5 Days In and Around Dublin
Of all the places we’ve visited, Dublin and its surrounding areas have to be some of our absolute favorites. Telltale emerald green pastures, a vibrant cityscape, working class grit, wonderful art, Dublin is one of…
New York Auto Show 2018 Highlights
Just weeks after the Geneva Motor Show the international automotive scene crossed the Atlantic for the next major event on the calendar: the New York International Auto Show 2018. Javits Center on the shores of the Hudson river in Manhattan forms the stage for a dozen new world premieres along with nearly 50 US premieres.
The automotive year started with a deception at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit but the vibe in New York is different. The halls are packed both with exhibitors as well as media representatives from all over the world. The decline of Detroit clearly leaves New York unaffected. A very strong customer base in New York and the surrounding East coast along with the general appeal of the city that never sleeps makes that manufacturers and visitors like to be here.
Before we share our highlights of the New York Auto Show with you we start with two events that took place on the sidelines of this year’s NYIAS: the Meet Mercedes preview event taking place the evening prior to show opening and the World Car of the Year Awards Ceremony.
Meet Mercedes-AMG – New York Auto Show 2018 Preview
Mercedes-Benz Manhattan hosted a select group of media representatives for the Meet Mercedes preview event. This new format was first introduced at the Geneva Motor Show last year and allows media to take a closer look at some of the new world premieres from Mercedes-Benz in a relaxed atmosphere. The first New York Meet Mercedes was slightly smaller and compact version of the Geneva Meet Mercedes but still gave us ample opportunity to check out the three new AMG cars and two US premieres.
With all five of the vehicles on display coming from Affalterbach it was no surprise AMG CEO Tobias Moers was the main Daimler representative present. Following a short introduction and update about the US market, which is going very well for Mercedes-Benz and AMG; record sales and high annual growth, we checked out the individual cars.
The first is the Mercedes-AMG C63 Limousine which received the same updates as its non-AMG counterparts shown in Geneva. Slightly revised front and rear and a updated interior with new infotainment displays and software.
Next to the C63 Limousine we found the C43 Convertible and C63 S Coupe. Both received exterior updates similar to the limousine. The C63 S Coupe particularly caught our eye with the magno grey paint job. A very desirable car that has become even more desirable with this facelift. And that is without even factoring in the mouthwatering and supercar-like sub-4 second sprint from 0 – 100 km/h.
Besides these three world premieres AMG also brought the new GT 63 S four-door coupe to New York along with the new G63. Both celebrated their world premiere in Geneva where they stole the hearts of many. The new G63 represents the biggest change to the iconic G wagon in decades with only a handful of parts carried over from the previous generation. We can’t wait to drive it in a few weeks.
The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S opens up a whole new segment for AMG and is set to go head-to-head with the Porsche Panamera. The exterior and interior are largely inspired by the AMG GT while the technical platform is provided by the excellent E-Class platform. New features includes digital displays in the center console and a dedicated four seat setup. In the rear passengers have more head room than the new Mercedes-Benz CLS.
World Car of the Year Awards 2018
After a short night sleep duty called again at 7.15 for the annual World Car of the Year awards ceremony in the special events hall of Javits Center. In a setting worthy of a black tie gala executives from the nominated manufacturers mixed with ‘WCOTY’ jurors from all over the globe witnessed the awards in six different categories.
First up was the ‘Design Car of the Year Award’ with the Lexus LC500, Range Rover Velar and Volvo XC60 as final nominees. Chairman Peter Lyon slowly opened the envelop with the winner in an Oscar-style fashion and announced the Range Rover Velar as this year’s winner.
Next up was the Green Car of the Year which was won by the Nissan Leaf. A category that is particularly close to our interests at GTspirit: the World Performance Car of the Year was claimed by the BMW M5. The Audi A8 truly deserved the title as Luxury Car of the Year with it’s cutting edge technology and revolutionary interior design.
The Volkswagen Polo took the Urban car of the year award leaving only the main award still to be announced. For the World Car of the Year a list of over 40+ contenders was brought down to three competitors by the 80+ judges worldwide including yours truly. The Range Rover Velar and Volvo XC60 were among the final three again along with the decent-but-not-overwhelming Mazda CX-5. And with the words ‘This year’s World Car of the Year Award 2018 goes to…’ the Volvo XC60 took the main award home to Sweden.
