In addition to a new EV lineup, which includes an electric estate similar in size to the Octavia, an entry-level compact urban crossover priced at £22,000, an SUV called the Elroq, a production version of the Vision 7S SUV concept, and the Skoda Enyaq iV, the 2024 Skoda Superb will feature refreshed exterior looks, improved technologies, and a redesigned interior. The upgraded design will play a key role in enhancing their appeal, with new thin daytime running lights and redesigned rear lights being among the confirmed changes so far.
“The Superb and the [second-generation] Kodiaq are two important cornerstones of the Skoda model range,” noted CEO Klaus Zellmer. “That’s why introducing the new generations of both models is so special for us. The Superb is our flagship ICE vehicle and will continue to set standards in terms of comfort and space in its fourth generation, available as both a hatch and an estate. We are dedicated to meeting our customers’ needs and providing the best of both worlds, so both models will also be offered with plug-in and mild-hybrid options.”
2024 Skoda Superb Prototype First Drive
While the SUV trend is rapidly growing, the Skoda Superb Estate remains one of the best choices for a large family car. Although it may not have the same visual presence as its Kodiaq stablemate, it offers an enormous, comfortable, and competitively priced option, with a wide range of fuel-efficient engines. Therefore, its fourth-generation successor will have a tough act to follow when it arrives in 2024.
The new Superb hatch and estate are built on the same platform as the jointly developed Volkswagen Passat. The styling has been updated, with slimmer headlights and tail-lights, to align with the design of the new Kodiaq, which will be launching around the same time. Compared to its predecessor, the new Superb Estate is 40mm longer and 5mm taller, with a bigger boot that now offers 690 litres of space, surpassing the Peugeot 508 SW and the rugged-looking Citroën C5 X.
Prices, trim levels, and specifications will be confirmed in November 2023. The lineup will include a standard Superb, a sportier-looking Sportline version, and the luxury-focused Laurin & Klement trim. The slightly raised and more rugged-looking Scout estate will not be available in the UK.
Yamaha has revealed its 2024 off-road and motocross models, which include a completely redesigned YZ250F. That model has received chassis, engine and technological updates that the YZ450F got in 2023. Additionally, the YZ450FX off road bike got similar updates and all the bikes are also presented as 50th Anniversary Special Editions. The official Yamaha press release follows:
Yamaha 50th anniversary editions
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA is excited to mark the 50th anniversary of its legendary YZ model line with the introduction of the new 2024 50th Anniversary Edition YZ125, YZ250, YZ250F and YZ450F. With bold heritage livery inspired by the iconic 1990s-era YZ two-strokes campaigned by riders like Damon Bradshaw and Jeff Emig, these Anniversary Edition models commemorate a thrilling and nostalgic time of American motocross near the end of the two-stroke era.
First introduced in 1974, the YZ lineup has represented the pinnacle of motocross technological advancement and off-road performance. From the original YZ250 two-stroke and game-changing YZ400F four-stroke to breakthrough technologies like monoshock suspension, liquid-cooling, exhaust power valves, and modern four-stroke technology, the YZ has long been a leading platform for off-road development.
“As we look back at our rich history of YZ models, we felt it only natural to commemorate the 50th anniversary with special livery for 2024,” said Derek Brooks, Yamaha Motorsports Motorcycle Product Line Manager. “The 90s was a special era for me as a teenager, racing on the weekends and watching my hero, Damon Bradshaw. He set the world on fire, not only with his riding but also with the style of his bikes and gear. I can’t think of a better way to pay homage to the iconic YZ than with this iconic era of design.”
The new 2024 YZ125 50th Anniversary Edition will be available from dealers this August for $7,299 MSRP. The new 2024 YZ250 50thAnniversary Edition will be available from dealers this August for $8,199 MSRP. The new 2024 YZ250F 50th Anniversary Edition will be available from dealers this October for $9,099 MSRP. The new 2024 YZ450F 50th Anniversary Edition will be available from dealers this August for $10,199 MSRP.
Yamaha’s off-road competition bikes offer the very latest in technology with performance features designed to help racing enthusiasts reach their maximum potential, win races and stand on top of the podium.
