Geneva Motor Show 2019

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Geneva 2019: Pininfarina Battista Electric Hypercar

This is the new Pininfarina Battista, a full electric hypercar and the most powerful car to ever come from Italy.

The Battista shares its powertrain with the Rimac C_Two which is also in Geneva this week. Although the skeleton of the drivetrain is essentially the same, it has been tuned with its own unique acceleration amplitude and the drive mode characteristics. Four electric motors at each wheel combine to produce 1,900 hp. It will manage a sub-2 second 100 km/h sprint, a 300 km/h print of under 12sec and a top speed of around 350 km/h.

Pininfarina Battista

Only 150 units of the Battista hypercar will be made, 50 will go to the US, another 50 for the EU and the final 50 for the Middle East.

For more information on the Pininfarina Battista, See our earlier article here. For more from the Geneva Motor Show 2019, click through to our dedicated news channel. Let us know what you want to see in the comments box below!

March 6, 2019 / Comments Off

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Geneva 2019: 1 of 1 Bugatti “La Voiture Noire”

Bugatti have taken a very special title with the unveiling of the Bugatti La Voiture Noire – the most expensive new car ever sold. As you would imagine, La Voiture Noire, is based the the Bugatti Chrion.

Under the rear hatch sits an unmodified 1,500 hp, eight-litre W16 engine with 1,600 Nm of torque. Performance figures have not been announced, however, we suspect the owner has no plans to test these. It will likely join a private collection to be seen by the public only on special occasions.

Bugatti La Voiture Noire

The styling is certainly splitting opinion. There are significant changes to the look of the car with new headlights mounted much further up the body, much like the Divo. The design has been Inspired by Jean Bugatti’s iconic Type 57 SC Atlantic, four of the most beautiful and valuable cars in existence. At the rear there is a curvy light beam, which reminds us of the McLaren P1, and no less that six exhausts!

For more info on the new 1 of 1 Bugatti “La Voiture Noire”, check our earlier article here. For more from the Geneva Motor Show 2019, click through to our dedicated news channel. Let us know what you want to see in the comments box below!

March 6, 2019 / Comments Off

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Aston Martin Lagonda All-Terrain Concept Officially Revealed

Aston Martin’s Lagonda revival starts in earnest with an all-electric SUV. We know this much from the release that sits centre stage on Aston Martin’s stand at the Geneva Motor Show 2019. The Lagonda All-Terrain Concept carries on the development of this production model, first announced with last year’s Vision Concept.

The production version of the Lagonda SUV will begin production at the new St Athan facility in Wales in 2022. Drivetrain and performance details have not been announced, however, we do know that the Lagonda uses a system similar to the Tesla Model X. A flat ‘skateboard’ style battery pack sits close to the ground and acts as a structural part of the chassis. This gives maximum internal space.

Aston Martin Lagonda All-Terrain Concept

The Concept uses suicide doors in the vein of Rolls-Royce models. To further aid entry and exit into the rear seats, the Lagonda uses a lifting roof section.

The design carries a very distinctive profile. A shorter front bonnet is possible as the Lagonda has nothing to carry in the traditional engine compartment. As a result, the cabin sits further forward than normal. The rear also gets a rakish overhang. In short, it is like nothing we have seen before. It features plenty of gimmicks too. For example, the key is said to float between the front seats “thanks to the wonder of electromagnets”.

March 6, 2019 / Comments Off

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2nd Generation Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake Revealed

Following the unveiling of the new Mercedes-Benz CLA Sedan at the CES 2019 in Las Vegas earlier this year, the Geneva Motor Show 2019 was the destination for the Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake. The next generation Shooting Brake gets much the same specification as the Sedan, with the added practicality of a larger rear boot!

The Shooting Brake will be available to order from September. The design is virtually identical to the Coupe until you get to the rear door. It is characterised by a long bonnet, compact greenhouse, coupé-like window lines, muscular shoulders and a crouched rear. The rear design is completely new.

Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake

The CLA Shooting Brake is 48 millimetres longer than before, 53 mm wider but 2 mm lower. The boot opening is wider than before and the tailgate is electronically operated with hands-free access. It gets 10 litres additional load space, up to 505 litres from 495 litres.

