Tag Archives: character

The all-new BMW M4 CS.

The new BMW M4 CS invitations house owners to expertise the inimitable M feeling in all its depth and breadth. Its distinctive character profile locations it precisely halfway between the brand new BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive (gas consumption, mixed 10.1 – 10.0 l/100 km [28.0 – 28.3 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions, mixed: 229 – 226 g/km in the WLTP cycle, CO2 class: G) – full with its lately launched efficiency, design and gear upgrades – and the 1,000-unit limited-run BMW M4 CSL particular version (gas consumption, mixed 10.1 – 9.9 l/100 km [28.0 – 28.5 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions, mixed: 227 – 224 g/km within the WLTP cycle, CO2 class: G). The pure-bred efficiency skills of the brand new BMW M4 CS are the product of M-typical racing genes, which supply fixed reminders of their presence in on a regular basis driving on the street and revel in full expression out on the monitor.

The model-specific efficiency traits of the six-cylinder in-line engine within the BMW M4 CS, an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and M xDrive clever all-wheel drive imbue the brand new particular version with dynamic poise and assurance in any scenario. Instantaneous energy supply and optimised traction allow acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.4 seconds. In testing on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit – the final word barometer for all BMW M automobiles in relation to the signature M recipe of dynamic efficiency, agility and dealing with precision – the brand new BMW M4 CS recorded an official and notarised time of seven min. 21.989 sec. for the complete 20.832-kilometre (12.943-mile) lap.

Six-cylinder in-line engine developed for motor sport .

The race-focused character of the brand new BMW M4 CS is instantly recognisable and a noticeable companion over each journey. The particular version is powered by a very muscular model of the high-revving six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo expertise developed for the BMW M3/BMW M4 vary. The 3.0-litre unit has had monitor efficiency as its raison d’être from day considered one of its growth. Indeed, it additionally offers the premise for the engine within the BMW M4 GT3, which received the DTM touring automotive title in 2022 on the first time of asking and adopted that up in 2023 with general victories on the 24-hour races in Spa-Francorchamps and Dubai.

The engine within the new BMW M4 CS due to this fact additionally advantages from the event experience of BMW M GmbH and the numerous years of racing expertise that underpin it. The engine has an especially inflexible crankcase, which includes a sleeve-free, closed-deck development and is designed to deal with very excessive combustion strain. The cast light-weight crankshaft additionally shows distinctive torsional resistance, which performs a job in giving the engine its fast energy supply and urge for food for revs. The wire-arc sprayed iron coating of the likewise weight-saving cylinder bores reduces frictional losses. The cylinder head, in the meantime, has a 3D-printed core. This additive manufacturing course of permits the coolant ducts to be routed in an optimum association for temperature administration that may be unattainable to realize utilizing typical metallic casting strategies. And the system of oil provide – just like the cooling system – is designed to deal with the precise challenges of monitor use, together with persistently excessive revs and excessive lateral acceleration.

Bespoke efficiency traits, distinctive sound.

Racing expertise offers the foundations for the extraordinary potential of the six-cylinder in-line engine, which produces most output of 405 kW/550 hp from underneath the bonnet of the brand new BMW M4 CS. This represents a 15 kW/20 hp enhance over the figures achieved by the engine within the BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive. The energy increase was achieved by way of focused revisions to the engine’s M TwinPower Turbo expertise and required no concessions by way of stability or sturdiness. The changes primarily concerned elevating the utmost cost strain of the 2 mono-scroll turbochargers to 2.1 bar and making some model-specific tweaks to the engine administration.

The upgrades additionally produce a really particular tackle acquainted M efficiency traits, with instantaneous energy supply that continues unabated by way of to the higher echelons of the rev vary a very dominant theme. The engine within the new BMW M4 CS places its peak torque of 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) on faucet from simply 2,750 rpm as much as 5,950 rpm. It develops most output at 6,250 rpm and has a 7,200 rpm purple line. Contributing to the wonderful engine response is a model-specific engine mounting with elevated spring charges. The inflexible connection between the ability unit and the automobile’s construction permits notably direct transmission of its energy to the drivetrain each time the driving force presses the accelerator.