New York Auto Show 2018 Highlights
The auto show in New York is one of the most pleasant shows on the annual motor show calendar. Pretty much all the action is concentrated in just one hall, with only trucks on display in the lower level hall. The air-conditioning works wonders, which is quite a relief after the sauna like temperatures in Palexpo in Geneva, and there is a good crowd but it is never too crowded. Overall the perfect conditions to take in all the new cars and have interesting conversations throughout the day.
Corvette ZR1 Convertible
Combine a 6.2 liter small block V8, a massive supercharger and a drop-top version of the mighty Corvette ZR1 and you have the new ZR1 Convertible. It nails the 0-100 km/h in less than 3 seconds and has a top speed well over 200mph. The immense wing on the back will make sure the new ZR1 Convertible will not go unnoticed when you cruise down your local boulevard while providing the downforce needed to put those 755hp down on the tarmac.
Audi RS5 Sportback
Audi Sport put their hands on the Audi A5 Sportback and transformed it into a 444bhp and 600Nm V6 powered four-door sportscar for the United States and Canadian market with other markets to follow later. 0 to 60mph is done in 3.9 seconds and the RS5 Sportback continues to a top speed of 174mph. The Sonoma Green Metallic color is available as an exclusive option.
Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Concept & Atlas Tanoak Concept
Following the introduction of the 7-seater Volkswagen Atlas in 2016 Volkswagen now presented two near-to-production concept versions of future Atlas models. The first is a plug-in hybrid and 5-seater version dubbed the Atlas Cross Sport Concept which combines two electric motors with a V6 petrol engine producing 355hp. It is set to go in production in VW’s Tennessee factory in 2019.
The next one is a dual cab, short bed pick-up truck based on an extended Atlas chassis called the Volkswagen Atlas Tanoak Pickup Concept. The 276hp V6 engine with all wheel drive system provides power for all possible duties. The true strength of the Tanoak concept is found in the exterior and interior design providing a fresh and clean technology advanced style not found in other products in this segment. There are no plans for immediate production but if interest is there the Tanoak might make it into production.
Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe
Just weeks after the unveil of the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class facelift models AMG follows suit with the new C63 Limousine, Estate, Coupe and Convertible. All receive the new AMG Speedshift MCT 9G gearbox with wet clutch which allows even faster sprints from standstill. The 4.0 liter V8 is available in S and non-S guides providing 510 or 476hp. Along with tweaks to the exterior customers can now opt for the fully digital cockpit. With wider tracks and aggressive looks it is one of our favorite new Benzes in New York.
Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S
US debut for the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S. The four-door all-wheel drive Porsche Panamera competitor. Combining the DNA of the AMG GT with the chassis of the E63. Brace yourself as AMG squeezed even more performance out of the 4.0 liter V8 biturbo engine – now delivering 639hp and 900Nm of torque. The GT 63 S can sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and tops out at 315 km/h.
Jaguar F-Pace SVR
Jaguar produced more F-Pace SUVs last year as all cars that left the factory back in 2011. Needless to say the F-Pace is an important car for Jaguar and they continue to expand the F-Pace range. In New York the high-performance F-Pace SVR celebrated its world premiere. Equipped with Jaguar’s very own 5.0 liter V8 supercharged it produces 550hp and 680Nm of torque. This allows a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 283 km/h.
Porsche 911 GT3 RS Weissach
Porsche unveiled the next level version of the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS in New York. This optional Weissach package is another 18kg lighter than the already lightweight GT3 RS. On the outside you can clearly see two of many parts that have been created in carbon-fibre reinforced plastics: the front bonnet and the roof. The large PORSCHE logo on the rear wing also hints at the Weissach package.
Bugatti Chiron Sport
The Bugatti Chiron Sport celebrates it’s US premiere in New York. Like the GT3 RS Weissach it is 18 kg lighter than the base vehicle. The Chiron Sport is aimed to deliver a sportier ride with firmer chassis settings, torque vectoring and new sport focused suspension setup. Inside the sporty character is expressed through a mix of alcantara, leather and carbon. The rotary drive mode knob and engine start button are finished in black anodised aluminium. On the outside the new four-pipe exhaust can’t be missed.
