Tag Archives: Estate

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.

RollsRoyce

Rolls-Royce and Goodwood Estate Celebrate Successful Debut of New Wild Seed Harvester

  • Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and Goodwood Estate are pleased with the performance of the new Wild Seed Harvester
  • The purchase of the specialized machine in 2022 was supported by Rolls-Royce as part of their ongoing environmental partnership with the Duke of Richmond’s estate
  • The seeds collected will promote biodiversity and grassland across the estate, contributing to the preservation of healthy ecosystems
  • This partnership is a key part of Rolls-Royce’s conservation efforts in the wider Goodwood habitat and Strategic Wildlife Corridor network

“We have had a highly successful environmental partnership with the Goodwood Estate for many years. In 2022, we expanded our support with various additional projects, including the purchase of the Wild Seed Harvester. It’s amazing to see the impact it’s already making on the important work of maintaining and improving our local wildflower populations, which are crucial to the beauty and diversity of this wonderful place we call home.” – Andrew Ball, Head of Corporate Relations & Heritage, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

The Wild Seed Harvester, a specialized machine purchased with support from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, has completed its first full season of operations on the historic Goodwood Estate in West Sussex. The acquisition was made in 2022 as an extension of the partnership between Rolls-Royce and Goodwood Estate, which has been ongoing for over 20 years.

The harvester, entirely designed and manufactured in Britain, is dragged across pastureland behind a small tractor or all-terrain vehicle (ATV), gently collecting seeds from grasses and wildflowers into a hopper. Depending on the density of the grass, the machine, which is 1.2m (4 ft) wide, can harvest approximately eight acres (3.2 ha) in a day.

During May, June, and August, the Wild Seed Harvester collected seeds from various locations on the Goodwood Estate, known for its commitment to organic and sustainable farming practices. Once dried, the collected seeds will be used to enhance biodiversity in both wild and cultivated grassland across the estate. For instance, this autumn, the seeds will be broadcast sown in an existing meadow to increase the number of plant species from 49 to over 100.

This is the first time that large-scale mechanical harvesting of this nature has been used on the Goodwood Estate. Previously, wildflower seed collection was limited to specific species and done by hand. The Wild Seed Harvester significantly improves efficiency, allowing the Gardens Team more time to focus on other important nature-based projects.

Wildflowers are crucial for preserving and promoting biodiversity and healthy ecosystems. They serve as a consistent food source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators throughout the year. Furthermore, their intricate root systems enhance soil health and stability, preventing erosion and improving water quality by reducing nutrient run-off.

The Home of Rolls-Royce is located on a 42-acre (17 ha) site within the Goodwood Estate. Since starting operations in 2003, Rolls-Royce has supported various sustainability projects to protect and enhance biodiversity in the area. These initiatives include maintaining their own Wildlife Garden and renowned Goodwood Apiary, as well as planting over 20,000 trees between the villages of Halnaker and Lavant as part of the Wildlife Corridor that connects the South Downs National Park and Chichester Harbour. Rolls-Royce remains committed to preserving the natural beauty of its picturesque countryside home.

Featured

Gisele Bündchen Purchases $9.2M Equestrian Home in Southwest Ranches, FL

Florida has become a hot spot for real estate, attracting athletes, celebrities, and other influential individuals who are drawn to its pristine properties and year-round beautiful weather. Recently, Brazilian model and actress Gisele Bündchen, who initially moved to Tampa Bay when her ex-husband Tom Brady signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, made headlines in the real estate world by purchasing a stunning property on the outskirts of sunny South Florida. Gisele bought a 7.5-acre equestrian ranch in Southwest Ranches, Florida, for herself and her children.

