The Garage Report #002

BIG STORY
Hellcat Revival: Insider Hints at Ram TRX Return in 2026

In a surprising twist, the legendary 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8—known for powering the original RAM TRX—is back on the assembly line at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Michigan. This is the same facility responsible for building the RAM 1500, and more specifically, the TRX before its supposed retirement in 2024. The engine was seen strapped to a pallet, photographed by an employee and leaked online, immediately sparking rumors that a Hellcat-powered TRX is making a comeback for the 2026 model year.

Adding fuel to the fire, several camouflaged TRX test mules have recently been spotted undergoing road tests near the plant. These prototypes bear aggressive wide-body fenders and off-road tires, similar to the outgoing TRX but with what appears to be updated front and rear fascia designs. While Stellantis has remained tight-lipped, the presence of both the engine and these mules suggests something big is brewing.

The original TRX was discontinued after a 4,000-unit "Final Edition" run, which marked the end of Hellcat V8 production—supposedly. With Dodge sunsetting most of its V8s in favor of electrified powertrains, enthusiasts assumed the high-horsepower muscle era was over. But this new development signals a possible halo truck revival, potentially meant to hold the line while EV trucks like the Ramcharger ramp up.

Whether this new TRX ends up as a special edition, full production model, or last hurrah for the Hellcat—one thing’s clear: Stellantis isn’t done shaking the pavement just yet..

MARKET SNAPSHOT
This Weeks Industry Insights

If you're shopping right now, here’s what matters:

🏷️ New-car average price is $48,710 — virtually flat month-over-month, but now just 2.6% higher YoY, signaling mild pricing stabilization.

📈 Days’ supply has climbed to 86, a +4.9% jump since early July. Inventory continues to normalize, especially in full-size SUV and EV segments.

💸 Used-car values dipped slightly this week (–0.5%) but remain 5.7% higher YoY. Manheim Index currently at 207.3, still above pre-2023 averages.

📉 Sales pace cooling: July’s annualized rate is trending near 15.1M units, down from 15.3M in June. Higher interest rates and incentive rollbacks are slowing showroom traffic.

🧾 Incentives are tightening again: Average discount is $2,615 per unit, down $118 from last month—OEMs are pulling back as inventory builds.

NEW DROP
Hyundai IONIQ 6 N Debuts at Goodwood

I know, I know… another EV release. But stick with me—this one’s got some real bite.

Hyundai just dropped the IONIQ 6 N at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, and it’s building on the hype of the IONIQ 5 N, which has already earned serious respect in the enthusiast world. Think of this as the sleeker, slipperier sibling—with the same wild performance DNA and a little extra attitude.

It’s not just about numbers (though they’re impressive). This thing was tuned to feel alive—between the simulated gear shifts, synthetic engine growl, and track-focused suspension, the IONIQ 6 N is aiming to be more than just another fast EV. It’s Hyundai saying: “Yeah, we can do fun too.”

Key highlights:

• Cranks out 650 PS (478 kW) and 568 lb-ft of torque

• Launches from 0–62 mph in just 3.2 seconds, with a top speed of 160 mph

• Packed with performance upgrades:

  • Reworked suspension for sharper cornering

  • N e-Shift simulates gear changes to mimic a dual-clutch feel

  • N Active Sound+ delivers aggressive synthetic engine noise

• Uses the same 84 kWh battery as the IONIQ 5 N, with up to 291 miles of range

My take: Do I still prefer ICE when it comes to performance cars? Yes. However, this thing acts like a proper sportscar. It’s fast, loud (in its own weird way), and looks like it’s ready to pick a fight. Hyundai’s making it clear—they’re not just building efficient EVs, they’re building fun ones.

👉 See the full press release here 

FAST UPDATES
Quick Shifts

• GM’s “Green” EV Plant Will Also Build Gas-Guzzlers
  GM's new EV plant in Michigan—billed as a big step toward a greener future—is also going to be cranking out full-size pickups and SUVs with big V8s. Yep, the same place making battery-powered Silverados will also build heavy haulers like the Tahoe and Suburban. Say what you want, but GM’s strategy is pretty clear: go green, but not too green… at least not while the profits are still rolling in.

• Veilside RX-7 From Tokyo Drift Sells for Over $1 Million
  The iconic orange-and-black Mazda RX-7 from The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift just sold for seven figures at auction. This is the same Hans-mobile that slid its way into fanboy history—and the only officially licensed Veilside Fortune RX-7 used in the film. A win for 2000s JDM nostalgia, and a reminder that movie car prices are just as wild as collector Ferraris these days.

