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Volkswagen ID GTI undergoing tests, using Mk5 Golf GTI as a benchmark

“Our focus is on the GTI itself, not just a model. What makes the GTI an icon? What can we add to it? The ID 2 aligns perfectly with the GTI; it’s stable, likable, and has that secret ingredient. These are the three elements we identified in our design to regain our status as a beloved brand. We made it approachable and friendly, which holds significant power. It’s not excessively aggressive. With a Golf GTI, you never feel embarrassed. In some hot hatches, there are certain situations where you might feel embarrassed. This is about ‘unpimping’ my ride, not a boy racer car.”

What does ‘stable’ mean in terms of design?

“It refers to something that appears strong and not flat. The original Beetle had specific shapes to provide stability to the sheet metal. Stability can encompass various aspects, but essentially, it means not looking like it’s about to topple over. That’s why we have a robust C-post to make it exude strength and stability.”

Which models will be part of the GTI range in the ID era?

“We won’t saturate the market with the GTI; that could jeopardize its appeal. Some segments might be better suited for other options. We’ll start with the lower hot hatch segment.”

What about the R brand? And GTX?

“Compared to the R brand, the GTI is more practical and caters to the real world rather than the track. In the EV world, R will undoubtedly have a future. The R brand is more focused on record-breaking and cars meant for the Nurburgring. On the other hand, the GTX will cover specific segments and feature four-wheel drive capabilities. The ID GTI we’re working on is front-wheel drive, keeping it true to the GTI’s heritage.”

What price range are you targeting for the ID 2 GTI?

“We can’t disclose that information at the moment. However, for the ID 2, our aim is to offer it for €25,000. Nothing else in the market will provide the same value at this price point. Similar to how we convinced people with a more affordable car like the Mk1 GTI, our focus is on creating an approachable vehicle that resonates with the masses.”

Is it more enjoyable to work on small cars compared to big cars?

“I had a great time at Bentley! I thoroughly enjoyed the work we did there. The Batur project was simply amazing, and it was completed in a relatively short time. I truly cherished that experience. However, I also find immense satisfaction in the work we’re doing now. My time at Bentley taught me a lot about brands and their essence. Within a year, Bentley created the Queen’s car and won Le Mans. The strength of Bentley is truly remarkable. I came to VW with the hope of achieving something similar, blending emotions with practicality.”

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Toyota Unveils the 2024 Land Cruiser, Bringing Back an Icon

The Toyota Land Cruiser may not have gained as much popularity in the United States as it did internationally, but it has always maintained a reputation for its exceptional off-road capabilities, reliability, and impressive engineering. Recently, Toyota discontinued the Land Cruiser in the North American market, leaving a void in the limited selection of SUVs that offer the same level of off-road performance. Fortunately, the Land Cruiser is making a comeback with a new approach to its legendary off-roading capabilities.

The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser has returned after a three-year hiatus, this time as an SUV based on Toyota’s TNGA-F global truck platform. As a result, the new Land Cruiser is slightly smaller than its predecessor, measuring 4.4 inches narrower and 1.2 inches shorter. Additionally, Toyota has made the Land Cruiser more affordable, with prices starting in the mid $50,000 range. This new model takes inspiration from the original Land Cruiser, which began as a rugged and Spartan vehicle before transforming into a large luxury SUV.

The new Land Cruiser will be equipped with a single powertrain option: the i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid engine, delivering an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 lb/ft of torque. Although fuel economy numbers have yet to be released, they are expected to be better than the previous V8-powered Land Cruisers. The new model also pays homage to its heritage, featuring round LED headlights and a “TOYOTA” grille inspired by the 1958 trim level, or square headlights reminiscent of the FJ62. Off-road capabilities are ensured with amenities like a trailer hitch with a 6,000-lb towing capacity, a two-speed transfer case, and a locking rear differential.

While the Land Cruiser remains true to its rugged nature, it also offers modern technology. The vehicle comes with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and optional features such as a 14-speaker JBL audio system, 4G connectivity, and wireless device charging. Toyota is celebrating the Land Cruiser’s return by offering a limited First Edition trim level, limited to 5,000 units in North America. This trim includes premium features like leather-trimmed seats and 18-inch wheels. Production of the Land Cruiser will take place at Toyota’s Tahara and Hino plants in Japan, with the first models expected to arrive in the United States in spring 2024. The return of this true off-road legend is definitely something to look forward to.

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2024 Toyota Land Cruiser

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Watch: Big Single Or Little Single? Kawasaki KLR650 Or Yamaha TW200?

Now, this comparison isn’t the most evenly matched in terms of specifications, but it is well-matched in terms of cult status and legend. Two off-road motorcycles entered the arena, and both couldn’t be more different than the other, but which one is better? Well, TFLBike has an answer in video form.

These two motorcycles are quite different from one another, but both share the same cult status that has been evident for years now in the riding community, the Kawasaki KLR650 and the Yamaha TW200. Not only are they very different in terms of their engine sizes, it’s also a matter of form as well as the two adopt very different personas to tackle trails and off-road rides. Still, the comparison is still a novel one, and something that’s quite interesting to watch. 

On the one hand, the Kawasaki takes a more adventure-bike approach since it has been updated. The KLR650 has a new design and several new enhancements, all on a bike that still is the reliable thumper of a sit-down adventurer that many have come to love. Still bullet-proof, still slow, but still with a cult following, it entered the comparison kicking against the Yamaha. 

On the other hand, the Yamaha TW200 is light and fitted with a smaller-capacity single-cylinder motor that’s about 450ccs smaller than its rival. There are several questions that can pop up in this comparison, most of which are addressed in the video. 

The presenters took both bikes off-road to see which would be a better choice. The KLR650 that TFLBike brought isn’t actually a new model, in fact, it’s still the old one that’s kicking about and not kicking the bucket. The TW200 is apparently the office bike of the TFL crew, and it looked quite diminutive compared to the KLR’s tall stance on the road. 

In order to properly test these two legendary machines, TFL took them to Moab for a trail session which had off-road sections and even water crossings. 

So, who won? It wasn’t as clear-cut. “You can’t go wrong with either,” and I’m inclined to agree. Lightness is a weapon on the trail, but so is height and displacement. The real question now is, what would you pick?