New 2024 Yamaha YZ250F
2024 Yamaha YZ250F 50th Anniversary Edition
Long a cornerstone of Yamaha’s off-road racing success, the lauded YZ250F has remained at the top of the ultra-competitive 250cc class for years, winning numerous press shootouts and more than a dozen Supercross and Motocross championships since 2014. The new 2024 YZ250F features extensive updates designed to further boost its class-leading performance and capability.
Underneath its sharp, aggressive new YZ styling lies the most refined, balanced and competition-ready YZ250F ever. A lighter, more compact chassis offers improved handling feel and more comfortable riding position, a revised intake path boosts mid- to high-rpm performance, and an advanced new generation Yamaha Power Tuner App is simpler to use and more intuitive than ever.
It starts with a completely redesigned aluminum bilateral beam frame based on its class-dominating YZ450F sibling, providing just the right amount of strength and flex for the perfect balance of stability and cornering performance. The result is a better handling machine with lightweight feel and increased front wheel traction, allowing the rider to enter corners with greater confidence and more line choices.
Additional chassis updates include revised suspension internals to match the new frame. Class leading, fully adjustable KYB® coil spring-type fork with speed-sensitive damping delivers exceptional balance between handling and bump absorption for championship-winning performance. The fork now also includes a hand-adjustable knob for quick, toolless compression adjustments. The linkage-type rear suspension features a revised KYB® shock, and combines with the updated front suspension to provide less pitch on corner entry/exit for improved stability.
Drawing further inspiration from the flagship YZ450F, the new 2024 YZ250F has a slimmer, flatter body design for enhanced rider movement, including a lower airbox, flatter seat and more narrow fuel tank and radiator shrouds. The rider triangle is also improved with increased legroom between the seat and footpegs for improved rider comfort.
Known for its broad, useable powerband and class-leading low-end and mid-range torque, the YZ250F’s advanced four-stroke engine features a high-spec piston, aggressive cam profiles and forward positioned intake cylinder head layout. New for 2024, the updated body design now allows for a more efficient intake path which, together with revised ECU settings, results in even more mid- to high-end power.
To help riders fine tune that power to their liking, the new YZ250F is compatible with Yamaha’s next-generation Power Tuner App, allowing detailed air/fuel mixture and ignition timing adjustments to be made on their smartphone, tailoring delivery to specific preferences or riding conditions. An intuitive new “Simple Tuning” slide bar further simplifies the engine mapping process to where riders can simply scroll between smoother or more aggressive power character settings for the quickest adjustments. The app can also monitor a range of data such as maintenance and system diagnosis, engine run time, lap times or log track set-up information. There’s also helpful new engine and suspension tuning guides to dial in the perfect setup.
Additional features for 2024 include an all-new Traction Control System, which communicates wheel slip to the ECU to maintain ideal rear wheel traction. Three levels can be selected: HIGH, LOW or OFF. Also, an updated Launch Control System now features an rpm limiter which can be adjusted in 500 rpm increments between 6,000 rpm and 14,000 rpm for optimized launches when the gate drops. Both systems are controlled through the Yamaha Power Tuner App.
With these carefully considered updates, Yamaha plans to take the unparalleled racing pedigree of YZ250F to a new level of performance.
2024 YZ250F Features & Benefits
The new 2024 YZ250F takes the superior race-tested qualities of its predecessor and expands them in a lighter, slimmer, sharper and more usable package designed to continue dominating the competition Completely redesigned aluminum bilateral beam frame based on the flagship YZ450F provides the perfect balance of straight-line stability and cornering performance Revised, fully adjustable KYB® coil spring-type fork with speed-sensitive damping now includes hand-adjustable knob for toolless compression adjustment Linkage-type rear suspension features a fully adjustable KYB® shock with revised settings for enhanced performance A flatter, more narrow body design eases rider movement and updated ergonomics offer increased legroom and more comfort Advanced 250cc four-stroke engine features a high-spec piston, aggressive cam profiles and forward positioned intake cylinder head layout for a broad, useable powerband More efficient intake path further boosts mid- to high-rpm engine performance Innovative wrap-around exhaust design improves mass centralization and power characteristics Ultra-compact 44mm Mikuni® throttle body ensures optimum fuel atomization while saving weight and improving mass-centralization Revised Yamaha Power Tuner App is even more user-friendly with intuitive new “Quick Setting” slide bar, helpful new engine and suspension tuning guides, and additional new features New three-level selectable Traction Control System controlled through the Power Tuner App maintains ideal rear wheel traction Updated Launch Control System now features adjustable rpm limiting for improved launches when the gate drops Two-mode adjustable engine mapping allows on-the-fly selection between two maps via new handlebar-mounted push-button switchgear Large 270mm front brake disc and 240mm rear disc are coupled with a Nissin calipers to provide exceptional stopping power and control Durable, large-diameter 15-plate clutch withstands the high demands of motocross racing Lightweight, tapered 1-1/8-inch aluminum handlebars secure to four-position adjustable handlebar mounts Wide 55mm footpegs Compact, lightweight push-button electric start provides effortless restarts Premium embedded graphics provide excellent durability and scratch resistance Advanced computer-aided wheel design shaves weight without sacrificing durability Rear wheel comes laced in a three-cross-spoke pattern for improved impact absorption and rider feel Race-developed Dunlop® Geomax MX33 tires
The new 2024 YZ250F will be offered in Team Yamaha Blue and will be available from dealers this October for $8,899 MSRP, and the above mentioned 50th Anniversary Edition livery for $9,099 MSRP.
