This October, Chevrolet is once again putting the power of pink in the spotlight. As part of its ongoing support for the American Cancer Society (ACS), Chevy has brought back its specially-themed pink Corvette Stingray pace car to lead the field in two of NASCAR’s biggest fall races — a bold and eye-catching symbol of the automaker’s 15-year commitment to the fight against breast cancer.

 

The vibrant pink Stingray will pace the NASCAR Cup Series at Talladega Superspeedway and Martinsville Speedway, proudly representing the “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” initiative. This campaign raises both awareness and critical funds for breast cancer research, support services, and education — a cause that touches millions across the country.

 

“Chevrolet stands with the American Cancer Society’s efforts to end breast cancer,” said Todd Christensen, Director, Motorsports Marketing & Activation at Chevrolet. “When the pink Chevrolet Corvette Stingray pace car leads the NASCAR Cup Series field for the next two weeks, we hope fans will join us in raising funds for ACS by participating in ‘Making Strides Against Breast Cancer’ events across the US this October.”

 

Lap by Lap, Dollar by Dollar

 

Chevrolet has pledged $500 for every caution lap the pink Stingray leads during the two featured races, up to $25,000. That means each yellow flag moment on track directly translates into support for those battling breast cancer.

 

But that’s not all. In a high-stakes twist, Chevy will also donate $1,500 for every Team Chevy driver that finishes in the top 10 at either Talladega or Martinsville — potentially doubling the impact depending on race outcomes.

 

A Legacy of Support

 

Last year, the campaign saw 54 caution laps across both events, resulting in an $18,900 donation to the American Cancer Society. The 2024 pink Camaro SS pace car used in that campaign is set to go under the hammer at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Fall Auction on Friday, October 17. Chevrolet will donate 100% of the hammer price to ACS, continuing to drive impact off the track as well.

 

First Stop: Talladega

 

The 2025 campaign kicks off this Sunday, October 19, at the YellaWood 500 at Talladega Superspeedway — a key race in the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. The pink Corvette Stingray will make its much-anticipated debut during the penultimate race of the Round of Eight, ensuring maximum visibility during one of the most-watched weekends in motorsports.

 

Join the Drive

 

Chevy’s commitment to “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” goes beyond aesthetics. The pink Corvette Stingray is more than just a pace car — it’s a mobile reminder of the power of community, hope, and horsepower in the fight against breast cancer.

 

Whether you’re at the track, tuning in from home, or walking in a local Making Strides event, there are many ways to support the cause this October. Because every lap, every finish, and every step matters.

The Jeep® Grand Wagoneer has always stood as a symbol of American-made luxury and legendary off-road heritage. Now, the 2026 model is ready to redefine the premium SUV landscape—offering more capability, modern electrification, and family-first versatility at a surprisingly accessible starting price under $65,000. With bold new styling, next-generation technology, and America’s first range-extended electric SUV application, the new Grand Wagoneer is a flagship reimagined for a new era. 

  

Unified Identity, Elevated Legacy 

  

In a major brand evolution, Jeep has fully integrated the Grand Wagoneer under its unified identity. Every 2026 model proudly wears the Jeep® badge for the first time, affirming its place in the Jeep family and simplifying the buying process for customers. This shift also retires the standalone “Wagoneer” name, streamlining the lineup under one unmistakable banner: the Jeep Grand Wagoneer. 

  

Two Powertrains, One Powerful Promise 

  

At the heart of the 2026 Grand Wagoneer lies a choice between two high-output powertrains—each engineered to deliver uncompromising performance, whether you’re chasing quiet commutes or epic road trips. 

  

America’s First Range-Extended Electric SUV (REEV) 

  

Available later in the model year, the Grand Wagoneer REEV breaks new ground as the first SUV in the U.S. to offer a range-extended electric powertrain. Combining a 92-kWh battery with a 3.6-liter V6 generator, the REEV delivers: 

  

  

This setup ensures smooth, all-electric performance for everyday drives while offering gas-assisted range for longer trips—no compromises, no range anxiety. 

