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The 2025 Nissan Kicks Finally Gets All-Wheel Drive
When we first noticed camouflaged prototypes of the next-generation Nissan Kicks in July 2023, we knew vital adjustments had been coming to Nissan’s small crossover. Now, the covers are lifted and we’re handled to a really symmetrical design that is a little bit greater and packs an incredible punch. Say hey to the 2025 Nissan Kicks.
Right away, you will discover Nissan’s signature V-Motion grille is gone. In reality, there is not a single reference to V-Motion anyplace within the Kicks press launch. Look carefully on the new face, nevertheless, and you will see vestiges of the previous design language. The openings on the bladed grille slant inwards, culminating in a ridge atop the fascia. At the highest, slender headlights additionally angle downwards on the internal edges. It’s a really clear, squarish look that extends rearward with a excessive, straight beltline.
Things are a bit extra fascinating on the again. Nissan retains the floating roof motif with an accessible two-tone look, and the Kicks “kink” within the pillar remains to be there too. It provides solution to a much less blocky rear gate with outstanding vertical taillights mounted excessive on the corners. Overall, it is a very totally different look in comparison with the outgoing Kicks. The new model has a bigger, extra upright look.
It’s not simply an look, both. Nissan says the 2025 Kicks is larger, although actual specs aren’t accessible but. We’re advised there’s simply over an inch extra shoulder room for entrance and rear passengers, with these within the again getting slightly below an additional inch for knees. With the rear seats up you get 30 extra cubic ft of cargo area, or 60 extra cubes with them folded. Nissan says the area is best-in-class, and the rear opening area of 40.3 inches can also be listed as best-in-class.
Space actually issues in a small SUV, however we suspect occupants might be extra within the Kicks’ digital improve. The new inside is radically totally different due to a pair of show screens for the motive force middle infotainment system. That middle display screen measures as much as 12.3 inches, with a 7-inch display screen put in as normal. It controls an array of tech that features non-obligatory 360-degree surround-view cameras and an accessible Bose 10-speaker sound system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are constructed into the system.
Underneath all of it, you will discover a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine making 141 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque, managed by a CVT. And for the primary time, you may ship that energy to all 4 wheels with Nissan’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system. Thus outfitted, Nissan provides a snow mode that’s designed particularly for all-paw efficiency on slippery surfaces.
Further aiding drivers are options equivalent to automated emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, rear automated braking, and lane departure warnings, all a part of Nissan’s standard-issue Safety Shield 360 System. Step as much as the SR trim and you will get ProPilot that provides steering help. Nissan is eager to say that is additionally a primary for the Kicks.
How a lot will all this price? Nissan is not prepared to debate pricing however guarantees data will come earlier than the on-sale date later this summer season. For reference, the 2024 Kicks begins at $22,440, together with the vacation spot charge. With the hefty design adjustments and energy enhance, it is secure to imagine the 2025 Kicks will begin someplace within the mid-$20,000 vary.
BMW celebrates creative journey of Esther Mahlangu. Debuting in Cape Town, the Retrospective Exhibition showcases Esther Mahlangu’s lifework, that includes the artist’s BMW Art Car as a central exhibition piece.
Munich/Cape Town. The Iziko Museums of South Africa and BMW are happy to announce “Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting”: Esther Mahlangu. A Retrospective. The exhibition, curated by Nontobeko Ntombela, highlights Esther Mahlangu’s over 50-year lengthy profession and her meteoric rise as a up to date artist, incomes her international acclaim. The retrospective will likely be on view at Iziko Museums of South Africa from February 18 till August 11, 2024. From there it is going to start its international tour, stopping first on the Wits Art Museum in Johannesburg, South Africa, earlier than transferring to the United States in early 2026.
BMW is proud to help this landmark exhibition which honours the expertise of Esther Mahlangu and celebrates a shared historical past of collaboration. Included on this exhibition will likely be Mahlangu’s BMW 525i Art Car, returning to South Africa for the primary time in over 30 years. Mahlangu turned the primary African and girl to color a BMW Art Car in 1991. This collaboration marked a major second within the artwork world, mixing African artwork with up to date automotive design.
“Painting has always been a part of me. I cannot separate it from myself, and neither would I want to. I look forward to sharing my practice and long and colourful story with you on my upcoming Retrospective Exhibition”, says Esther Mahlangu.
Through the language of color and kind, the exhibition charts Mahlangu’s contribution to up to date artwork near seven a long time. More than 100 artworks have been gathered from international collections. They have been positioned alongside historic images and a brief movie. This numerous assortment from Mahlangu’s expansive oeuvre which options in “Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting”: Esther Mahlangu. A Retrospective, will supply a complete but intimate perception into her huge and vibrant profession.
