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2024 BTCC season preview: assembly the person who makes it occur

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Alan Gow, boss of the massively profitable Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship for all however three of the previous 34 seasons, is the personification of a decisive chief.

He spends most of his time making clear, fast choices aimed toward enhancing what’s extensively acknowledged to be the world’s greatest automobile competitors of its sort. For many years, his authority has been each bit as nice as Bernie Ecclestone’s was in his Formula 1 heyday.

Not that there are a lot of different similarities between Gow and Ecclestone. Bernie was small, enigmatic and scary; Gow is tall and laconic, an Australian immigrant who arrived from a profitable Melbourne-based motorsport profession in 1990. He thrives on wisecracks and vibrant language, and for all his word-is-law authority, he’s a remarkably modest man.

“People think all the big decisions come from me,” he says. “But they actually come from me listening. I don’t have a sole franchise on good ideas, so I surround myself with people with interesting opinions, some a lot smarter than I am. So you listen, you sort wheat from chaff, and usually you find the truth somewhere in the middle. I’m a magpie. I’ll pinch anyone’s good idea if I think it will improve the BTCC.”

Typically, Gow has a collection of latest concepts yearly, and it’s the identical for 2024. They are designed to sharpen the competitors and the spectacle. “If you don’t have great racing,” he says, “you don’t have anything.”

This 12 months would be the third for the hybrid powertrains, a world-first he cooked up throughout lockdown with the assistance of Cosworth. After one season to search out the bugs and a second to iron them out, he’s satisfied 2024 shall be a fantastic 12 months for hybrids, making the prospect of 1 driver scoring runaway championship wins (already powerful) virtually unattainable.

“This year we’re doubling the boost available through the driver’s push-to-pass button,” he explains. “It’s a combined turbo and hybrid-electric boost, worth about 80bhp. At the first race this season everyone will get 15 seconds of boost per lap. But as soon as a driver wins a race his boost will fall to just one second, and there are graduated reductions down to 10th place. That will really change things.”

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Honda City vs Honda Elevate: Space And Practicality Compared

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Which compact Honda is best for you – the sedan or the SUV?

Honda has one of many smallest mannequin lineups for a profitable automotive model in India. The Japanese carmaker lastly entered the extremely aggressive compact SUV phase in 2023 with the Honda Elevate. It is predicated on the long-standing foundations of the extremely profitable Honda City sedan, which is presently in its fifth technology in India. Therefore, each fashions have a excessive variety of similarities. So, should you had been considering of shopping for a premium Honda mannequin in the present day, you would possibly discover it onerous to select between the Elevate and the City. Well, that’s precisely why we’re doing a breakdown of their variations that can assist you choose the appropriate one.

Design

From a design standpoint, it’s not as a lot a contest between them as it’s about private preferences between these siblings. Both have comparable design cues after all, however each use them otherwise. While the Honda Elevate has a comparatively protected design, its taller stance and butch profile provides it respectable street presence. It additionally will get larger 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in thicker tyres. However, that massive grille that dominates the entrance may have been extra premium.

In comparability, the Honda City sedan appears sharper and you may inform that this has been the carmaker’s favorite youngster (to this point) because of the eye to element. Those 9-piece LED headlights and Z-shape LED hind lights mixed with the sporty styling for the entrance and rear bumper give the fifth-gen City a sporty look.

Boot Space

The Honda City reminds us of the principle purpose why sedans had been the go-to physique sort for household street journeys earlier than SUVs took over the market. It will get a much bigger boot than the Elevate on paper: 506 litres in comparison with 458 litres for the SUV. 

We had been capable of show the sedan’s superiority on this regard with our very personal baggage take a look at. Both the City and Elevate can slot in a full-size suitcase, a medium-sized suitcase, a carry-on suitcase in addition to two duffel baggage with some room to spare (for a backpack or two). However, the City can match even larger baggage. The sedan’s urge for food for baggage is extra spectacular when you think about the design limitation of the boot-hinges that eat into the boot when closed.

However, we want to point out that should you had been utilizing one among these Honda fashions to shift home, with out passengers, the Elevate has an added capability over the City. The compact SUV’s rear seat might be folded down (cut up fold 60:40 if wanted) to make extra room which is one thing that the sedan can’t do.

Getting In And Getting Out

Time to seek out out what the Honda vehicles have to supply contained in the cabin. But first, let’s begin with how simple it’s to get out and in of their respective cabins. Now, the Honda City has the everyday sedan’s low seating for a sportier and extra govt expertise. However, when it comes to practicality, the high-riding Honda Elevate has the benefit for climbing out and in of these seats, particularly for older members of the family. Also, the excessive driving place with a transparent view of the entrance does give extra confidence to new drivers.

Interior – Fit & Finish

The Honda City has maintained a excessive bar for inside high quality in vehicles costing lower than Rs 20 lakh, with a deal with the match and end moderately than an abundance of options. With the creamy mild cabin theme, the inside of the City feels spacious and the premium supplies make for a nice expertise throughout.

Now, on condition that the Elevate is supposed to be the SUV-equivalent to the City sedan, it ought to a minimum of match it for the cabin high quality. However, it appears Honda could have fallen barely wanting its personal mark right here, with sure areas not utilizing the identical degree of supplies or end as one would count on within the Elevate. It does get a brown and black cabin theme for a extra upmarket visible enchantment however the giant surfaces of black plastics make it really feel much less premium than the City.

Both vehicles characteristic a picket trim end on the passenger facet of the dashboard, and the motive force’s facet is similar. However, the central console format has totally different designs. The City’s infotainment unit is flanked by the AC vents whereas the Elevate’s central AC vents are positioned under the freestanding show. They even have very totally different local weather management panels, with dials for the sedan and toggles for the SUV, the latter being extra frequent in fashionable SUVs.

Features

Both the Honda Elevate and Honda City are well-equipped when it comes to comforts however each endure from a scarcity of a “wow” issue within the options division, in comparison with their phase rivals. Yes, each fashions include a semi-digital driver’s show, a sunroof, lane-watch digicam, in addition to a collection of superior driver help programs (ADAS) for options like autonomous emergency braking, lane help and adaptive excessive beams.

At the identical time, these premium choices miss out on a 360-degree digicam, ventilated entrance seats and a premium audio system. When shopping for a completely loaded prime variant, these are anticipated comforts of their segments and Honda consumers do really feel a bit disregarded.

Then there are the odd misses between the 2, such because the Elevate’s bigger and newer touchscreen infotainment unit in comparison with the dated system on the City’s dashboard. Meanwhile, the sedan does get one-touch auto up-down energy home windows throughout whereas the SUV solely gives it for the motive force’s facet. Then there’s the matter of the boot launch: the City has a spring launch system with a devoted button on the important thing as nicely, for simpler entry, which is lacking on the Elevate.

Overall, each the Elevate and City current a full package deal of sensible options and are priced accordingly. However, there are two key comforts that I hope Honda plans to combine quickly: ventilated entrance seats, and a 360-degree digicam for the SUV.

Cabin Practicality

Even although Honda takes some criticism for its minimal strategy to premium options, it’s spectacular with its cabin ergonomics. The placement and positioning of assorted options feels wise for probably the most half, and the Elevate is clearly a replica of the City on this regard. 

Both get a entrance armrest with storage and the door pockets are fairly accommodating as nicely. Even although the entrance armrest can’t slide ahead, the central console has extra storage design parts just like the slats that can be utilized to maintain the average-sized smartphone on its facet. The sedan and the SUV additionally include tilt and telescopic adjustment for the steering wheel so discovering an acceptable driving place is simple. However, the newer Elevate SUV takes the lead from the City right here.