Koenigsegg Regera
Koenigsegg recently announced the full production of 80 Regeras has been sold out. Still the Swedish plug-in hybrid hypercar with a combined power output of 1,500hp is worth a closer look. The 5.0 liter V8 alone produces 1,100hp and 1,280Nm of torque. The electric motors which provide a full electric range of 35 kilometers add another 700hp and 870Nm to the mix with torque fill and torque vectoring functionality.
Rimac C_Two
Having just wrapped up the Geneva Motor Show Croatian electric supercar manufacturer and tech firm Rimac flew their brand new C_Two – which stands for Concept Two – to New York to present it to press and possible customers. Promising some breathtaking performance figures like a 0-60 mph time of 1.85 seconds, 1,914hp and 2,300Nm of torque. Enough for a top speed of 412 km/h. Add a carbon-fibre monocoque with state of the art technology like all-wheel torque vectoring and a 650 km full electric range and you have one hell of a promising electric hypercar.
Rolls-Royce Phantom Series VIII
Although not a US let alone a world premiere the Rolls-Royce Phantom made it into our New York Auto Show 2018 Highlights for one simple reason; it looks amazing in black. We haven’t seen this typical New York spec of the new Phantom yet and it works incredibly well. Rolls-Royce North America was keen to add that this is a popular color in New York whereas customers in Florida and California tend to be more outspoken and exotic in their color choices.
Pagani Huayra BC
Right outside the main hall we found the multi-million dollar and 750hp+ Pagani Huayra BC on display at the Brembo booth. Finished in red with exposed carbon fibre this limited edition Huayra looks the money.
Conclusion
This year’s New York Auto Show proves that motor shows still work and have a place in the shifting automotive landscape. Next stop on the Motor Show calendar is the Beijing Motor Show in a mere 3 weeks. We look forward to take you there and provide you with the latest new cars from the single most important car market globally. We have already seen a few new cars and concepts due to appear in Beijing and there will be some fireworks.
In the meantime join us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter for the latest automotive news and daily updates from our team members around the world.
The 10 Best Titles Coming to Netflix in April
As always, a new month means new movies and shows coming to Netflix. Also as always, we have some recommendations for how you should spend your streaming time. This April, get ready for some crime,…
8 Movies We Can’t Wait to See this Spring
Spring has officially sprung, and while we’re looking forward to dusting the cobwebs off our swim trunks and stepping outside into direct sunlight for the first time since November, we’re also looking forward to something…
This Is the Ultimate Post-Workout Beer. Here’s Why.
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s an endurance athlete, Caitlin Landesberg loves the camaraderie that follows a race. Everyone grabs a beer, chats, offers up high fives and re-lives the highlights. So when she had to give up gluten in order to save her health, one of the first things she noticed was how integral beer and pizza were to the endurance community. Running, racing and drinking beer go hand-in-hand. After she collapsed during an ultra relay race, she was diagnosed with an autoimmune deficiency — she’d have to be on medicine for the rest of her life. For someone who has always “identified as an athlete,” and ran anywhere from 50 to 100-miles a week in her backyard of the Marin Headlands, this was a tough pill to swallow.
One of the suggestions given to her was to remove gluten from her diet, and she took it. “All of a sudden my joints were feeling better, and within two weeks, I stopped taking medications for migraines, my hair grew back, my skin was better, I was sleeping better, I was running faster — it was like I had become a better human by 30%,” Landesberg says. “I knew gluten was out of my life. The big bummer was beer and pizza immediately crossed my mind as things I would never be able to enjoy — and that camaraderie went with beer.”
After an extremely tough time convincing her friends to drink obscure gluten-free beers, her husband got tired of listening to her complain and bought her a beer-making course, so she could learn how to brew gluten-free beer herself. “I was excited about the microbiology of ingredients [in beer], so I started taking extension courses at UC Davis. It has a renowned brewing school for people to learn about home brewing or small batch brewing,” Landesberg says. She realized that beer is made from a lot of all-natural ingredients (potassium, iron, calcium and magnesium), so it isn’t all that bad of a recovery drink post-workout.