  

Award-winning Hurricane Twin Turbo I6 

  

The standard 3.0-liter Hurricane Twin Turbo engine brings serious muscle to the table: 

  

  

Refined Design: No Chrome, All Class 

  

The 2026 Grand Wagoneer’s updated look is a bold evolution of American luxury. The new front fascia features: 

  

  

In a bold design move, Jeep is retiring chrome on the Grand Wagoneer. The chrome-free exterior signals a shift to more sustainable and modern materials, offering a cleaner, more purposeful aesthetic. 

  

With new wheel designs (18″ to 22″) and fresh color palettes, the 2026 Grand Wagoneer gives buyers a broader range of personalization than ever before—whether your vibe is rugged adventure or upscale sophistication. 

  

Luxury for All Rows: Interior Excellence 

  

Across its trims—from the value-packed base model to the opulent Summit Reserve—the Grand Wagoneer brings next-level comfort, craftsmanship, and tech. 

  

Trims & Interior Highlights: 

  

  

A larger Head-up Display (HUD) debuts in 2026, offering twice the field of view and a better driver interface—standard on upper trims and available on mid-range models. 

  

Built in America, Backed by Innovation 

  

Manufactured in Warren, Michigan, the new Grand Wagoneer—both ICE and REEV variants—is part of Stellantis’ $97.6 million investment in American electrification. It’s a commitment to delivering innovation without sacrificing Jeep’s core values of capability, comfort, and confidence. 

  

Final Thoughts: A Flagship for the Future

  

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer marks a pivotal moment for the brand—an SUV that merges its rugged past with a high-tech, electrified future. With its REEV breakthrough, luxurious interiors, and accessible pricing, it’s not just a big SUV. It’s a big deal. 

  

Whether you’re hauling gear, road-tripping with the family, or cruising through city streets in quiet electric mode, the new Grand Wagoneer gives you the freedom to go farther—without compromise. 

In a triumph that resonates with driving enthusiasts across generations, the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R have been jointly named MotorTrend’s 2026 Car of the Year—a prestigious accolade that places these two performance hatchbacks at the top of the automotive world once again. 

  

This marks the third time a Golf model has received the Golden Calipers, MotorTrend’s iconic award. The Golf GTI first earned the title back in 1985, followed by the entire Mk7 Golf family in 2015. Now, over 40 years after that first win, the eighth-generation GTI and R prove that evolution and passion can go hand-in-hand. 

  

A Celebration of Driving Spirit 

  

MotorTrend editors praised the Golf GTI and Golf R for their standout combination of build quality, engaging driving dynamics, modern design, advanced technology, and overall value. The publication emphasized how each model achieves its mission—whether it’s the GTI’s fun-to-drive practicality or the Golf R’s all-wheel-drive performance—“with precision and confidence.” 

  

“Authentic and spirited, the Golf continues to inspire the same enthusiasm it has since its debut,” wrote MotorTrend. 

  

The recognition follows significant updates to the 2025 model year, including refreshed exterior styling, enhanced interior tech, and a power increase for the Golf R. These improvements refined the eighth-generation platform without diluting what has made the Golf GTI and R cult favorites: their ability to balance performance and usability in a way few cars can. 

  

The Heartbeat of VW Enthusiasts 

  

“For 50 years, the Golf lineup has been the enthusiast heartbeat of Volkswagen in America,” said Kjell Gruner, President and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America. “This recognition from MotorTrend celebrates not just the Golf’s success, but also the community of drivers who have defined the performance Golf as the hot hatch.” 

  

That community—millions strong—has long cherished the GTI and R for offering European driving dynamics, daily usability, and timeless design at a relatively attainable price point. For 2026, the Golf GTI is offered in S, SE, and Autobahn trims, starting at $34,590 MSRP, while the Golf R, now available with the sleek Euro Style Package, begins at $49,455 MSRP. Both include a $1,275 destination fee. 

  

What Makes a Car of the Year? 

  

To be named Car of the Year, vehicles must be all-new or significantly updated and evaluated against MotorTrend’s six key criteria: 

  

  

The GTI and R scored highly across all categories, further cementing their status as benchmarks in the performance compact segment. 