 

The integration of the wi-fi charging pad within the Elevate shouldn’t be solely simple to make use of, but additionally will get the advantage of an on-off button proper in entrance. Most different manufacturers make you dive into the system settings from the infotainment unit to toggle that management. However, the City gives this characteristic as an afterthought – a tray-like design that takes up the cup holders when in place. This shouldn’t be an excellent commerce because the latter are much more essential any given day.

Both the Elevate and City get the identical variety of charging factors within the entrance: a 12 V socket and a pair of USB ports (not Type-C). The SUV will get a 12 V socket for the rear as nicely, whereas the City will get two, doubtless for individuals who plan to make use of them for charging their work laptops whereas on the go. However, the rear passengers ought to have acquired a extra up-to-date charging choice of a USB port as nicely.

Rear Seat Space And Experience

Here too, the Elevate tries to repeat its sedan however their cabin variations are most notable right here. The SUV has a comparatively upright seating place with loads of legroom, headroom and kneeroom. In comparability, the Honda City has a extra relaxed angle for the rear seats which ought to be comfier over longer journeys and will get the advantage of a rear sunshade (guide). But the most important differentiator within the again is the availability for the center seat the place the Elevate misses out on a headrest in addition to a 3-point seatbelt, each of that are current within the City.

These Honda siblings are most comparable when it comes to storage and practicality. Both have the identical type of rear AC vents, a fold out centre armrest with cupholders that are inclined to droop, spacious door pockets, and intelligent pockets for smartphones and wallets within the backrests of the entrance seats. Honda additionally missed a trick by not providing both the Elevate or City with sunshades for the rear home windows.

Performance

The Honda siblings are powered by the identical 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated engine which makes 121 PS and 145 Nm. It will get the selection of each 6-speed guide and 7-step CVT computerized transmissions, the latter with paddle shifters. This Honda i-VTEC powerplant revs freely and is well-tuned with the CVT computerized for a clean drive expertise.

Driving the City and Elevate back-to-back, we had been fast to note that the drive expertise is way smoother within the sedan than within the SUV. It’s additionally faster and extra environment friendly because of an Econ mode, the button for which is positioned proper subsequent to the drive selector on the CVT variant we examined.

We additionally put each Hondas by means of our actual world assessments for efficiency and effectivity, and right here’s how they fared:

 

Honda City CVT

Honda Elevate CVT

City gas effectivity (as examined)

16.28 kmpl

12.60 kmpl

Highway gas effectivity (as examined)

20.62 kmpl

16.41 kmpl

0-100 kmph (acceleration)

10.94 seconds

12.35 seconds

100-0 kmph (braking)

41.88 metres

37.98 metres

Ride and Comfort

Even although each vehicles primarily have the identical underpinnings, there may be fairly the distinction between how they behave on the street. When it involves driving on tarmac, the Honda City is a transparent winner when it comes to the trip consolation particularly at freeway speeds. It offers with the delicate bumps with ease with out unsettling any of its passengers and offers a reassuring sense of stability to the motive force as nicely. Sure, you’re extra cautious with taking the sedan over tough patches with potholes, however with some cautious driving the City can conquer worse terrains than you assume.

Meanwhile, the Honda Elevate SUV shines on tough roads, and no-road stretches. Its longer suspension journey and better floor clearance eats up damaged patches fairly nicely. While the Elevate loses to the City in city driving environments, its trip high quality is respectable general.

Verdict

Picking between the Honda City and Honda Elevate is a bit like selecting between two siblings. Both have their strengths and weaknesses, every interesting to a special set of consumers. The sedan does get the advantage of having been developed and fine-tuned for Indian consumers for almost three a long time, the SUV offspring shouldn’t be far behind. 

The Honda City is extra refined when it comes to design, cabin high quality and drive expertise, whereas additionally providing a extra spacious boot. However, the Honda Elevate gives the benefit of upper seating, added practicality, extra floor clearance and extra fashionable options. 

They’re each equally priced as nicely, roughly between Rs 11.5 lakh to a little bit over Rs 16 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), not together with the City Hybrid. You wouldn’t go improper selecting between both of those Honda vehicles, it’s only a matter of which one is best suited to your wants and preferences.

Read More on : City on road price

BMW

Statement and Presentation Walter Mertl, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Finance, BMW Group Annual Conference 2024

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning!

2023 was one other profitable 12 months for the BMW Group. We delivered sturdy ends in the present enterprise, whereas securing our future viability by means of focused investments.

Strong demand for our enticing merchandise, higher availability of autos and an easing of the availability state of affairs led to a constructive quantity improvement. After the midway mark within the 12 months, we accordingly raised our steerage for each deliveries and EBIT margin within the Automotive Segment.

Thanks to our disciplined administration of the enterprise, we delivered but once more on all our targets. I’ll now take you thru our outcomes. 

SLIDE 3: BMW Group with Strong Performance and Solid Sales improve

For the complete 12 months, we delivered 2.55 million autos worldwide, which is 6.4% over 2022. We achieved vital development with our all-electric autos. Deliveries reached greater than 375,000 models, or roughly 15% of whole gross sales.

At 9.8%, the EBIT margin within the Automotive Segment was nicely inside the elevated hall of 9.0 to 10.5%. Excluding depreciation and amortisation for BBA belongings from the acquisition worth allocation of 1.4 billion euros, the EBIT margin was 10.8%.

The Group EBT margin of 11% exceeded our strategic goal of 10%.

We additionally continued to cut back CO2 emissions in our European fleet. With 102.1 grams per kilometer, we had been 26.4 grams – in different phrases 20.5% – beneath the goal set by the European Union.

SLIDE 4: BMW Group full-year 2023

At Group stage, our revenues reached 155.5 billion euros, which is 9% larger than 2022. Adjusted for forex translation results, revenues elevated by 13.1%. The improve was pushed by the upper supply volumes and constructive product combine results.

In 2023, our earnings earlier than tax at Group stage amounted to 17.1 billion euros. It is necessary to notice that Group earnings in 2022 of 23.5 billion euros included a one-off revenue of seven.7 billion euros. This was as a consequence of a technical accounting impact associated to BBA full consolidation, particularly the revaluation of our current fairness pursuits. Without this impact, Group earnings in 2023 had been 1.3 billion euros or 8% above 2022.

This additionally interprets by means of to earnings per share, that had been at 15.7 euros in 2022, excluding the one-off revenue from BBA. In 2023, earnings per share of 17.7 euros had been 12.8% above the earlier 12 months.

That brings me to the outcomes of the person segments.

I’ll begin with the Automotive Segment.

SLIDE 5: Automotive Retail Units, BEV Units, Auto 

Revenue and Auto EBIT

The BMW Group delivered 2.55 million autos to clients worldwide in 2023. This corresponds to strong development of 6.4% – according to our elevated steerage. Momentum got here specifically from fashions within the higher worth section, such because the BMW 7 Series, X7, and Ix*, in addition to from the all-new BMW X1.

Our all-electric autos proceed to be a key development driver.

In 2023, BEVs made up virtually 15% of our whole gross sales.

We additionally delivered over 190,000 plug-in hybrid autos. In whole, electrified autos due to this fact accounted for over 22% of gross sales through the 12 months. 

Revenues for the Automotive section totaled 132.3 billion euros. This quantities to a 7% improve year-on-year.

At virtually 13 billion euros, the section’s working consequence was over 20% larger than 2022. This resulted in an EBIT margin of 9.8%. This is each on the larger finish of our long-term strategic goal hall of 8-10%, and nicely inside the elevated goal hall of 9.0-10.5% for the 12 months 2023.

SLIDE 6: Automotive Segment EBIT full-year 2023

Looking on the working lead to element, the rise in Automotive EBIT benefited from a web impact of quantity, mannequin combine and pricing, yielding a tailwind of two.4 billion euros. This was primarily pushed by the upper quantity and better share of high finish autos, together with BMW M fashions, which compensated for the upper BEV share. As anticipated, we noticed some worth normalization within the new automotive and used automotive markets by means of the top of the 12 months.

