables.” Tom’s car could have the same issue or it could really be something as simple as the 12-volt battery acting up.

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  • Can You Spot the Updates to the 2028 BMW M5 Touring?

    Can You Spot the Updates to the 2028 BMW M5 Touring?

    Believe it or not the BMW M5 Touring arrived in the U.S. just over a year ago. Time flies when you’re having fun in what used to be forbidden fruit.

    Now, an updated 2028 BMW M5 Touring has started undergoing cold-weather testing in the arctic region as the German automaker prepares the first round of updates to the plug-in hybrid wagon.

    The current M5 Touring marked the first time in history the wagon iteration of the nameplate came across the Atlantic in an official capacity. Enthusiasts have responded in what BMW’s described as a surprising amount of sales and enthusiasm.

    It’ll take a close eye, and probably a true enthusiast, to spot the updates to the upcoming M5 Touring. The camouflage is doing its job here, but there are clearly revised headlights, a tweaked grille design, and possibly some small updates to the lower front bumper design.

    2027 BMW M5 Touring spy shots
    2027 BMW M5 Touring spy shots
    2027 BMW M5 Touring spy shots
    2027 BMW M5 Touring spy shots
    2027 BMW M5 Touring spy shots
    2027 BMW M5 Touring spy shots
    2027 BMW M5 Touring spy shots
    Stefan Baldauf / SB-Medien

    The rear end sports updated taillights and the trademark M-specific quad exhaust tips. The bumper is camo-covered and might sport mild tweaks, but expect a similar design to today’s wagon.

    The M5 Touring is a plug-in hybrid superwagon with a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 paired with an electric motor and 14.8-kWh battery pack for a combined 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. That battery pack enables about 25 miles of electric-only driving range, according to BMW. At most the powertrain might get some revisions to squeeze out a bit more power and or efficiency, but don’t expect this 5,530-pound M car to lose meaningful weight with the upcoming refresh. Though, it could use a diet.

    Production of the 2028 BMW M5 Touring is expected to kick off in the summer of 2027.

    Got a tip? See something? Drop us a line at tips@thedrive.com

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  • Market Insight: BYD Shark 6 sales stall

    Market Insight: BYD Shark 6 sales stall

    SALES of the BYD Shark 6 ute appear to have plateaued to around 1200 units a month following the end of Fringe Benefits Tax exemption for plug-in hybrids and the usual end of financial year surge in commercial vehicle deliveries. 

     

    Aside from a pre-Christmas sales bump, the numbers suggest that the Shark 6 has either found its natural run-rate as a single-variant proposition, or perhaps potential buyers are deferring their decision until an updated model lands towards the middle of this year. 

     

    From a monthly high of 2993 units in June of last year, BYD Shark 6 sales have fallen to well below half that number in January, with just 1108 examples delivered across the country – the lowest volume since October 2025. 

     

    While peaks and troughs in utility sales are not uncommon, the BYD’s segment share figures have swung from a peak of 14.7 per cent in March 2025 when 2810 deliveries were recorded, to a low of 6.4 per cent coinciding with the October lull. 

     

    Ending 2025 with 18,073 sales since deliveries commenced in February, the Shark 6 captured an 8.5 per cent share of the 4×4 ute segment behind the Ford Ranger 4×4 (53,694 sold for a 25.3 per cent share) and Toyota HiLux 4×4 (43,661 units for a 20.5 per cent share). 

     

    Given no Sharks were sold in January 2025, the BYD gave Isuzu’s third-placed D-Max 4×4 a run for its money (21,085 sold, 9.9 per cent share) and comfortably outsold the Mitsubishi Triton 4×4 (placing fifth on 16,262 units and 7.7 per cent). 

     

    Across January 2026, Ford nearly three 4×4 Rangers for every Shark 6 (3241 units and 23.7 per cent segment share) while Toyota HiLux 4×4 volume was double that of the BYD (2275 units and 16.7 per cent share). 

     

    Segment share for the BYD Shark 6 fell to 8.1 per cent from 1108 deliveries, behind the Mitsubishi Triton 4×4 (1407 units, 10.3 per cent share), which in turn took podium rights from the Isuzu D-Max 4×4 (1393 units, 10.2 per cent share). 

     

    According to BYD Australia, however, it is more the case that buyers are deferring the purchase of their new Shark 6 until the more powerful, and more capable, update arrives in a few months’ time. 