  

A Legacy Reinforced 

  

With this honor, the Golf GTI and Golf R join an elite group of vehicles that have not only endured the test of time but improved with age. They represent a rare breed of cars that continue to innovate without losing their identity—offering driving excitement that’s as accessible as it is addictive. 

  

As the hot hatch segment evolves, the 2026 Golf GTI and R stand tall—not just as reminders of where the genre began, but as standard-bearers for where it’s going. 

Toyota is once again redefining what it means to drive a vehicle packed with high-end technology. With the debut of the all-new 2026 Toyota RAV4, the automaker is rolling out the most advanced version yet of its Toyota Audio Multimedia system — a cutting-edge digital experience that puts smart, intuitive features at the heart of your drive. 

  

Whether you’re behind the wheel of the new RAV4 GR Sport PHEV or looking forward to future Toyota vehicles, this next-gen multimedia upgrade delivers a seamless, connected, and customizable experience that stands tall among vehicles with high-end technology. 

  

A New Era of Connectivity Begins with 5G 

  

One of the headline upgrades is Toyota’s first-ever integration of AT&T 5G network connectivity. Drivers can expect faster, more reliable connections across North America, enabling features like integrated streaming and voice commands to work smoother than ever — no phone tethering required. This makes Toyota one of the first in the segment to deliver 5G-powered smart vehicles as standard. 

  

Smarter Interface, Personalized for You 

  

The new Toyota Audio Multimedia interface feels more like a premium smartphone than a traditional infotainment screen. Available in 10.5-inch or 12.9-inch displays, the touchscreen now supports: 

  

  

This level of personalization puts Toyota at the forefront of intuitive, tech-forward vehicle design. 

  

“Hey Toyota” Just Got Smarter 

  

Toyota’s Voice Assistant has also leveled up. Now embedded directly into the vehicle’s head unit, it offers lightning-fast responses without relying on cloud connection. 

  

Drivers and passengers can simply say “Hey Toyota” (or variations like “Hi Toyota” or “Okay Toyota”) to adjust climate controls, change radio stations, navigate to destinations, or even do quick math. This upgraded feature is a hallmark of vehicles with advanced voice command systems and shows Toyota’s commitment to smarter, more human-centric UX. 

  

Full-Screen Navigation in the Gauge Cluster 

  

In a Toyota first, turn-by-turn navigation now appears full-screen on the digital gauge cluster, right behind the steering wheel. No more glancing sideways — just seamless, safe driving with full access to routes and real-time traffic updates, courtesy of the optional Drive Connect subscription. 

  

Standard Drive Recorder — Dashcam Built In 

  

The 2026 RAV4 is also debuting a built-in Drive Recorder. This dashcam-style system uses the vehicle’s exterior cameras to capture events, either manually or automatically triggered. Video clips can be viewed directly on the touchscreen or exported via USB, all without needing third-party equipment — a huge plus for tech-savvy drivers. 

  

EV-Smart Features for the Electrified Future 

  

Owners of Toyota plug-in hybrid vehicles, like the 2026 RAV4 GR Sport PHEV, will appreciate the newly introduced EV Domain: 

  

  

These features are designed for drivers of electrified Toyota vehicles who want a streamlined, intelligent charging experience. 

  

Remote Control from the Toyota App 

  

Thanks to upgraded Remote Connect features, drivers can now do more from their smartphone, including: 

  

  

All of this is possible through the improved Toyota app with a Remote Connect subscription, bringing smartphone-level convenience to your Toyota vehicle. 

  

Premium Entertainment: SiriusXM with 360L® and Spotify® 

  

The upgraded multimedia system is designed for audiophiles, podcast lovers, and anyone who enjoys entertainment on the road: 

  

  

These offerings reinforce Toyota’s position among vehicles with premium in-car entertainment. 

  

Built for Today, Ready for Tomorrow 

  

Built on Automotive Grade Linux and enhanced by the Arene SDK from Woven by Toyota, the new platform sets the foundation for software-defined Toyota vehicles. Over-the-air updates ensure your car’s features will continue to evolve, improve, and adapt long after purchase.

Ram Trucks just raised the stakes — with actor, former NFL player, and all-around showman Terry Crews leading the charge in their brand-new marketing blitz, “Epic Launch.” And yes, he’s not just starring in it — he’s singing too. 