Before she knew it, she was running a bootleg home brew operation out of her home in her spare time. Through her job at Strava, she worked with endurance athletes who came to ask for bottles of beer at each training camp and race.
To test out how her beers would hold up to the competition, and if people would even give them a try over more reputable beers, Landesberg and her husband drove to trail races on the weekends in San Francisco. “I would ask the race director, ‘Can I put 15 to 20 of my beers alongside your big brand names?’ They’d have Lagunitas and Sierra Nevada and I would throw my cans in there and watch.” She observed and learned from a primary research perspective. What did people want post-race in a flavor profile?
“I was a one lady entrepreneur, who didn’t realize she was an entrepreneur.”
Despite not being passionate about brewing beer, Landesberg threw herself into it. In October of 2015, she married, and the most important part of the wedding was the beer they were serving. “I wasn’t worried about the dress or the flowers; I wanted my beer to be right,” she says. After the beer was a resounding success, she finally admitted to herself that she had something. She hired a brewmaster to help with balance and understanding flavors and expanded.
“Sufferfest is a happy accident,” she quips. The name was inspired by one of the first races Landesberg signed up for, the Double Dipsea. In May of 2016, she released the Epic Pilsner and the Taper IPA into the market. Then, her Pilsner won the Good Food Awards in 2017 — a definitive success. It proved that a craft, gluten-removed beer for athletes could stand up to the competition.
Today, Sufferfest can be found at races like The Camelbak Pursuit, the Transrockies (where they’re now the official beer) and even community events like run clubs, CrossFit Boxes and bike shops. It’s not a marketing-driven, venture capital-funded growth. “Our vision is to be at every finish line,” says Landesberg. “We have one sprinter van that goes to all these races to allow you to celebrate the way you should celebrate.” Landesberg acknowledges that the endurance community that inspired her beer has been integral to its success. “It’s a word of mouth product,” she says, “and there’s no better referral than from a running friend or coach.”
First Impression: Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet
Well into its 38th year, the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen is more successful than ever. Originally conceived as a military vehicle, with the civilian version little more than an afterthought, it has become a fashion item par excellence, coveted by the rich and famous all over the globe.
It’s a tough act to top a G-Wagen (or G-Class, as the Daimler marketing guys insist). In fact, the only way it can be accomplished is by creating an even more extreme version of the same car. In 2013, the G63 6×6 AMG took away the auto community’s breath; well over 100 were built, far byond projections. In 2015, Daimler fitted the G500 with the new, AMG-GT-derived 4.0-liter V-8, and added the Unimog- and 6×6-inspired portal axles. But this year’s masterpiece, while devoid of a third axle, has set out to beat them all: Meet the Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet.
The model designation already gives away part of the story: The engineers stretched the wheelbase by 22.8 inches, took the portal axles of the aforementioned special editions, added the “first-class” rear compartment of the Maybach S-Class, and fitted an updated version of the power-operated fabric top that was purged from the regular lineup four years ago. The engine under the hood dwarfs both the G63 6×6 and the 4×4-square: This G-Wagen is fitted with the ultra-powerful 6.0-liter V-12 that powers the AMG G65.
Without doubt, this engine is one of the all-time pinnacles of engineering, rated at 630 horsepower at an earth-scorching 738 lb-ft, or 1000 Newtonmeters, of torque. The torque is served up on a lofty plateau that stretches from 2300 to 4300 rpm. Mated to a 7-speed automatic, this engine fires up like a gunshot, it emits a dark and menacing hiss, and it can hurl this 3.3-ton behemoth to 100 kph in less than 6 seconds. Top speed is governed at 180 kph, but we are assured the Maybach could reach around 250 kph. Which seems like a tempting proposition…
While the straight-line performance of this G-Wagen is impressive, its off-road capabilities are truly incredible. With 325/55 R22 tires and a clearence of a full 45 cm, there are plenty obstacles that you simply drive over. Like on every G, a low-range transfer case and three differential locks are standard.
