RNP-Automotive

Icon is perhaps best known for its meticulous Toyota Land Cruiser restomods, but the Los Angeles-based company works with plenty of other vehicles. Its latest build is a 1950 Chevrolet Thriftmaster pickup truck that, in typical Icon fashion, retains its classic style but gets modern upgrades as well.

Christened an “Old School Edition,” the truck has a General Motors-sourced LS3 6.2-liter V-8 in place of its original inline-6. The small-block V-8 produces 430 horsepower while meeting current California emissions standards. It’s coupled to a 4L85-E automatic transmission, with gear changes done through the original column shifter.

Icon also gave the truck independent front and rear suspension, improving handling while preserving some load-hauling capability, according to the company. Brembo disc brakes will likely prove more effective than the stock 1950s-era drums.

Thanks to a previous career as a farm truck, the Thriftmaster required significant restoration work. The truck now wears a

The United States misses out on the compact T-Roc crossover SUV, but local Volkswagen fans can look forward to a similar sized offering from the German automaker in the coming year.

The new compact crossover will be called the Taos, VW said Thursday, and the covers will come off October 13.

The name comes from the town of Taos, New Mexico, which in addition to a rich history is known for its artist community, ski resort, and nearby landscapes that range from plains to the Rio Grande Gorge and Sangre de Cristo mountains.

Teaser shots provide a glimpse of the Taos. The vehicle is expected to be based on the Tharu compact crossover sold in China and Russia. The Tharu spans 175.3 inches in length, with a generous 105-inch wheelbase, has up to 54 cubic feet of storage and is fitted with the choice of 1.2-,