Compared to 2022, we see that EBIT in 2023 was impacted by 600 million euros from the online stability of forex and uncooked materials positions. This distinction is principally as a consequence of forex results from the event of the Chinese renminbi and US greenback. Given decrease uncooked materials costs by means of the top of the 12 months, we noticed a slight tailwind in comparison with 2022. However, this was overcompensated by headwinds from elevated provider funds.

SLIDE 7: R&D Expenditure in full-year 2023

As deliberate, analysis and improvement expenditure rose considerably to 7.8 billion euros, virtually 600 million euros larger than the earlier 12 months. The R&D ratio for the 12 months got here in at 5.0%. Due to larger revenues, this is similar stage as 2022, though general spending elevated year-on-year.

Expenditure for R&D primarily targeted on three areas: the electrification and digitalization of the fleet; automated driving capabilities; and expenditure for brand new fashions.

Due to larger bills, largely for IT tasks, promoting & administrative bills elevated by about 400 million euros.

The place “Other cost changes” displays, amongst others, larger materials prices, as talked about at Q3, in addition to decrease residual worth income than the earlier 12 months. In 2022, a detrimental one-off affect of 1.8 billion euros was as a consequence of results associated to the first-time consolidation of BBA.

SLIDES 8 & 9: Automotive Segment Free Cash Flow full-year 2023

Moving on to the free cashflow outcomes for 2023.

At year-end, free money move within the Automotive Segment reached 6.9 billion euros. It must be famous that free cashflow within the earlier 12 months included a constructive impact of over 5 billion euros in web money acquired from BBA. Without this impact, our free money move in 2023 was virtually 900 million euros larger year-on-year, or a rise of 13%.

The change in working capital of two.7 billion euros primarily displays the rise in inventories to keep up inventory ranges in markets worldwide.  This ensured we now have enough provide, together with for brand new fashions, to fulfill the sturdy world market demand getting into the brand new 12 months.

SLIDE 10: Capital Expenditure full-year 2023

Capital expenditure for the 12 months totaled 8.8 billion euros. Our investments in 2023 primarily targeted on the fifth and sixth technology battery cell expertise, digitalization of merchandise and processes, and automobile tasks. In addition, we invested in building of our crops, for instance in Debrecen, Hungary, the place we are going to launch the NEUE KLASSE subsequent 12 months.

The capex ratio for the 12 months was 5.7%.

Changes in provisions had a constructive affect on free cashflow of 1.5 billion euros.

The place “other items” displays primarily tax funds.

SLIDE 11: Financial Services Segment full-year 2023

That brings me to our Financial Services section, a key enabler for our enterprise.

Financial Services is already an integral a part of the client journey, and can develop into much more necessary with the rollout of our direct company gross sales mannequin.

In 2023, the variety of new financing and leasing contracts concluded with retail clients got here in on the similar stage because the earlier 12 months with 1.5 million new contracts. This is a really strong consequence, contemplating the enterprise atmosphere with elevated rates of interest and a extremely aggressive panorama.

Business developed positively quarter for quarter. While new contracts with finish clients had been down 20% in Q1 year-on-year, in This fall contracts had been up by 17%.

The share of latest BMW Group autos both leased or financed

by the Financial Services section stood at 38.2% in 2023.

Average financing quantity per automobile elevated, as a consequence of an improved product combine within the automotive enterprise. Overall, new enterprise quantity elevated by 3.4% to 57.3 billion euros.

Segment earnings earlier than tax amounted to 2.96 billion euros. The lower displays primarily two components: larger refinancing prices as a consequence of rising rates of interest, in addition to the general declining contract portfolio.

Revenues from the resale of end-of-lease autos remained at a excessive stage, however had been decrease than earlier 12 months as used automotive costs began to normalize. We count on this pattern to proceed in 2024, resulting in a decrease consequence from off-lease autos.

At 0.18%, the credit score loss ratio remained at low stage.

After growing the goal vary for the 12 months to between 16 and 19 % in August, Return on Equity reached 17.2% for the full-year.

SLIDE 12: Motorcycles Segment full-year 2023

That brings me to the Motorcycles section.

In its a hundredth anniversary 12 months, the BMW Motorrad model achieved file deliveries, with over 209,000 models. An spectacular accomplishment!

All main gross sales areas noticed development in 2023, with explicit momentum coming from Europe with 4.7% and China with 2.8%.

The EBIT margin for the section reached 8.1%.

At 259 million euros, the section’s working consequence was on the similar stage as 2022.

SLIDE 13: Other Entities Segment / Eliminations full-year 2023

Finally, you see the mixed consequence from the Other Entities Segment and intersegment eliminations.

“Other Entities” recorded a loss in earnings earlier than tax of 100 million euros. The lower in comparison with 2022 was primarily pushed by detrimental honest worth measurement results on rate of interest hedging transactions.

Consolidations elevated in earnings earlier than tax to 1.3 billion euros. Lower eliminations related to the leasing enterprise had a constructive impact in comparison with the earlier 12 months.

SLIDE 14: Dividend and Increased Pay-out Ratio

Ladies and Gentlemen,

At the BMW Group, we stay targeted on making certain that our shareholders profit from the corporate’s success.

The Board of Management and the Supervisory Board will due to this fact suggest a dividend of 6.00 euros per share of frequent inventory and 6.02 euros per share of most well-liked inventory to the Annual General Meeting. This ends in a complete dividend payout of roughly 3.8 billion euros. The larger dividend payout and earnings per share in 2022 mirrored appreciable one-off results from the consolidation of BBA in our Group revenue. Adjusted for the one-off impact, the dividend in addition to earnings per share are larger in 2023.

The proposed dividend for 2023 represents a pay-out ratio of 33.7%. This is inside our long-term strategic goal vary of 30-40% and likewise notably larger than the payout ratio in 2022.

At the top of June 2023, we efficiently concluded the primary program of our share buyback at 2 billion euros, which was accepted on the Annual General Meeting in May 2022. On July third final 12 months, we launched the second program of as much as 2 billion euros, with the primary tranche concluding on December thirty first. In whole, 1.2 billion euros in share buyback had been accomplished in 2023. The second tranche, with a quantity of 500 million euros, began on January 2nd, and can be carried out by June 28, 2024, on the newest. The second share buyback program can be accomplished by December 31, 2025 on the newest.

Taking the proposed dividend and final 12 months’s share buyback collectively, the whole payout of 5 billion euros represents 92% of Auto free cashflow out there to BMW AG shareholders.

This underscores the monetary power and sturdy cashflow generated by our operations, which helps optimum shareholder return.

Moving on from 2023, what are we anticipating in 2024?

In the Automotive section, we count on slight development in volumes, pushed by our younger and enticing product portfolio. Specifically, we should always see vital development of our BEV share in addition to a double-digit development within the higher section.

We anticipate a rise in materials prices and provider funds. However, this must be offset by a web tailwind from FX and commodities. The web affect of quantity, combine and worth must be barely constructive, and we are going to take our disciplined method ahead into 2024. At similar time, decrease income from off-lease autos will weigh on Auto EBIT.

SLIDE 15: CapEx and R&D Ratios 2024

In 2024, we are going to hit our capex and R&D peak, as deliberate and communicated.

The continued implementation of our electrification and digitalization technique will result in higher analysis and improvement prices. Expenditure associated to the NEUE KLASSE, such because the additional improvement of the sixth-generation battery expertise and preparations within the manufacturing community, will even affect the Group’s earnings and ends in higher capital expenditure.

For the present monetary 12 months, we due to this fact count on a capex ratio above 6% and an R&D ratio above 5%. After 2024, each ratios will steadily return to our strategic corridors, which stay unchanged. For Capex: which means lower than 5%. And for the R&D ratio: between 4 and 5 %.

