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Motorsport

2024 Volkswagen Tiguan Renderings Preview Redesigned Crossover’s New Look

Volkswagen is preparing to launch the next-generation Tiguan, and while the automaker has been teasing the model extensively, there are still a few details that haven’t been revealed. However, unofficial renderings have recently emerged, providing a possible preview of the Tiguan’s redesigned exterior.

The upcoming Tiguan boasts a smoother design compared to its predecessor, featuring a wide lower grille opening in the front bumper. The renderings remove the remaining camouflage from the popular SUV, uncovering a wide light bar positioned between the front headlights, which might be a part of the final design.

In terms of the rear design, the rendering showcases a thick, full-width taillight element that was captured on a completely uncovered example during a photo shoot. Additionally, without any camouflage, the renderings reveal a boxy rear-end bumper design.

Although no renderings of the Tiguan’s interior are available, they are deemed unnecessary. When Volkswagen previously showcased the crossover’s revamped exterior design, the company also provided a glimpse of the cabin. Notably, the SUV will feature a large landscape-oriented display on the dashboard for infotainment functions, with screen sizes ranging from 12.9 to 15.0 inches depending on the trim. Additionally, a smaller 10.25-inch screen will serve as the driver’s display behind the steering wheel.

The new Tiguan will be based on an updated version of Volkswagen’s existing platform, known as the MQB EVO architecture. While the forthcoming model will be slightly larger than its predecessor, with an increase of 1.25 inches in length and 0.2 inches in height, the wheelbase and width will remain unchanged during the redesign.

Despite Volkswagen’s eagerness to share specific details about the Tiguan, information about its powertrain options remains unknown. However, it is expected that the model will offer gas, diesel, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations available.

Volkswagen is expected to unveil the new Tiguan in the fall, with the official release slated for next year. The European market will likely receive the Tiguan in the first quarter of the year, while the US market will have to wait a bit longer.

As for pricing, it’s unclear whether the Tiguan’s cost will increase. The current base model starts at $28,245 (including the $1,295 destination charge), and the new model may approach the $30,000 range. Competitors in the segment, such as the Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, and Hyundai Santa Fe, typically start at the upper end of the $20,000 range.

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Bigger, bolder Vauxhall Crossland to launch with EV in 2024

The Vauxhall Crossland will undergo significant changes and be offered with an electric option in its second generation next year. Vauxhall announced earlier this year that all its models will have an EV option by 2024, with the Crossland and Grandland crossovers being the last to transition.

Vauxhall CEO James Taylor considers the electrification of these two popular model lines as a major milestone towards the brand’s ambition of becoming fully electric by 2028. Already, the Corsa, Astra, Mokka, Combo, and Vivaro are available with battery power. Additionally, Vauxhall plans to introduce two more electric-only models – the Manta crossover and a successor to the Insignia – in the next five years.

While Vauxhall has not revealed the design of its upcoming EVs, it has confirmed that an “Experimental” concept will be showcased at the Munich motor show in September. However, the electric version of the Crossland’s replacement has been spotted for the first time, showcasing a radically different appearance with chunkier edges and a stronger SUV styling.

The new Crossland features Vauxhall’s distinctive ‘Vizor’ front end, slimline LED headlights, and a contrasting wraparound ‘grille’ panel. The increase in size indicates a focus on enhanced practicality for family buyers. The current Crossland is comparable in size to models like the Ford Puma, Nissan Juke, and Seat Arona, but the larger dimensions of the new model could place it in competition with the Kia Niro, Skoda Karoq, and Dacia Duster.

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New Aston Martin Valour brings 705bhp V12 and manual gearbox

Aston Martin has unveiled a new supercar inspired by the impressive one-off Victor, featuring a powerful 705bhp V12 engine and a six-speed manual gearbox.

The Valour takes design elements from the original V8 Vantage and Aston Martin’s 1970s prototype racer, ‘The Muncher.’ It is a celebration of Aston Martin’s 110th birthday and its iconic 12-cylinder engine.

Only 110 units of the Valour will be produced, with prices ranging from £1 million to £1.5 million. Buyers have the opportunity to personalize their cars through Aston Martin’s Q bespoke service, offering unique liveries, carbon fiber body finish, and various interior options.

Unlike the Victor, which was based on a surplus One-77 prototype chassis, the Valour has a custom-built body structure derived from the V12 Vantage.

The 5.2-liter V12 engine, based on the DBS, delivers 705bhp and 555lb ft of torque to the rear wheels via a specially designed six-speed manual gearbox and a limited-slip differential. Choosing a manual gearbox over the automatic options found in other Aston Martin models was important to maintain the driver-centric experience, according to Aston Martin engineering boss Simon Newton.

The Valour aims to be a state-of-the-art driver’s car with the spirit of a timeless classic. Modifications include front and rear shear panels, a rear suspension tower strut brace, and fuel tank bracing for added rigidity. It also features adjustable dampers, a new power steering setup for enhanced feedback, and standard-fit carbon ceramic brakes.

Motorsport

Next-Gen Audi RS7 Spotted Disguised as S6 Sedan with Wide Fenders and Unusual Exhaust

New spy images have emerged of a heavily camouflaged Audi sedan undergoing testing. Upon closer inspection, the photos reveal the presence of wide fenders, raising questions about the upcoming model’s identity, particularly considering Audi’s plans to reposition its lineup.

Beneath the camouflage, the vehicle appears to be a standard Audi S6. However, the wider fenders hint at the possibility of a more powerful drivetrain lurking beneath the sheet metal. While some sources speculate that this may be the next-generation RS7, it’s worth noting that Audi currently only offers the RS7 as a liftback, whereas the car observed in the spy shots appears to be a sedan.