The immediately accessible energy and high-revving character of the engine pave the way in which for imposing acceleration figures. The new BMW M4 CS dashes from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in simply 3.4 seconds, whereas 0 to 200 km/h (124 mph) takes 11.1 seconds. The mid-range dash from 80 to 120 km/h (50 – 75 mph) is handled in 2.6 seconds in 4th gear and in 3.3 seconds in fifth gear. The high velocity of the particular version – which comes as commonplace with the M Driver’s Package – is electronically restricted to 302 km/h (188 mph).

The engine’s energy supply is accompanied by the emotionally stirring soundtrack generated by the dual-branch exhaust system, which options electrically managed flaps, a titanium rear silencer with weight-minimising design and – in customary M vogue – two pairs of tailpipes painted in matt Black. The engine’s acoustic presence adjusts to the powertrain setting chosen by way of the M Setup menu. In SPORT and SPORT+ modes, the engine notice positive aspects unmissable racing automotive undertones. This injects real aural drama into proceedings, notably throughout gear adjustments and the accompanying changes in rev velocity.

Eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, M xDrive and lively M differential convert excellent energy into imposing efficiency.

The engine’s drive torque is relayed to all 4 wheels of the brand new BMW M4 CS by way of an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. This is operated utilizing both the M-specific gear selector lever on the centre console or the carbon-fibre shift paddles on the steering wheel. The Drivelogic button built-in into the selector lever permits the driving force to change the transmission’s shift traits as desired, with a alternative of settings accessible: one comfort-oriented, one for sports activities efficiency and one optimised particularly for monitor use.

The engine’s energy is channelled onto the street by the M xDrive system. This clever all-wheel-drive expertise makes use of an electronically managed multi-plate clutch within the switch case to distribute the engine’s energy easily between the entrance and rear wheels – and so maximise traction, agility and directional stability in any scenario. The multi-plate clutch’s oil provide has been optimised to make sure the all-wheel-drive system continues to carry out successfully even throughout ultra-intense monitor classes.

The M xDrive system’s rear-wheel bias and the way in which it groups up with the Active M Differential on the rear axle – whose operation can also be absolutely variable – add to the signature M feeling when accelerating or powering by way of corners. Furthermore, the M Setup menu permits 4WD Sport mode to be chosen, which directs a good higher proportion of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels. Drivers can even change off the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system altogether and interact pure rear-wheel drive by way of 2WD mode. This engages expert drivers within the driving expertise to an much more intense diploma.

Model-specific tuning for the chassis expertise and management methods.

The chassis expertise for the brand new BMW M4 CS has been tuned exactly to the efficiency traits of the engine, the general automobile idea and its weight distribution. The individually tuned axle kinematics and bespoke wheel camber settings, dampers, auxiliary springs and anti-roll bars serve to optimise steering precision, transmission of lateral management forces when cornering, spring and damping response and wheel location.

The electronically managed dampers of the adaptive M suspension on the brand new BMW M4 CS likewise are available a model-specific setup, as do its electromechanical M Servotronic steering with variable ratio and its built-in braking system. The settings for the DSC system and M Dynamic Mode have additionally been purposefully geared to the precise calls for of dynamic circuit driving. M Dynamic Mode provides drivers additional leeway to discover the automotive’s dynamic limits by pushing again the intervention factors for the DSC system’s numerous stabilising measures. When the driving force adopts an especially sporty driving type, the resultant wheel slip ensures even higher energy transmission and helps to propel the automotive down the street with additional assurance.

Exclusive cast light-alloy wheels and monitor tyres fitted as commonplace.

The special-edition mannequin is provided as commonplace with M Compound brakes with callipers painted in a alternative of Red or Black. The callipers for the elective M Carbon ceramic brakes could be laid out in a Red or matt Gold painted end. The new BMW M4 CS additionally comes as commonplace with cast M light-alloy wheels in an unique V-spoke design – accessible in both in matt Gold Bronze or matt Black.

