Is Germany losing its place at the top of the automotive world?

The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680 redefines luxury SUVs.

The Nissan Z NISMO could finally get the manual enthusiasts have been asking for.

McLaren prepares for its return to Le Mans with its new Hypercar.

Plus automotive news from around the world and the biggest events coming up.

Let’s dive in.

Volkswagen has cut its 2026 sales forecast after weaker than expected results.

Chinese buyers are choosing domestic brands over traditional German manufacturers.

Volkswagen's sales in China continue to fall, putting pressure on its biggest market.

The company is cutting costs and considering major restructuring to stay competitive.

BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Porsche are facing many of the same challenges.

Chinese brands now compete on technology, quality, and price, not just affordability.

Europe's biggest car companies are rethinking how they build and sell their vehicles.

For decades, German brands set the standard. That dominance is now being challenged.

The outcome could reshape everything from affordable cars to luxury performance cars.

This could become the biggest shift in the automotive industry since Japanese brands changed the market in the 1970s and 1980s.

Twenty years from now, what do you think historians will say caused this shift? Was it the rise of Chinese automakers, electric vehicles, changing consumer tastes, or the rising cost of cars?

The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680 packs a 603 horsepower twin-turbo V8.

Predictive suspension scans the road ahead and adjusts the dampers before bumps are reached. (This makes the overall driving experience much smoother)

A Burmester 3D surround sound system delivers a movie theater-like listening experience.

A multi-stage cabin air filter system helps remove dust, pollen, and other outside contaminants.

Despite its size and luxury, the GLS 680 can reach 60 mph in about 4.1 seconds.

If money wasn't a factor, would you rather own a luxury SUV like the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 680 or a traditional luxury sedan like the Rolls-Royce Phantom?

Toyota has been testing the new MR2 at Fuji Speedway, a famous race track near Mount Fuji in Japan.

The prototype appears to use a rear mid-engine layout.

It is expected to use a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine from Toyota Gazoo Racing (GR).

Factory output is expected to be around 450 horsepower.

With aftermarket upgrades, some believe it could make close to 600 horsepower.

It could offer supercar-like performance at a price many more enthusiasts can afford.

If Toyota delivers 450 horsepower at the right price, could the MR2 become the best value sports car on the market?

The 2027 Nissan Z NISMO is expected to finally offer a manual transmission.

Until now, the NISMO model has only been available with an automatic.

The twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 is expected to remain under the hood.

Pricing is expected to stay below $69,000.

A manual option could make the Z NISMO much more appealing to driving enthusiasts.

It could become one of the few new performance cars to offer this combination of power, price, and a manual gearbox.

If you had around $70,000 to spend, would you choose the BMW M2 (6-speed manual) or the Nissan Z NISMO manual, and why?

Germany: Mercedes-AMG has been spotted testing the ultra-exclusive CLE Mythos, expected to be one of the brand's rarest V8 performance cars.

Italy: Alfa Romeo has previewed a new compact SUV that will expand its lineup in the coming years.

France: Bugatti has officially ended production of its legendary W16 engine after nearly two decades.

Japan: Honda has confirmed the new Prelude will return with a simulated six-speed manual driving mode.

United Kingdom: McLaren is continuing to test its new MCL-HY Hypercar ahead of the brand's highly anticipated return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2027.

Monterey Car Week — August 7–16, 2026
One of the biggest weeks of the year for collectors, enthusiasts, and manufacturers.

Monterey Car Week Drives — August 7–16, 2026
From Highway 1 to 17-Mile Drive, thousands of enthusiasts and supercars take to California's best driving roads throughout Car Week.

The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering — August 14, 2026
Exclusive vehicle debuts, rare classics, and some of the world's most desirable cars.

Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance — August 16, 2026
The world's most prestigious concours, showcasing historic automobiles, concept cars, and future debuts.

Salon Privé at Blenheim Palace — August 26–30, 2026
Luxury cars, concours competition, and exclusive manufacturer showcases in England.