As with the Coupe, the only model mentioned in the press release is a mid-range CLA 250. It uses a four-cylinder petrol engine to produce 225 hp and 350 Nm of torque. Mercedes-Benz will offer a range of diesel and petrol engines with manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions. The CLA will also benefit from 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

Mercedes-Benz have been rolling out MBUX across the range recently. The CLA Shooting Brake gets the latest version of the system. The CLA Shooting Brake also gets some of Mercedes-Benz’s latest technology including Active Distance Assist with recourse to maps and navigation data, Active Steer Assist, Active Lange Change Assist and Active Park Assist.

March 5, 2019 / Comments Off

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Aston Martin AM-RB 003 Hypercar Unveiled!

The Aston Martin Project 003 announcement today at the Geneva Motor Show 2019 confirmed that the British brand will collaborate with Red Bull Racing once again. The project becomes known as the Aston Martin AM-RB 003 for now with the official name to be unveiled at a later date.

The AM-RB 003 makes greater concessions to practicality and road use than the Valkyrie, the model upon which it is based. The idea is to create a car that is less extreme but shares the same basic ethos. It gets a pronounced front keel and large rear diffuser, with the underfloor generating the bulk of the downforce.

Aston Martin AM-RB 003

Aston Martin has also confirmed next-generation aircraft morphing technology, to create a variable airfoil across the entirety of the rear wing. The application of FlexFoil is a first for production cars. The design allows downforce to be changed without changing the physical angle of the entire element.

The new lamp shapes at the front and rear give the Aston Martin AM-RB 003 a look of its own. The shape is different but the internals are taken directly from the Aston Martin Valkyrie.

AM-RB 003’s design brief includes greater cockpit space. It uses LMP1-style doors to achieve this. They open forwards taking a section of roof with them. The centre console has been widened, while luggage space is provided via a terrace behind the seats.

The cockpit prescribes to something Aston Martin call ‘Apex Ergonomics’. To start with, the centreline of the driver’s back, steering wheel and pedals are all perfectly aligned. A display screen mounted on the steering column allows for the best possible view through the steering wheel and infotainment is delivered through a smartphone. The setup is extremely minimalist.

Under the rear hatch will sit Aston Martin’s new hybrid turbo V6 engine. It is the first Aston Martin engine designed in-house for the modern era. The AM-RB 003 will be strictly limited to 500 coupes worldwide. It should compete with the McLaren P1, LaFerrari and Porsche 918 Spyder category of hypercars.

March 5, 2019 / Comments Off

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Koenigsegg Jesko: Agera Successor Revealed at Geneva

Koenigsegg have officially announced the replacement for the Agera! The Koenigsegg Jesko has been unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show 2019 and will be available in two version, a road car and a track car. The car itself has been named after Christian’s father, Jesko von Koenigsegg, who was unaware of the tribute until it was announced at the show earlier today.

The Jesko is built around a re-designed twin-turbocharged V8 engine. It gets a new 180 degree flat-plane crankshaft, intake and larger turbochargers. Flat-plane crankshafts normally suffer from increased vibration which Koenigsegg have addressed with active engine mounts lifted from the Agera. An innovative air-injection system pre-spools the turbocharger for instant response.

Koenigsegg Jesko

The V8 produces 1,280 hp running on regular fuel with the flexfuel E85 option allowing 1,600 hp in some markets. Torque reaches 1,500 Nm at 5,100 rpm. The transmission is another unique design. It is a 9-speed multi-clutch unit that dispenses with traditional synch rings yet allows lightning fast changes between any gear. It weighs just 90 kg in total, lighter than a comparable dual clutch unit.

The Koenigsegg Jesko sits on a carbon fibre monocoque, 40 mm longer and 22 mm taller than the Agera allowing additional head and leg room. The triplex damper returns at the rear wheels and an additional version has been added to the front. Koenigsegg have incorporated rear wheel steering too. Carbon fibre wheels are an option and are larger than those found on the Agera RS.

The Koenigsegg Jesko is a master in aerodynamics too. The rear wing is active, similar to the later Agera models. The front splitter is also deeper than ever before with active under body flaps working to maximise downforce. Even the wing mirrors are optimised to produce 20 kg of downforce each! At 275 km/h, the Jesko produces 1,000 kg of downforce.

The bodywork gets a new Koenisgeg technology called Autoskin. It uses electrics and miniaturised hydraulics to operate the doors and hood. This means that the Koenisegg remote key can be used to open most parts of the car. The roof lifts out of the Jesko, as with most Koenigsegg models.

Inside, a new TFT touchscreen is included, inductive phone charging, Bluetooth connectivity and USB inputs. The infotainment system uses a 5 inch racing display mounted to the steering wheel and a 9 inch central display. Two touchscreens on the steering wheel control other aspects of the car.

