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Hot Mini John Cooper Works returns with petrol energy

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The scorching new John Cooper Works model of the petrol-powered Mini hatchback has been revealed in camouflaged competitors kind forward of its official debut later this 12 months.

The overhauled scorching hatch is making its first outing at subsequent weekend’s Nürburgring 24 Hours race. It will probably be entered into the loosely regulated SP 3T class by Mini motorsport agency Bulldog Racing and put on a camouflage livery impressed by Paddy Hopkirk’s Monte Carlo Rally-winning Mini Cooper S from 1964.

The full reveal – together with official powertrain specs and manufacturing particulars – will occur within the autumn, mentioned Mini, however already it’s obvious how the recent hatch will probably be made visually extra aggressive than the usual automobile.

Bespoke styling cues embody a way more outstanding entrance grille flanked by a pair of recent air intakes, a chunky rear diffuser – which will probably be toned down for the road-going automobile – and an upturned roof spoiler.

There may even be a efficiency model of the second-generation electric Mini Cooper, however this new British-built petrol automobile will successfully be a closely up to date model of the earlier John Cooper Works. It will preserve its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine however most likely acquire a lift in energy over the earlier automobile’s 231bhp to maintain tempo with the likes of the Volkswagen Golf GTI.

As with the previous automobile, it’ll use a performance-focused chassis with uprated springs and dampers, along with varied parts which were lightened and strengthened with the intention of enhancing responsiveness and agility.

The brakes are more likely to be beefier and the earlier JCW’s electronically selectable two-way adaptive dampers might return as a no-cost possibility.

Like the Golf GTI, the recent Cooper will solely be out there with an automated gearbox, Mini having ended guide manufacturing with final 12 months’s John Cooper Works 1to6 particular version.

The petrol-powered JCW will arrive in sellers later this 12 months, with the electrical model following in 2025. The EV mannequin is assumed to make use of a single motor with higher reserves than the 215bhp and 243lb ft of the Cooper SE.

Featured

Skoda Sub-4m SUV Spied Testing, Launch Slated For Early 2025

The spy video of the closely camouflaged take a look at mule managed to offer away key design particulars

  • Skoda to base the brand new sub-4m SUV on the Kushaq’s MQB-A0-IN platform.

  • New spy video additionally confirmed a closely draped inside; Kushaq-like touchscreen seen.

  • Other anticipated options embody sunroof, a 360-degree digicam, and as much as six airbags.

  • Likely to get the Kushaq’s 1-litre turbo-petrol unit to suit the tax bracket of the phase.

  • Prices of the Skoda sub-4m SUV may begin from Rs 8.50 lakh (ex-showroom).

Skoda lately introduced its plan to enter the sub-4m SUV house in India subsequent 12 months. While its launch will happen solely in early 2025, Skoda has already began testing the SUV on our roads. Now, a brand new spy video exhibiting one of many take a look at mules of the SUV has surfaced on-line, giving us a more in-depth take a look at its exterior and inside.

Details Seen In The Spy Shots

Although the SUV was draped in heavy camouflage, it did give away some key design particulars of the outside. The Skoda sub-4m SUV may have a split-headlight setup with the LED DRLs (to additionally double up as flip indicators) positioned within the higher portion of the fascia. Other noticeable particulars embody a modern butterfly grille, and an even bigger air dam that includes a honeycomb sample within the decrease half of the bumper.

The take a look at mule was outfitted with metal wheels with black covers and it had wraparound LED taillights. In profile, it does look like a smaller model of the Skoda Kushaq, nevertheless it’s from the rear that it’ll most bear a resemblance to the Skoda compact SUV. Underneath the pores and skin, the brand new sub-4m SUV can be primarily based on a shortened model of the MQB-A0-IN platform that underpins the Kushaq.

Visible Cabin Updates

The spy video additionally provides us a short take a look at the Skoda SUV’s cabin, which can be coated in thick camouflage. That stated, we will discover a free-standing touchscreen infotainment unit (prone to include wi-fi Android Auto and Apple CarPlay).

We count on Skoda to additionally equip it with a digital driver’s show, cruise management, single-pane sunroof, and ventilated entrance seats. In phrases of security, the Skoda sub-4m SUV may stand up to 6 airbags, digital stability management (ESC), a 360-degree digicam, and a tyre stress monitoring system (TPMS).