The light-weight wheels (19-inch on the entrance axle and 20-inch on the rear) are fitted as commonplace with monitor tyres (extremely monitor tyres as choice) to maximise the efficiency expertise on the race monitor. Offering excellent lateral management and directional stability, exact steering really feel and optimum traction, these monitor tyres – within the dimensions 275/35 ZR19 (entrance) and 285/30 ZR20 (rear) – symbolize a compelling proposition, even when the driving force resides out their sporting ambitions on a circuit. Customers intending to make use of their BMW M4 CS largely for day-to-day driving can choose high-performance tyres in the identical sizes as a no-cost choice.

Intensive utility of light-weight design with beneficiant use of CFRP.

Extensive light-weight design measures play a serious half in moulding the efficiency qualities and unique character of the brand new BMW M4 CS. The use of parts produced from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) is of key significance right here. The carbon-fibre roof is a chief instance, its low weight bringing the automotive’s centre of gravity nearer to the street and due to this fact enhancing agility and cornering dynamics. The bonnet, entrance splitter, entrance air intakes, exterior mirror caps, rear diffuser and Gurney-style rear spoiler are additionally produced from this light-weight, high-tech materials.

Adherence to the precept of clever light-weight design can also be evident within the inside. Indeed, within the pursuits of decreasing weight contained in the cockpit, the centre console, shift paddles on the steering wheel and inside trim components are all produced from CFRP. The special-edition mannequin additionally comes as commonplace with M Carbon bucket seats, whose weight-minimising development is highlighted by means of CFRP within the structural components of the seat cushion and backrest in addition to within the eye-catching cut-outs within the facet bolsters and under the pinnacle restraints. Added to which, the exhaust system on the brand new BMW M4 CS is greater than 4 kilograms lighter, because of using a titanium rear silencer. All in all, light-weight design measures carry the automotive’s weight down by round 20 kilograms in comparison with the BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive.

Optional M entrance finish strut brace maximises torsional rigidity.

An M entrance finish strut brace – additionally engineered for lightness – could be specified as an choice for the BMW M4 CS to extend torsional rigidity and enhance dealing with by way of dynamically taken corners. The forged aluminium components connecting the spring strut towers to the entrance finish characteristic a weight-optimised geometry that has been exactly matched – with the assistance of numerical fashions – to the forces utilized in numerous driving conditions.

Exclusive design options promise thrilling efficiency.

The new BMW M4 CS immediately pronounces its sharper character with a sequence of particular person design options. The new BMW Individual particular paint finishes Riviera Blue and Frozen Isle of Man Green Metallic can be found solely for the newest special-edition mannequin from BMW M GmbH. Surfaces in uncovered carbon fibre for the roof and the pair of indents chiselled into the bonnet showcase the fabric’s distinctive construction, as do the entrance splitter, entrance air intakes, M exterior mirror caps, rear spoiler and rear apron. Together with the Black facet skirts and M gills, the CFRP components present a surprising distinction in opposition to the daring new paint finishes. The new BMW M4 CS can be specified within the exterior shades M Brooklyn Grey metallic and Sapphire Black metallic.

The automobile’s entrance finish sports activities a weight-saving, frameless BMW kidney grille with a stripped-back really feel paying homage to racing machines. Designed particularly for this mannequin, its figuring out options embrace purple contour strains and the “M4 CS” badging on the higher of the 2 horizontal grille bars. Both the mannequin badge on the entrance and its counterpart on the boot lid have black surfaces with a purple border.

Eye-catching headlights add one other flourish to the entrance finish of the brand new BMW M4 CS. Their sculptural gentle icons illuminate yellow as an alternative of white – each throughout the Welcome Light Animation and whereas low beam or excessive beam is switched on – and so reference profitable GT racing automobiles. The tail lamps of the BMW M4 CS make a visually highly effective assertion with their putting look throughout the dead nights. As nicely as producing a strong radiance, their Laserlight expertise can also be marked out by intricate fibre optic bundles inside the sunshine items, which have a “free-floating” look and are illuminated by a laser diode. The result’s a outstanding 3D impact. This expertise was first seen within the BMW M4 CSL high-performance particular version produced in a restricted run of 1,000 items, and now additionally brings an unique aesthetic to the BMW M4 CS.