Pricing and market launch are yet to be revealed with Koenigsegg hoping to sell the Jesko to customers in the US, Europe, Asia and the Middle East!

March 5, 2019 / Comments Off

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Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster: Hardcore GT R Goes Topless

The Mercedes-AMG GT R was officially unveiled in June 2016 ahead of the Goodwood Festival of Speed that year. Almost three years have passed without a convertible counterpart. We recently saw a facelifted version of that car. Today we finally get to see a convertible version in the form of the Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster!

The new Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster is only going to be available as a limited production model. Mercedes-AMG plans to produce 750 of the hardcore roadsters. Its release extends the count of the AMG GT variants to 16, five two-door coupes, four roadsters, two race cars and five four-door coupes.

Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster

Under the front bonnet sits a 4.0 litre V8, bi-turbocharged engine producing 585 hp and 700 Nm of torque. In the Roadster, it allows a 100 km/h sprint in just 3.6 seconds with a top speed of 317 km/h.

As with the coupe, it gets an AMG specific grill. The new LED headlights are also shared with the coupe together with the styling and active aerodynamics incorporated into the front end. As with the C Roadster, the R Roadster sits 46 millimeters wider at the front and 57 millimeters wider at the rear. The rear wing is fitted to the bootlid.

The new model also gets the ‘AMG Dynamics’ settings for the stability control functions with Basic, Advanced, Pro and Master settings. Active rear wheel steering is included as standard.

The 10 spoke wheels are exclusive to the AMG GT R and measure 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear. The brake callipers are painted in yellow and are hidden under the matt black finish of the wheels.

The three-layer fabric soft top gets acoustic matting to reduce noise. The exterior gets graphite grey magno matt paint, an exclusive colour. There are 14 other colours choices. An AMG carbon fibre package adds carbon fibre elements to various exterior elements.

The AMG GT R Roadster also gets the tech carried over from the facelift models. This includes the new configurable 12.3-inch digital instrument display and a central multimedia display with a new 10.25-inch screen and updated graphics. It gets the new steering wheel with capacitive buttons and TFT screens. The AMG Interior Night Package comes as standard.

March 3, 2019 / Comments Off

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Mercedes-Benz GLC Facelift Revealed With New Engines and Tech!

The Mercedes-Benz GLC facelift has been revealed. The 2020 model is an expected release for the Geneva Motor Show 2019. The success of the previous generation makes the facelift model an important release. With BMW and Audi both vying for position within the segment and a recent onslaught of premium SUV’s in other areas of the market, Mercedes-Benz will be hoping that the GLC Facelift will endear it to a new generation of customers.

The exterior design of the Mercedes-Benz GLC facelift receives a beefier look. LED headlamps are now standard with a new ‘torch-design’ daytime running light. The radiator grille is also redesigned with new double louvres and diamond lattice. The paint palette is also increased with a new graphite grey option and four different options are available for the wheels ranging from 17 through to 19 inches.

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC Facelift

At the rear, the bumper has been redesigned with new exhaust shrouds. The LED tail lamps are new too and chrome surrounds for the skid plate finish the look. An AMG-line specification adds a chromed diamond grille, AMG specific front apron and angular exhaust tips with additional options such as 20 inch wheels.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC facelift gets a new range of engines. All are 4-cylinder for now. The GLC 200 4Matic puts out 197 hp and the GLC 300 4Matic, 258 hp. Both use a 48-volt on-board power supply and belt-driven starter-generator, recovering up to 10 kW of energy and saving fuel. The diesel models come without the hybrid technology, the GLC 200d 4Matic produces 163 hp, the GLC 220d 4Matic 194 hp and the GLC 300d 4Matic 245hp. The diesel models come equipped with the 9G-Tronic transmission.

Inside, the Mercedes-Benz GLC facelift uses the latest MBUX infotainment system. It starts with the new multi-function steering wheel with multi-touch control. The MBUX system is familiar by now with a wide range of operating possibilities ranging from touch through to gesture control. On the GLC, two high resolution displays have been fitted. The instrument cluster measures 12.3 with either a 7 inch or 10.25 inch central display.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC facelift also adds further assistance systems. Dynamic Body Control and Dynamic Select receives modified settings. Active Distance Assist and Active Steer Assist have been modified to help support the driver. The GLC facelift also utilises Active Braking Assist, Active Parking Assist, Trailer Manoeuvring Assist and Car-to-X Communication, a swarm-type technology.