Also Read: Skoda Superb Makes A Comeback, Launched In India At Rs 54 Lakh

A Single Powertrain On Offer

Skoda is predicted to offer the sub-4m SUV with the smaller 1-litre turbo-petrol engine (115 PS/178 Nm) from the Kushaq. It is predicted to get a selection of each 6-speed handbook and computerized transmissions.

Expected Price And Competition

The Skoda sub-4m SUV is predicted to go on sale by March 2025, with costs prone to begin from Rs 8.50 lakh (ex-showroom). It will lock horns with the Maruti Brezza, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Mahindra XUV300, Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, in addition to the Maruti Fronx and Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor sub-4m crossovers.

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Motorsport

The 2025 Nissan Kicks Finally Gets All-Wheel Drive

When we first noticed camouflaged prototypes of the next-generation Nissan Kicks in July 2023, we knew vital adjustments had been coming to Nissan’s small crossover. Now, the covers are lifted and we’re handled to a really symmetrical design that is a little bit greater and packs an incredible punch. Say hey to the 2025 Nissan Kicks.

Right away, you will discover Nissan’s signature V-Motion grille is gone. In reality, there is not a single reference to V-Motion anyplace within the Kicks press launch. Look carefully on the new face, nevertheless, and you will see vestiges of the previous design language. The openings on the bladed grille slant inwards, culminating in a ridge atop the fascia. At the highest, slender headlights additionally angle downwards on the internal edges. It’s a really clear, squarish look that extends rearward with a excessive, straight beltline.

Things are a bit extra fascinating on the again. Nissan retains the floating roof motif with an accessible two-tone look, and the Kicks “kink” within the pillar remains to be there too. It provides solution to a much less blocky rear gate with outstanding vertical taillights mounted excessive on the corners. Overall, it is a very totally different look in comparison with the outgoing Kicks. The new model has a bigger, extra upright look.

It’s not simply an look, both. Nissan says the 2025 Kicks is larger, although actual specs aren’t accessible but. We’re advised there’s simply over an inch extra shoulder room for entrance and rear passengers, with these within the again getting slightly below an additional inch for knees. With the rear seats up you get 30 extra cubic ft of cargo area, or 60 extra cubes with them folded. Nissan says the area is best-in-class, and the rear opening area of 40.3 inches can also be listed as best-in-class.

Space actually issues in a small SUV, however we suspect occupants might be extra within the Kicks’ digital improve. The new inside is radically totally different due to a pair of show screens for the motive force middle infotainment system. That middle display screen measures as much as 12.3 inches, with a 7-inch display screen put in as normal. It controls an array of tech that features non-obligatory 360-degree surround-view cameras and an accessible Bose 10-speaker sound system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are constructed into the system.

Underneath all of it, you will discover a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine making 141 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque, managed by a CVT. And for the primary time, you may ship that energy to all 4 wheels with Nissan’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system. Thus outfitted, Nissan provides a snow mode that’s designed particularly for all-paw efficiency on slippery surfaces.

Further aiding drivers are options equivalent to automated emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, rear automated braking, and lane departure warnings, all a part of Nissan’s standard-issue Safety Shield 360 System. Step as much as the SR trim and you will get ProPilot that provides steering help. Nissan is eager to say that is additionally a primary for the Kicks.

How a lot will all this price? Nissan is not prepared to debate pricing however guarantees data will come earlier than the on-sale date later this summer season. For reference, the 2024 Kicks begins at $22,440, together with the vacation spot charge. With the hefty design adjustments and energy enhance, it is secure to imagine the 2025 Kicks will begin someplace within the mid-$20,000 vary.

Motorsport

It’s Official, The 2025 Golf GTI And Golf R Won’t Have Manuals

Volkswagen introduced a camouflaged 2025 Golf GTI to CES in Las Vegas final month, however the actual reveal came about weeks later in Europe. While the US-spec mannequin remains to be a no-show, a thinly disguised prototype attended the F.A.T. Ice Race Aspen in Carbondale, Colorado. We requested VW of America about what the long run has in tow for the quintessential scorching hatch.

Confirming our worst fears, the six-speed handbook gearbox disappears after the 2024 mannequin 12 months. In an e-mail to Motor1, Volkswagen of America Product Communications Specialist Jerohn Anderson stated: “I can inform you that the manual transmission will not be available after MY2024 for Golf GTI and Golf R.”