2024 Yamaha YZ450F 50th anniversary Edition
Additionally, the remainder of Yamaha’s Motocross lineup including the YZ65, YZ85 and YZ85LW, YZ125, YZ250 and YZ450F return for 2024 with updated graphics and a new seat color.
New 2024 YZ250F 2024 YZ450F 2024 YZ250 2024 YZ125 2024 YZ85LW 2024 YZ85 2024 YZ65 New 2024 Yamaha YZ450FX:
2024 Yamaha YZ450FX
Following last year’s update to the YZ125X and YZ250X, Yamaha has shifted focus to the flagship of the Cross Country lineup for 2024 with an all-new YZ450FX four-stroke. Evolved from the benchmark-setting YZ450F motocrosser, the 2024 YZ450FX is designed to dominate cross country competition. Lighter, slimmer and more compact, with improved rider ergonomics, a revised chassis, a more powerful engine and next-generation Yamaha Power Tuner app all carry over directly from the YZ450F. Additional modifications tailored toward enhanced cross country performance include a wide-ratio transmission, larger fuel capacity, low fuel warning light, 18-inch rear wheel, side stand, skid plate, revised ECU and suspension settings, along with a 10mm lower seat height for increased maneuverability in challenging off-road conditions.
Changes for the new YZ450FX start with a completely redesigned four-stroke engine that’s lighter, more compact, higher revving and more powerful across the entire rev range. Updates include new exhaust and intake port shapes, larger diameter titanium intake valves, new forged aluminum piston, new cylinder body, crankshaft and balancer assembly, 500 rpm higher rev limit and a switch from wet sump to dry sump lubrication. The YZ450FX’s ECU settings are also tailored to suit the specific demands of cross country and enduro-style racing.
The all-new clutch design replaces the coil springs of the previous model with a new disc spring and integrates primary gear and basket into a single steel unit. The result is a more compact, lightweight and durable assembly with smooth engagement and excellent feel. A premium clutch cover employs a stylish geometric design that helps minimize scratching and lends a bold look. There’s also a new wide-ratio transmission featuring a tri-shaft layout making it lighter and more compact, with gear ratios optimized for cross country conditions.
Providing riders with the opportunity to fine-tune engine performance within their smartphone, Yamaha’s next-generation Power Tuner App is easier to use with more functionality. Engine mapping can now be made using an intuitive new “Quick Setting” slide bar. An all-new Traction Control System is controlled within the app, providing riders with three selectable levels of intervention: HIGH, LOW or OFF. There is also a new lap timer and handy bike set-up guides. Additionally, a new lightweight handlebar-mounted switch allows on-the-fly selection of two preloaded engine maps, one standard and one optimized for more extreme conditions. These maps can also be customized within the app.
A new chassis includes a completely redesigned aluminum bilateral beam frame consisting of more than 10 different aluminum components welded together. This provides the opportunity to carefully tune rigidity and flex characteristics of each component to ensure competition-level performance. The result is a better handling machine with lighter feel, improved bump absorption and increased traction, allowing riders to charge into corners with greater confidence.
Additionally, rider ergonomics are improved with a slimmer, flatter, more compact body including a more narrow fuel tank and front shrouds and a flatter, more rounded seat, making it easier for the rider to move and shift weight for enhanced control. The rider triangle is also improved with increased legroom between the seat and footpegs, and revised handlebar position for a more natural stand-up posture.