We recently drove a prototype out in Northern Sweden. You can read that story here. We will be looking to follow it up with a drive on tarmac after the official reveal in Geneva next week!

February 28, 2019 / Comments Off

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Ginetta Reveals Radical 600hp Supercar

Ginetta has released a new supercar in time for the Geneva Motor Show 2019. The supercar currently has no name, furhter details are promised at the Swiss motor show. Despite the challenging looks, the spec sheet looks impressive.

The new supercar has been designed and manufactured in-house at Ginetta’s headquarters in Leeds. Visually, the supercar blends the traditional shape of the Ginetta G55 with Ginetta’s G58 LMP1 prototype race car.

2020 Ginetta Supercar

This Ginetta is mid-engined which allows the British company to fit a deep front nose. At 100 mph, its aerodynamic profile is enough to produce 376 kg of downforce.

The Ginetta supercar gets a 6.0 litre, naturally aspirated V8 with 600 bhp and 700 Nm of torque. The power is routed through a six-speed sequential paddle-shift gearbox supplied by Hewland Engineering with a carbon propshaft. The side exit exhausts look incredible.

Weight is just 1,150 kg thanks to a carbon fibre monocoque and carbon fibre bodywork combination. The weight is distributed 49% to the front and 51% to the rear. The rear wing features the same aerodynamic shape as the Ginetta LMP1 racer. The bodywork also includes a full underbody diffuser and ducting. Despite this, the boot consumes 675 litres of luggage.

The Ginetta supercar has carbon ceramic brakes. The wheels are designed and manufactured by Ginetta. They measure 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear. The suspension features an adjustable pushrod activated double wishbone system lifted from the LMP1 car. The steering is hydraulic power assisted and the steering wheel is an LMP1-inspired carbon fibre unit.

The interior is finished in Alcantara, carbon fibre and billet aluminium. There is enough technology to compete with most rivals. ABS, traction control, reverse camera, automatic headlights, park sensors, air conditioning, heated screens front and rear and wireless phone charging are all available.

The Ginetta supercar will be limited to just 20 examples with production set to begin in 2020. 12 have already been sold leaving enough space for a further 8 customers. Owners will get a bespoke experience from a tailored seat fitting, extensive factory warranty and “immersive ownership experience”.

February 27, 2019 / Comments Off

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Lamborghini Huracan EVO Spyder Officially Revealed

Lamborghini has lifted the cover off of the Lamborghini Huracan EVO Spyder, the convertible version of the recently released Huracan EVO. The Spyder will debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2019 which starts under a week from now.

The important information relates to the Huracan’s electrohydraulic, lightweight soft top. There are no dramatic changes for the EVO model, the top still opens via a button positioned on the central tunnel. It takes 17 seconds and operates at driving speeds of up to 50 km/h (31 mph). Otherwise, the changes are similar to that of the Coupe counterpart. The rollover bars are body painted and hide behind the seats. The rear window is electronically operated and can be opened when the roof is closed to let in the sound of that V10!

Lamborghini Huracan EVO Spyder

The Lamborghini Huracan EVO Spyder uses the same 5.2 litre, naturally aspirated V10 engine as the coupe. The specifications suggest that it has been lifted straight from the Lamborghini Huracan Performante. It has 640 hp and 600 Nm of torque. The Spyder hits 100 km/h 0.2 seconds slower than the Coupe in a respectable 3.1 seconds. Top speed remains identical though at 325 km/h.

The Spyder’s dry weight of 1,542 kg means that it has a 120 kg handicap over the Coupe. It features the same range of chassis technology with Lamborghini’s rear-wheel steering and torque vectoring system. New to the EVO is a system called Lamborghini Dinamica Veicolo Integrata (LDVI) which controls key aspects of the car’s performance, using intelligent algorithms. The Lamborghini Piattaforma Inerziale (LPI) system of accelerators and gyroscopes helps refine the operation of the dynamic systems and Lamborghini’s Dynamic Steering is also updated.

The first customers will take delivery of the new Lamborghini Huracán EVO Spyder in spring 2019 with a recommended price of 202,437 euros excluding taxes.

February 27, 2019 / Comments Off

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Geneva Motor Show 2019 Preview

The Geneva Motor Show 2019 begins next Tuesday (5 March 2019) and runs through to 17 March 2019. With the likes of Ford, Opel, Volvo and Jaguar Land Rover all absent, this year might prove to be quieter than recent years. Despite the no-shows, there is still plenty to see. We’ve collected all of the confirmed production launches below for a Geneva Motor Show 2019 preview!