Some studies instructed VW might need a change of coronary heart attributable to extra relaxed Euro 7 rules, however the Euro-spec Golf GTI debuted with a DSG solely. Consequently, its American cousin can be shedding the stick. The GTI 380 special edition marked the tip of the highway for the three-pedal Golf within the United States.

And there is a motive why the Euro 7 customary would impression the American model. US gross sales of the Golf GTI with a handbook accounted for less than about 5 % of complete quantity in 2023. Since the majority of gross sales got here from different markets, preserving the third pedal in North America simply wasn’t well worth the problem. Although the Euro 7 laws has been relaxed because the preliminary proposal, the change did not occur quickly sufficient to maintain the handbook. The Golf Mk8.5 had already been largely (if not solely) developed.

While the Golf R wasn’t provided with a handbook transmission in Europe, Americans may row their very own gears. However, the all-wheel-drive flagship will even be offered strictly with the automated from the 2025 mannequin 12 months on. It does not imply the handbook is totally lifeless within the Golf 8, although, since some markets are getting cheaper variations with 1.5 TSI gasoline and a couple of.0 TDI diesel engines mixed with a clutch pedal.

Losing the handbook goes to be an enormous disappointment for fans enthusiastic about shopping for a GTI or an R. At the start of the 12 months, we requested VW how many individuals acquired the efficiency hatch with three pedals in 2023. The take rate for the GTI was 50 percent whereas the R was intently behind, at 40 %, the identical as for the Jetta GLI.

In associated information, we additionally requested VoA whether or not the 2025 Golf GTI will obtain the facility bump of the revised mannequin offered on the Old Continent. Jerohn Anderson refused to verify whether or not the US-spec variant will achieve these 20 further ponies, which might convey the tally to 261 hp.

2025 VW Golf R

2025 VW Golf R

VW has but to disclose the revised Golf R. It had a camouflaged automotive on the Ice Race within the Austrian metropolis of Zell am See on the finish of January. The world premiere will occur someday this summer time. VW has but to say whether or not Europe will get one other Golf R wagon. Spy pictures point out the long-roof model will soldier on.

It’s additionally unclear if the range-topper will get extra energy. The 2023 Golf R333 and the 20 Years Edition from a 12 months earlier than each had 328 hp in Europe. If VW needs to unlock that further muscle for the common Golf R, it could convey a bump in output of 13 hp.

These would be the remaining GTI and R updates within the combustion engine period since VW will exchange the eighth-generation Golf with an all-electric mannequin. Hot variations carrying these well-known suffixes will dwell within the electrical period. VW has already trademarked a revised “GTI” logo with a thunderbolt changing the final letter.

Motorsport

2025 Audi Q7 Gets A New Face And Customizable Laser Headlights

After many months of camouflaged prototype sightings, the up to date Audi Q7 is right here. Audi of Europe has taken the wraps off the corporate’s newest person-carrier, with plans to begin deliveries on the opposite aspect of the pond later this quarter.

The new Q7 is an enormous facelift moderately than an all-new mannequin. That’s noteworthy as a result of the present Q7 is getting alongside in years, having debuted means again in 2015 for the 2016 mannequin 12 months. Flash ahead to 2024, and we get a revised entrance clip with a brand new model of Audi’s Singleframe grille. It’s as huge as ever, brandishing a thick encompass with an octagon-themed sample inside. The decrease fascia has redesigned nook vents with a vertical orientation, and whereas the LED headlights look largely the identical, HD Matrix lights with laser gentle and customizable options are elective.

Audi says the lights are a primary for the Q7, providing expanded imaginative and prescient with a laser diode for every gentle. It prompts with excessive beams at speeds above 43 mph, working with 24 LEDs to “significantly” improve the excessive beam vary. Up shut, the brand new Q7 additionally features elective customization options for the daytime working lights. Drivers can select one among 4 lighting signatures, and that applies to up to date LED taillights as properly. Whether these upgrades make it to North America – the place US regulations continue to cause trouble for the newest lively lighting tech – stays to be seen.

The base mannequin now features standard-issue distinction stitching, 19-inch wheels, the gloss bundle with aluminum roof rails, and a rearview digicam with parking help plus. Step into option-land and you will find 9 ornamental inlays out there to deck out the greenhouse, which carries over unchanged. Three new exterior colours are provided – Ascari Blue, Sakhir Gold, and Chili Red – and new wheel choices can be found, starting from 20 to 22 inches.