Despite the numerous funding in future applied sciences, we are going to generate above 6 billion euros in Automotive free cashflow in 2024.

Financial companies will profit from the upper auto gross sales and stabilization of the rate of interest atmosphere. However, a decline in used-car values will negatively affect the consequence. And, given the upper lease penetration fee, we are going to see a decrease eliminations consequence.

SLIDE 16: Outlook 2024

What will we count on for our key efficiency indicators in 2024?

In the Automotive Segment, deliveries of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce model autos are anticipated to rise barely year-on-year. The section’s EBIT margin ought to fall inside our strategic goal hall of 8 to 10 %. The share of all-electric autos relative to whole deliveries is anticipated to extend considerably in comparison with 2023.

In the Motorcycles Segment, deliveries are anticipated to extend barely, with an EBIT margin inside our goal vary of 8 to 10 %.

Return on Equity within the Financial Services section is forecast to land between 14% and 17%.

As anticipated, provide and demand proceed to normalize for brand new and used vehicles. It is due to this fact anticipated that revenues from remarketing lease returns can be decrease than 2023.

For the Group’s pre-tax revenue, we count on a slight lower. This is due primarily to the excessive stage of bills for analysis and improvement and capital expenditure, as outlined earlier than. The lower within the monetary companies enterprise will even contribute to the slight lower in Group revenue earlier than tax.

The Group’s headcount is forecast to extend barely.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

At the BMW Group, our sturdy manufacturers and enticing merchandise have lengthy fashioned the muse for our success – and can proceed to take action sooner or later. We allocate our capital in investments effectively, according to our long-term technique. At the identical time, we stay targeted on price self-discipline and profitability.

Our strategic perspective offers us readability on our constant path going ahead, whereas our operational excellence secures our future aggressive benefit and the general well being of the enterprise. Our excessive flexibility permits us to fulfill market demand and constantly ship on targets. And in 2023, it underpinned our worthwhile development. The improve in our BEV gross sales to virtually 15% put us in a robust place to overachieve the CO2 targets. We additionally recorded development within the higher section, leading to a balanced and worthwhile combine.

As you realize, our trade is understood for its excessive complexity, for lengthy life-cycles, and for powerful regulatory necessities, that are ever-increasing. That is why our planning horizon all the time spans a number of years. As the Vision NEUE KLASSE X proves, our technique ensures that we anticipate traits within the trade to stay forward.

We are absolutely dedicated to ship on our long-term strategic goal of an 8-10% EBIT margin yearly.

And we ship what we promise. We have the best product line-up and the flexibleness to fulfill buyer wants throughout the globe. And our product providing is rising.

We will due to this fact proceed with our worthwhile development and likewise fulfill our targets, assuming market situations stay secure. As everybody has seen within the BEV market in China, this isn’t all the time a given. At the BMW Group, we are going to keep our balanced steering of a number of particular person goals to attain all of our strategic priorities.

Our sturdy efficiency at this time is paving our highway to tomorrow’s continued success. We stay assured concerning the 2024 monetary 12 months and past.

And now it’s time to listen to from Oliver once more: he’ll present you what we now have within the pipeline throughout all manufacturers to drive our success within the coming years.

News

History And Mystery Of The Harley-Davidson XR750

Summary

  • The XR750 was Harley-Davidson’s most profitable bike constructed for the race observe.
  • It has gained 28 of the 37 AMA Grand National Championships from 1972 to 2008.
  • This was the bike of alternative of legendary American stuntman Evel Knievel for his many death-defying jumps and stunts.

If you possibly can rely the variety of iconic bikes Harley-Davidson has produced within the final 120+ years, you would want extra fingers and toes. One specific mannequin that thrived on pure adrenaline on racetracks is the legendary XR750. With a wealthy historical past within the dust and dust, it was born in 1970 as an engineering marvel to exchange the outgoing KR750 because the new-and-improved race-ready observe bike.

For over 50 years, the naturally athletic XR750 would show itself time and time once more as a pressure to be reckoned with. Powered by a Sportster-based engine, this bike utilized cast-iron heads and cylinders, a magneto as a substitute of a generator, and improved oiling. By 1972, a extra highly effective all-aluminum alloy engine was launched to the XR750. With a extra highly effective drivetrain and nimble nature, this bike would dominate racetracks up till 2008, successful 28 out of 37 AMA Grand National Championships. This earned it the title of “the winningest motorcycle in AMA Pro Racing motorcycle history.” Today, we glance again at its glory days.

The following article was primarily based on the XR750’s historical past as a part of the Harley-Davidson lineup, and general driving expertise sourced from OldBikeBarn.com , ClassicMotorcycleBuild.com , National Mecum Museum , and Harley-Davidson .
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Brits Inspired AMA To Build Bikes Up To 750cc

Leading as much as the event of the XR750, British producers and racers influenced the AMA to function bikes with engines as much as 750cc during which each facet and overhead valves might participate within the races. In response, the racing and engineering minds at Harley-Davidson felt compelled to give you a brand new bike that may very well be a critical contender on the observe towards the English. Harley-Davidson Race Team Manager Dick O’Brian and his staff helped design the XR750 that may not solely go on to exchange the KR750, however would additionally proceed to be one of many highest-performing motorcycles in the world of competitive racing.

The 45 Degree V-Twin Aluminum OHV Engine Was The Beating Heart of the XR750

Harley-Davidson

At the time of its inception, Harley-Davidson’s line of XLRs came equipped with 900cc V-twin engines. In order to satisfy race spec calls for to have the XR750 qualify, Harley’s racing staff wanted to discover a approach to tone down the Sportster engine’s energy output, and nonetheless be the highest-performing bike on the observe. After some tinkering with the bore and stroke, engineers have been efficiently capable of dial it again to 750cc.

For a motorbike meant to be highly effective, gentle, and nimble on the observe, Harley-Davidson made the clever resolution of growing the XR750’s 45 Degree Aluminum V-Twin engine primarily based on its pre-existing Sportster engine. In 1972, Harley improved upon the XR750 by changing the forged iron heads with aluminum alloy to be lighter and extra heat-resistant, in addition to some tinkering with the bores and stroke to pack in a number of extra horses.

1972 Harley-Davidson XR750 Engine Specs

Engine

45 Degree Aluminum V-Twin OHV

Horsepower

80 HP

Torque

26.1 lb-ft

Bore and Stroke

3.1 in × 3.0 in

Displacement

750cc

Compression Ratio

10.5:1

Transmission

4-speed

Fuel Capacity

2.5 gal

The XR750 Needed Work Done Before It Could Race

Harley-Davidson
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10 Most Luxurious Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever Made

Harley is a premium model, and it has had some tremendous extravagant bikes in its over a century-long life

Make no mistake. Just as a result of the XR750 has gone down in historical past as a profitable bike in AMA Pro Racing does not imply it occurred in a single day. Like any professional athlete, the Harley-Davidson racing staff wanted to do quite a lot of analysis, trial, and error earlier than they have been capable of engineer the XR750 into racing perfection. The authentic mannequin utilized cast-iron heads, which proved to be problematic as a result of their tendency to overheat except ridden in cooler climate. In addition, ought to the metallic calm down too rapidly, the heads might probably crack. While the unique XR750 faired effectively briefly races and funky climates, something hotter or longer would danger malfunctioning.

By 1972, Harley-Davidson improved upon the XR750’s overheating drawback by changing the cast-iron heads with aluminum. This metallic proved itself to be each lighter and extra heat-resistant, permitting riders to push the bike more durable throughout longer races with out inflicting additional injury. The engine was additionally positioned as distant from the carburetor as attainable to assist with the bike’s cool-down. By stopping the bike from heating up as rapidly because it used to, the XR750 was capable of keep at a extra secure temperature for longer intervals.