And there is yet another area where this off-roader is second to none: We are talking about the rear seats, the ultimate lap of luxury. The “first-class” Maybach seats and the folding tables are a familiar sight from the Maybach S-Class, as are the massive, silver-plated champagne flutes by Robbe & Berking. On top of that, there are two glove compartments and a center console taken straight from the G-Wagen’s cockpit, an electrically operated partition that switches from transparent to opaque – and no less than eight handles to grab.
You will need them when you fold down the power top and stand up to scout your surroundings. The window frames are fixed – that’s what turns this G-Wagen into a Landaulet – but there is plenty of fresh air coming into the rear compartment. The cockpit, by contrast, is not exactly pedestrian – but it is almost identical to a regular G-Wagen, albeit , of course, a fully optioned one.
Four paint colors are available, three fabric top colors – and several distinct interiors. Daimler will make exactly 99 units; they could cost as much as a half million euros, and they will be delivered from this autumn onwards. If you want to secure an example of the most extreme G-Wagen ever built, we suggest you talk to your dealer sooner rather than later…
Photos: Andreas Lindlahr/Daimler
Geneva Motor Show 2017 Preview
There are quite a number of new cars to look forward to in 2017, and you can see them here from our earlier post. Geneva Motor Show 2017 will be home to most of those debuts and it’s only fit that we do a proper preview. This is what you should expect to see from the show and more so, what we will focus on during our coverage.
The McLaren 720S, Ferrari ‘F12M’, Pagani Huayra Roadster and the Huracan Performante are just a few of the highly anticipated supercar debuts. There is so much more including concepts and the latest from the tuning scene. This list will be updated regularly in the coming weeks as we approach the Geneva Motor Show 2017.
Geneva Motor Show 2017 Preview
25. Techrules GT86
We already saw the concept back at Geneva 2016 and one year later Techrules has the production version ready. As a concept, the output was rated at 1030bhp with a 0-60mph time of 2.5s, the top speed was 217mph. It had an interesting and unique plug-in hybrid style system. Rather than a traditional petrol powered engine, this system uses a micro-turbine to generate electricity and charge a 20 kilowatt hour Lithium-Manganese-Oxide battery pack. We will provide details of the production version in coming weeks.
24. Toyota Yaris Hot Hatch
Toyota Yaris WRC
With Toyota back in WRC, the Yaris is set to receive an even hotter FWD version with three doors. Like other WRC manufacturers, Toyota is bound to have a roadworthy version of their Yaris WRC. No details have been revealed but we expect a limited production and a power output in the region of 220hp or more.
23. Alpine A120 Coupe
Alpine revived its sports car brand with the Vision Show Car last year, months later we began seeing prototypes of what will become their first mid-engined coupe. Dubbed the A120, the new car will debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2017.
22. Jaguar XF Sportbrake
Not too long ago Jaguar was still debating whether to introduce a wagon variant of their business saloon, as the market seems to be declining and competition is fierce from its German rivals. The E-Class estate, Audi A6 Avant and 5 series touring are all well established models, especially in their dominant home market Germany. To keep up with the competition, Jaguar will launch the XF Sportbrake at Geneva Motor Show 2017.
21. BMW M4 Facelift
BMW have recently updated the BMW M4 and BMW 4-Series range to offer a mildly tweaked exterior design together with a set of interior features. The car will be unveiled to the public at Geneva 2017 and even though the changes are hard to notice, the 4 Series has reached halfway its lifecycle. The M4 gets a slight power bump to 431 hp while the Competition package gets 450hp.
20. Volkswagen Arteon
With the Phaeton out of production, expect a new premium sedan from VW that will replace the CC. Little is known of this model but word is there could be a shooting brake version as well. As for the powertrain options, we expect to see VW move towards clean energy with hybrid versions leading the way.
19. BMW 5-Series Touring
With deliveries of the new BMW G30 5-Series already in play, a Touring version will join in soon after its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2017. The boot capacity has grown to 570 litres, 1,700 litres with the seats folded down. It can now handle 120 kgs or 720-730 kgs with the seats down. The interior is pretty much the same as seen on the sedan version. No word on whether the M5 will receive a Touring version.