Maintaining the YZ450FX’s best-in-class suspension performance, the industry-leading, fully adjustable KYB® coil spring-type fork with speed-sensitive damping features revised settings and a new hand operated compression clicker for quick, toolless adjustments. The linkage type KYB® rear shock features specially tuned damping characteristics to match the new YZ450FX chassis. Revised settings also result in a 10mm lower seat height and lower center of gravity for improved handling and comfort in the type of tight, technical sections common to enduro racing.
The YZ450FX boasts a wide range of additional top-spec details carried over from the competition-tested YZ450F including push-button electric starter system with high-capacity ultra-light lithium-ion battery, rubber-mounted, four-position adjustable handlebar clamps, 1-1/8-inch aluminum tapered handlebars, new compact PVC handlebar pad, wide footpegs with new lightweight aluminum alloy mounting brackets and a quick-adjust clutch perch.
It all adds up to an exciting new entry to Yamaha’s Cross Country lineup for enthusiasts and racers who want competition-dominating performance straight out of the box.
2024 YZ450FX Features & Benefits
The ultimate open-class cross country racer, the new 2024 YZ450FX is lighter, slimmer, faster and designed to dominate cross country competition All-new 450cc engine is lighter, more compact with increased power across the entire rev range and a 500 rpm higher rev limit and ECU settings tailored for cross country competition Ultra-compact 44mm Mikuni® throttle body ensures optimum fuel atomization while saving weight and improving mass-centralization More compact, lightweight cable-actuated clutch design replaces coil springs with a new disc spring for smoother engagement and excellent feel New tri-shaft transmission layout is lighter and more compact, wide-ratio five-speed is optimized for cross country conditions Revised Yamaha Power Tuner App is even more user-friendly with intuitive new “Quick Setting” slide bar, Traction Control tuning and additional new features Two-mode adjustable engine mapping allows on-the-fly selection between two tuneable engine maps via new handlebar-mounted push-button switchgear Redesigned aluminum bilateral beam frame with YZ450FX-specific front engine mounts provides just the right amount of strength and flex for the perfect balance of straight-line stability and cornering performance Slimmer, flatter and more compact body eases rider movement for better control, with improved rider triangle for enhanced comfort Revised, fully adjustable KYB® coil spring-type fork with speed-sensitive damping now includes hand-adjustable knob for toolless compression adjustment Linkage-type rear suspension features a fully adjustable KYB® shock with revised settings for enhanced performance A 10mm lower seat height than the YZ450F provides lower center of gravity for improved low-speed maneuverability Large 270mm front brake disc and 240mm rear disc, high performance Nissin calipers and aggressive pad material to provide exceptional stopping power and control Compact, lightweight push-button electric start provides effortless restarts High-capacity lithium-ion battery provides consistent performance and minimal weight Lightweight aluminum tapered handlebar Rubber-mounted four-position adjustable handlebar mounts reduce vibration Wide footpegs with new lightweight aluminum alloy mounting brackets Optimized for cross country with larger 2.1-gallon fuel capacity, low fuel indicator, 18-inch rear wheel, composite engine guard, sealed O-ring chain and a folding aluminum kickstand Premium Yamaha Blue graphics scheme is embedded to provide excellent durability and scratch resistance Advanced computer-aided wheel design shaves weight without sacrificing durability The 18-inch rear wheel comes laced in a three-cross-spoke pattern for improved impact absorption and feel Race-developed Dunlop® Geomax MX33 tires
The new 2024 YZ450FX will be offered in Team Yamaha Blue and will be available from dealers this October for $10,199 MSRP.
2024 Yamaha YZ250X two-stroke
Additionally, the remainder of Yamaha’s Cross Country lineup including the YZ125X, YZ250X and YZ250FX return for 2024 with updated graphics and a new seat color.
Along with the 2024 motocross and cross country lineups, Yamaha is also announcing the trail lineup featuring the TT-R230, TT-R125LE, TT-R110E, TT-R50E and PW50 will return with updated graphics for 2024.
2024 TT-R230 2024 TT-R125LE 2024 TT-R110E 2024 TT-R50E 2024 PW50 Yamaha bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program
All 2024 YZ models are eligible for Yamaha’s current bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program, which features nearly $7 million for Yamaha bLU cRU riders competing in off-road motorcycle racing. YZ riders can earn contingency payouts via a bLU cRU debit card, receive a 10 percent rebate on GYTR parts and accessory purchases of up to $1,000, and receive a bLU cRU swag bag.