Engineers additionally wanted the bike to slim down, too. In addition to the aluminum heads, Harley engineers launched aluminum spoked wheel rims, a 2.5-gallon fiberglass gasoline tank, and a light-weight fiberglass seat. With these modifications, the XR750 utterly annihilated the competitors. Today, Harley-Davidson continues to be an energetic contender on the racetrack. But somewhat than the XR750, the race staff swimming pools their vitality, time, and sources into their model of a high-performance Road Glide for the popular King of the Baggers race series.

The XR750 Was Popularized by Evel Knievel

Having a popularity for being one of the unbeatable bikes on the racetrack was already an enormous enhance for the XR750. But when it grew to become the bike of alternative for legendary stuntman Evel Knievel, that’s when its recognition actually and figuratively took off. He properly went with the newer model of the XR750 as a result of it being lighter than the unique (a extra aerodynamic choice when performing his death-defying stunts).

Mecum

As quickly as avid followers noticed the bike that Knievel was utilizing to leap every little thing from a number of automobiles, Greyhound buses, and Mac vehicles, everybody needed to be like him. So what higher manner than to get their palms on the identical bike that he was driving? Whether they have been capable of stick the landings in addition to him relied on who was making an attempt the jumps, although.

1972 Harley-Davidson XR750 Specs

Frame

Steel twin loop full cradle

Suspension

Front: Ceriani telescopic fork, Rear: 2x Girling shocks

Brakes

Front: none, Rear: elective

Tires

Spoked wheels, aluminum spoked rims, 4 in x 19 in

Rake, path

26 levels, 3.44 in

Wheelbase

56.76 in

Seat Height

31 in

Weight

295 lbs

50 Years of Excellence

Harley-Davidson

With over 5 a long time of victories below its belt, the Harley-Davidson XR750 secured itself a spot in bike historical past as one of the legendary bikes to ever hit the observe and the streets. After all, a light-weight weight, with a robust race engine constructed to spec, and a refined cooling system, the XR750 had perfected a recipe for fulfillment that proved itself time and again as a critical contender.

While it was an enormous cultural sensation within the U.S., its legend prolonged to different avid followers internationally as effectively. Though its manufacturing was finally discontinued in 2013, the XR750 achieved such an iconic standing within the motorcycling world that it stays a success within the used market.

Today’s Successors

Harley-Davidson’s XR750 by itself might be argued to be in a category completely of its personal. One half Sportster, one half race bike, and one half off-roader. It was the right end result of a number of parts that made it one of many producer’s most profitable fashions in its 120+ yr historical past. Even after 50 years of manufacturing, this bike nonetheless carries a wealthy historical past of excellence. Though now not in manufacturing, components of the XR750’s DNA might be seen in a few of immediately’s newer fashions.

Harley-Davidson

Following in its dirt-ridden tire tracks is Harley’s first ADV mannequin, the Pan America. Able to dominate the streets in addition to robust terrain, this bike dons the mighty Revolution Max 1250 engine that has sufficient horsepower and torque to achieve 60mph in 3.4 seconds. The identical might be mentioned for Harley’s revamped line of Sportsters. The Sportster S follows the XR750’s flat observe components, all whereas being as gentle as attainable. This makes them the lightest variations of the Sportster class in Harley-Davidson historical past.

Harley-Davidson XR750 Key Features

  • 750cc air-cooled V-Twin engine
  • 4-speed transmission
  • Won 28 of 37 AMA Grand National Championships
  • Lightweight, heat-resistant aluminum heads
  • Chain drive
BMW

BMW continues run of success, taking prime spot in quite a few worldwide competitions as soon as once more in 2023.

Munich. With a brace of victories within the “Best Cars” competitors, BMW has backed up its profitable finish to 2023 with a equally fruitful starting to 2024. The BMW 2 Series Coupé wrapped up class victory within the compact phase for the third time in succession, whereas the BMW X1 led the way in which within the “compact SUV” class. The “Best Cars” award – voted on by readers of German motoring journal “auto, motor und sport” and in its forty eighth version this 12 months – is without doubt one of the most prestigious within the European automotive business. Almost 100,000 respondents took half within the survey, deciding on one general winner and one “imported car” champion from a subject of 455 fashions throughout 13 automobile classes.

The begin of 2024 was additionally marked by class victory for the brand new BMW 5 Series Sedan within the “Large Car” class of the “Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year” award. 75 feminine automotive journalists from 52 international locations picked out their favourites from a complete of 62 automobiles in 5 classes. Intended to showcase the affect of girls within the automotive business and introduced for the 14th time this 12 months, this prize takes into consideration components resembling security, high quality, worth, design, experience consolation, on a regular basis usability and environmental influence. The new BMW 5 Series Sedan received over the jury members with its electrified drive system line-up (together with the totally electrical BMW i5), in addition to its spaciousness, superior know-how and now totally vegan inside.

This profitable starting to the 12 months noticed BMW constructing on its run of success in a lot of awards in 2023. Models from the premium model’s present vary claimed quite a few prizes in each its residence market of Germany and its most necessary gross sales areas internationally. The winners stretched throughout all of the related classes, with compact fashions, luxurious automobiles and high-performance sports activities vehicles from BMW M GmbH all making waves. As properly as automobiles powered by combustion engines, the readers and juries additionally recognised a strikingly excessive variety of representatives from BMW’s consistently increasing electrical mobility vary.

“We’re very proud that our various BMW vehicles have won awards in so many national and international competitions. This also shows that we have attractive models in all segments that excite people,” says Jochen Goller, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Customer, Brands, Sales. “The response to our models with all-electric drive systems is particularly pleasing. This ties in with the strong demand from customers and supports the BMW Group’s commitment to ramping up electric mobility in all areas.”

Newcomer to the ranks of high-performance fashions and a totally electrical Sports Activity Vehicle each win a “Golden Steering Wheel”.

The “Golden Steering Wheel” introduced by German publications “Auto Bild” and “Bild am Sonntag” is without doubt one of the most prestigious distinctions within the European automotive business. BMW took two of those coveted trophies again to Munich in 2023. The BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive (gas consumption, mixed: 10.4 – 10.1 l/100 km [27.2 – 28.0 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions, mixed: 235 – 229 g/km within the WLTP cycle) ranked first within the “sports cars” class and the totally electrical BMW iX1 topped the “compact class”.

Both fashions added a string of different worldwide awards to their collections over the course of 2023. For instance, the primary ever BMW M3 Touring – which mixes the dynamic prowess of a high-performance automotive with spectacular ranges of practicality – was elected sports activities automotive of the 12 months within the class for automobiles costing as much as 120,000 euros by readers of “Auto Bild Sportscars” journal. And acclaimed British TV programme “Top Gear” honoured the BMW M GmbH newcomer with the title “All The Car You’ll Ever Need” in its “Car of the Year” awards.

The BMW iX1 collected a trio of awards in China, together with “All-Electric Premium SUV of the Year”. It additionally received the French “Automobile Award 2023” within the “Green Tech” class and the “autonis Award” bestowed by readers of “auto, motor und sport” to the 12 months’s most engaging new design.

Fully electrical BMW i5 enjoys quick success all over the world.

The new BMW 5 Series Sedan and BMW i5 additionally claimed an “autonis” prize. Now additionally accessible with a totally electrical drive system for the primary time, the brand new version of the world’s most profitable enterprise sedan was additionally named “Car of the Year” by Portuguese journal “Frontline”. The BMW i5 was additionally introduced with equal awards in Norway and Denmark, each notably necessary markets for electrical automobiles. Norwegian every day “Dagbladet” teamed up with on-line portals “DinSide” and “Elbi24” to have fun the BMW i5. While in Denmark, the i5 fought off competitors from six different fashions to achieve probably the most votes for “Car of the Year” in a last spherical made up solely of totally electrical fashions. The jury of 20 Danish motoring journalists selected the BMW i5 as their winner by a big margin.