“Mahlangu’s journey is a testament to passion, innovation, and resilience”, Curator Nontobeko Ntombela remarks. Continuing, “The retrospective pays homage to Esther Mahlangu’s unique approach to art, which intersects African cultures with modernity and the contemporary. The exhibition celebrates Mahlangu’s voice, agency, and pioneering spirit, symbolizing her self-enunciation, self-determination and creativity”, she says.
The retrospective is a landmark achievement for South African artwork. It acknowledges Mahlangu as one of many few South African artists who’ve had the chance to current a Retrospective Exhibition in world-renowned museums. Of the exhibition, Dr Bongani Ndhlovu, Acting CEO, Iziko Museums of South Africa, says: “Iziko Museums is honored to celebrate the living legend, Dr Esther Mahlangu, and to host this colossal showcase where creativity, culture, and aesthetics are fused.” He continues, “Dr. Mahlangu is a living symbol of triumph against adversity. Her approach to art has inspired generations and is a re-affirmation of calls for Africa-centred innovations.”
“The BMW Group’s commitment to this exhibition is a testament to our respect and admiration for Dr Esther Mahlangu’s pioneering spirit and remarkable contribution to the world of art. This exhibition not only celebrates the incredible journey and legacy of Mam’ Esther but also symbolizes a cherished collaboration that dates back over three decades. We are especially excited about the return of the BMW Art Car to South African soil – a significant symbol of our shared history and appreciation for art that transcends boundaries”, says Peter van Binsbergen, CEO of BMW Group South Africa.
The BMW Group’s Cultural Engagement, with unique updates and deeper insights into its international initiatives might be adopted on Instagram at @BMWGroupCulture.
“Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting”: Esther Mahlangu. A Retrospective
February 18 – August 11, 2024
Iziko South African National Gallery
Government Avenue, Company’s Garden, Cape Town, South Africa
RIDING THE 2024 KTM 300SX TWO-STROKE: THE WRAP
We recently had the opportunity to ride the 2024 KTM 300SX, and it did not disappoint. We were already familiar with the 2023 version, which left a lasting impression on us. Prior to 2023, KTM did not produce the 300SX for the U.S. market. Instead, buyers had to build it from a kit or modify an off-road bike. Some riders attempted to use the 300XC for motocross, but it didn’t quite fit, especially with the Transfer Port Fuel Injection added in 2018. While the injection system provided smooth off-road power delivery, it lacked the aggressive nature necessary for motocross. But now, KTM has introduced a whole new two-stroke engine platform with the 300SX. This bike features electric start, an electronic power valve, and throttle body fuel injection. While these components have been seen before individually, KTM has integrated them in a way we haven’t seen before. The bike’s CPU controls everything, including the powervalve’s timing and opening. This level of control is new to production bikes. Additionally, the chassis has been improved to match the specifications of the four-strokes, making it stiffer and more anti-squat. The suspension remains the same with a WP Xact air fork at the front and an Xact shock in the rear. The brakes and hydraulics are still Brembo, and you still need to mix oil and gas yourself for premix.
The 300SX is incredibly fast, potentially faster than even the most powerful 450s on a dyno. This is due to the way the power is delivered. At low RPMs, the 300SX is smooth and clean, allowing for respectable lap times without having to constantly stay in the powerband. However, the real power of the 300SX kicks in in the mid-range and hits hard. This may take some getting used to for riders accustomed to the smooth power delivery of modern four-strokes. Nevertheless, it opens up new possibilities for different riding techniques. Unlike most 450 riders who rely on the clutch for hard braking to avoid stalling, the 300SX allows you to brake hard without touching the clutch and then use old-school throttle control when needed.
The bike offers two maps that can be selected using the handlebar switch. Currently, KTM has locked the ECU to prevent end users from experimenting with other maps, as there are numerous ways it could go wrong. The green map, which provides an exhilarating ride, is favored by most riders simply because it’s fun. However, for non-professional riders, the gray map is recommended. It lacks the strong power hit and thrill of the green map but offers better overall performance and less rider fatigue. Ideally, KTM should offer more than just two maps, with five being a more suitable number. JD Jetting already offers a piggyback fuel controller that allows for some mapping adjustments, such as fuel delivery, but spark advance and power valve settings cannot be altered on the fly.
We still love this bike. It’s fast and incredibly fun. The KTM 300SX is the ultimate practice bike, and once you master the two-stroke technique, it becomes a great race bike as well. Stay tuned for more information on this bike in the November 2023 print edition of Dirt Bike magazine.