Racing aptitude within the cockpit: M Carbon bucket seats with unique design cues.

Exuding a puristic visible attraction, the cockpit of the BMW M4 CS focuses squarely on delivering an exhilarating driving expertise, whereas additionally efficiently mixing its distinct racing aura with consolation options for on a regular basis driving – because of high-quality supplies and unique design components. The commonplace M Alcantara steering wheel in three-spoke design with a flat-bottomed rim provides an ideal mixture of safe grip for dynamic driving manoeuvres and spectacular consolation on longer journeys. Its purple centre marker and CFRP shift paddles add an genuine racing flavour to the cockpit. The commonplace M Carbon bucket seats in a model-specific design additionally fuse racing-car really feel and long-distance consolation to distinctive impact. Fully electrical and heated, they characteristic integral head restraints and an illuminated mannequin badge.

The M Carbon bucket seats within the BMW M4 CS are upholstered in Merino leather-based and are available an unique design with a Black/Red color scheme and distinctive distinction stitching. This bi-colour end is carried over into the rear compartment of the high-performance sports activities automotive. Both the door panels within the entrance and the rear facet panelling are trimmed completely in Black leather-based. Red “CS” lettering on the centre console, M seat belts with distinction stitching within the BMW M GmbH colors, an Anthracite-coloured headliner, inside trim strips in Carbon Fibre end and door sill plates with the inscription “M4 CS” all add to the unique atmosphere contained in the automotive.

BMW Curved Display with M-specific readouts, new BMW iDrive.

The newest model of the BMW iDrive show and management/operation system primarily based on BMW Operating System 8.5 offers intuitive management of quite a few automobile features and digital providers. The BMW Curved Display options M-specific readouts and is angled in the direction of the driving force, serving to them to give attention to the street forward. The absolutely digital display grouping is fashioned by a 12.3-inch data show behind the steering wheel and a management show with a display diagonal of 14.9 inches. The acquainted M Shift Lights seem on the high of the knowledge show, whereas the driving stability system, M xDrive and traction management modes are all indicated within the decrease space. Special widgets containing data on the present automobile setup, in addition to tyre pressures and temperature could be added to the management show’s dwelling display.

The upgraded BMW iDrive additionally includes the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and has been designed with explicit emphasis on contact and voice management. Besides the M-specific graphics, the system additionally now includes a new manner of working the automated local weather management: the temperature and air flow settings in addition to the seat heating could be managed both by contact utilizing a particular menu choice within the decrease space of the management show or by voice command.

Setup button for customising automobile configuration, M Drive Professional with M Drift Analyser and M Laptimer as commonplace.

The M-specific Setup button on the centre console permits direct entry to the settings choices for the engine, chassis, steering, braking system and M xDrive. Two individually configurable setup variants could be saved completely, along with the popular settings for the engine notice, the DSC system, the Automatic Start/Stop perform and the shift traits of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, after which retrieved utilizing one of many two M buttons on the steering wheel.

Also fitted as commonplace within the new BMW M4 CS is the M Drive Professional system. This contains track-optimised features such because the M Drift Analyser, which evaluates and data purposefully executed cornering slides, and the M Laptimer, which offers detailed knowledge on laps of the monitor and permits sporty-minded drivers to share their exploits with the group. It moreover comes with M Traction Control, whose ten levels additionally play their half in serving to drivers benefit from the pleasure of driving the automotive enthusiastically on the monitor.

The M Mode button on the centre console is one other device within the M Drive Professional bundle and can be utilized to regulate each driver help system responses and the content material proven within the data show and Head-Up Display. As nicely because the ROAD and SPORT settings, the BMW M4 CS additionally provides a TRACK mode designed solely to be used on race circuits.

Top-class choices for added pleasure and luxury in on a regular basis driving.

The specification of the usual BMW Live Cockpit Professional contains the BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific graphics, the cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system, smartphone integration, telephony with wi-fi charging and a WiFi interface. The BMW Drive Recorder is on the market as an choice.