  

Crews, College Football, and the Return of the HEMI®: A Perfect Storm 

  

Launched this past weekend, the “Epic Launch” campaign is more than just another truck commercial. It’s an anthem, a celebration, and a show-stopping performance rolled into one, with Terry Crews at the helm. Known for his comedic chops in White Chicks, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and America’s Got Talent, Crews brings his signature energy — and musical flair — to a campaign that promises to be as unforgettable as his now-iconic rendition of “A Thousand Miles.” 

  

(Yes, that scene from White Chicks makes a comeback — and it’s just as hilarious as you remember.) 

  

From “Favorite Song” to “Epic Launch” 

  

Ram kicked things off with a teaser titled “Favorite Song,” where Crews sits inside a Ram 1500 RHO in a college football stadium, ready to debut a Ram fight song — only to have Vanessa Carlton’s 2001 hit start playing instead. What follows is a nostalgic, head-bopping nod to Crews’ cult-classic moment in White Chicks. “I do love this song, though!” he says, before belting it out once again. 

  

But the main event comes with the full “Epic Launch” spot — a high-octane, fireworks-filled spectacle where a “Ramified” stadium becomes a playground for Ram trucks. Monster trucks. Pyrotechnics. Flags. A crowd of cheering fans. And Terry Crews in a red, white, and blue Ram mascot suit, proudly planting the Ram flag while singing his original Ram fight song. 

  

It’s bold, it’s ridiculous, and it’s entirely Ram. 

  

Star Power and College Spirit 

  

The campaign even features a cameo by Penn State quarterback Drew Allar, nodding to the next generation of football stars. With Crews — himself a former college football player — at the center, Ram bridges the passion of the game with the power of its trucks. 

  

“As a former college football player and current Ram truck super fan, it was awesome for me to support both with an epic fight song,” said Crews. “I had a blast bringing this crazy idea to life.” 

  

A Season-Long Blitz 

  

“Epic Launch” is just the beginning. The campaign will roll out over the 2025 college football season with four national broadcast spots, plus social and digital content, and even a multicultural extension for the Hispanic market. Whether you’re watching the big game at home or scrolling through your feed, expect to see a lot of Terry Crews and a lot of Ram horsepower. 

  

And speaking of power: the HEMI® V-8 is back in the Ram 1500 lineup — and it’s making a splash. With orders exceeding production and units flying off lots in an average of five days, fans are clearly fired up. 

  

Ram by the Numbers 

  

If the campaign feels larger than life, it’s because Ram has plenty to celebrate: 

  

  

CEO Tim Kuniskis puts it best: “This approach delivers exactly what our audience and truck customers crave — authenticity and power with an unexpected performance that leaves it all out there in the field.” 

After a short time away, the Chevrolet Bolt is making a comeback — and it’s not just nostalgia driving it. The 2027 Chevy Bolt returns by popular demand, promising a refined, smarter, and faster electric experience at a price that doesn’t shock your wallet. With a starting MSRP of $29,990 (including destination), and an even more affordable $28,995 model coming later in the year, the Bolt is set to reclaim its title as America’s most affordable long-range EV. 

  

EV Affordability, Redefined 

  

Chevrolet is doubling down on what made the original Bolt beloved: practicality, range, and price. The 2027 model offers a GM-estimated 255 miles of range and DC fast charging up to 150 kW, meaning it can charge from 10% to 80% in just 26 minutes. That’s over 2.5x faster than the outgoing model. 

  

Even better, it’s the first Chevy to come with a native NACS (North American Charging Standard) port, giving Bolt drivers access to more public chargers than ever before — including Tesla’s Supercharger network. 

  

Smarter Tech, Inside and Out 

  

This isn’t just a rehash of the old Bolt — the 2027 model is packed with the latest GM tech: 

  

  

Your daily commute just became a lot more connected — and a lot more fun. 

  

Built on a Smarter Powertrain 

  

Underneath its familiar hatchback silhouette is GM’s most advanced EV drivetrain yet. The Bolt is powered by GM’s in-house X76 electric drive unit, which offers: 

  

  

Charge at Home. Power Your Home. 