Audi

Audi have already announced a number of new models for the Geneva show. The most recent was last week’s Audi SQ5 TDI, an SUV with an incredibly powerful diesel engine. At the other end of the spectrum, Audi are expected to release an Audi Q4 e-tron Concept. Expect to see the new Audi TT RS facelift for the first time and a possible Audi A6 Allroad. Hopefully there are some other surprises too. Perhaps a little early for an RS6 though…

Bentley

It’s a big year for Bentley. It turns 100 years old. Against the backdrop of the uncertainty surrounding Brexit, Bentley have released a faster, more expensive version of the popular Bentley Bentayga. The Bentley Bentayga Speed will be the first of two expected world premieres from the British company. The second will be a centenary model. Little is known about this at the moment, however, Bentley have released teaser images so we know that it is definitely on the cards!

BMW

BMW have the new 7 Series to show off. Released a month ago and sporting a massive front grille, it will be interesting to see what it looks like in the flesh. BMW will also display a range of new hybrids. At the other end of the scale, the BMW X3M and BMW X4M will inject some adrenaline. Surprises? BMW is normally predictable. Perhaps we will get something else this year?

Bugatti

Bugatti have already announced the Bugatti Chiron Sport ’110 ans Bugatti’. We are expecting it to make a debut at the Geneva show. Yet we have also been hearing rumours of a special, one-off version of the Bugatti Chiron commissioned by Former Volkswagen Group Chairman Ferdinand Piech. On social media, Bugatti have been talking about the legendary Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic. The Bugatti stand could be exciting!

Cupra

Seat’s stand-alone performance brand will show an SUV concept in the form of the Cupra Formentor, named after the Majorcan peninsula. From the stats it looks similar to the Skoda Vision RS hybrid with a plug-in hybrid powertrain making a total of 250 hp.

GFG Style

GFG Style was started by legendary designer Giorgetto Giugiaro and his son, Fabrizio. As such, we have high hopes for the GFG Style Kangaroo, its first concept design. The company has created an SUV with four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering and two seats. It sits on a chassis donated by Chinese brand CH Auto.

Italdesign

Now in the ownership of the Volkswagen Group, Giugiaro’s old brand, Italdesign, will display a brand new supercar at the Geneva show. In past years, Italdesign have launched the Huracan-based Zerouno and the Nissan GT-R based GT-R50. Italdesign plans to introduce a new supercar every year. Few details have been released to confirm what it plans for this year, however, expect Volkswagen Group connections.

Koenigsegg

We have known for some time that Koenigsegg will release a replacement for the Agera at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. Its working title is Ragnarok. Rumours suggest that the 1,440 hp hypercar will be limited to a 125 car run. Koenigsegg recently announced a technical partnership with NEVS. That partnership is expected to propel Koenigsegg into the mainstream with a series of new models. We might hear more about this too.

Aston Martin Lagonda

Aston Martin will have a number of models on display. The biggest announcement so far is the Lagonda All-Terrain Concept which is expected to preview the sub-brand’s first production model. Alongside the All-Terrain Concept will sit examples of Aston Martin’s current range, refined by Aston Martin’s Q service. What will take up the rest of the space is up for debate. Aston Martin recently announced the Project 003 hypercar which we would love to see, otherwise, it could be Aston Martin’s SUV.

Lamborghini

Lamborghini have already announced the Lamborghini Huracan EVO. The Geneva Motor Show 2019 is the first opportunity for the Italian brand to publicly show the car (although journalists have already been let loose). Rumours have also been circulating about a limited edition hypercar set to preview at some point this year. Initial reports suggested that Lamborghini will reveal the hybrid hypercar at the Frankfurt Motor Show later this year, however, we have out fingers crossed for something special at Geneva.

Manifattura Automobili Torino

Italian brand Manifattura Automobili Torino will be at the Geneva Motor Show this year with its new Stratos. Reports suggest that the first production version will be on display, destined for a German customer. The company will be debuting a manual gearbox option. Last year MAT announced a Safari variant and a GT track-focused version. Perhaps we might see one or other of these?

Mercedes-Benz

Another of the big displays will belong to Mercedes-Benz. Our Geneva Motor Show 2019 preview would not be complete without them and Mercedes-Benz has already announced big plans. The German brand will reveal a sting of special editions including the SLC Final Edition, the SL Grand Edition and the Mercedes-AMG S 65 Final Edition. The CLA Shooting Brake is also confirmed alongside a new V Class and the Concept EQV van. Shoehorned into a corner, Mercedes-Benz will also have a facelift version of the GLC.

