The delivery of the highly anticipated 2024 Ford Mustang is just around the corner. Despite being equipped with pure internal-combustion power, the seventh-generation pony car still offers a manual transmission for those who love shifting gears manually. Ford has recently updated its online Mustang configurator, providing more details and fresh photos of the car. This update also sheds light on the configuration choices made by early buyers.
The configurator was made available earlier this year, allowing customers to customize their 2024 Mustang. It was revealed that the top-tier configuration of the 2024 Mustang could cost up to $80,000. Now, with better descriptions and visuals of the available options, Ford has shared the percentages of equipment and features chosen by customers from January to June.
50 Percent Drift
One popular feature, especially among those who choose the four-cylinder EcoBoost models, is the new electronic drift brake. This feature is included with the High Performance Package, which has a 50 percent take rate. It’s important to note that the only transmission option for the 2024 Mustang EcoBoost is the 10-speed automatic. The manual transmission has been discontinued due to its low popularity, with only a 10 percent take rate in previous models.
27 Percent Shift
While the six-speed manual is still available for V8 Mustangs, its popularity has decreased in the seventh-generation model. Currently, 27 percent of early GT and Dark Horse orders opt for the manual transmission, while the remaining 73 percent choose the automatic transmission. Previous reports indicated that the manual transmission had a take rate of over 40 percent for the GT, but it seems the preference is shifting towards automatic transmissions in the new model.
Packages And Paint
Delving deeper into the statistics, Ford reveals that the Performance and Nite Pony packages are popular choices among 2024 Mustang buyers. The Performance package, which costs $4,995, has a 22 percent take rate among GT buyers. It adds several performance-enhancing features such as Brembo brakes, a Torsen differential, and various chassis and electronic system upgrades. On the other hand, the $1,195 Nite Pony package, which adds black exterior trims, is preferred by 26 percent of buyers.
As for color preferences, Shadow Black is the top choice for GT and EcoBoost models, with a take rate of 17 percent. Oxford White follows with 13 percent, while Rapid Red stands at 11 percent. The high-output Mustang Dark Horse sees Blue Ember as the most popular color, chosen by 39 percent of buyers. Vapor Blue and Shadow Black come in at 18 percent and 16 percent, respectively.
In recent years, Ferrari has shown that its iconic red color is not the only option for its cars. Collectors now have the opportunity to add Ferraris in various colors to their garages. One of the models that exemplifies this new approach is the SF90, a hybrid all-wheel drive supercar that outperforms even the LaFerrari on the Fiorano Circuit.
Available for sale at Porsche Woodland Hills, this particular Ferrari SF90 Stradale stands out with its Grigio Ingrid exterior paintwork and a stunning Iroko-finished interior. What sets this car apart is the extensive use of carbon fiber options, totaling an impressive $200,000 worth of upgrades, including the wheels. Despite its unique specifications, this SF90 Stradale maintains a timeless and elegant look that would complement any collection.
If you’re interested, you can view the price and listing here.
Supermotos are probably one of the greatest things the human race ever invented. Take an incredibly fun-to-ride motocross bike and put some road tires on it, so you can ride it on the street. Even better, put some slick racing tires on it and race these pieces of motorcycle art around a small track. Since 2003, and AMA’s first-ever Supermoto Championship, their popularity only grew. So if you are looking for your next bike, besides buying a superbike or a supernaked, why not give a supermoto a chance? And when it comes to supermoto bikes, one name sure stands out, those three magical letters… KTM!
The KTM 450 SMR – Built To Dominate The Race-Track
KTM
Photo of a KTM 450 SMR doing a wheelie on a race-track
One of the best things, besides Arnold of course, that has ever come out of Austria. The KTM’s supermoto line, and the 450 SMR that was imagined as the ultimate track-day weapon. Without a doubt, this machine is just way too tempting to be overlooked, and for 2024, it’s getting even more addictive.
There are plenty of upgrades for the new 450 SMR, so let’s start with everyone’s favorite part. The engine. It is a one-cylinder four-stroke 449.9 cc engine that makes an impressive 63 horsepower. KTM swears that its new single-overhead-camshaft engine continues to be one of the most insane and perfectly executed mechanical gems. Going down the same line as their motocross and hard-enduro/dual-sport line-up, the 450 SMR’s engine was lightened (now weighs only 59 lbs) and pushed towards the center of the bike for better handling and anti-squat behavior.