  

One of the most exciting new features is Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) capability. When paired with a GM Energy Home System, the 2027 Bolt can help power your home during an outage. With most Americans driving under 50 miles a day, the Bolt has more than enough range for daily use while offering peace of mind during emergencies. 

  

Practicality + Personality 

  

Chevrolet didn’t forget about the everyday perks either: 

  

  

Introducing the Bolt RS: Sporty Meets Smart 

  

For the first time, the Bolt is available in a sporty RS trim, featuring: 

  

  

It’s a bold, fun option for drivers who want style to match their smarts. 

  

Limited Run. Big Opportunity. 

  

Chevy is positioning the 2027 Bolt as a limited run model — a celebration of one of its most beloved EVs. So if you’ve been waiting for an affordable, feature-packed EV that doesn’t cut corners on tech or performance, this is your moment. 

  

The Bolt is expected to begin shipping early next year, joining the Equinox EV in Chevrolet’s growing — and impressively affordable — electric lineup. 

  

Final Thoughts 

  

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt marks a turning point in the EV market — not just because it’s affordable, but because it refuses to compromise on performance, range, or technology. With a bold new look, smarter powertrain, and the tech features EV drivers actually want, this isn’t just a comeback — it’s a glow-up. 

  

If you’ve been holding out for the right EV, your wait might just be over.

After 16 unforgettable years of redefining the compact car landscape, the Kia Soul is officially rolling into retirement. Kia announced this week that production of the Soul will end with the conclusion of the 2025 model year, marking the end of an era for one of the brand’s most distinctive and beloved vehicles. 

  

From its quirky boxy shape to its iconic hamster-powered ad campaigns, the Kia Soul has carved out a unique place in automotive history. Since its U.S. debut in 2009, over 1.5 million Souls have been sold, helping Kia triple its overall sales in the country and laying the groundwork for its evolution into a major player in the global auto market. 

  

Born to Stand Out 

  

The Soul’s journey began in the mid-2000s as a design experiment—a vehicle that blurred the lines between compact hatchbacks and small SUVs. Inspired by a wild boar with a backpack (yes, really), Kia’s design team envisioned a car that offered the maneuverability of a small car with the utility and attitude of an SUV. Remarkably, the 2009 production version stayed true to the original concept: bold, boxy, and unapologetically different. 

  

In a sea of bland sedans and nondescript crossovers, the Soul’s personality was a breath of fresh air. It quickly became a favorite among younger buyers—and surprisingly, among older drivers with youthful spirits. 

  

Marketing Magic: The Hamsters That Changed Everything 

  

The Soul wasn’t just a car—it was a cultural phenomenon. When Kia introduced it with the tagline “A New Way to Roll,” they meant it. But it was the now-legendary hamster commercials that truly launched the Soul into pop culture orbit. 

  

Whether jamming to Black Sheep’s “The Choice Is Yours” or LMFAO’s “Party Rock Anthem,” the hip-hop-loving hamsters became advertising icons. So much so that they were inducted into the Madison Avenue Advertising Walk of Fame as “Rookie of the Year.” 

  

It wasn’t just cute mascots and catchy tunes, though—the campaign struck a chord with consumers, aligning the Soul with individuality, creativity, and optimism. 

  

A Platform for Innovation 

  

Throughout its life, the Soul served as a launchpad for design experiments and innovation. From the open-top Soul’ster pickup concept to the turbocharged, all-wheel-drive Track’ster and rugged Trail’ster, Kia used the Soul to explore what was possible in compact vehicle design. 

  

Its success even helped inspire future models like the Kia Seltos, which picked up where the Soul left off in terms of all-wheel-drive utility and expanded cargo space. 

  

End of the Road… But Not the Legacy 

  

Kia announced that Soul production will cease in October 2025, with the remaining inventory now available at select dealerships across the U.S. While the Soul’s time on the assembly line may be coming to an end, its legacy is anything but over. 

