Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:

• Cowell leads Aston Martin's F1 overhaul

• Mazda MX-5's exclusive Japan edition

• Subaru WRX STI's controversial comeback

• Ford plots a return to prototype racing

• Owner returns her RX-7 after 25 years

...and more!

INDUSTRY NEWS

Toyota has revealed a GR Yaris M Concept at Tokyo Auto Salon, which features a new, mid-mounted 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This concept vehicle will take part in Japan's Super Taikyu series as Toyota explores the potential of the GR Yaris. [Car Throttle]

A factory-tuned Mustang developed in partnership with Vaughn Gittin Jr.'s RTR tuning firm is expected to offer more power and performance than the stock model while showcasing unique styling elements that differentiate it from standard EcoBoost Mustangs. The specifics of the performance upgrades remain undisclosed, but the vehicle will incorporate parts from the Dark Horse trim and feature distinctive design cues like lime-green-painted Brembo brake calipers and illuminated portholes in the front grille. [Car and Driver]

Mazda has revealed a limited-edition, Japan-only version of the Roadster at Tokyo Auto Salon, with more power than the standard car. Called the Mazda Roadster 12R, it features performance enhancements to boost power to 197hp and exclusive styling, with only 200 units planned and priced at approximately ¥7 million each. [Car Throttle]

The WRX STI is back with the introduction of the WRX S210 STI prototype, which will be limited to a run of 500 units for the Japanese market. While it features a power increase to 296bhp and various chassis enhancements, it is criticized for its CVT gearbox and overall underwhelming performance compared to its predecessors. [Car Throttle]

Micro has introduced the all-electric Microlino Spider aimed at the American market as a replacement for golf carts in low-speed communities. The vehicle is designed to cater to the majority of trips made alone, contrasting with the trend towards larger vehicles in the US. [The Verge - Transportation]

Stellantis faced significant challenges in 2024, including production shutdowns and a 37% decline in vehicle output, leading to the lowest production levels since 1956. The Maserati brand, in particular, experienced a 79% drop in production at its Modena plant, prompting concerns about its future. [Autoblog]

Hyundai Mobis is introducing a holographic head-up display that projects information onto the bottom of the windshield, enhancing visibility and reducing driver distraction. This advanced system has been installed in a Kia EV9 and utilizes a transparent film to deliver images efficiently while allowing for various configurations. [Carscoops]

BYD has confirmed the European specification of its new Atto 2 crossover, positioning it as a rival for the likes of the Vauxhall Frontera and Renault 4. The Atto 2 features a single motor delivering 174bhp, a 45.1kWh battery with a range of 194 miles, and innovative cell-to-body construction for enhanced chassis rigidity. [Autocar]

BMW is discontinuing its gesture control feature due to low usage and the advancement of its voice control system powered by artificial intelligence. The decision coincides with the introduction of the Neue Klasse line, which features new technology and a shift away from physical buttons. [Motor1]

Honda is eyeing up Nissan's full-size vehicles as a potential way to expand its footing in the U.S. market, as the merger discussions reveal Honda's interest in leveraging Nissan's strengths in large passenger vehicles and production scale. The collaboration is expected to facilitate shared development costs, particularly for Honda's upcoming operating system, Asimo OS, set to debut in 2026. [InsideEVs]

Mercedes-Benz, Sony Pictures Entertainment, IMAX Corporation, and DTS have announced a new partnership aimed at enhancing in-car entertainment systems by integrating SPE's RIDEVU system into compatible Mercedes models. The integration will provide an immersive experience featuring IMAX Enhanced content for vehicles equipped with the MBUX Entertainment Package Plus and an active Mercedes-Benz Connect subscription. [BenzInsider​.com]

Fiat's U.S. sales rose from a dismal 605 units in 2023 to a similarly unimpressive 1,528 units in 2024, revealing that the reported 154% increase is largely misleading. The brand's growth is primarily attributed to the introduction of the 500e, which has struggled to gain traction in a competitive EV market, highlighting Fiat's diminished role in the automotive landscape. [Autoblog]

