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BMW M2 to Gain AWD This Year
Andrew Evans
February 27, 2026
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Ferrari 250 GT California Spider heads to auction, starts at $6.5m
Pininfarina designs striking trophy for first F1 race at Madring
Skoda’s bold new color was voted for by the internet
Lightly used Praga R1 race car: supercar performance for sportscar money
Championship-winning Ferrari 499P upgrades detailed for 2026
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
BMW is set to introduce an all-wheel drive version of the M2, aligning it with its larger M models while still offering a rear-wheel drive variant for purist enthusiasts. The M2 xDrive will feature an upgraded version of the existing engine, enhancing performance and traction, with production slated to start in Mexico by mid-2026.
Skoda has introduced a new paint option called Dragon Skin for the Octavia, which fans voted for through social media, marking the model's 30th anniversary. Available for an additional cost of £855, this vibrant color will be limited to specific versions of the Octavia, including vRS models, as well as a limited run of the Octavia Sportline.
De Tomaso Automobili has unveiled details about its new V12 engine, with the naturally aspirated 7.0-liter powerplant generating 900hp and reaching a redline of 10,200 rpm. Specifically designed for the P900 hypercar and developed in collaboration with ItalTecnica, this engine features a lightweight design and advanced lubrication systems, with the P900 poised to make its track debut later this year.
Stellantis reported a significant financial setback in North America, incurring a loss of $2.2 billion last year, primarily attributed to tariffs imposed during the current White House administration. As a result, employees represented by the UAW will not receive profit-sharing bonuses, contrasting sharply with their counterparts at Ford and GM, who will benefit from substantial payouts despite facing their own profit declines.
Maserati's sales plummeted to 7,900 units in 2025, marking a significant decline from the previous year's figures and resulting in the brand's lowest annual total since 2012. The company attributes this downturn to a reduced product lineup, tariffs in the US, and a waning demand for luxury items, particularly in the Chinese market.
According to the latest EPA report, Honda has achieved the highest fuel efficiency among full-line automakers in the US, with an average of 31.0 mpg, surpassing the industry average by 3.8 mpg. The company's success is largely attributed to the rising popularity of hybrids, particularly its CR-V, Accord, and Civic models, which have collectively contributed to record sales and helped stabilize Honda's performance amid fluctuating market conditions.
General Motors Specialty Vehicles UK will spearhead the company's re-entry into the UK automotive market, leveraging its experience from other right-hand drive regions like Australia. This initiative introduces a direct purchasing option for British consumers, allowing them to acquire premium models such as the Cadillac Escalade-V and GMC Yukon Denali without relying on third-party importers.
Ford is recalling 4.4 million of its trucks, SUVs, and vans due to a software issue that may lead to the loss of braking and trailer lights while towing, heightening the risk of accidents. The recall affects various models from 2021 to 2026, and while the company has not reported any related crashes or injuries, there have been several incidents potentially linked to this malfunction.
MOTORSPORT
The upcoming Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix will feature a unique trophy designed by Pininfarina Studios, reflecting the distinctive characteristics of the new Madring circuit set to open in Madrid this September. Despite initial challenges, organizers are confident that construction will be completed on time, allowing for a test event prior to the race weekend.
Ferrari has disclosed updates to its 499P Hypercar as part of a revised aerodynamic strategy for the upcoming 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship, following its initial testing at the Windshear wind tunnel. While the team opted against significant modifications, it implemented several minor adjustments to enhance airflow dynamics and overall performance without altering the car's fundamental design.
Honda is addressing significant vibration problems with its new engine ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season, following a challenging pre-season testing phase with Aston Martin that saw limited mileage due to various technical issues. While the team aims to have the car competitive by the Japanese Grand Prix, the complexity of the issue suggests that multiple components may be involved, complicating the repair process.
McLaren Racing has entered into a multi-year collaboration with Etihad Airways, enhancing their presence in both Formula 1 and the World Endurance Championship. The partnership will prominently display Etihad branding on race cars and drivers' gear, while also introducing new fan experiences and a special aircraft livery set to launch in 2026.