How did they get a lightweight engine capable of pushing 63 horsepower? With the new cylinder head. Shorter and lighter with a more compact profile. Next was the new ultra-light crankshaft to offer more performance, better response when you twist the throttle, and to keep any pesky vibrations to a minimum. The housing for the crankshaft was made through a high-pressure die-cast process to get thinner and more durable walls. The slipper clutch is from Suter Racing and offers rear stability when you slam on the brakes in the middle of an apex.
The light-weight exhaust is a compact two-piece header that can easily be removed without messing around with the rear shocks. But, things get even better at the exhaust department. You can also order, from the KTM’s power parts list, an Akrapovič ‘Evolution Line’ exhaust. Made from light-weight, high-grade titanium, and 1,9lbs lighter than the stock one.
The frame was made to provide flexibility while keeping it solid length-wise. The sub-frame was made from reinforced aluminum and polyamide for increased durability and flexibility. The swing-arm was also made to be as light as possible, therefore aluminum was used to make it.
The suspension on the 450 SMR is top-of-the-line, specifically made for supermoto bikes. The front fork is a 48 mm air-sprung WP XACT that uses AER technology (basically a capsuled air spring and a pressurized oil chamber). It is easily adjustable through a single air-pressure valve. The rear shock is also WP XACT, and can be easily tuned without the need for tools. Wheels are light-weight Alpina, 16.5 at the front and 17 inches at the rear, and they come dressed in Metzeler’s Racetec K1 supermoto tires. To stop this bad boy is a job for Brembo brakes. A four-piston radially mounted caliper with a 310 mm disc at the front and a one-piston caliper with a 220 mm disc at the rear.
The high-tech stuff is also quite interesting. You get to choose between two engine maps. The first map gives you easily controllable, tamed power delivery. The second map will give you more of a no-holds-barred, anything-goes approach to power output (you were warned). Another cool feature is the easily de/activated quick-shifter that allows you to shift into higher gears without squeezing the clutch, but only from second to fifth gear. To keep you safe when things get slippery is what the traction control is for. If the revs jump too fast, the onboard computer sees that as a loss of grip and cuts down the power to the rear wheel. What kind of street rocket would the 450 SMR be without the launch control? Just press the traction control and quick-shifter button together for this to activate. All of these nice-to-have gadgets come with a base price of $11,999.
The Blue And White Option
Husqvarna
A studio photo of a Husqvarna FS 450 for 2024
The biggest competitor to KTM for the wildest bike is, who else but the KTM-owned Husqvarna. Both of their line-ups for 2024 seem to be aiming at each other’s throats. In the world of off-road bikes, this is the best news someone can hope for. Husqvarna’s FS 450 for 2024 seems more than upgraded and ready to take on the KTM’s 450 SMR.
Although the spec sheet reads the same, a keen motorcycle fan knows that the bike, and the company that makes it, is more than just a list of parts. Husqvarna and KTM do not make the same motorcycles. They are however, in this case, equally priced.
If you’ve ever imagined what a combination of a Puch AX 40, an electric moped, and a modern interpretation of a cafe racer would look like, then the Metorbike might be what you had in mind. Created by two engineers in Hamburg, Germany, this electric moped stands out from the crowd with its distinctive style. From the cafe racer aesthetic to the digital dashboard, integrated taillight and turn signals, wooden tailpiece, hand-sewn saddle, and matching grips, the Metorbike is a truly unique and intriguing piece of art.
But what sets the Metorbike apart is its ability to produce engine sounds, something that many electric motorbikes are criticized for lacking. By using a controller area network (CAN) sound module, the Metorbike offers a stock sound profile that mimics the sound of a conventional motorcycle engine. There is also an option to purchase a multisound pack, which provides access to eight different sounds, including car engine noises like V6, V8, and V10, as well as gearshift noises.
19Photos
Now let’s dive into the details of the Metorbike. It is powered by a two-kilowatt, brushless DC motor that generates a claimed 2.72 horsepower. The peak power is rated at 7 kW, or approximately 9.5 pferdestarke (around 9.3 horsepower) according to its creators. The frame is sourced from a Puch AX 40 moped, while the front fork is an upside-down unit from an Aprilia RS 125. The Metorbike rides on 17-inch spoked wheels fitted with Kenda retro tires, and it features disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels.
The battery used in the Metorbike is described as “recycled from the automotive industry,” although no specific details about the recycling process are provided. It is a lithium nickel manganese oxide battery with a claimed range of approximately 60 kilometers (or about 37 miles). The battery is removable and weighs 11.8 kilograms (or about 26 pounds). Additionally, users have the option to purchase a spare battery for easy swapping.
