This issue is packed with everything that makes car culture what it is—bold builds, unforgettable events, and the personalities that bring it all together. From wild custom rides to high-energy event coverage and lifestyle features, this lineup captures the full spectrum of the automotive scene. Here’s a closer look at what’s inside. Feature Builds “AS IF” — 2021 … [Read more...]
January 2026 Issue
(View Digital Version)The Gauge Magazine January 2026 issue captures the heart of modern car culture, blending standout custom builds, high-energy events, and lifestyle features into one dynamic lineup. Inside, readers will find a show-ready 2021 Jeep Wrangler with bold attitude, a 2023 Toyota Camry transformed into a full light-and-sound spectacle, and a wildly aggressive 1971 Chevrolet Vega rooted in old-school street-race style. Event coverage includes the AZ Rockabilly Bash, the Mecum Auction in Indianapolis, and KICKER’s audio-driven Showdown in Laughlin. Rounding things out is a Gauge Girl spotlight that highlights the personalities shaping today’s automotive lifestyle.
2021 Jeep Wrangler
"AS IF" 2021 Jeep Wrangler Owned by: Cali Keith Photos by: John Mumaw Some builds start with horsepower. Others start with attitude. This Jeep Gladiator build started with pure personality—and evolved into a fully dialed, SEMA-ready rig that blends show presence with real-world Jeep life. Owned since new and built over the course of two years, this Gladiator proves … [Read more...]
2023 Toyota Camry
"Ice_Edge" Owned by: Carmelo Padin Photos by: Chris Gosda At first glance, this 2023 Toyota Camry might look like a clean late-model sedan. But spend more than a few seconds around it, and you’ll quickly realize this build—nicknamed Ice_edge—is anything but ordinary. What started life as a reliable daily commuter has evolved into a full-on show-stopping light and … [Read more...]
1971 Chevrolet Vega
"Potent Rodent" Owned by: Rick Kiel Photos by: John Mumaw Some builds are polished. Some are pretty. And then there are builds like Potent Rodent—raw, loud, and unapologetically aggressive. Owned by Rick Kiel, this 1971 Chevrolet Vega is exactly what happens when a lifelong gearhead finally builds the car he’s been dreaming about since the golden days of street … [Read more...]
Hailee Johnson
January 2026 Gauge Girl Hailee Johnson Photos by: Chris Gosda - At just 21 years old, Hailee Johnson is already carving out her own lane in the automotive lifestyle world. Blending car modeling, content creation, and unapologetic confidence, she represents the new generation of personalities helping shape modern car culture—bold, authentic, and driven by … [Read more...]
Indy Mecum Auto Auction 2025
Few automotive events bring the heat quite like the Indy Mecum Auto Auction 2025. Every year, Indianapolis transforms into ground zero for collectors, enthusiasts, and dreamers as thousands of vehicles cross the block under bright lights and even brighter bids. Hosted by Mecum Auctions, this massive event isn’t just an auction—it’s a full-scale celebration of car … [Read more...]
The Showdown Show by KICKER
If you think car audio is just about turning the volume knob up, The Showdown by KICKER is here to prove you wrong. This high-energy event has quickly become one of the most talked-about car audio competitions in the scene—bringing together elite builds, serious competitors, and bass so loud you feel it in your chest. Powered by KICKER, The Showdown isn’t just another meet-up. … [Read more...]
14th Annual AZ Rockabilly Bash
If you’re into classic cars, throwback style, and nonstop good vibes, the 14th Annual AZ Rockabilly Bash once again proved why it’s one of Arizona’s most anticipated automotive and lifestyle events. Blending vintage hot rods, custom classics, rockabilly music, and pinup flair, this long-running show continues to celebrate old-school car culture in the best possible way—laid … [Read more...]
