Gold Line: Riley Herbst, '25 Sunny D' Camry

Riley Herbst has quietly gone about learning how to race in the Cup series in 2025. After 33 starts, he's got an average starting position of 27th, and an average finishing position of 26th. He's been greatly outperformed compared to fellow rookie, Shane van Gisbergen who has notched five wins, but comparing the two isn't remotely fair. That being said, Herbst has had some good moments, and many strong supporters including Proctor and Gamble who distributes Sunny D. 

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The real thing: The No. 35 Camry on pit road in March 2025 during the NASCAR Cup Series race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. (Photograph by by Dustin Albino, Jayski.com). Note, the scheme variations between the 1/64 and the 1/1.

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Notes:
The main importance of this diecast replica is that it's the first one that's even been mass-produced for Riley Herbst. It's also the first diecast produced for 23XL's third team. Lionel's execution of an intricate and vibrant livery is done really well, but because the team changed the design, the car feels a bit lackluster. You also can't deny that the absence of the Monster Energy logo is a detriment to the final product as well. There's plenty of detail to enjoy on the model, and the production flaws are minimal, so this is a really nice race car, it's just not my favorite from this season. This car has only raced once this season. Riley drove the 23XL Sunny D car to a 19th place finish during the 5th race of the 2025 season at Las Vegas. 

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Sources:
-Jayski.com
-Lionelracing.com
-Nascar.com
-racing-reference.info
-23xiracing.com