The remodeled mansion spans approximately 5,200 square feet and boasts nine bedrooms, a first-floor primary suite, a gourmet kitchen, a floating glass staircase, a fireplace, and an open-concept living room. Situated on a spacious plot of land, Gisele and her family plan to share their space with various farm animal friends. The outdoor amenities include a large infinity pool, fountain water features, a lounge area, an outdoor kitchen, a hibachi grill, a pizza oven, a BBQ pit, and a wine fridge for family gatherings. Additionally, the backyard is equipped with soccer facilities, tennis courts, and ten large horse stalls, catering to Gisele and her family’s active lifestyle. The area where Gisele’s new home is located is also home to other celebrities such as Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Miami Heat star Udonis Johneal Haslem. Reportedly, the home was purchased for $9.1 million, and Gisele Bündchen is excited to enjoy the privacy and serenity of her luxurious ranch home.

For photos of the property, visit the official website.

News

Volvo discontinues saloon and estate cars in the UK, focusing on SUVs

Volvo has made the decision to exclusively sell SUVs in the UK, discontinuing its saloon and estate cars.

The Volvo S60 saloon, as well as the Volvo V60 and Volvo V90 estates, are no longer displayed on the company’s online configurator. However, customers can still order pre-configured versions from dealers.

Volvo had previously removed the S90 saloon, V60 and V90 Cross Country estate models from sale as part of a range consolidation effort. The S60 was temporarily removed and later made available for orders again.

The South Carolina plant, where the S60 is manufactured, is currently undergoing renovations to enable the production of electric SUVs for Volvo and its brand Polestar, with plans to launch in 2024.

It’s important to note that the discontinuation of estates does not affect the production of custom vehicles supplied to the UK’s emergency services, including police forces. The S90, V60, V90, and their Cross Country variants will still be produced with specific authority specifications.

These vehicles are designed differently from customer models, featuring enhanced performance, higher payload capacity, upgraded brakes, and the removal of the 112mph speed limiter.

In a statement to Autocar, Volvo explained that their product offer is rapidly evolving, with a focus on full electrification and the adoption of new platforms and technologies. As a result, they have decided to remove additional models from the UK line-up, including the S60, V60, and V90. The demand for SUVs is growing, while interest in their upcoming fully electric EX30 and EX90 models is strong. In contrast, the demand for saloon and estate models in the UK has significantly declined, leading to the decision to discontinue them in the country.

News

First drive: 2024 Skoda Superb prototype review

The SUV trend is growing rapidly, but as a large family car, the Skoda Superb Estate remains one of the best options. It may not have the visual appeal of its Kodiaq stablemate, but it is spacious, comfortable, and competitively priced. Additionally, it offers a wide range of engines that are fuel-efficient. Therefore, its fourth-generation successor, set to arrive in 2024, has high expectations to meet.

The new Superb hatch and estate share much of their architecture with the jointly developed Volkswagen Passat. The styling has been updated, with slimmer headlights and tail-lights, to align with the new Kodiaq, which is also launching around the same time. The new Superb Estate is slightly larger than its predecessor, measuring 40mm longer and 5mm taller. It also boasts an increased boot space, expanding from 660 to 690 litres, which surpasses competitors like the Peugeot 508 SW and the Citroën C5 X.

Pricing, trim levels, and specifications for the 2024 Superb will be confirmed in November 2023. The lineup will include a standard Superb, a sportier Sportline version, and a luxury-focused Laurin & Klement trim. However, the slightly raised and rugged-looking Scout estate will not be available in the UK.

Upon its launch, the 2024 Superb will offer three petrol engines, two diesels, and a plug-in hybrid, all equipped with an automatic gearbox as standard. The entry-level model will feature a 148bhp 1.5-litre petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology. It delivers smooth and quiet performance, providing sufficient power for everyday use. For more power, there’s a 2.0-litre petrol engine with 201bhp or 261bhp with four-wheel drive. The most powerful diesel engine produces 190bhp and also comes with all-wheel drive. In comparison, the 148bhp diesel engine feels livelier than the 1.5-litre petrol engine, offering ample torque for effortless acceleration.

