Volkswagen of America had a robust Q1 2024 as deliveries jumped by 21 %, and whereas SUVs predictably fueled the expansion, the recent hatches additionally performed an necessary position. Demand for the GTI jumped by a formidable 156 % to 2,412 models from January by June. Golf R gross sales elevated by 125 % in comparison with Q1 2023, reaching 1,233 models.
What may have presumably been the driving pressure behind the gross sales surge? Maybe it is the upcoming demise of the guide gearbox. The Golf GTI and R Mk8.5 arriving later this 12 months will eliminate the three-pedal setup. When the GTI 380 was unveiled final August, VW introduced the tip of the run for the GTI and R with a stick shift. From the 2025MY, all Golfs bought within the US will obtain the seven-speed, dual-clutch automated transmission.
The new Giotto, designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro and his son Fabrizio, is undeniably stunning. Giugiaro, an 85-year-old Italian designer and former contributor to Bertone, worked on the Bizzarrini 5300 GT in his earlier days and was given the opportunity to create a modern-day spiritual successor. In February, we got a glimpse of teasers and sketches, and today, new images have been released, offering a more detailed view of the Giotto. This car is billed as a “Hyper GT” and features a carbon fiber body.
Accompanying the latest photos are additional details about the impressive V12 engine. The naturally aspirated engine has a displacement of 6626 cc, which was intentionally chosen as a tribute to Giotto Bizzarrini’s birthdate – June 6, 1926. The renowned engineer, who unfortunately passed away earlier this year, was involved in the development of the original Lamborghini V12 and has contributed to the creation of iconic cars like the Ferrari 250 GTO.
The Aston Martin DB12, known as the world’s first “super tourer,” is now available in a convertible version called the Volante. This new model retains the stunning design of its coupe counterpart but adds an open-top feature by replacing the solid metal roof with an intricate fabric roof. The fabric roof boasts an impressive eight layers of insulation, ensuring a quiet and comfortable cabin during long drives typical of a grand tourer.
With the DB12 Volante, it takes just 14 seconds for the roof to come down and 16 seconds to go back up, even while the car is in motion at speeds of up to 31 mph (50 km/h). Operating the roof is made convenient as well, as you can use the key to remotely lower and raise the top within a two-meter radius of the vehicle. Additionally, the roof can be operated even when facing headwinds of up to 31 mph (50 km/h).
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