Chinese publication “Auto World” topped the BMW i5 as “Most Anticipated Premium Executive Sedan of the Year”, and the totally electrical enterprise sedan additionally collected three awards in Great Britain: “The Car Expert” put the BMW i5 in prime spot in its “Best Large Car Award”, it was named “Premium Car of the Year” within the “2024 Electrifying.com Awards” and the “Comfortable Cruiser” topped its class in Carwow’s “Car of the Year Awards 2024”.

The awards underscore the flexibility of the brand new BMW i5 Sedan to win individuals over with quite a few totally different qualities: from character-rich design, a novel stability between sportiness and luxury, revolutionary tools options and progressive digital providers to a drive system whose energy is matched by its functionality over lengthy distances. And it additionally makes use of latest-generation BMW eDrive know-how to switch the model’s signature dynamic potential to the street with zero native emissions. In addition, adaptive recuperation and an clever mixture of warmth pump know-how for heating and cooling the inside, drive system and high-voltage battery assist to offer the BMW i5 eDrive40 Sedan (electrical energy consumption, mixed: 18.9 – 15.9 kWh/ 100 km within the WLTP cycle) a spread of 498 – 582 kilometres (309 – 362 miles) within the WLTP cycle.

BMW’s electrical mobility offensive is recognised with awards.

The BMW model’s totally electrical mannequin line-up as an entire loved a profitable 12 months worldwide in 2023. As properly because the BMW iX1 and BMW i5, this was notably true of the BMW i7 and BMW i4. In Great Britain alone, these two fashions had been each among the many winners in seven awards. Both received the “Auto Express New Car Award” of their respective automobile lessons. The BMW i4 additionally claimed the “Pocket-lint Award” and “Business Car Award”, and the BMW i7 celebrated success in each the “What Car? Electric Car Awards” and the “What Car? Car of the Year Awards”. The totally electrical luxurious sedan racked up 5 prizes in China, too, together with the “Car of the Year” distinction from main on-line journal “sohu.com”.

There was additionally a lot to have fun in France and the USA, the place the BMW i7 was given the “Best Overall and Best Value” ranking from “Money” journal and praised by “wards auto” journal for its standout luxurious atmosphere and digital person expertise with BMW Theatre Screen within the rear compartment. Renowned US journal “car and driver” named each the BMW i4 M50 (electrical energy consumption, mixed: 22.5 – 18.0 kWh/ 100 km within the WLTP cycle) and BMW i4 eDrive40 M50 (electrical energy consumption, mixed: 19.1 – 16.1 kWh/ 100 km within the WLTP cycle) among the many “Best 10” of 2023.

Top marks and distinctions for the BMW 3 Series and BMW 4 Series ranges, the BMW M2 and the BMW X3.

BMW set the seal on a profitable 12 months in Germany with a two-pronged triumph. The BMW 3 Series and BMW X3 closed out 2023 with class victory within the coveted “Auto Trophy”. The BMW 3 Series Sedan and BMW 3 Series Touring, for instance, took clear victories within the hotly contested midsize phase of the readers’ survey performed by German title “Auto Zeitung”, racking up 19.0 per cent of the vote. This was the seventh class win in a row for the three Series. Meanwhile, the rugged aura, inside spaciousness and dedication to electrification of the BMW X3 helped it account for 15.3 per cent of the votes solid and subsequently the best factors complete within the high-volume automobile phase of “SUVs costing 30,000 – 60,000 euros”.

The BMW 3 Series was a very prolific award-winner in Great Britain. In the “Business Car Awards”, the three Series received the “Best Premium Car” prize, and it additionally gained entry to the “Hall of Fame” of “Fleet News” journal because the “Most Reliable Company Car”. The BMW 3 Series received twice within the “What Car? Used Car Awards”, topping each the “Used Executive Car” class and general “Used Car of the Year”. And then there was the “Best Used Hybrid Executive Car” distinction for the BMW 330e Sedan (gas consumption, mixed: 1.9 – 1.4 l/100 km [148.7 – 201.8 mpg imp]; electrical energy consumption, mixed 20.1 – 18.1 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions, mixed: 43 – 32 g/km within the WLTP cycle). The plug-in hybrid mannequin additionally tasted success within the USA, the place “Money” journal described it as “Best for Handling”.

Adding to the wave of success loved by the BMW 3 Series, the BMW 4 Series – with its standout sporting attraction – additionally enriched the model’s glittering worldwide fame within the premium midsize phase. The finest instance of this got here within the BMW 4 Series Coupé and BMW 4 Series Convertible’s exhibiting within the “What Car? Car of the Year Awards” in Great Britain. The closed-roof two-door received the “Coupe of the Year” for the third 12 months in succession in 2023. And this 12 months its open-top sister mannequin additionally received the “Convertible of the Year” award.

Two different British awards had been claimed by the BMW M2. It was voted “Best Performance Car” in “The Car Expert Awards”, and the compact high-performance sports activities automotive additionally took the title of “Performance Car of the Year” within the “Auto Express New Car Awards”.

Official gas consumption, CO2 emissions, electrical energy consumption and electrical vary figures had been decided based mostly on the prescribed measurement process in accordance with European Regulation (EC) 2007/715 within the model relevant. Where a spread is proven, the WLTP figures keep in mind the influence of any optionally available extras.

Only official figures based mostly on the WLTP process can be found for brand spanking new fashions which were kind examined since 01.01.2021. In addition, in accordance with EU Regulation 2022/195, the NEDC values will now not be included within the EC certificates of conformity as of 01.01.2023. Further info on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures will also be discovered at www.bmw.de/wltp.

Further info on official gas consumption figures and particular CO2 emission values of recent passenger vehicles is included within the following guideline: ‘Leitfaden über den Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen ‘ (Guide to the gas economic system, CO2 emissions and electrical energy consumption of recent passenger vehicles), which might be obtained freed from cost from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2.

In the occasion of enquiries please contact:

BMW

BMW Motorrad returns to Garmisch-Partenkirchen with the BMW Motorrad Days.

Munich. After two profitable BMW Motorrad Days in Berlin in 2022 and 2023,
BMW Motorrad will proceed the legendary format of the earlier occasions this 12 months. The world’s largest BMW Motorrad assembly will return to Garmisch-Partenkirchen within the Alps. This is BMW Motorrad’s response to the heartfelt want of its followers everywhere in the world for unadulterated motorbike tradition, a celebration ambiance and distinctive using experiences towards a panoramic Alpine backdrop.

For greater than 20 years, the BMW Motorrad Days have been a spotlight and a should within the annual calendar of motorbike followers from everywhere in the world. For the previous two years, the world’s largest gathering devoted to the BMW Motorrad model has been held in Berlin, within the coronary heart of Europe, the place BMW bikes have been constructed for greater than 50 years. Together with BMW Motorrad workers from everywhere in the world, the BMW Motorrad Days 2023 in Berlin marked an vital chapter within the firm’s historical past on the event of the one centesimal anniversary of BMW Motorrad.

Through the BMW Motorrad Days, BMW Motorrad maintains a robust emotional bond with its neighborhood everywhere in the world. The world’s largest BMW Motorrad assembly has taken place in Garmisch-Partenkirchen for a complete of 18 consecutive years towards the backdrop of the magnificent Alpine panorama.

And what higher location for the “Year of the GS” than Garmisch-Partenkirchen with its magnificent environment, winding roads and close by alpine passes. It is the best terrain for distinctive motorbike rides – particularly with the legendary icon of journey using.

This is why the BMW Motorrad Days are returning to this legendary venue within the “Year of the GS”. For three days, from 5 to 7 July, BMW Motorrad will thrill the worldwide neighborhood on the foot of the Hausberg mountain with new merchandise, exhibitors, reveals, take a look at rides and, final however not least, conventional Bavarian way of life and legendary celebration ambiance.