18. Lexus LS
The new Lexus LS was unveiled at Detroit Motor Show 2017 and competes with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7-Series and Audi A8. The new LS sports a sleeker, more Coupe-esque shape. It sits on a rear wheel drive platform which was also used for the new LC Coupe. It is 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) lower than the outgoing model with a six-side window design.
Power comes from a new 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine. Total output is 415 hp and 600 Nm of torque, enough for a projected 0-60 mph (96 km/h) acceleration time of just 4.5 seconds. The power is driven to the rear wheels through a 10-speed automatic torque converter transmission.
17. David Brown Speedback GT
David Brown will reveal the updated Speedback GT at the Geneva Motor Show 2017. New features include refined design, new colors and extra bespoke features. The Speedback GT is based on a Jaguar XKR chassis and drivetrain, this unique coachbuilt car costs £600,000.
16. Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint
Render by Rain Prisk
The new Alfa Romeo Giulia has truly brought back the spirit of Alfa Romeo to the masses, the QV model has garnered popularity in a segment dominated by the likes of the BMW M3 and the Mercedes-AMG C63. To spice things up a little bit, Alfa Romeo will introduce a Coupe version dubbed the Sprint with the same powertrain options including the range topping V6 used on the QV.
15. Black Cuillin
Created by Morgan rival company Eadon Green, the Black Cuillin is a retro-styled Coupe set to launch at the Geneva Motor Show 2017. The teaser image released by the company resembles Morgan’s Aeromax, full details will follow soon including official images.
14. Zenvo TS1 Anniversary Edition
Zenvo will mark their 10th anniversary with a special model based on the TS1 set to debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2017. The TS1 was revealed at Geneva 2016, it’s powered by a 5.9 litre twin supercharged V8 engine producing over 1,100hp.
13. Vanda Dendrobium Electric Hypercar
Singapore’s first hypercar has been officially revealed ahead of its worldwide release at the Geneva Motor Show 2017 which starts next month. The fully electric supercar, named the Dendrobium Concept, has been designed in collaboration with Williams Group’s Williams Advanced Engineering arm and will be built by the company as a concept.
The Dendrobium Concept is the brainchild of electric mobility experts Vanda Electrics. It is set to feature advanced aerodynamics, lightweight composites and an electronic powertrain. The concept features an automatic roof and doors designed to open in a theatrical manner, reminiscent of the dendrobium genus of orchid common to Singapore.
12. Range Rover Velar
As if the F-Pace wasn’t enough, Land Rover will reveal a new SUV coupe dubbed the Range Rover Velar. It aims to compete against the likes of the Mercedes GLE Coupe, BMW X6 and Porsche Macan, at a time when SUV coupes are increasingly gaining popularity among manufacturers. We expect to see a different range of engines including both petrol and diesel as well as an SVR version.
11. Pininfarina H600 Eco Luxury Sedan
The Pininfarina H600 Eco Luxury Sedan is said to combine a luxury sedan body with a new energy propulsion system. Little is known about the show car except the it was designed and manufactured by Pininfarina for the Hybrid Kinetic Group. Information on the innovative propulsion system is available on the Hybrid Kinetic Group and appears to indicate that the engine runs on compressed natural gas, backed up by electric batteries and a small gasoline tank.
10. Mercedes-Maybach G650 4×4 Landaulet
The Maybach brand is growing at a fast rate, and it has moved up levels to the G-Class. The Mercedes-Maybach G650 4×4 Landaulet with a G65 AMG engine is the ultimate G-Class in terms of luxury. Like the Maybach S650 Cabriolet, the G650 4×4 Landaulet benefits from an ultra luxurious interior while retaining the off-road capabilities of the G500 4×4. Read our first impressions here (link coming soon).
9. Koenigsegg Agera RS and Regera
Koenigsegg Agera RS chassis #125 – Photo by @photochristofferf
Koenigsegg has been busy with deliveries over the past couple of months, we expect to see Regera deliveries kick off soon. At Geneva Motor Show 2017, expect to see a new production Regera unit as well as the Agera RS or RSR. We shall confirm the details in coming days.