The plug-in hybrid variant of the 2024 Superb boasts a larger battery size and extended electric range compared to its predecessor. It combines a petrol engine with an electric motor and features a 25.7kWh battery (compared to the outgoing iV model’s 12.7kWh). This enables an electric range of 62 miles. The plug-in hybrid can be charged at a rate of 50kW or, alternatively, using the slower 11kW output, which takes two and a half hours to charge from 0% to 100%.

The latest version of the adaptive suspension system, known as Dynamic Chassis Control Pro, is available for the 2024 Superb. It adjusts the ride based on the selected driving mode. During our test drives of the prototypes, we experienced the Normal setting, which effectively smooths out bumps on the road. The suspension remains stable, and the vehicle handles undulating roads with good body control. This improvement addresses the issue found in earlier models of the Superb, where there was a constant, slight floating sensation. Overall, this option enhances the Superb’s comfort and makes it an ideal long-distance cruiser.

Motorsport

Alfa Romeo Research Reveals Customers Are Not Interested in Giant Screens

When it comes to in-car entertainment, bigger doesn’t always mean better. While some luxury car brands like Mercedes, Cadillac, Lincoln, Lucid, and Buick are investing in massive infotainment screens for their vehicles, Alfa Romeo is taking a different approach. According to internal research, Alfa Romeo has found that its customers are not particularly interested in having gigantic screens that dominate the entire dashboard.

Jean-Philippe Imparato, the head of Alfa Romeo, recently spoke to Autocar and shared that future Alfa Romeo models will not feature massive screens like those seen in Mercedes cars. He expressed his respect for Mercedes’ digital technology but stated that his customers are not looking for meters-wide infotainment screens or a multitude of digital assistance systems. Imparato emphasized that typical Alfa Romeo buyers simply want to enjoy the driving experience and are not concerned about advanced weather forecasts or numerous digital features.


News

New Mercedes E-Class Estate offers more space and digital apps

Mercedes is set to release the new E-Class Estate this autumn, featuring increased rear passenger space, enhanced technology, and a range of third-party apps. The new model will be sold alongside the Mercedes E-Class Saloon, which was unveiled earlier this year. Compared to its predecessor, the E-Class Estate is 28mm wider and has a 22mm longer wheelbase of 2961mm.

One of the standout features of the E-Class Estate is its spaciousness. With 615 litres of cargo space, it falls just short of the Volvo V90’s 650 litres and surpasses the Audi A6 Avant’s 586 litres. Folding down the seats allows for a maximum storage capacity of 1830 litres. The plug-in hybrid models offer 460 litres of boot space, which expands to 1675 litres when the seats are folded due to the battery placement.

In terms of design, the E-Class Estate has received a refresh, featuring gloss black elements inspired by the all-electric EQS model range. The new model also boasts a sleeker roofline and a black panel that stretches from the radiator to the headlights.

Continuing the technology-focused approach, Mercedes has equipped the E-Class Estate with the latest generation of its MBUX infotainment system. This system includes features such as augmented reality, voice assistant, and online music streaming. In addition, a suite of digital apps like TikTok, Angry Birds, and Zoom is available. An AI system is present as well, learning the driver’s habits and suggesting relevant functions.

As for autonomous capabilities, the E-Class Estate offers level-four driverless tech with an optional driverless valet parking function, previously exclusive to the S-Class. This feature will be available in markets like Germany, where it is permitted by law.

The new E-Class Estate will initially offer a range of longitudinally mounted four- and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, all with 48V mild-hybrid electrification. The power outputs range from 194bhp to 375bhp, and all engines come with a nine-speed automatic gearbox as standard. Furthermore, a plug-in hybrid variant will be available, featuring a 24.1kWh battery that offers up to 62 miles of electric-only range.

For improved ride comfort, the estate comes with single-chamber air suspension at the rear as standard, with the option to upgrade to the Airmatic system with adjustable damping. The E-Class Estate has a towing capacity of up to 2.1 tonnes.