• Tuners Finally Crack the 2024+ Ford Mustang ECU
  After months of digital dead ends, tuners have finally broken into the S650 Mustang’s ECU—and the floodgates are open. We're already seeing big gains across the board for both the GT and Dark Horse trims. Expect a wave of tuned 5.0s hitting your feed soon… and probably a few memes about factory warranty funerals.

• New Tariffs Could Kill Dodge’s Cheapest SUV
  New import tariffs are putting a major squeeze on the Dodge Hornet, which is currently built in Italy. With Dodge already struggling to move inventory, this could push their most affordable model out of the U.S. lineup entirely. It's bad news for budget buyers—and a potential gut punch to Dodge’s already shrinking lineup.
  

BY THE NUMBERS
Top EV Sales Snapshot: Top Sellers Of 2025 (so far)

Tesla’s Model Y is still king—but its sales took a big hit. Meanwhile, the Chevrolet Equinox EV came out swinging, and Honda’s Prologue is off to a surprising start. Check out the full breakdown of U.S. EV sales by model for the first half of 2025.

ON THE RADAR
Upcoming Automotive Events

• Honda Indy Toronto (IndyCar Series Race): Taking place July 18-20, 2025, at Exhibition Place in Toronto, Canada, this street circuit event features high-speed open-wheel racing with top drivers battling for points in the championship. Expect practice sessions starting Friday, qualifying Saturday, and the main race on Sunday—perfect for highlighting North American motorsport action.

• Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix: Scheduled for July 25-27, 2025, at the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium, this Round 13 of the F1 season includes practice, qualifying, and the race amid the Ardennes' challenging elevation changes and weather. It's a fan-favorite for its high drama and could tie into discussions on F1's global spectacle.

• Brickyard 400 (NASCAR Cup Series Race): Set for July 27, 2025, at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indiana, USA, this oval-track classic marks a return to NASCAR's roots with high-stakes stock car racing. The weekend includes practice on July 25 and qualifying on July 26, offering a nod to American racing heritage amid the 2025 schedule.
  

THIS WEEK IN AUTO HISTORY
Luigi Chinetti: The Ferrari Maverick Who Conquered Continents!

Born on July 17, 1901, in Italy, Luigi Chinetti wasn't just a racer—he was a trailblazing force who bridged worlds and ignited Ferrari's American dream! Starting as a teen mechanic at Alfa Romeo, he rubbed shoulders with Enzo Ferrari himself, fueling a legendary partnership.

Chinetti's adrenaline-fueled career exploded on the track: He dominated the 24 Hours of Le Mans with three epic wins (1932, 1934, and 1949—the latter Ferrari's first Le Mans triumph in a 166MM). Add victories at Spa 24 Hours, Paris 12 Hours, and a wild ride in the Carrera Panamericana, and you've got a motorsport icon who thrived on endurance and speed.

Fleeing WWII to America, he became Ferrari's U.S. ambassador in 1949, opening the first dealership and importing icons like the Tipo 166. Founding the North American Racing Team (N.A.R.T.), he championed stars like Mario Andretti and Stirling Moss, even commissioning custom Ferraris that defined style and power.

Until his passing in 1994, Chinetti's passion turned Ferrari into a global powerhouse, blending Italian flair with American grit. A true pioneer whose legacy roars on!

CAR BUYING
Pro Tip For Used Car Buyers

Thinking about a pre-owned ride? Be sure to run a full vehicle history report—it’s one of the best ways to verify a dealer’s claims (accidents, title issues, etc.). You can do that here 👉 RUN A HISTORY REPORT

VIDEO OF THE WEEK
Bugatti - A New Era: Peak Engineering

The TOURBILLON gave the BUGATTI team a rare opportunity to create an entirely new hypercar from the ground up – an opportunity embraced to deliver something truly unique.​ ​

Join Mate Rimac, CEO of Bugatti Rimac, as he delves into the intricate details of the TOURBILLON’s complex packaging.​

📨 I Want To Hear From You!

Made it this far? Appreciate you. I’m always working to make each issue better than the last—and your feedback helps steer the wheel.

Got hot takes on this week’s stories? Want me to dig into a trend, a car rumor, or even just call out a crazy auction listing? Smash that reply button—I read every message.

See you next Friday with more stories from the garage.

Brian Mello
The Garage Report
@realbrianmello