  

“The Soul was one of the cornerstones in Kia gaining a foothold in the United States,” said Eric Watson, Vice President of Sales at Kia America. “We are proud of the legacy Soul will leave behind as it exits our lineup, but equally excited for the future of Kia’s expansive and award-winning utility vehicle lineup.” 

  

And that’s the thing about the Soul—it was never just a car. It was a bold statement in an industry often obsessed with conformity. It invited drivers to stand out, have fun, and embrace their individuality. In a way, the Soul helped define what the Kia brand stands for today: innovative, youthful, and always a little unexpected. 

  

So Long, Soul 

  

Whether you remember it for its unmistakable silhouette, its customizable trims and glowing speaker lights, or those dance-ready commercials, the Kia Soul leaves behind a legacy that’s hard to match. As we say goodbye to this funky urban runabout, one thing is clear: the Soul will always have a place in the hearts of drivers who love a car with, well… a little soul.

The 2026 Honda Ridgeline is hitting dealerships with more than just its legendary versatility and capability—it’s bringing fresh style to the pavement (and trail) with exciting new color options that enhance its rugged appeal. As Honda celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Ridgeline, the updated color palette is a fitting nod to the model’s legacy of innovation and boundary-pushing design. 

  

Two Bold Looks for 2026 

  

This year, Honda is giving Ridgeline enthusiasts two standout updates when it comes to exterior styling: 

  

Ash Green Metallic – Exclusive to the 2026 Ridgeline TrailSport, this deep, earthy green first turned heads on the 2026 Passport TrailSport and now joins the Ridgeline lineup. It’s a perfect match for the TrailSport’s off-road-ready stance and unique design elements, reinforcing the truck’s adventurous spirit. 

  

Contrasting Black Roof – Available on the top-tier Ridgeline Black Edition, this new feature offers a sleek two-tone look. Buyers can now pair either Sonic Gray Pearl or Platinum White Pearl with a bold black roof, giving the Black Edition an even more premium and aggressive appearance. 

  

These new options give Ridgeline owners more ways to express their style while still enjoying the practical capability that sets this truck apart. 

  

A Rugged Icon, Made in America 

  

Built in Lincoln, Alabama, the 2026 Ridgeline continues Honda’s proud tradition of American manufacturing. The Ridgeline remains the only pickup to appear in the Cars.com American-Made Index® top 10 for nine straight years, underscoring its domestic significance. 

  

With a starting MSRP of $40,595 for the Ridgeline Sport (excluding destination), the 2026 lineup offers four all-wheel drive trims, each packed with Honda’s signature packaging efficiency and unibody construction. 

  

Trail-Tested Style Meets Everyday Comfort 

  

Whether you opt for the exclusive Ash Green Metallic TrailSport or the refined Black Edition with its new roof treatment, the 2026 Ridgeline blends real-world capability with comfort and utility. For those looking to further personalize their truck, Honda offers a robust suite of Genuine Honda Accessories, including: 

  

  

These packages enhance both form and function, letting you tailor your Ridgeline for the trail, the worksite, or wherever your weekend leads. 

Hyundai just dropped the mic—and a major new ad campaign—with Grammy Award-winning artist Lil Jon at the center of it all. The “I See You” spot, the latest installment in Hyundai’s acclaimed “OKAY Hyundai” series, officially launches the all-new 2026 Palisade Hybrid with a bang that only the King of Crunk himself could deliver. 

  

Directed by Ghanaian American filmmaker Joshua Kissi and created in partnership with Culture Brands, the campaign goes far beyond car commercials. “I See You” is a high-energy, cinematic tribute to the everyday moments that define the modern Black family experience—from HBCU homecomings and backyard block parties to Sunday brunches and family road trips. 

  

A Ride That Celebrates You 

  

Set to a nostalgic soundtrack rooted in Lil Jon’s iconic early 2000s crunk sound, the ad doesn’t just show off the Palisade Hybrid—it celebrates it. With his signature “YEAH!” and larger-than-life personality, Lil Jon gives his enthusiastic approval as the Palisade rolls through scenes brimming with joy, pride, and community connection. 

  

“OKAY! is more than a catchphrase—it’s a cultural affirmation,” says Eunique Jones Gibson, CEO and Chief Creative Officer at Culture Brands. That energy pulses throughout the ad, as sleek styling and head-turning design meet real moments of togetherness. The message is clear: this SUV isn’t just built for the road—it’s built for you. 