The new BMW M4 CS moreover provides clients a choose alternative of consolation options and driver help methods, with the main target firmly on the enjoyment of unadulterated driving pleasure. Comfort Access, an alarm system, two-zone automated local weather management, the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System, Park Distance Control, the Parking Assistant, Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and the Speed Limit Info system are all included as commonplace, whereas automated boot lid operation and the Driving Assistant system could be added as choices.

The New Renault 5 Has A Baguette Holder And Other Easter Eggs

If you are feeling like immediately’s automobiles are all the identical and lack character, you may love the new Renault 5. It’s way over simply an electrical throwback to the R5 that Americans know because the Le Car. For its rebirth, engineers have crammed a number of cool options into the small automotive. Feeding the stereotype about French folks and their love for bread, the brand new EV comes with a baguette holder.

This isn’t a joke; it says proper there within the press launch: “Renault 5 E-Tech Electric will even be the very first automotive particularly outfitted to hold baguettes from the bakers. No extra flour or crumbs in your beautiful upholstery!” Mounted to the fitting of the middle console, the woven wicker basket was designed with assist from French basket-maker Marguerite Herlant. The nifty accent reminds us of the Volkswagen Beetle’s bud vase.

Renault 5 interesting detail

Renault 5 gear shifter formed like a lipstick case

Renault 5 interesting detail

Renault 5 3D-printed storage compartment

There’s a lot extra in regards to the new R5 than a spot to retailer your baguette. For instance, the gear selector mounted on the steering column resembles a lipstick case. Renault calls it an “e-pop shifter” with a customizable tip and suitable equipment to select from. The automotive’s proprietor can simply swap the sting of the shifter by utilizing one thing pointy, similar to eradicating a SIM/microSD tray holder from a smartphone.

There are not any fewer than 104 equipment accessible for the 2024 Renault 5, together with 3D-printed cubby areas and a central organizer. One of the accessible designs has the “1972” emblem as a nod to the 12 months when the unique R5 went on sale. Others have retro and trendy takes on the “5” emblem.

Retrolicious particulars embody the blocky dashboard design with vertical stitching on the passenger aspect. Inspired by the R5 Turbo sizzling hatchback, the upholstery has an attention-grabbing “H” sample that extends to the three-seat rear bench. There’s additionally a number of denim cloth made solely from recycled plastic water bottles.

Renault 5 interesting detail

Renault 5 battery cost indicator gentle on the hood

Renault 5 interesting detail

Renault 5 sq. LED daytime operating lights

The exterior is chock-full of attention-grabbing particulars as effectively. The hood has an illuminated panel with the “5” motif that serves as a battery cost indicator. It mechanically lights up when the motive force approaches the automotive. In addition, the droopy headlights wink because the welcome sequence and the oblong LED daytime operating lights within the bumper are a nod to the fog lights of the previous R5 Turbo.

There’s a French flag embedded into the headlights whereas the wheels have an old-school 5 emblem as a substitute of Renault’s diamond. Customers may also get a bunch of decals for the roof and entrance doorways. The total styling takes after previous-generation fashions with their vertical taillights and the R5 Turbo’s boxy fenders. You can get a unique set of wheels with the Renault badge, together with a contrasting higher crimson strip.

2023 Alpine A290_β concept

Alpine A290 idea

2023 Alpine A290_β concept

Alpine A290 idea

2023 Alpine A290_β concept

Alpine A290 idea

Although a brand new Turbo is not deliberate for the reason that R5 is electrical, a high-performance spinoff is within the works. Debuting later this 12 months, the Alpine A290 will pack a higher punch than the 150 horsepower and 245 Newton-meters (181 Newton-meters) of torque reserved for the range-topping Renault 5.

The French have extra attention-grabbing automobiles on the best way with the Renault 4 additionally returning, as evidenced by the 4ever idea. In addition, a very redesigned Twingo is deliberate. Both will undertake what Renault calls “retrofuturistic” styling by mixing design cues from earlier generations with an avant-garde method—as properly executed right here on the R5.