Peugeot

Peugeot introduced an interesting concept last week. The 508 Concept looks like a BMW M3 rival on paper. Officially named the Peugeot 508 Sport Engineered, it uses a petrol engine combined with two electronic motors to produce an output of 400 hp. Performance figures include a 60 mph sprint in just 4.3 seconds. The production version won’t be quite so brisk with an expected 225 hp output.

Pininfarina

Pininfarina have been drip feeding the new Battista hypercar in recent months. The Battista is the first of a new-generation of Pininfarina, stand-alone models. It will be joined by an SUV in the near future. For now, we know that the Battista will be all-electric with a 1,900 hp motor.

Porsche

Porsche are an unknown quantity at this stage. We have them down to release the new Porsche 911 to a European audience and the 911 Cabriolet on the world stage. Yet these are hardly crowd pullers. One possibility is that Porsche have the 718 Cayman GT4 ready to go…

Puritalia

Puritalia, a new Italian sports car manufacturer will reveal a hybrid powered Berlinetta. It will combine a proprietary hybrid system with a front-mounted V8 engine. The Berlinetta will be built on commission and will pack a 965 bhp punch, outgunning the McLaren P1 and LaFerrari. The teaser images look interesting and with a limited production run of 150 examples, it should prove to be an exciting alternative to the mainstream.

Morgan

Another Geneva regular will use this year’s show to debut a sports car. Morgan’s 110th year will see the debut of an all-new aluminium wide body model. Don’t expect revolutionary design, Morgan has developed a distinctive look over the years. The British brand is set to downsize with the introduction of a forced-induction six-cylinder engine. It will be the new flagship of the Morgan range.

Volkswagen

Volkswagen are expected to debut a number of new concepts and models. The Volkswagen ID Buggy is one of the first debuts. Based upon the Beetle which is not long for this world, Volkswagen will unveil the electrified beach buggy. Of more interest to us is the Volkswagen T Roc R, a performance SUV.

McLaren

McLaren are an unknown quantity at the moment. They released a press release last week detailing an MSO bespoke 600LT Spider which will be on display at the Swiss show. The 600 LT Spider gets Napier Green highlights which contrast the Dove Grey finish. Other than the 600LT, we were expecting to see the production version of the Senna GTR and, possibly, the McLaren Speedtail.

February 24, 2019 / Comments Off

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ABT Audi Q8 Adds Power and Aero Package

ABT’s package for the Audi Q8 has arrived. Due to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show 2019 in a few weeks time, the ABT Audi Q8 adds power and style through a subtle aero package. The display car is built upon an Audi Q8 50 TDI, although the parts will work for other engine variants in the range.

The ABT body kit consists of a front skirt add-on with a front blade and air inlet panels, rear skirt add-on and fins, an ABT rear wing and an ABT emblem set. Small parts but they set the ABT Audi Q8 apart from the standard model. All of the additional parts are available in a glossy black finish.

ABT Audi Q8

The Audi Q8 50 TDI gets an ABT Power boost. The German company installed an ABT Engine Control (AEC) unit boosting power from the 3.0 litre TDI from 286 hp up to 330 hp. Torque increases from 600 to 650 Nm. ABT have carried out some work on the suspension too. The ABT Level Control module allows greater control over the electronic air suspension.

ABT supply wheels for the Q8 too. This show car features an ABT Sport GR set. They measure 10 x 22 inches with a concave base, finished in matt black or gloss black with diamond polishing. Alternatively, ABT has revealed a 23-inch version of the same wheel design. Personalised interiors are also possible.

For some reason, the press release makes constant reference to James Bond with ABT reminding us that they modified an Audi 200 quattro for the film “The Living Daylights” in the 1980s. ABT think this might be the perfect car for 007, do we agree?

February 23, 2019 / Comments Off

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TechArt GTstreet RS: 770 hp Porsche 911 Turbo S Revealed

The king is dead, long live the king! In the case of the Porsche 911 Turbo S, we might now be waiting for the arrival of the 992 version, yet a worthy stop-gap appears to have arrived in the form of the lastest, 770 hp, TechArt GTstreet RS!

The top level of TechArt’s Porsche 911 program is set to debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2019 the week after next. the TechArt GTstreet RS won’t be widely available though. TechArt have announced a limited edition run of ten examples, based on the 991 Porsche 911 Turbo S.

