Tag Archives: enthusiasm

Motorsport

Toyota Will Sell You A GR Yaris Lookalike In Japan With 118 HP And A CVT

With all the passion across the 2024 GR Yaris, it is easy to overlook the exceptionally boring base model. Despite carrying the “RS” suffix that might counsel one thing thrilling, the entry-level mannequin is a sizzling hatch in identify solely. Toyota has but to replace the cheaper RS with the odd dashboard of the “real” GR Yaris however the automobile stays on sale in Japan.

Although it might look quite a bit just like the full-fat mannequin, the GR Yaris RS is obtainable strictly with front-wheel drive. It will get worse since Toyota sells this taste solely with a constantly variable transmission (CVT). As a reminder, the respectable sizzling hatch is all-wheel drive with both a six-speed handbook or the newly gained eight-speed automated.


BMW

Progressive purist: The new MINI Countryman S ALL4

Munich. The enthusiasm for classic MINI driving fun is boundless. The versatile, powerful, and spacious MINI Countryman S ALL4 ensures typical MINI driving enjoyment on any type of terrain. The new, largest MINI model blends the flexible options of a crossover with intelligent all-wheel drive. It offers noticeably more interior space, providing variable storage options thanks to the rear seat backrest, which can be separated at a 40:20:40 ratio. The luggage compartment has a volume of 450 liters to 1,450 liters, making it capable of easily transporting large items when the back seat is folded down.

Innovative assistance functions, including partially automated Level 2 driving and extensive digital features, offer new support to drivers and passengers. The 48V mild hybrid engine enhances the efficiency of the 2.0-liter twin power engine. With an optimized drag coefficient of 0.26, a new record in its vehicle segment, fuel consumption has been significantly decreased in the new MINI Countryman S ALL4.

Stefanie Wurst, Head of the MINI brand, says, “With its powerful 4-cylinder petrol engine and sporty design, the new MINI Countryman S ALL4 sets new standards in its segment.”

Even more freedom thanks to intelligent all-wheel drive.

The ALL4 all-wheel drive system offers a noticeable increase in traction, safety, driving stability, and agility. It distributes power between the front and rear wheels as required under all road and weather conditions, thanks to its fast and precise electronic control.

The slightly increased track width and increased wheelbase form the basis for excellent driving dynamics and increased comfort. New wheel and tire combinations are available for the MINI Countryman, providing even more driving enjoyment on any surface. Direct steering and a combination of single-joint McPherson strut front axle and multi-link rear axle guarantee the unique and typical MINI go-kart feeling. The chassis can be balanced and comfortable or particularly sporty for switching between city traffic and trips into nature. An adaptive chassis with 15 mm lowering and frequency-selective dampers can be optionally added.

The MINI Countryman S ALL4, with a combined fuel consumption of 7.4 — 6.8l/100 km and combined CO2 emissions of 169 — 155 g/km according to WLTP, offers an output of 160 kW/218 hp and a torque of 360 Nm with its smooth two-liter four-cylinder turbo engine. The 48V mild hybrid motor supports the vehicle’s performance in the low-speed range and provides a temporary boost of 14 kW.

A new feature of MINI is the option of semi-automated driving on multi-lane routes. This allows the driver to take his hands off the steering wheel at speeds of up to 60 km/h, as long as he continues to closely monitor traffic and is ready to intervene at any time. When changing lanes, the assistant system helps by identifying the necessary traffic gaps on the way to the exit and bringing the vehicle to optimal speed, then automatically initiating the lane change.

More MINI aesthetics with a reduced design language.

The new design impresses with a particularly clear aesthetics – it looks tidy and is characterized by the tense shape of the bonnet and the new octagonal front grille. MINI LED headlamps accentuate the uniqueness of the reduced design through individual signature modes. The wide and upright stand of the new MINI Countryman underlines its presence and robust off-road character. Vertical rear lights frame the vehicle silhouette and make the new MINI crossover model look particularly upright and sporty.

The vehicle design, reduced to the essentials, can be presented in various ways using four trims—Essential, Classic, Favoured, John Cooper Works—for the exterior and interior. For instance, the Favoured Trim accentuates the individual character of the MINI Countryman S ALL4 with particularly expressive details. Combined with the elegant Melting Silver body color and 21-inch 950 Rally Spoke rims, the adventurer looks robust and high-quality. Alloy wheels are available in various designs and sizes ranging from 17 to 21 inches for the new MINI Countryman.

Breaking new ground with innovative materials.

In the interior of the new MINI Countryman S ALL4, clear shapes underline the new design language. The panoramic glass roof brings more light into the interior, and high-quality comfort seats provide a secure and comfortable grip. High-quality materials, innovative technology, and individually adjustable lighting create an immersive driving experience. The new MINI Experience Modes emphasize different aspects of the diverse adventurer. The MINI Driving Sounds deliver a unique atmosphere that supports personal driving settings emotionally with specially composed sounds. The high-resolution, round OLED display sets a new standard in the cockpit of the MINI Countryman, with the MINI Interaction Unit moved closer to the driver and passenger for convenient operation of the infotainment and assistance systems. With the new MINI Operating System 9, all vehicle functions can be operated intuitively via touch or voice assistants.

Motorcycles

12 Of The Fastest Motorcycles Ever Built

Don Vesco’s passion for setting new records caught the attention of Kawasaki, who sponsored his next streamliner motorcycle. Kawasaki provided two turbocharged 1,000 cc engines, giving the bike a total output of approximately 400 horsepower. Named the Lightning Bolt after its sponsor, this motorcycle first attempted to break the world record in the summer of 1978. However, like Vesco’s previous motorcycle, the Silver Bird, it took several attempts before success was achieved.

During the initial runs, the team faced numerous mechanical failures and issues with overheating. As a result, the reporters and TV crews that had been gathered by Kawasaki were sent away without witnessing any record-breaking runs. The main problem was that while the engines were powerful, other components of the motorcycle could not withstand the stresses they were subjected to. The team had to fabricate upgraded parts, such as transmissions and belts, to handle the challenges. Unfortunately, bad weather and another transmission failure delayed the record-breaking attempt even further.

After several weeks, the reporters were summoned once again. Finally, Vesco completed a two-way run at 318.866 mph, surpassing his previous record by approximately 15 mph.