BMW Motorrad will present extra detailed data on the BMW Motorrad Days 2024 in the end.

You will discover press materials on BMW bikes within the BMW Group PressClub at www.press.bmwgroup.com.

News

New Scorpion Trail III Adventure Tire Specs And Sizes Revealed

Back in October 2023, Pirelli introduced the successor to its massively profitable Scorpion Trail II tire, the Scorpion Trail III. First launched all the best way again in 2015, the Scorpion Trail II adorned among the most interesting adventure-touring bikes of the fashionable period. Now, with expertise, efficiency, and rider calls for ever altering within the journey world, Pirelli has enhanced its flagship journey tire to be even higher.

Pirelli has lastly revealed all of the specs, particulars, and sizes of the brand new Scorpion Trail III, and it’s certain to please performance-oriented adventure-seekers seeking to maximize their bikes’ on and off-road efficiency. For starters, Pirelli says that the Scorpion Trail III is able to dealing with each sporty highway driving and off-road terrain. It will get a sporty highway profile with a tread sample impressed by the Diablo household of efficiency tires. Meanwhile, for when it’s time to enterprise off highway, strengthened grooves improve steering grip and rigidity.

The Pirelli Scorpion Trail III inherits the sporty profile of the Diablo sequence of tires.

The new Scorpion Trail III is constructed out of recent 100-percent silica compounds that promise constant efficiency on each moist and dry situations. The entrance tire is manufactured from a single compound, whereas the rear tire includes a dual-compound building. Here, the shoulders of the tire are manufactured from a softer rubber to enhance cornering grip and stability, whereas the middle of the tire is manufactured from a tougher rubber for further longevity when overlaying lengthy distances on the freeway.

Adventure tires just like the Scorpion Trail III are supposed to be fitted on heavyweight journey bikes such because the KTM 1290 Super Adventure and BMW R 1300 GS. As such, Pirelli has beefed up the construction with a zero-degree metal belt with a strengthened construction to deal with heavy masses. The tires have been engineered for higher mileage, too, promising high-speed stability and progressive conduct.

The new Pirelli Scorpion Trail III guarantees uncompromising efficiency each on and off highway.

When it involves availability, Pirelli says that the brand new Scorpion Trail III will start rolling into sellers by the primary half of 2024. It’ll progressively be launched in a complete of 9 entrance tire sizes and 9 rear tire sizes. Check out the scale chart beneath:

Pirelli Scorpion Trail III Front Tire Sizes:

120/70 ZR 17 M/C (58W) TL
120/70 ZR 19 M/C 60W TL
120/70 R 19 M/C 60V TL
120/70 ZR 19 M/C 60W TL (D)
110/80 R 19 M/C 59V TL
100/90 – 19 M/C 57V TL
90/90 V 21 M/C (54V) TL
110/80 R 18 M/C 58V TL
100/90 – 18 M/C 56V TL

Pirelli Scorpion Trail III Rear Tire Sizes:

180/55 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL
170/60 ZR 17 M/C 72W TL (D)
170/60 R 17 M/C 72V TL
170/60 ZR 17 M/C 72W TL
160/60 ZR 17 M/C (69W) TL
150/70 R 17 M/C 69V TL
140/80 R 17 M/C 69V TL
130/80 R 17 M/C 65V TL
120/90 – 17 M/C 64H TL

News

Super73 Partnered With Red Bull For The 2024 Dakar Rally

The Dakar Rally has simply concluded, and for sure, it was a profitable occasion with victories from the likes of Brabec and Cornejo, and spectacular performances from Adrien Van Beveren and Ross Branch. While these racers and all of the others who took half within the grueling problem are certainly the heroes of the Dakar Rally, it’s additionally attention-grabbing to check out what goes on behind the scenes.

As you already know, Red Bull is the organizing sponsor of the Dakar Rally, and the occasion itself covers the arid panorama of Saudi Arabia. The hub of the Dakar Rally bivouac occupies a 200,000-square-meter house, serving as a short lived residence to greater than 3,000 folks. In this momentary settlement in the midst of the desert, you’ll discover a bustling group all targeted on the Dakar Rally. Here, a seemingly self-sufficient group with catering, working water, dependable electrical energy, medical assist, TV satellites, and waste administration retains the wheels of the occasion turning, and naturally, shifting round on this massive house on foot may be fairly the problem.

This is why Super73, an American way of life journey model with a powerful fleet of electrical two-wheelers, joined forces with Red Bull to create a custom-built fleet of electrical bikes for the workforce to maneuver by the bivouacs. The collaborative effort certainly made operations smoother, serving to the organizing workforce to navigate all through the two-wheel occasion that covers in extra of 5,000 kilometers.

In case you weren’t acquainted, Super73’s e-bikes are loaded with efficiency and strong tech that make them at residence within the Dakar Rally’s arid panorama. They’re high-power e-bikes that provide the possibility to maneuver round both by pedal help or through a throttle mounted on the handlebar – kind of like a small electrical bike. For the Dakar Rally, Super73 supplied a fleet of {custom} S2 bikes. The S2 is marketed as Super73’s “iconic urban cruiser,” and options moto-inspired styling and a strong 750W motor. This means it has a high pace of 28 miles per hour on pedal help, and 20 miles per hour on throttle-only operation.

The fleet of {custom} S2s designed particularly for the Dakar Rally options matte blue paint, a refined nod to Red Bull’s colours. The bikes had been fitted with RX LED headlights and tail lights for optimum visibility at evening. Riders got additional leverage by the use of a low-rise handlebar and ODI grips, whereas a {custom} saddle with blue leather-based desert wings added a {custom} contact. The bikes rolled on chunky GRZLY all-terrain tires which proved succesful when tackling the unfastened and sandy terrain of the occasion. For added practicality, an in-frame MOLLE panel allowed customers to connect all kinds of equipment on the go.

From the photographs supplied to us by Super73, we are able to see a few of Dakar’s high racers making good use of the custom-built S2s. The likes of Toby Price, from Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, Cristina Gutierrez of the Red Bull Off-Road Junior Team, and Seth Quintero of Toyota Gazoo Racing all used the S2 to get round after they weren’t racing.

Now, if you wish to get your personal Super73 S2, the excellent news is that you may. It’s accessible on Super73’s official web site with a retail worth of $3,295 USD. It’s simply too dangerous that you just’ll must miss out on the Dakar-inspired goodies and the blue paintwork.

Mazda

2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata: Pricing and Packaging

MX-5 Miata receives key updates inside and outside that additional refine the roadster’s profitable method.

  • New accessible Asymmetric limited-slip differential improves MX-5 Miata’s famend progressive, enjoyable dealing with traits
  • Upgraded Mazda Connect system brings host of technological updates and new, bigger show
  • DSC-Track Mode added to Miata Club MX-5 to offer drivers a further choice for closed circuit driving

IRVINE, Calif. (January 25, 2024) – Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) right now publicizes pricing for the up to date 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata, which continues its long-standing custom as a pure expression of easy, joyful driving. Well-balanced, light-weight, and an impressive power-to-weight ratio all assist make MX-5 Miata a preferred driver’s automotive. On sale this winter, MX-5 Miata has been up to date with a bunch of adjustments that each one followers are certain to understand.

All MX-5 Miata fashions have a entrance engine, rear-wheel drive structure, with a Skyactiv-G 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering an inspiring 181 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm routed by a six-speed transmission. The MX-5 Miata Sport and Club fashions are solely paired with a six-speed guide transmission and MX-5 Miata Grand Touring is obtainable in both a guide transmission or a quick-shifting six-speed computerized transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

The 2024 MX-5 Miata will proceed to characteristic the well-received and appreciated Kinematic Posture Control (KPC), a software-based suspension efficiency know-how developed by Mazda that manages totally different car methods to assist present MX-5 Miata with improved precision and confidence in high-g cornering and behave as a harmonious extension of the driving force’s physique with out including a single gram of weight. Taking benefit of present rear suspension geometry designed to maintain the MX-5 Miata planted beneath braking, KPC applies a really slight brake to the internal rear wheel throughout high-g cornering. This pulls down on that nook, suppressing physique roll, and making steering response really feel extra linear by tight or tough corners. Slightly stronger braking is used when accelerating by a nook, enhancing the restricted slip impact.