The seat height of the Metorbike is 770 millimeters (about 30.3 inches), and it has a total weight of 76 kilograms (about 167.5 pounds), including the battery. The top speed of the Metorbike is 49.5 kilometers per hour (about 30.75 miles per hour). The battery can be fully charged in three to four hours using a standard outlet.
Other notable features of the Metorbike include a keyless RFID chip for unlocking the bike, a digital speedometer with a touchscreen, a solid wood bench under the saddle that can be customized with seat upholstery of your choice (along with matching engraved grips), and two side mirrors. There are also various configurable options available, such as a GPS tracker for anti-theft purposes, illuminated ‘tank’ logos, milled aluminum switch gears, a full leather seat, special finishes, and more.
Each Metorbike is hand-built in collaboration with the customer. Only 50 of the Founders Edition Metorbikes will be produced, with prices starting at €7,749 (about $8,477 as of June 16, 2023), plus additional charges for any configured options. Currently, Metorbike is only offering these custom electric mopeds in Germany, where they can be ridden with a regular car driver’s license, making them an appealing choice for commuters and urban riders in the country.
For more information, you can visit the official Metorbike website, which we have linked in our Sources.
New vehicles are higher than ever earlier than. The insane competitors amongst producers results in vehicles which might be getting more and more extra aggressive. Two of the most recent and best additions to the market embrace the Tacoma TRD Pro and the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison. Both these vehicles compete throughout the similar mid-sized desert bashing and off-roading area of interest. Therefore, it might solely make sense to place them head-to-head.
The Tacoma has lengthy been one of the best vendor within the mid-size pickup truck market, and it’s apparent that Toyota has made an enormous effort in guaranteeing that the brand new truck continues the legacy. But is the hassle sufficient? In some areas, the ZR2 Bison might need the higher hand and will give the Tacoma a run for its cash. Let’s take a look.
The Tacoma Features A More Future-Proof Drivetrain, But It May Not Be The Better Option
Toyota
A shot of the engine bay of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
The new Tacoma follows the present international automobile pattern which includes downsized and turbocharged engines that scale back emissions. However, along with that, the upper trim ranges of the Tacoma with the TRD Pro included, additionally pair up a hybrid system. The hybrid system and the two.4 liter turbocharged four-cylinder collectively produce an output of 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque.
On the opposite hand, the Colorado ZR2 Bison features a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with no hybrid choice obtainable. This setup is nice for 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. As you possibly can see, the Tacoma has a slight benefit each in torque and horsepower. Also, one may argue that its hybrid system is extra futureproof as its decrease emissions might allow it to remain on the highway for longer.
However, there is likely to be an issue right here. You see, one of many Tacoma’s greatest promoting factors is its reliability. The outgoing model featured a naturally aspirated V6 that was just about unkillable because of its simplicity. The new smaller turbo unit and the hybrid system may not be as dependable each when in comparison with the outdated mannequin but additionally to the Colorado ZR2 because the Chevrolet doesn’t have costly batteries in its drivetrain.
A entrance 3/4 out of doors shot of the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison
The Tacoma TRD Pro now encompasses a coil-sprung rear finish which when in comparison with leaf springs affords higher articulation, higher journey high quality, and higher response over high-speed off-roading. That being mentioned, the Bison ZR2 makes up for its lack of coils with hydraulic bump stops.
The suspension system within the Tacoma TRD Pro is made by Fox Shocks. Specifically, it’s the QS3 variant that’s used for off-road automobiles. The ZR2 Bison makes use of Multimatic spool valve dampers but additionally options hydraulic bump stops. The leaf-sprung rear finish of the Bison is likely to be a drawback; nonetheless, the hydraulic bump stops will give it the flexibility to dampen huge impacts with extra composure.
That being mentioned, the bump stops alone aren’t the explanation why the Chevrolet may have the higher hand off-road. The Bison comes commonplace with 35-inch tires wrapped round bead-lock succesful wheels. Front and rear lockers come as commonplace. The Tacoma TRD Pro solely options 33s and only a rear locker. Sure, the Toyota makes use of an aggressive traction management which can deal with the open entrance diff; nonetheless, it received’t be as efficient as a correct diff locker.
Chevrolet
The underbody safety discovered on a Colorado ZR2 Bison
The 35-inch tires give the Chevrolet the flexibility to roll over huge obstacles extra simply. Furthermore, they add a clearance profit which is clear when taking a look on the off-road angles of each automobiles. The Tacoma Trd Pro affords a 33.8-degree method, 23.5-degree breakover, and 25.7-degree departure angle whereas the ZR2 Bison encompasses a 38.2-degree method, 26-degree departure, and 26.9-degree breakover angle. It is price mentioning that each vehicles have in depth underbody safety in case the above angles aren’t sufficient.