In the tech division, apps from third-party suppliers can be found for the primary time, so you should utilize issues like Spotify immediately by the Q7’s infotainment system. New driver-assist options embrace numerous warning shows for the digital cockpit, similar to altering lanes and distance warnings, amongst others.

The powertrain setups are additionally acquainted, with people throughout the pond getting a 3.0-liter diesel in two tunes for 228 or 282 horsepower, a gas-burning V6 making 335 hp, and a 500-hp twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 for the performance-focused SQ7 trim. The SQ7 additionally offers you extra black trim, oval exhaust ideas on the again, a chin spoiler on the entrance, and the aptitude to succeed in 60 mph from a standstill in 4.1 seconds.


Motorsport

The New Volkswagen Transporter Van Debuts In Spring 2024

We caught a camouflaged prototype of the next-generation Volkswagen Transporter (T7) a few month in the past, and now we have now the primary official particulars. VW launched the primary teaser photographs of the brand new microbus and confirmed it is going to debut n the spring of subsequent 12 months. That’s all the corporate is keen to share for now, however we already know an excellent deal concerning the business automobile.

From the few accessible photographs, we will see the brand new Transporter will look loads like the newest Multivan, which was unveiled in 2021 as VW’s passenger van primarily based by itself MQB platform. While the 2 fashions share design components, they are going to be vastly completely different beneath. The bigger Transporter will experience on a platform sourced from Ford, which implies the VW van will probably be a rebadged and redesigned model of the brand new Transit Custom.


Featured

Tata Punch EV Spotted Testing Again, But With A Clever Disguise Detail


While you can see a tailpipe below the bumper, this camouflaged Punch has its exhaust baked into the bumper

  • Punch EV to get mild design updates over the regular model, likely similar styling to Nexon EV.

  • Tata claims it will get a driving range of over 500km, official powertrain details pending.

  • Features could include a bigger touchscreen infotainment system, a digital driver’s display, up to 6 airbags and a rear parking camera.

  • Can be launched this year at an expected starting price of Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom).

The Tata Punch EV has been under development for quite some time and while we wait for its arrival, the camouflaged test mule continues to be spied on the roads. In the latest spy shots, the side and rear profile of the Punch EV were spotted clearly, giving us hints of its design and misguiding us at the same time. Have a look at the spy shots yourself.

Is It The Punch EV?

Yes, while there is a tailpipe below the bumper, it most likely has been stuck on to make us think it’s the ICE (internal combustion engine) Tata Punch. There are two reasons for us to believe that this is the electric version. First, the Punch EV has been spotted previously with rear wheel disc brakes, which can also be seen in these spy shots, and secondly, the current ICE Punch has its tailpipe design integrated into the rear bumper, not sticking out below it.

The Punch EV will also get other design changes including fresh new alloy wheels, which look inspired from the ones we saw on the facelifted Tata Nexon EV. Based on the spy shots so far, the Punch EV could get a redesigned grille and updated air dams. The overall design of the micro SUV will be similar to its petrol counterpart, but Tata could add EV-specific blue elements all around, similar to the ones seen on the Tigor EV and Tiago EV.

Cabin & Features

The cabin can also get a new theme to highlight its electric nature but the details of that are slim. However, from a previous spy shot, we know that its dashboard will house a bigger touchscreen infotainment system and Tata’s new two-spoke steering wheel with a backlit Tata logo.

Also Read: Tata Avinya EV Will Be Based On Jaguar Land Rover’s EMA Platform

The rest of the features could be a semi-digital driver’s display, automatic climate control, up to 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and a rearview camera.

Battery Pack & Range

We previously believed that the Punch EV would get similar battery packs as the Tiago EV and Tiago EV, with a claimed range of between 300km to 350km. However, recently officials from Tata confirmed that the Punch EV will be sporting a claimed range of over 500km, which means that this small EV will house a bigger battery pack with more efficient motors for that extra distance.

Launch & Price

The Tata Punch EV is expected to debut by the end of this year and arrive at an expected starting price of Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom). It will be a direct rival to the Citroen eC3 while serving as a premium alternative to the Tata Tiago EV and MG Comet EV.

Read More on : Tata Punch AMT

Motorsport

Land Rover Defender SVX Could Potentially Arrive in the US, According to Recent Spy Shots

After a considerable break, a camouflaged Land Rover Defender SVX was spotted in public. The testing of this rugged and high-powered off-roader is still ongoing, and the latest sighting provides an intriguing clue. If you focus your attention on the strip between the headlights, you’ll notice a hint of orange. However, in a couple of images, three distinct orange squares are clearly visible.