     

    Speaking with GoAuto at the recent launch of the BYD Sealion 5 and Sealion 8, local chief commercial officer Stephen Collins said that virtually nothing is off the table when it comes to the updated Shark 6 plug-in hybrid ute, suggesting an uprated towing capacity, more hardcore four-wheel drive capabilities, and additional stopping power will likely feature across the range. 

     

    “We are looking at a variety of changes, and obviously a part of our fleet strategy is a cab-chassis version of the Shark 6,” he said. 

     

    “In the longer term, and where (Ford) Ranger and (Toyota) HiLux have been particularly successful, is offering a variety of high-spec, low-spec, and mid-spec variants, so that everything is available. 

     

    “While we have been very happy with the single-spec Shark 6 on offer to date, when we look at the market, we see there is opportunity there.” 

     

    Mr Collins suggested that in its revised form, the model has what it takes to go toe-to-toe with its segment leaders, saying BYD will offer attractive deals to fleet buyers to increase the volume of Shark 6 sales in areas not previously entertained by the Chinese importer. 

     

    “I reckon we can do better,” he said of Shark 6 sales. 

     

    “The vast majority of Shark 6 buyers are private buyers, and as we move toward offering a more diverse range that will appeal to fleets, we think there is potential to do better.” 

     

    BYD Shark 6 sales from introduction*:  

     

    *Sales figures supplied courtesy of VFACTS

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  • Best New Coupes for 2026

    Best New Coupes for 2026

    Toyota’s halo sports car, the GR Supra, delivers enough excitement, style, and drama to make up for the brand’s more sedate sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs. Developed and built alongside the BMW Z4 convertible, the GR Supra offers similar build quality and simpler—but still handsome—interior materials inside. The standard 382-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter BMW inline-six makes this two-seater fly. We especially like the version with the six-speed manual transmission. Rear-wheel drive is the only setup, and the GR Supra’s sure-footed chassis and sharp steering enable it to come alive on twisty roads and race courses. Sure, it may borrow a little too heavily from the BMW parts bin for some Toyota fanboys, and its swept-back exterior design creates some awfully large blind spots, but even so, the GR Supra remains one of our favorite sports cars. It’s a driver’s car and an enthusiast’s delight. 2026 will be the final year of this generation of the Supra, and Toyota is sending it off with a Final Edition model with special tweaks.

    Review, Pricing, and Specs

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  • Long-term test: MINI John Cooper Works

    Long-term test: MINI John Cooper Works

    On my opening run, I could tell the MINI had plenty of grip – only if I pushed it to extremes would it get out of shape. The JCW’s damping is exceptionally firm on the road (something we’ll cover more later on), but on a track it helped the MINI feel nimble, as did the typically MINI-like darty steering. Confidence levels were up as a result, so I pushed harder, attempting to really test the balance of the JCW through Curborough’s chicane. 

    While I was having plenty of fun, there were some elements of the MINI JCW that frustrated. I quickly learned that if I was to keep the transmission in manual mode via the paddles during a run, I’d have to start in second gear, because trying to change gear on the opening tight corner (or any corner, for that matter) is very fiddly, thanks to the MINI’s tiny gearshift paddles hiding behind that fat-rimmed steering wheel. 

    The transmission itself isn’t the best either. Towards the end of the day I found it better to leave it in automatic mode, because it often ignored my manual inputs. There’s a slight issue with the engine on track too. You don’t notice it much on the road, but wringing out every bhp can be tough when the gearbox often grabs a higher gear than you’d like. 

    However, to the car’s credit, even after a full day of hard driving, the MINI JCW didn’t bat an eyelid. The temperatures and brakes all looked and felt good at the end.

    Rating 4.0 stars
    Model tested MINI John Cooper Works
    On fleet since: September 2025
    Price new: £31,200
    Powertrain: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol
    Power/torque: 228bhp/380Nm
    CO2/BiK: 154g/km/36%
    Options: Metallic paint (£550), 18-inch JCW
    Insurance*: Group: 27 Quote: £919
    Mileage 6,331 miles
    Efficiency: 38.7mpg
    Any problems? None so far

    *Insurance quote from AA (0800 107 0680) for a 42-year-old in Banbury, Oxon, with three points.