KAWASAKI KX250 FIRST RIDE
This week, we also had the opportunity to ride the 2024 Kawasaki KX250. This bike remains unchanged from last year as Kawasaki focused on releasing an all-new 450 model. The KX450 will have an official introduction at the SuperMotocross World Championship Finals on September 22, 2023. We have a great mix between the KX450 and KX250 with Mark Tilley loving the former and me favoring the latter. One of the reasons I really enjoy the KX250 is because it’s a high-revving machine. It produces significant power at high RPMs, and if I miss a shift, it’s always ready to rev higher. The bike also has good mid-range power, beating all other bikes in the 2023 250 Shootout from 9500 RPM to 12,000 RPM. Only then does the KTM catch up and surpass it by a small margin.
I really appreciate the hydraulic clutch and the impressive brakes. However, I must admit that the KX250 could use some updated mapping options. It still relies on the three couplers and none of the pre-programmed maps are perfect. The bike tends to run slightly erratic and occasionally stall. It would be fantastic to have a tuning app similar to what Kawasaki is offering for the new 450. Perhaps next year.
TENNESSEE KNOCKOUT: RIGHT NOW!
The 2023 Tennessee Knockout enduro is happening this weekend and will be broadcast on MAV TV at a later date. Many top riders, including Billy Bolt, Jonny Walker, Cody Webb, and Colton Haaker, are participating. We will provide the results here, but in the meantime, you can check out last year’s event.
CASEY FOLKS VEGAS TO RENO
The 2023 Best in The Desert Vegas to Reno race started this morning and is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Casey Folks, the founder of the race, established this event almost 30 years ago, and his family continues to run it successfully. You can follow the live timing of the Vegas to Reno race here to see which riders are leading the pack. Unofficially, Danny Cooper seems to be leading in the Open Pro motorcycle division.
WORCS RETURNS
While most other forms of off-road racing are on hiatus for the summer, WORCS will be starting again on September 15 at Buckskin Hills Recreation Complex in Utah. On the same weekend, the GNCC series will kick off in Beckley, West Virginia for the Mountaineer event. The AMA National Grand Prix Championship will resume a few weeks later on September 30 for Ridgecrest. Time flies, so these races will be here before you know it!
JETT LAWRENCE
BUDD’S CREEK
Although the 450 class has already concluded, there’s still plenty of action to watch in the 250 class at Budds Creek. Plus, we may witness Jett’s perfect season. Here are the broadcast details:
BROADCAST TEAM
Play by Play: Jason Weigandt
Analysts: Ricky Carmichael
Reporters: Will Christien & Jason Thomas
HOW TO WATCH
Saturday, August 19
Pro Motocross Championship: Race Day Live
Peacock @ 7 a.m. PT / 10 a.m. ET
Pro Motocross Championship: Budds Creek National [LIVE]
Peacock @ 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET
Monday, August 21
Pro Motocross Championship: Budds Creek National Replay
CNBC, NBCSports.com, NBC Sports App
11 p.m. PT [Sunday] / 2 a.m. ET
See you next week!
McLaren Solus GT Wins 2023 Goodwood Shootout With Impressive Time
The McLaren Solus GT has exceeded expectations by dominating its class at the Festival Of Speed hill climb. With a time of 45.34 seconds, it won the 2023 shootout and achieved the third-fastest time ever recorded for a production car on the course. Only the McMurtry Speirling (39.08) and Nio EP9 (44.32) have recorded faster times.
The McLaren Solus GT, powered by a V10 engine, took multiple practice runs before the timed run and impressed enthusiasts with its performance. Throughout the runs, it competed against the Subaru GL Family Huckster driven by Travis Pastrana, the Rimac Nevera, and several hand-picked race cars. The Solus GT was a full second faster than the next-best Subaru.
These are the top five results:
| Car | Driver | Time |
| McLaren Solus GT | Marvin Kirchhofer | 45.34 Seconds |
| Subaru GL Family Huckster | Travis Pastrana | 46.37 Seconds |
| McLaren-Cosworth M26 | Michael Lyons | 46.89 Seconds |
| Porsche 911 GT3 Cup | Adam Smalley | 47.40 Seconds |
| Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 | Jake Hill | 48.18 Seconds |
The McLaren Solus GT is equipped with a 5.2-liter V10 engine that delivers an impressive 829 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 2.5 seconds and has an estimated top speed of 200 mph.
Weighing only 2,205 pounds, the Solus GT generates up to 2,646 pounds of downforce. Its aerodynamic design was inspired by the 2017 Vision Gran Turismo concept for the Gran Turismo racing game.
Only 25 customers will have the opportunity to own a McLaren Solus GT, which is specifically designed for track use. Each owner will receive a driver-development coaching program, an FIA-homologated racing suit, a special helmet, and a bespoke HANS device.
The McLaren Solus GT is priced at £2.5 million ($4 million in US dollars).