What Lewis Hamilton shifting to Ferrari means for F1

An irrepressible and likable character, Vasseur has made a robust begin to main Ferrari out of its newest period of underachievement. The mission stays a piece in progress – however the operational errors of earlier years have been fewer in quantity final 12 months. Vasseur has been a unifying presence.

But from Ferrari’s facet, why does it desire a 39-year-old over the spectacular 29-year-old Sainz? Because Hamilton proved in 2023 he nonetheless has the growling starvation to return to the highest – and he drove in addition to ever throughout the season. Give him the automobile and he’ll ship.

Combined with Leclerc, Ferrari will seemingly have the strongest line-up on the grid subsequent 12 months – and Hamilton’s presence will galvanise and additional inspire the workforce. He would possibly properly additionally help Vasseur’s much-needed recruitment drive for contemporary technical heads.

So what about this season? Hamilton signed a two-year deal extension with Mercedes simply final August, however it appears the second of these had some kind of break choice – which he has actioned a little bit greater than a month earlier than the beginning of the brand new marketing campaign. For now, he stays a Mercedes driver. That’s going to be awkward.

We’ve seen such a situation earlier than. Alonso was introduced as a McLaren driver forward of the 2006 season however noticed out his Renault deal earlier than switching camps the next 12 months. But how the dynamics can work this time round stays to be seen.

A Hamilton sabbatical, standing him down with fast impact, would keep away from an enormous distraction in what is an important rebuilding 12 months for the Mercedes F1 workforce. But at this late stage, who on earth might Toto Wolff signal to switch a seven-time champion?

The questions roll on. How will Leclerc react, on condition that he has simply recommitted himself to Ferrari for an undefined long-term? Surely Vasseur informed him this was attainable. They additionally return a great distance.

What if Mercedes blows Ferrari away in 2024? That would sow a seed of doubt. And what if the Ferrari gamble does backfire in 2025 and Hamilton is compelled once more to dig deep for motivation? Will he have the power and want?

Porsche 911 GT3 RS

The GT3 RS offers similar straight-line performance and character to the GT3, with power delivery that is exceptionally smooth and linear. The engine delivers sharp throttle response and produces a distinctive sound as it revs, peaking at 9000rpm.

The engine produces peak torque of 343lb ft at 6300rpm and 518bhp at 8500rpm. This requires the driver to push the engine to higher revs, making it necessary to exercise the engine’s capabilities. The car is well-suited for the track, where it feels right at home.

The Porsche’s GT model-specific PDK gearbox shifts with impressive speed, maintaining uninterrupted torque to the rear wheels. It offers precise rev matching and is operated via magnesium shift paddles, providing a “motorsport” feel. The car’s weight of 1476kg contributes to its explosive acceleration, reaching 60mph in 3.2sec and achieving a top speed of 184mph.

The GT3 RS excels in braking performance, able to come to a standstill from 70mph in just 38.8m, thanks to its downforce. Its track performance is particularly impressive, with stability during high-speed cornering and powerful braking capabilities.

On the track, acclimatizing to the car’s downforce and suspension configurability is necessary to fully enjoy its capabilities. The GT3 RS allows aggressive mid-corner throttle and impressive braking from high speeds, making it a potent track machine.

Track Notes (Anglesey Circuit, International)

The RS is designed for track driving, with a focus on downforce and suspension configurability. It requires acclimatization to the downforce’s impact in fast corners and the substantial mid-corner throttle it allows. Similarly, its braking capabilities from high speeds are remarkable.

Porsche 911 GT3 RS 2022

The performance and driving experience of the GT3 RS closely resemble that of the GT3, with a smooth and linear power delivery. The engine produces a distinctive intake-generated sound as it reaches high rpms, creating a memorable driving experience.

The engine requires high rpms to fully unleash its power, with peak torque at 343lb ft at 6300rpm and 518bhp at 8500rpm. This high-revving engine is best enjoyed on the track, where it feels at home and delivers exceptional performance.

The GT model-specific PDK gearbox shifts seamlessly, allowing the flow of torque to the rear wheels, especially in Weissach trim with magnesium shift paddles. The gearbox contributes to the car’s overall precise and motorsport feel.