With these specs in thoughts, it’s protected to say that the ZR2 Bison may have the higher hand when the going will get robust despite the fact that it nonetheless encompasses a leaf-sprung rear finish.
A shot of the dashboard in a 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
Toyota has achieved an incredible job with the inside of the TRD Pro Tacoma. Aside from the nice design, the TRD Pro additionally encompasses a 14-inch infotainment display that takes care of most features. Thankfully, continuously used features like quantity controls are nonetheless on bodily dials. However, what really sets the interior of the Tacoma TRD Pro apart are its seats.
Aside from the nice pink leather-based and camo graphics, these seats are additionally geared up with shocks that act like a gimbal isolating the driving force from vibrations and actions whereas driving. You wouldn’t anticipate an organization to pay a lot consideration to seat design, however Toyota did, and it has actually grabbed the eye of potential patrons.
Toyota
A shot of the IsoDynamic Performance Seats within the 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
The ZR2 Bison’s inside can also be an excellent place to be however isn’t fairly on the degree of the Tacoma. The infotainment system here’s a smaller 11.3-inch unit and the final look inside isn’t as butch and utilitarian.
Exterior Protection Is More Extensive On The Chevrolet
Chevrolet
A rear three-quarter shot of a Colorado ZR2 Bison
Protecting the outside of an off-roader is essential if you need your panels to remain straight. This appears to be an space Chevrolet has paid nice consideration to because the ZR2 Bison affords rock sliders, and metal entrance and rear bumpers. The entrance bumper is winch appropriate whereas the rear affords nook safety in case you run out of departure angle.
The TRD Pro does characteristic a metal rear bumper with increased corners for extra clearance; nonetheless, its entrance bumper isn’t as robust and it lacks facet safety. Worth noting is the truth that if you wish to add a winch, the Tacoma would require an aftermarket bumper whereas the ZR2 Bison will have the ability to settle for it with out making any adjustments.
A entrance 3/4 shot of the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison
Deciding which truck to purchase principally relies on your wants. It is protected to say that if you need essentially the most succesful off-roader then the ZR2 Bison wins the battle. It affords extra clearance, bigger tires, and one extra locker. That being mentioned, the Tacoma’s coil-sprung rear finish and over-engineered entrance seats will definitely present higher journey high quality, each on and off-road.
Furthermore, the Tacoma TRD Pro has the upper hand in energy and is likely to be cheaper to run (when it comes to fuel and emissions) as a result of hybrid system. This makes it the only option for an all-around nice day by day driver and weekend journey truck.
Toyota
A rear-view shot of a 2024 Tacoma Tacoma TRD Pro driving off-road
So, merely put, if you’ll be tackling robust trails each weekend go for the Chevy. If you’ll principally use the truck as a day by day driver with off-road journeys that shall be on the better facet, get the Tacoma. Obviously, the Tacoma can also be nice off-road, but it surely’s not fairly on the degree of the ZR2 Bison.
All-new EX30, Volvo’s smallest ever SUV, on sale to UK customers from today
Three electric powertrains:
Single Motor with 272hp and 51kWh battery
Single Motor Extended Range with 272hp and 69kWh battery
Twin Motor Performance with 428hp and 69kWh battery
On-the-road prices from £33,795
Two equipment grades at launch – Plus and Ultra; additional Core entry-level grade to be introduced later
Plus specification includes 12.3-inch touchscreen display, two-zone climate control, Harman Kardon premium sound system with dashboard soundbar, front and rear parking sensors and rear camera, heated front seats and steering wheel, a heat pump* and an 11kW on-board charger
Additional features on Ultra grade include 360-degree camera with virtual 3D view, fixed panoramic sunroof, Park Pilot Assist self-parking system, 20-inch alloy wheels, power-adjustable front seats and a 22kW on-board charger
All new EX30s benefit from three-year/60,000-mile care package
UK customer deliveries from first quarter of 2024
On the day that the all-new EX30 is revealed to the world, Volvo Cars is pleased to announce UK specifications and pricing for the fully electric small SUV. The new model goes on sale today and the first cars will be with UK customers in the first quarter of 2024.
The EX30 might be the smallest Volvo SUV yet, but its urban-friendly exterior dimensions belie a roomy and comfortable interior with plenty of smart storage space. Equally, it has a big role to play as a key model in Volvo Cars’ electrification strategy and growth ambitions.