MOTORSPORT

Aston Martin's new Formula 1 boss Andy Cowell will take on the role of team principal in addition to his position as chief executive officer following a major restructure that includes the recruitment of key personnel from rival teams. The team aims to improve its performance after struggling to maintain competitiveness in recent seasons. [BBC Sport F1]

General Motors announced the creation of a new business: GM Performance Power Units LLC to assist Cadillac in becoming a full works Formula 1 team by the end of the decade. The initiative aims to elevate Cadillac's presence in F1 beyond that of a branded team or engine partner, aspiring to develop its own complete cars akin to established competitors like Ferrari and Mercedes. [The Drive]

Ford is working on returning to the increasingly popular realm of prototype racing as it engages in advanced discussions with chassis constructors and potential partner teams. The company's history in prototype competition includes notable programs like the GT40 and its recent successes with the Ford GT in IMSA and WEC. [RACER]

Extreme H has completed the production run of its race car, the Pioneer 25, which replaces the Odyssey 21 that has been utilized by the series' predecessor Extreme E for the last four years. Ten hydrogen fuel cell cars have been built by Spark Racing Technologies, incorporating advanced engineering and sustainable innovation, as part of preparations for the FIA Extreme H World Cup. [RACER]

Toto Wolff has revisited the fateful 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, emphasizing that Lewis Hamilton should have won the championship under any scenario. Wolff criticized the actions of then-F1 race director Michael Masi, arguing that his decisions deviated from established rules and led to a highly contentious outcome. [RacingNews365]

Nasser Al Attiyah appeared to have secured his first stage win of this year's Dakar, but a 10-minute penalty due to a missing spare wheel resulted in him losing the victory to Seth Quintero by just one second. [RACER]

M-Sport is likely to expand its World Rally Championship entries at selected events this season after securing Gregoire Munster and Josh McErlean to full-time drives for 2025. The team aims to continue its part-time entries while considering additional drivers like Martins Sesks, who has shown promise in previous outings. [Autosport]

FUN STUFF

80-year-old Naoko Nishimoto of Nagasaki drove her Mazda RX-7 for 25 years before returning it to the dealer, marking the end of her journey with the iconic rotary sports car. The dealer honored her ownership with a framed personalized plate and a letter from Mazda's president, while the car is set for restoration and promotional use. [Autoblog]

A deleted scene from Pixar's Cars that suggests a car's engine is the seat of its soul raises ethical questions about the nature of identity and consciousness in the Cars universe. The implications of this scene challenge theories about the relationship between humans and cars, highlighting the complexities of identity within this fictional world. [The Autopian]

A driver called in a tip about another driver who they suspected was under the influence, but it turned out that the caller was the one who was inebriated. The incident highlights the ongoing issue of impaired driving and the importance of responsible behavior on the roads. [Carscoops]

In Thailand, it is illegal for any driver to drive a car or ride a motorcycle without a shirt on, and violations can result in fines. Similar laws exist in Australia, where penalties for driving shirtless can vary based on local regulations and circumstances. [Drive]

A one-off Mercedes-Benz W126 500 TE wagon reveals the intricate customization techniques of a bygone era. The car, based on the body of an S124, harks back to an age of coachbuilding known as the '1000 SEL' era, with this wagon that was originally built for a Japanese comedian by Styling Garage Japan highlighting the lengths customers would go to in order to own unique vehicles. [Speedhunters]

One of the final vehicles made by the Bowler brand, a 2023 Bowler Bulldog, has come up for sale. Bowler, which had been bought out of administration by Land Rover, was set to build a range of extreme Defenders before its factory was closed down last year, and this car was the last in rally raid specification. [PistonHeads​.com]

That's all for today! We would love to hear your feedback, so just reply to this message to let us know what you thought about this issue. See you next time!