Weighing 1476kg with a full tank, the GT3 RS performs impressively, reaching 60mph in 3.2sec and achieving a top speed of 184mph. Its braking performance is exceptional, requiring just 38.8m to come to a standstill from 70mph, making it a formidable competitor on the track.

On the track, the GT3 RS demands acclimatization due to its downforce capabilities and configurable suspension and driveline. Its ability to maintain stability while cornering and braking at high speeds can be a breathtaking experience.

Track Notes (Anglesey Circuit, International)

The RS is designed for track driving and offers deep configurability in its suspension and driveline, requiring acclimatization to fully enjoy its capabilities in fast corners and braking from high speeds.

CITROËN REVEALS NEW MY AMI POP

Citroën has updated the My Ami Pop, giving it a new design that enhances its playful, youthful, and sporty character. This new version adds even more personality to the Ami range, which has already attracted over 43,000 customers since its launch in 2020, with 80% of buyers choosing a customized version like the My Ami Pop.

The new My Ami Pop features a redesigned front end and reinforced bumpers, as well as a rear spoiler and new stickers on the quarter panels and doors. It also introduces a new color scheme called ‘Infrared’.

A NEW VISUAL IDENTITY FOR MY AMI POP

The new My Ami Pop retains all the distinctive exterior styling of the Ami, but now with new headlamp surrounds, a black chevron strip under the windscreen, and a reinforced black bumper. It also features the new ‘Infrared’ color as the main tone.

My Ami Pop has new graphics and color accents, giving it a fresher look inspired by gaming with geometric designs. The stickers and wheel trims have lively yellow and white accents. The pattern on the doors is reminiscent of Citroën’s iconic chevrons, with circle motifs to echo the vehicle’s curved shapes and round headlights.

The passenger compartment of My Ami Pop is enhanced with a yellow interior bag hook and warm orange hues on the three storage bins, two opening straps, and stitching on the floor mats.

According to Antoine Gaillot-Drevon, Citroën Exterior Designer, the new front end of My Ami Pop is designed to make the car striking and recognizable from a distance. The rear spoiler adds a distinctive sporty silhouette, and the new colors and graphics reinforce the energetic character of the Ami.

INTERIOR: MOBILITY AND CONNECTIVITY

The controls of the new My Ami Pop are more visible and easier to use, including the ergonomically-designed drive mode selector on the central console, which will be available on all versions of the Ami in the first quarter of 2024.

Inside, My Ami Pop offers useful features such as a smartphone clip, door nets, central separation net, floor mats, and the Dat@mi connectivity box. The connectivity box allows the driver to link their smartphone with Ami to access range, mileage, and maintenance data. The infotainment system of My Ami Pop includes the My Ami Play interface, which turns the smartphone into a dashboard with quick access to navigation functions, music and radio, and phone calls. The interface can be operated remotely using the Citroën Switch button on the steering wheel for safer journeys.

OPEN FOR ORDERS – BUILDING ON COMMERCIAL SUCCESS

The new My Ami Pop is now available in the UK, starting from £8,495 OTR. Deliveries will begin in the first quarter of 2024. For more information and to place orders, visit www.citroen.co.uk/ami.

Since its launch in April 2020, Citroën Ami has already gained more than 43,000 customers in 12 different countries. It continues to be popular and will soon be launched in Denmark, Slovenia, and Bulgaria.

Alfa Romeo EVs to Adopt Retro-Inspired Aero Look

Alfa Romeo has provided insight into the visual identity of its upcoming all-electric lineup, with the first model expected to launch in 2024 as a compact SUV.

Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos, the design director at Alfa Romeo, revealed that his team drew inspiration from the designs of the 1960s and the “Coda Tronca” or “short tail” cars that were prominent during that era.

“These square-tailed cars were groundbreaking designs for their time. The Giulia SZ and TZ from the early 1960s were the first examples,” said Mesonero-Romanos.

He further explained, “While these cars followed Dr. Kamm’s aerodynamic theories, Alfa Romeo conducted its own research during their development. Some cars had portions of their bodies cut off on the side of the autostrada to assess the impact on aerodynamic drag.”