Techart GTstreet RS with 770hp

Forged carbon is the flavour of the month. TechArt received the memo and have delivered in dramatic fashion. A new forged carbon fibre body kit underpins the project. It includes a new front apron with front spoiler, lip and additional air intakes. The headlights get carbon airframes and flaps optimise downforce. The new front hood gets a custom touch with the edition number lacquered into the clear paint. Design wise, NACA air inlets supply cooling air to the braking system.

The side profile includes a new set of carbon front fenders with larger carbon louvres to vent the wheel arch. A ram air scoop has been added to the rear lid to help with cooling. The active rear wing is redesigned and works in combination with the rear diffuser. To reduce weight, Techart has even replaced the rear and rear side mirrors with Gorilla glass.

Each axle receives a special version of the forged TechArt Formula IV Race centre lock wheels. Aero rings have been incorporated into the carbon fibre to protect the brake system from stone-chipping and to reduce air turbulence behind the wheels.

Headlines will be written (our own included) about the insane power outputs achieved by the TechArt GTstreet RS. The 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged flat-six engine produces more power than the GT2 RS. Among the modifications carried out by TechArt are the new turbochargers. A set of TechArt quad titanium tailpipes are visible at the back.

An additional 190 hp is generated for a total figure of 770 hp together with an additional 170 Nm of torque, a total of 920 Nm. The additional power allows blistering pace. 100 km/h is dispatched in just 2.5 seconds. 200 km/h in 8.1 seconds. Terminal velocity is an electronically limited 340 km/h.

TechArt offers a coilover suspension system for the PDCC. A retrofitted noselift system is also on offer and provides an additional 60 mm of ground clearance.

TechArt’s interior blends virgin wool with leather and Alcantara. A new sports steering wheel has been fitted together with a set of sports seats, 6-point racing seatbelts, a roll bar and colour-matched door openers. All customers will also receive a racing helmet, a helmet bag and a document wallet finished in the colour of the individual vehicle.

February 22, 2019 / Comments Off

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Hispano Suiza Maguari HS1 GTC Announced with Lamborghini V10

Consider us confused! A few weeks ago Hispano Suiza put out a press release about a new supercar. It was named the Carmen. Now we hear about the Hispano-Suiza Maguari HS1 GTC, another hypercar carrying the same name!

The confusion is tied to the fact that the two are actually completely different companies, both claiming the right to use the Hispano Suiza brand for its cars. The Carmen is produced by Hispano Suiza Cars, and the Maguari by Hispano Suiza Automobile Manufaktur AG. The Maguari comes from the same company who displayed the Hispano Suiza Gran Turismo Coupé Concept Car at the Geneva Motor Show in 2010. At some point expensive lawyers will probably be deployed to settle the issue once and for all. Until then, we are forced to report on the two cars separately. Prepare to be confused!

Maguari HS1 GTC by Hispano Suiza

The Hispano Suiza Maguari HS1 GTC appears to be in its very early stages. Named after a South American stork, the brand’s traditional emblem, it uses the underpinnings of a Lamborghini Huracan. Power from the twin turbocharged V10, all 1,085 hp and 1,050 Nm of torque, is routed to the rear-wheels. 0 to 100 km/h is said to take just 2.8 seconds with a top speed of 380 km/h.

Despite the lack of any real-world images, the Hispano Suiza Maguari HS1 GTC is said to be in the advanced stages of development with deliveries scheduled for the end of 2019. The Swiss company plans to produce 300 of these models. The first ten cars will be special edition cars and will feature matching handmade drivers gloves, shoes, luggage and an exclusive handbag.

Hispano Suiza are marketing the Maguari HS1 GTC at a price point of €2.2 million.

February 22, 2019 / Comments Off

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Bentley Bentayga Speed Officially Revealed

Bentley have officially revealed the Bentley Bentayga Speed… and it’s faster than the Lamborghini Urus. 1 km/h to be exact! Oneupmanship aside, the fastest version of the Bentley Bentayga gets the usual Speed treatment. Performance, aerodynamic and cosmetic tweaks.

To start at the business end. The 6.0-litre W12 engine’s updates allow it to generate 635 hp and 900 Nm of torque. Bentley claim a top speed of 190 mph (306 km/h) and a 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) time of just 3.9 seconds (an improvement of 0.2 seconds over the standard W12).