Beyond having an electric powertrain and being constructed on a new pure-EV platform, the EX30 has been developed with a focus on achieving a smaller carbon footprint than any previous Volvo car. Its cleaner profile is not limited to zero tailpipe emissions: it also takes in greater use of recycled materials in the car’s construction and close scrutiny on reducing lifecycle carbon emissions, from materials sourcing to supply chain operations, manufacturing processes and end-of-life disposal.
Kristian Elvefors, Volvo Car UK Managing Director, said: “The EX30 has huge potential for expanding the reach and performance of our brand in the UK. It brings together our established strengths in electrification, safety and design without compromise in a convenient, compact package. With an authentic approach to improving sustainability and lowering carbon emissions, it will have strong appeal to urban consumers looking for an efficient electric car that’s easy to live with. Together with our retail partners, we are excited to bring fresh thinking and a genuinely new proposition to the market for small SUVs.”
The UK model range
The EX30 range in the UK will come with three different powertrain options: a Single Motor version with 272hp and a 51kWh battery; a Single Motor Extended Range with 272hp and a 69kWh battery; and a Twin Motor Performance with 428hp and a 69kWh battery.
On-the-road prices are from £33,795 for the Single Motor versions, £38,545 for Single Motor Extended Range cars, and £40,995 for the Twin Motor Performance models.
Pre-homologation performance figures indicate a potential driving range of up to 298 miles on a single battery charge, with power consumption of up to 4.0 miles/kWh. Battery charging will be quick and convenient, with 10 to 80% charging in as little as 26 minutes. The EX30 also promises rapid acceleration, with the Twin Motor Performance version expected to accomplish 0-62mph in just 3.6 seconds – making it the fastest-accelerating Volvo car ever.
Customers can choose from five exterior paintwork colours and a series of interior treatments, classed as ‘rooms’ – each with its own ambience and character created through different textures, colours and finishes, using a range of sustainable and recycled materials.
Plus and Ultra equipment grades
The initial UK model range consists of two equipment grades, Plus and Ultra. Both reflect the priorities of today’s customers for seamless connectivity, digital integration and intuitive functionality, together with high levels of safety, comfort and convenience. An additional entry-level Core grade will be added at a later date, at a lower price point.
The Plus versions come as standard with a 12.3-inch central touchscreen with built-in Google functions and wireless smartphone integration using Apple CarPlay. There’s also a Harman Kardon premium audio system, featuring a new soundbar that extends across the width of the dashboard. The two-zone climate control set-up has an air-purification system and uses an energy-saving heat pump*, while the heated front seats and steering wheel help contribute to quick and efficient warming. A rear camera and front and rear parking sensors help the driver safely manoeuvre tight spaces, and Pilot Assist provides adaptive cruise control with steering assistance to help keep the car safely within its lane. There’s also an 11kW on-board charger and the peace of mind of a three-year/60,000-mile care package that covers the car’s standard servicing schedule, plus wear-and-tear consumables.
Building on this specification, the EX30 Ultra models provide higher levels of driver-assistance with a 360-degree camera with virtual 3D view and Volvo’s Park Pilot Assist automatic parking system. Other features include a fixed panoramic sunroof, 20-inch alloy wheels, power-adjustable front seats, dark-tinted rear windows and a more powerful, 22kW on-board charger.
Safety leadership
Safety is synonymous with the Volvo brand, and the EX30 small SUV benefits from new technology to give extra protection to everyone on board – and other road users. It introduces Safe Space Technology, which specifically addresses the kind of accident risks familiar in urban areas.
This equips the car with front and rear Cross Traffic Alert with brake support, which detects and warns the driver of other vehicles approaching unexpectedly and applies automatic braking if there’s an imminent collision risk. There is also Door Opening Alert, which gives visual and audible warnings to help guard against a door being opened into the path of a cyclist or other road user approaching from the rear.
On-the-road pricing
EX30 Single Motor Plus – £33,795
EX30 Single Motor Extended Range Plus – £38,545
EX30 Twin Motor Performance Plus – £40,995
EX30 Single Motor Extended Range Ultra – £42,045
EX30 Twin Motor Performance Ultra – £44,495
WLTP range figures (preliminary data)
EX30 Single Motor – up to 214 miles
EX30 Single Motor Extended Range – up to 298 miles
EX30 Twin Motor Performance – up to 286 miles
For more information on the EX30, and to use the online configurator, please go to www.volvcars.co.uk
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