Mesonero-Romanos added, “Our next-generation vehicles will incorporate the Coda Tronca design into our current design language. This will not only enhance aerodynamic efficiency and range but also give the cars a distinctive, classically Alfa Romeo character.”

This approach aligns with the strategy used by brands like Hyundai, which have successfully enticed customers with retro styling in models such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

However, Alfa Romeo’s design director cautioned, “We must be mindful of how much inspiration we draw from the past. As designers, it is similar to being chefs, blending classic ingredients into a ‘new sauce’ that resonates with today’s generation. Nevertheless, the Coda Tronca will be a valuable ingredient for us, and you will see it in several future models.”

Alfa Romeo’s product roadmap includes multiple all-new models in addition to the initial compact EV. These include replacements for the D-segment Giulia and Stelvio in 2025, followed by a completely new E-segment crossover in 2026, which is expected to drive the company’s expansion beyond the European market.

The B-segment SUV slated for 2024, jointly developed with the Jeep Avenger, will kickstart the model renewal program. Although originally intended to be named the Brennero, Mesonero-Romanos stated that the final name, which will be Italian and beautiful, has been decided but cannot be disclosed at this time.

BMW M GmbH confirms development of a new BMW M5 Touring

The next generation of the BMW M5 is entering the practical phase of its development process. The prototypes, though disguised, clearly display their high-performance nature. BMW M GmbH has officially announced that a Touring variant of the new BMW M5 will join its model range in 2024.

The Touring variant, like the sedan, will feature a newly developed partially electrified drive system. This will provide M-typical performance and a finely tuned chassis that enhances driving dynamics and agility. BMW M GmbH sees this as a step towards electrification, with hybrid drive systems being introduced in their high-performance cars.

For nearly 40 years, the BMW M5 has been the epitome of driving dynamics, agility, and precision in the high-performance sedan segment. The BMW M5 has achieved this through evolutionary progress, racing development expertise, and groundbreaking innovations in areas such as drive, suspension, aerodynamics, and lightweight construction.

The new BMW M5 Touring will build upon this legacy, with exciting innovations to deliver an even more exhilarating driving experience.

The first BMW M5 Touring was introduced in 1992, based on the second-generation BMW M5 Sedan. Since then, it has represented a combination of high performance and everyday practicality. In 2007, BMW M GmbH introduced a Touring variant for the fourth-generation BMW M5. The recent successful launch of the BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive further demonstrates the appeal of this special vehicle concept in the premium mid-range segment.

Testing of the new BMW M5 Touring prototypes will commence soon, with various road and track tests planned to ensure an ideal balance between sporting performance and comfort in real-world driving conditions.

BMW M3 Touring: fuel consumption in l/100 km combined: 10.4 – 10.1 WLTP; CO2 emissions in g/km combined: 235 – 229 WLTP.

BMW M GmbH confirms development of a new BMW M5 Touring

The next generation of the BMW M5 is now in the practical phase of development, with prototypes undergoing test drives on public roads, BMW Group proving grounds, and racetracks globally. BMW M GmbH has also confirmed the addition of a Touring variant to its model range, combining high-performance capabilities with long-distance comfort and spaciousness. Both the sedan and Touring versions will feature a newly developed partially electrified drive system, enhancing driving dynamics and agility. BMW M GmbH is embracing electrification, installing hybrid drive systems in its high-performance cars. For almost 40 years, the BMW M5 has been the benchmark for driving dynamics in high-performance sedans. The new generation aims to push the boundaries even further with innovative technologies. The first BMW M5 Touring was launched in 1992, followed by a Touring variant of the fourth-generation M5 in 2007. The success of the BMW M3 Competition Touring further emphasizes the appeal of this special vehicle concept. Prototypes of the new BMW M5 Touring will undergo testing in urban traffic, country roads, motorways, and even on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife.

BMW M3 Touring: Fuel consumption in l/100 km combined: 10.4 – 10.1 WLTP; CO2 emissions in g/km combined: 235 – 229 WLTP.