For complete details on how to register for the bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program, along with specific information on which racing series, events, and classes are included, visit the Off-Road Racing Contingency page on the Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, website at: https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/blucru-registration.
Cadillac is in the process of refreshing its CT5 sedan lineup, with the high-performance CT5-V Blackwing variant being one of the models undergoing updates. Recently, spy photographers managed to capture images of the sedan being tested in public, with camouflage concealing certain elements.
The forthcoming 2024 CT5-V Blackwing will showcase a refreshed front design. The overall styling will have a more aggressive appearance compared to the current model, featuring a new bumper. Notably, the lower bumper openings will be positioned closer to the edges, and the single-piece vertical daytime running lights are now concealed by camouflaging.
The upcoming BMW M5 is expected to be a plug-in hybrid model, combining a brawny V8 engine with electric power. While the current BMW 5 Series lineup does not include an M550i version, the M division is planning to release the new M5 next year. Our exclusive rendering, based on the internal codename “G90,” gives a sneak peek at what the hybrid super sedan might look like by removing the camouflage seen on previous prototypes.
BMW has already provided a glimpse of the next-generation M5’s design with the reveal of the M Performance model, called the i5 M60. The company has also announced that the distinct kidney grille design found on the i5 M60 will carry over to the M5, although it remains to be seen if there will be any modifications. Unlike the current M5 F90, which features vertical slats on the grille, the new model will adopt horizontal bars, similar to the design seen on the latest M2, X5 M, X6 M, and the XM.
This week’s major highlights include information on upcoming models from Maruti and Kia, as well as some interesting spy shots.
This past week of June revolved mostly around the news on upcoming models like the Maruti Invicto premium MPV and facelifted Kia Seltos compact SUV. During the same week, Mercedes-Benz brought back its SL roadster namelate in India after more than a decade. Aside from these, we also had an update on Tesla’s plans for India. Let’s have a quick overview of what mattered that week.
After spending almost three years in the market, the Kia Carnival has now been discontinued in India. The Carnival sold here was already a previous generation model which was based on an old platform.
The iconic Mercedes-Benz brought its SL convertible moniker returns to India after a gap of almost 11 years. Launched exclusively in the performance guise, the Mercedes AMG SL 55 Roadster is the only open top offering from Mercedes in India after the E Class cabriolet.
2024 Toyota Vellfire Unveiled
In international news, the new Toyota Vellfire has made its debut with an all new design and feature improvements. The new Vellfire is also expected to make its way to India soon as the luxury MPV is fairly popular here. We have detailed 5 of the key improvements that the new Vellfire gets over the existing model.
The Maruti Invicto’s features list will include some new comfort, convenience and safety equipment borrowed from its premium partner
Until early 2022, most Maruti cars were lacking the modern tech offered by their competitors. This changed with the facelifted Maruti Baleno, which introduced some first-time features and was further improved with the Grand Vitara. Now, with the Toyota Innova Hycross-based Maruti Invicto launching on July 5, we have compiled a list of the 10 features that will debut for the marque:
A 10-inch Touchscreen
The Invicto will come with a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment unit, an upgrade from the current 7-inch unit.
Powered Driver Seat With Memory
The Invicto will feature an 8-way power-adjustable driver seat with memory function, similar to the Toyota Innova Hycross.
The Invicto will offer ottoman seats in the captain seat specification, providing increased legroom and reclining options.
18-inch Alloy Wheels
The Invicto will come with 18-inch alloy wheels, the largest offered by Maruti from the factory.
Electronic Parking Brake
The Invicto will introduce an electronic parking brake with auto-hold, providing convenience during city driving.
Powered Tailgate
The Invicto will feature a powered tailgate, adding convenience to the lineup.
ADAS
The Invicto will debut with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, and lane keep assist.
The Invicto will come with USB Type-C charging ports and rear sunshades as additional convenience features.
Note: While these features are provided from the factory in the case of the Toyota Innova Hycross and the Maruti Invicto, they can also be added as aftermarket accessories.
Which of these features would you like to see in future Maruti cars? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Unlock Your Automotive Passion and Explore the Road Ahead