Bentley Bentayga Speed

Cosmetic touches include a set of dark-tint headlights, body-coloured side skirts and a larger tailgate spoiler. Bentley have also added dark-tint radiator and bumper grilles, a unique 22-inch wheel design and Speed signature badging

The interior of the Bentayga Speed gets similar touches. A new ‘swoosh’ design incorporates the door and door grab, the edge of the seat cushions and backrest bolsters, and the lower console. Plenty of contrast stitching diamond quilting is included together with a Speed illuminated treadplate signature and, for the first time in the Bentayga, Alcantara is available.

The Bentley Bentayga Speed is equipped with an Electronic Differential Lock and up to eight Drive Dynamics modes. Sport mode gets a recalibration to suit the style of the Bentayga Speed. A new exhaust system provides a unique soundtrack during start up and on downshifts. A firmer suspension setup enhances the handling. The Bentayga Speed boasts the biggest ceramic brakes fitted to a Bentley, capable of generating torque of 6,000 Nm while saving 20 kg of weight.

Details on pricing and availability are yet to be announced. We will hopefully see the Bentley Bentayga at the Geneva Motor Show 2019.

February 14, 2019 / Comments Off

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2019 BMW Alpina B7 Officially Revealed

The facelift BMW 7 Series has only just been revealed. Alpina have wasted no time with the release of their Alpina B7’s, based on the platform of the facelifted model. Of course Alpina were able to get their hands on the new design early on account of their close relationship with BMW.

In essence, the new Alpina B7 is just a facelift of the old version. It features the new front grille, the vertical air breathers and the modified headlights of the 7 Series upon which it is based.

Under the bonnet mild changes have been made. The 4.4 litre biturbo V8 engine gets larger turbines, new inter cooler connections and a tweaked engine management system. Power output remains the same though, pegged at 608 hp and 800 Nm. The modifications affect the delivery of that power with 100 km/h arriving 0.1 second quicker at 3.6 seconds. Top speed is an impressive 330 km/h.

The suspension is different too. It gets the same two-axle air suspension system, combined with Dynamic Damper Control and Active Comfort Drive. Alpina have different control systems though. For example, at 225 km/h, the new Sport+ Mode automatically reduces the B7’s ride height by 15 cm to reduce the centre of gravity. The variable-ratio electric steering system has been modified by Alpina too, it combines with the rear wheel steering for superior handling over the standard 7.

As you would expect, BMW’s updated interior tech is also available for the super saloon. The latest BMW iDrive 7.0 navigation system sits surrounded by Nappa Leather and subtle Alpina design touches. Sound isolation has also improved with new shielding in the rear wheel arches, enhanced sound insulation elements in the B-pillar area and 0.2 mm thicker window glass.

Pricing and availability for the Alpina B7 are yet to be released. It should be on display at the Geneva Motor Show 2019 which takes place next month so we will be sure to catch up with it then!

February 12, 2019 / Comments Off

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Audi TT RS Coupe and TT RS Roadster Get Facelift

Audi have taken the covers off of the Audi TT RS Coupe and the Audi TT RS Roadster. The two models receive a mild series of aerodynamic tweaks but no boost in performance. The visual tweaks should allow it a few more years of faithful service. The official reveal will likely take place at the Geneva Motor Show 2019 which starts early next month.

The design takes its cues from the facelift Audi TT. The front air vents are redesigned with the vertical stips moving to the inside of the vent with a larger air vent on the outside. The side sill is completely new too, with a gloss black finish. At the rear, a new wheel vent has been added. Finally, the rear spoiler has been redesigned with larger end plates.

Audi TT RS Coupe Facelift

A new set of matrix OLED reversing lights have also been added to the option list. They are said to put on a display when the ignition is turned on. Kyalami Green becomes an RS-specific colour, and two further colours, Turbo Blue and Pulse Orange, join the option list.

The 2.5 litre inline 5 cylinder engine returns for the facelift. The power remains the same, 400 hp and 480 Nm of torque. Performance is also identical with a 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62.1 mph) sprint occurring in 3.7 seconds. The power is routed through a seven-speed S tronic to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system.

Facelift Audi TT RS Roadster

Inside, Audi fit the latest RS sport seats with RS logos on the seats, steering wheel, door sill trims, and selector levers. The Audi virtual cockpit gets a special RS display which provides information on tire pressure, torque, and g-forces. A new RS sport leather steering wheel is also on offer.

Order books open for the facelift Audi TT RS Coupe and Audi TT RS Roadster tomorrow with deliveries from the spring of 2019. The price for the Coupé is 67,700 euros. The Roadster starts at 70,500 euros.

February 6, 2019 / Comments Off

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