These squares appear to be amber marker lights, which are mandatory for vehicles wider than 80 inches in the United States. This means that the Defender SVX might be wider than the standard model, making these lights necessary for compliance with US regulations. However, it’s worth noting that these lights could also be installed solely for testing purposes, rather than for legal use in the US.


Volkswagen

First pictures and new name: Volkswagen gives exclusive preview of future ID.7 Tourer

Volkswagen has released the first photos of the estate version of the upcoming all-electric top model ID.7. Along with the photos, the brand has also revealed the new name for the model: ID.7 Tourer. Set to launch in Europe in 2024, the ID.7 Tourer promises ample space and high efficiency, with the final design expected to be unveiled in the coming months.

Volkswagen is known for its successful estate models, and this tradition continues with the ID.7 Tourer. For over 60 years, practical models like the Variant or Shooting Brake (in the case of the Arteon) have been part of Volkswagen’s lineup. Now, the brand is giving a sneak peek at its first all-electric estate, which will make its debut in 2024.

Efficiency is a priority. The ID.7 Tourer prioritizes efficiency with its aerodynamic body, which is crucial for achieving long ranges. The previously unveiled ID.7 sedan, currently launching in Europe, boasts an impressive Cd-value of 0.23, and the ID.7 Tourer comes close with a Cd-value of 0.24. Despite the camouflage, the elongated hatchback version showcases an elegant and powerful design.

Camouflaged in autumn style. The camouflage foiling used on the ID.7 Tourer is inspired by the multi-layer paint of the ID.7 sedan, as revealed by Volkswagen at the CES in Las Vegas earlier this year. The imagery on the sticker features an Indian summer theme, and the QR codes at the rear seamlessly blend into the camouflage.

Spacious interior thanks to clever design. The ID.7 Tourer offers plenty of space inside, thanks to its short overhangs and long wheelbase. With five people on board, the boot volume can reach up to 545 liters when loaded up to the height of the rear seat backrest. Folding down the backrest can increase the cargo space to a maximum of 1,714 liters, thanks to the almost two-meter-long cargo area.

Similar to other models in the ID. family, the ID.7 Tourer is based on the MEB platform from the Volkswagen Group. This modular platform allows for short overhangs and a long wheelbase, benefiting the interior space. The result is an elegant full-sized hatchback version with ample room and an expanded trunk volume.

Production of the ID.7 Tourer, like the ID.7, will take place at the Volkswagen plant in Emden. Following the production of the ID.4, the ID.7 will be the second MEB-based model manufactured in the north-west region of Germany.

Motorsport

Watch Sebastian Vettel And David Coulthard Drive Red Bull F1 Cars At The Nürburgring

# Watch Sebastian Vettel And David Coulthard Drive Red Bull F1 Cars At The Nürburgring

We usually share videos of camouflaged prototypes of future road cars at the Nürburgring. However, this video is quite different and even more entertaining. It features not just one, but two Formula 1 cars, driven by a four-time F1 champion and a 13-time Grand Prix winner. Sebastian Vettel was reunited with his RB7, the championship-winning car from 2011 when Red Bull Racing secured both the drivers’ and constructors’ titles.

David Coulthard, on the other hand, drove the RB8 that Red Bull Racing used in the 2012 season, when Vettel won another title and the team secured the constructors’ championship. Coulthard is a former Red Bull driver himself, having raced for the team from 2005 to 2008.

Unfortunately, the video doesn’t show a full lap at full throttle around the Nürburgring. The ex-F1 drivers didn’t push the cars to their maximum potential. Additionally, they were accompanied by a previous-generation BMW M4 Coupe, which served as the safety car. Nevertheless, it is still a joy to watch these masters at work, driving an F1 car on one of the most challenging circuits in the world. The soundtrack also adds to the experience, reminding us of the V8 era that ended after the 2013 season.

It’s worth mentioning that Sebastian Vettel, who is currently 36 years old, has not completely ruled out a comeback to F1 after his retirement at the end of the 2022 season. If Lewis Hamilton (38 years old) and Fernando Alonso (42 years old) can still be competitive in 2023, why shouldn’t a younger driver and a winner of 53 F1 races consider returning?