  

Style, Soul, and Sustainability 

  

Hyundai’s 2026 Palisade Hybrid blends luxury, power, and practicality. With a sophisticated new look, over 600 miles of hybrid driving range, and a spacious, tech-savvy interior, it’s engineered for families who value both form and function. Whether you’re loading up the kids or heading out with friends, the Palisade Hybrid fits the moment—and your life. 

  

“More than showcasing the all-new Palisade Hybrid, this work celebrates the community, joy and empowerment that define our ‘OKAY Hyundai’ ethos,” said Erik Thomas, director of experiential and multicultural marketing at Hyundai Motor America. 

  

Intentional Representation on Screen 

  

At a time when authentic representation matters more than ever, “I See You” feels like a genuine nod to the communities it reflects. It’s more than a flashy car ad; it’s a love letter to culture, crafted with intentionality, vision, and heart. 

  

And with a digital rollout planned across Instagram, YouTube, and more—including exclusive behind-the-scenes content with Lil Jon—the campaign is set to reach audiences where they live, laugh, and scroll. 

  

So, if you’ve ever wanted a family SUV that comes with style, swagger, and Lil Jon’s official stamp of approval, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid might just be calling your name.

When most people think of Volkswagen cars, classics like the Beetle or the Golf GTI likely come to mind. But beyond the iconic mass-produced models, Volkswagen has produced a handful of ultra-rare and limited-edition cars that have become holy grails for collectors and enthusiasts. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of classic Volkswagens or just intrigued by automotive rarities, here’s a deep dive into the rarest Volkswagen models ever made. 

 

1. Volkswagen SP2 (1972–1976)

 

 

The Volkswagen SP2 is one of the most striking and rare VW models ever created. Produced exclusively in Brazil, the SP2 was Volkswagen’s answer to the growing sports car market in South America. With its sleek design and Porsche-like curves, it stood out among the more utilitarian VW cars of the era. 

  

Only around 10,205 units were made, and fewer than 1,000 are known to survive today. Because it was never sold in the U.S. or Europe, spotting one outside of South America is incredibly rare. 

 

2. Volkswagen Golf G60 Limited (1989)

 

 

Think you know the Golf? Think again. The Golf Mk2 G60 Limited was a factory-built sleeper. Created by Volkswagen Motorsport, only 71 units were produced, all hand-assembled. 

  

Unlike the standard GTI, the G60 Limited featured a supercharged 16-valve engine, all-wheel drive, and subtle styling upgrades. It was the most powerful Golf of its time and remains one of the most coveted Volkswagen hatchbacks ever built. 

   

3. Volkswagen 181 “Thing” Acapulco Edition (1974)

 

 

The VW Thing, officially known as the Type 181, was a quirky off-road vehicle sold in the U.S. in the early 1970s. But the rarest version was the Acapulco Edition, a limited-run beach cruiser with a distinctive blue-and-white color scheme, removable doors, and striped fabric tops. 

  

Only a few hundred Acapulco Editions were made, mostly for resorts in Mexico, and today they are among the most collectible vintage Volkswagen cars. 

   

4. Volkswagen XL1 (2013–2016)

   

 

The futuristic Volkswagen XL1 is not only one of the rarest VW models but also one of the most advanced. Engineered for extreme fuel efficiency, the XL1 boasted 261 mpg and a lightweight carbon fiber design. 

  

Only 250 units were produced, making it a collector’s dream in the world of modern Volkswagen cars. Its limited availability and futuristic tech make it stand apart from anything VW has ever built. 

 

5. Volkswagen Type 34 Karmann Ghia (1962–1969)

   

 

Known as the “Razor Edge” Ghia, the Type 34 Karmann Ghia was a more luxurious and rare version of the original Ghia. Built on the Type 3 platform, it featured a more angular body and better performance. 

  

Despite being the most expensive VW of its time, fewer than 42,000 were produced, and it was never sold in the U.S. Today, pristine examples are highly sought after by collectors of classic Volkswagen models.