Kyle Busch joined a growing online conversation criticizing NASCAR’s Next Gen car, responding to a viral post in early 2025 that highlighted frustrations surrounding the vehicle’s performance. This sparked an engaging exchange involving notable figures like Dale Earnhardt Jr., who also shared his disapproval of past NASCAR models, drawing attention to ongoing challenges with the sport’s evolving race cars.
Origin of the Online Debate: A Comparative Look at NASCAR’s Cars
The discussion began when motorsports journalist Kelly Crandall publicly expressed dissatisfaction with her Hyundai, prompting Dale Earnhardt Jr. to reflect on his own negative experience with NASCAR’s Car of Tomorrow (COT). Earnhardt recalled the 2007-2012 vehicle’s difficult handling despite its durability, referencing a challenging race at Richmond International Raceway that left him frustrated.
Earnhardt’s comment,
“Had a similar experience with the COT. Do not recommend,”
resonated with many fans familiar with the contentious model and its impact on racing dynamics.
Kyle Busch Voices Strong Opinions on the Next Generation Vehicle
Building on Earnhardt’s remarks, Kyle Busch chimed in with a pointed reaction to NASCAR’s Gen7 Next Gen car, emphasizing his own struggles to manage the new machine. Busch’s response,
“I’ve had a very similar experience with the Next Gen car. Do NOT recommend!”
underscored the gravity of his frustration, amplified by his use of capital letters to highlight the sentiment.
Busch, a two-time Cup Series champion, has been publicly critical of the Next Gen vehicle since its debut at the 2022 Daytona 500, describing it as fundamentally different and more difficult to control compared to previous cars. In interviews, he admitted he has yet to fully master the vehicle and suggested that certain features still require adjustment.
Challenges on the Track Demonstrate Busch’s Frustration
Busch’s disenchantment with the Next Gen car was visible during the 2025 season, particularly at Kansas Speedway. After climbing from a suboptimal qualifying position, he became trapped behind Bubba Wallace’s car, with aerodynamic limitations hampering his ability to overtake. His candid comment over team radio,
“Un-f******-believable. These cars suck so bad. Thank you NASCAR!”
revealed the tension and aggravation felt by drivers struggling with the car’s design.
Further difficulties arose when Noah Gragson and Josh Berry collided on lap 207 of the same race, causing Busch to veer off into the grass and ultimately finish 21st. The sequence of setbacks added to his disappointing season performance.
Ongoing Performance and Future Expectations for Busch and NASCAR
Currently competing in his fourth season with Richard Childress Racing piloting the No. 8 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, Kyle Busch has experienced a noticeable decline in race results since his last victory at the 2023 Enjoy Illinois 300. This year’s finishes, including 15th place at Daytona and 34th at Atlanta, highlight the difficulties posed by the Next Gen car to even the sport’s most skilled drivers.
As NASCAR continues to monitor driver feedback and fan reactions, Busch’s outspoken stance reflects broader concerns about the Next Gen car’s impact on competition and driver adaptability. The conversations initiated by Busch and Earnhardt Jr. may influence forthcoming vehicle updates and strategic decisions within the sport.
I’ve had a very similar experience with the Next Gen car. Do NOT recommend!
— Kyle Busch (@KyleBusch) February 26, 2026
Kyle Busch is having trouble getting around the lapped car of Bubba Wallace. He's stuck in 12th and is frustrated about it.
"Un-fucking-believable. These cars suck so bad. Thank you NASCAR!"
"10-4. Yes they do. Deep breath here." pic.twitter.com/nz3LITCDmB— Steven Taranto (@STaranto92) May 11, 2025