    Buy a car with Auto Express. Our nationwide dealer network has some fantastic cars on offer right now with new, used and leasing deals to choose from…

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  • Ferrari’s 849 Testarossa, One-Off Supercar To Star At Palm Beach Caval – duPont REGISTRY DriftBreath

    Ferrari’s 849 Testarossa, One-Off Supercar To Star At Palm Beach Caval – duPont REGISTRY DriftBreath

    At the height of the global concours calendar, the Palm Beach Cavallino Classic has always been where Ferrari’s past, present, and future converge in the most glamorous way possible. In 2026, that convergence becomes even more powerful: The world’s premier event dedicated to Ferrari cars returns February 13-15 for its 35th anniversary, delivering not only the most important gathering of Maranello machinery anywhere in America, but also two of the most anticipated unveilings of the year: the exclusive North American premiere of the 849 Testarossa and the debut of a brand-new Ferrari One-Off.

    Set against the refined coastal elegance of South Florida, the Palm Beach Cavallino Classic 2026 represents a major evolution for the event. For the first time in its history, the celebration will be hosted at The Boca Raton, one of America’s most iconic luxury resorts and private clubs, creating a new stage worthy of Ferrari’s modern masterpieces and its legendary heritage alike.

    Celebrating 35 Years of Cavallino Classic Excellence

    Founded as a tribute to the artistry, performance, and legacy of Ferrari, the Cavallino Classic has grown into the most prestigious Ferrari concours in the world. For its 35th anniversary, the 2026 edition introduces several major new elements designed to elevate the experience for collectors, enthusiasts, and VIP guests alike.

    The event retains its proven format, beginning with Friday’s Tour d’Elegance and Party Under the Stars, followed by Saturday’s Concorso d’Eleganza, the emotional and visual centerpiece of the weekend. The celebration continues with Cavallino Night, before concluding with Classic & Sports Sunday, traditionally held at the Mar-a-Lago Club.

    Another significant addition is the Cavallino Auction by RM Sotheby’s, marking the first time the world-renowned auction house will conduct an official sale as part of the Cavallino Classic. RM Sotheby’s will present “an exceptional selection of Ferrari models,” underscoring the caliber of collections that define this elite gathering.

    A North American Premiere: The 849 Testarossa

    The most anticipated moment of the 2026 Palm Beach Cavallino Classic will take place on Friday evening during the Party Under the Stars at The Boca Raton, when Ferrari unveils the 849 Testarossa in its exclusive North American premiere.

    The latest Ferrari, the 849 Testarossa represents a new chapter for the marque, and its introduction at Cavallino Classic reinforces the event’s standing as Ferrari’s most important stage in North America. Surrounded by collectors, VIPs, and the brand’s most dedicated patrons, the unveiling is designed to be as dramatic and glamorous as the car itself.

    Alongside the Testarossa, Ferrari’s full contemporary lineup will be on display. The showcase will include the Ferrari Amalfi, and the Ferrari Purosangue, the first ever four-door, four-seater that encapsulates the pure spirit of the brand.

    A Ferrari One-Off Takes the Spotlight

    Adding to the exclusivity of the weekend, a brand-new Ferrari one-off will make its public debut at Casa Ferrari during the Palm Beach Cavallino Classic. One-off Ferraris are among the rarest automobiles in existence, commissioned by elite clients and tailored through Ferrari’s bespoke personalization programs. Their appearance is exceptionally rare, making this unveiling one of the most closely-watched moments of the 2026 event.

    The one-off will further anchor Casa Ferrari as the epicenter of modern Maranello design during the Cavallino Classic weekend, turning The Boca Raton into a temporary home for Ferrari’s most exclusive creations.

    Honoring Ferrari’s Heritage and Craftsmanship

    In addition to the modern supercars, a dedicated area will be devoted to Ferrari Classiche and The Ferrari Foundation, highlighting the craftsmanship, preservation, and educational initiatives that support the brand’s legacy. Among the featured cars will be the Tailor Made 812 Competizione and the SP3 ‘599+1’, which was “previously auctioned to benefit the brand’s educational initiatives.”

    These displays reinforce the Cavallino Classic’s unique ability to unite Ferrari’s past and future in one refined, collector-focused environment.

    America’s Premier Ferrari Gathering

    For three and a half decades, the Palm Beach Cavallino Classic has stood apart from every other North American automotive event. It is not simply a concours, but a luxury experience that blends rare Ferraris, world-class hospitality, and an international community of collectors.

    With the U.S. premiere of the 849 Testarossa and the unveiling of a brand-new Ferrari one-off, the 35th anniversary edition promises to be one of the most significant and luxurious moments in the event’s storied history – a fitting tribute to Ferrari’s enduring power to captivate the world.


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