8. 2017 Mercedes-AMG E63 S Estate
Following the launch of the sedan version last year, the Mercedes-AMG E63 Estate will make its debut at Geneva Motor Show 2017. Power comes from the 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine tuned to produce an output of 571 hp for the normal variant and 612 hp for the E 63 S. Respective torque figures are 750 Nm at 2,250 rpm to 5,000 rpm and 850 Nm at 2,500 to 4,500 rpm for the E 63 S. Combined with the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system, it is able to deliver a staggering 0 to 100 km/h time of just 3.5 seconds, setting new performance benchmarks for the performance estate market.
7. Aston Martin Vanquish S Volante
The Aston Martin Vanquish S made its debut last year, an upgrade over the normal Vanquish coupe. Deliveries of the coupe began in December 2016 and will be followed by the debut of the Volante at the Geneva Motor Show 2017. The Vanquish S packs 600 hp from its naturally-aspirated 6.0 litre V12 engine. It is of course the same product evolution the original early-2000’s Vanquish experienced mid life. Larger inlet manifolds allow a greater flow of air to the engine, improving throttle response and stronger power delivery.
6. Audi RS Q8
The Audi RS Q8 Concept will debut alongside the RS Q5 model at the Geneva Motor Show 2017. We already saw the Q8 Concept back in Detroit, and is Audi’s way of getting back at BMW for the X6 and Mercedes for the GLE. That said, the RS Q8 will compete against the X6 M and the GLE 63 among others. The Q8 Concept had a hybrid powertrain but the RS Q8 should receive the same twin-turbo V8 found on other bigger RS models, more so the output should mirror that of the S8 Plus or RS6 Performance – 605 hp or more.
5. McLaren 720S
The McLaren 720S will replace the outgoing 650S, McLaren has revealed a few details about it including the use of a new carbon fibre Monocage II body structure. It will be lighter, faster and a lot of other things. The 3.8L V8 TT has done McLaren quite some wonders across their model range, the 570S alone is a really fast car so expect some gaga performance with the new 720S. Details regarding powertrain have not been revealed but we shall know that soon as it debuts at Geneva Motor Show 2017.
4. Porsche 991.2 GT3
The 2018 Porsche 911 GT3 facelift will harbor a plethora of changes key among them being a new 4.0L H6 unit tweaked from the 3.8L unit found on the current model. Additionally, a six speed manual transmission will be offered for the first time since the 997 GT3 ceased production in 2011. This and a few exterior changes will make the 991.2 GT3 an even more people’s Porsche. Power output should increase from the current 475hp to around 500hp found on current GT3 RS and R models. A Geneva 2017 debut is imminent.
3. Lamborghini Huracan Performante
A lighter version of the Lamborghini Huracan has been testing for quite some time now. We expect to see it at the Geneva Motor Show 2017 wearing a new badge with lightweight being the focal point just like the Gallardo Superleggera. The Huracan Superleggera is expected to receive a power boost of 10-20 horsepower or even more over the standard car, bringing output of the supercar’s 5.2-liter V10 to 620-630hp or more. Lamborghini will also strip 100 kilograms of weight from the Huracan in moving to the lightweight Performante model. With the Gallardo, the Performante was the convertible version of the Superleggera.
2. Ferrari F12M
Not its official name yet, the Ferrari ‘F12M’ will be the final version of the F12berlinetta. It will be the last naturally aspirated V12 from Ferrari and although not as exclusive as the F12tdf, its very nature of being the last N/A V12 will place it in a class of its own demand. That said, expect F12tdf prices to shake off a bit, more so, the F12berlinetta prices should fall. This model is similar to Lamborghini’s Aventador S. We expect to see it at the Geneva Motor Show 2017 in March, special viewing will be carried out before then to select Ferrari clients around the world.
1. Pagani Huayra Roadster
The Pagani Huayra Roadster will debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2017. Pagani has already dropped a few teasers showing what to expect beforehand. The renders reveal the new glasshouse layout with tall buttresses fitted with rows of venting. The render reveals that the front gets a front splitter similar in style to the Tempesta package. More details will follow in coming weeks.