The upcoming Formula 1 season opener in Melbourne will present challenges for Max Verstappen and Red Bull, as the team continues to refine its new engine and car design. While Verstappen acknowledges the positive aspects of the Bahrain tests, he remains realistic about the need for further enhancements to compete effectively against rivals.
For fans of Formula 1 in the United States, the upcoming 2026 season will be accessible through Apple TV, starting with the Australian Grand Prix next weekend. In addition to broadcasting, Apple is enhancing its F1 engagement by integrating new features into its Maps app and Fitness+ platform, offering detailed insights about race locations and interactive content for viewers and attendees alike.
McLaren and Chip Ganassi Racing have concluded their legal dispute, which stemmed from a breach of contract involving driver Alex Palou, resulting in a court ruling that mandated Palou to compensate McLaren over $12 million. Following the settlement, Palou expressed his regret over the situation and acknowledged the support he received from both McLaren and CGR, as he prepares to focus on the upcoming IndyCar season.
NASCAR has revealed the structure for the 2026 All-Star Race, which will feature all Cup Series drivers participating in two initial 75-lap segments before narrowing the field to 26 for a concluding 200-lap segment. The top 26 drivers will be determined through an inversion after the first segment, while race winners from the previous two seasons and former champions will secure their places in the final stage.
NAPA Racing UK will introduce a saloon variant of the Ford Focus in the British Touring Car Championship this season, thanks to a modification in the homologation rules that allows the use of vehicles not currently available in the UK market. The new model, derived from the successful hatchback version, features enhanced aerodynamic design while maintaining key elements from its predecessor, and the team is eager to refine it for competitive performance.
CURIOSITIES
The Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider, a remarkable variant of the iconic 250 GT series, combines a storied motorsport heritage with exceptional road performance, making it a sought-after collector's item. Currently available for auction, this 1959 model is one of only 30 made in this configuration and the last with the Tipo 128D V12, with a starting bid of $6.5 million anticipated to rise significantly.
While many enthusiasts might think that true race cars are out of reach financially, the reality is that used models like the 2014 Praga R1 can be surprisingly affordable, often costing less than a new entry-level sports car. For around $129,800, buyers can acquire this high-performance vehicle, which offers a thrilling driving experience that far surpasses typical road cars, and even has the potential for street-legal modifications.
In Omaha, Nebraska, a sudden sinkhole emerged at an intersection, engulfing a silver Ram pickup and a red Jeep while they were stopped at a red light. Authorities believe the incident was triggered by a pressurized underground water leak that compromised the road's structural integrity, although fortunately, the drivers emerged unharmed.
Florida is moving forward with legislation that would limit e-bike speeds to 10 mph on shared paths and sidewalks, reflecting a growing trend among states to reassess the integration of electric bikes in public areas. This proposal, which focuses on safety by addressing speed differentials between e-bike riders and pedestrians, is part of a broader national conversation about the regulation of e-bikes in response to their increasing use.
Shan Habib, a car aficionado, discovered an exceptional Maserati Merak SS while browsing an owners' club, fulfilling a long-held desire for the model. This particular vehicle, distinguished by its lightweight design and enhanced performance features, underwent extensive restoration prior to his purchase, ensuring both its aesthetic appeal and driving comfort remain intact.
CarMax has agreed to a settlement of nearly $500,000 following allegations from the Justice Department that it improperly repossessed vehicles from active-duty military personnel without obtaining the necessary court orders. As part of the resolution, the company will implement new policies to prevent future violations while compensating affected servicemembers and addressing negative credit impacts resulting from these actions.
Kansas has enacted a law that invalidates driver's licenses for transgender individuals if their gender does not match the sex assigned at birth, requiring immediate surrender of these licenses without a grace period. This legislation, which was implemented following a veto override, has sparked concerns about the potential legal repercussions for those who continue to drive with invalid credentials.
A Geico customer has initiated a lawsuit against the insurance company, claiming that it added two unfamiliar individuals to her car insurance policy without her permission, resulting in increased premiums. The legal action, which seeks class action status, alleges that Geico improperly used third-party data to identify and add these drivers without verifying their connection to the policyholder.
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