Building off this already robust package deal, MX-5 Miata receives main updates to the electrical power-assisted steering (EPAS) system for 2024 together with a brand new steering rack. The rack has been revised internally, leading to decreased friction, in addition to accompanying adjustments to the electrical help calibration by new software program. This all ends in smoother steering motion with a extra outlined ‘on-center’ feeling for relaxed freeway cruising, but better precision because the entrance tires are loaded up beneath laborious cornering.

MX-5 Miata’s exterior sees adjustments as effectively, with up to date headlights that incorporate a brand new LED DRL component, new LED taillights and new wheel designs. With the addition of Zircon Sand Metallic in 2023, one other new exterior colour has been added to the roster for 2024 with Aero Gray, which presents a cool tone that contrasts properly towards MX-5 Miata’s accessible darkish trim and wheels.

Inside, drivers profit from a revised inside which will get a number of key updates. The middle console receives further padding for improved driver consolation. A revised gauge cluster now options simplified, high-contrast graphics for simpler readability at a look. All MX-5 Miata fashions additionally profit from a brand new, bigger 8.8-inch infotainment show, with contact performance when utilizing Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Paired with this new show is Mazda’s first ever integration of Alexa, which provides additional flexibility, with hands-free instructions for issues like HVAC, radio and extra. Alexa is ready to settle for instructions for issues contained in the car, in addition to join and management your sensible dwelling units remotely. In the 2024 MX-5 Miata, this increased stage of flexibility minimizes driver distraction, permitting them to stay targeted on the winding roads forward.

MX-5 MIATA SPORT

The MX-5 Miata Sport, solely accessible with a black fabric gentle prime, consists of an abundance of normal options, along with what has been outlined above. Safety is a main focus of the two-seat roadster that includes twin entrance airbags, side-impact airbags, and side-impact door beams along with many i-Activsense security options that embrace Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Smart Brake Support, and Lane Departure Warning. The three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel has a tilt and telescoping perform to assist permit a wider vary of householders discover their supreme seating place. The steering wheel additionally has mounted buttons to simply management the audio, Bluetooth, and cruise management. Leather shift knob and parking brake, fabric bucket seats, six-speaker audio, twin USB inputs, Mazda Advanced keyless entry, local weather management, two detachable cup holders, padded door armrest, energy doorways, and energy home windows with one-touch down characteristic full the inside ambiance. Standard exterior options embrace metallic black 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels, dual-tip exhaust, LED headlights and taillights, gloss black door mirrors and excessive mount brake gentle cowl, daytime working lights, variable-intermittent windshield wipers, and rear glass window with defogger.

MX-5 MIATA CLUB

The MX-5 Miata Club additional enhances enthusiastic driver’s expectations within the roadster’s improved dynamics. This mannequin is sport-tuned with Bilstein dampers, a entrance shock tower brace and a brand new Asymmetric LSD. This conical clutch LSD has been re-designed with a cam mechanism which permits for various ramp angles on acceleration and deceleration to offer supreme yaw damping management by the totally different phases of cornering. A stronger lockup beneath engine braking improves stability at nook entry, resisting undesirable oversteer. Reduced lockup throughout acceleration reduces undesirable understeer.

For those that wish to expertise the capabilities of their MX-5 on a closed circuit, a brand new DSC-Track characteristic has been added to MX-5’s Dynamic Stability Control program. DSC-Track raises the edge of the DSC system, between being absolutely engaged or absolutely disabled, permitting drivers who select to activate this characteristic to work on their on-track driving expertise, whereas nonetheless providing some quantity of brake intervention ought to or not it’s wanted[1].

To match the thrilling dynamics, the Club provides sporty design components similar to a gloss black entrance air dam, and rear lip spoiler. The seats have been revised for 2024, with the inclusion of black suede accents inset within the black fabric materials. Moving up from the Sport mannequin, the Club provides black metallic 17-inch wheels, LED daytime working lights (DRL), a trunk lid-mounted shark fin antenna, physique colour high-mount brake gentle cowl, and vinyl-leather materials all through the inside.

All Clubs fashions characteristic wi-fi Apple CarPlay connectivity, which permits occupants to simply join their enabled iPhone as soon as they enter MX-5 Miata and assist them get on the street faster. Including all commonplace Sport options, this mannequin provides SiriusXM satellite tv for pc radio with a three-month trial subscription and Bose nine-speaker premium audio that features a subwoofer and headrest audio system for the driving force and passenger seats to take care of the premium expertise even with the highest down.

MX-5 MIATA CLUB WITH BREMBO BBS RECARO PACKAGE

Driving aficionados alike will admire the additions discovered within the MX-5 Miata Club with Brembo BBS Recaro package deal. The package deal consists of Brembo entrance brakes with red-painted entrance and rear calipers, darkish gunmetal 17-inch BBS solid wheels, and heated Recaro sport seats. Added design options on this package deal embrace an aero equipment with gloss black aspect sill extensions and rear bumper skirt.

The Brembo BBS Recaro Package is on the market on gentle prime MX-5 Miata Club fashions and commonplace gear on the MX-5 Miata RF Club mannequin, which will be denoted with its contrasting black roof. The RF – or retractable fastback – can open or shut its roof in about 13 seconds by pushing a button, offering the MX-5 Miata RF with the texture of each a sporty coupe and a trendy convertible.

MX-5 MIATA GRAND TOURING

The MX-5 Miata Grand Touring carries all the dear efficiency and dynamic options of the MX-5 Miata Club and provides extra comforts with out compromising on being an genuine, light-weight MX-5 Miata. The MX-5 Miata Grand Touring is on the market in a black gentle prime or body-color RF. Additional security options for this mannequin embrace an Adaptive Front-lighting System, High Beam Control, and Traffic Sign Recognition.

The Grand Touring fashions commerce the Club’s gloss black entrance air dam and rear lip spoiler for black and machine-finished aluminum alloy wheels, body-color heated door aspect mirrors with auto-dim driver’s door mirror, and door sill trim plates. The headlights characteristic computerized on and off perform and the windshield wipers are rain-sensing.

Tan Nappa leather-based seats are a brand new upgradable choice to the MX-5 Miata Grand Touring’s commonplace black leather-based seats. Furthermore, the darkish inside accents are exchanged for vivid silver finishes whereas including heated leather-based seats, Mazda Navigation system, computerized local weather management, and a frameless auto-dim rearview mirror with HomeLink.

With complete updates throughout, the 2024 MX-5 Miata is probably the most succesful evolution of our iconic roadster but. For extra info on the Mazda MX-5 Miata, please go to MazdaUSA.com.

STARTING MSRP FOR THE 2024 MAZDA MX-5 MIATA IS AS FOLLOWS2:

Package

Soft Top

RF

MX-5 Miata Sport 6MT

$28,985

MX-5 Miata Club 6MT

$32,485

$40,210
  • Brembo/BBS/Recaro Package

$4,800

INCL. ON RF CLUB

MX-5 Miata Grand Touring 6MT

$34,285

$37,010

MX-5 Miata Grand Touring 6AT

$35,205

$37,980
  • Tan Nappa Leather (Grand Touring fashions solely)

$300

$300

PREMIUM PAINT COLORS:

Aero Gray

$450

Snowflake White Pearl

$450

Soul Red Crystal Metallic

$595

Machine Gray Metallic

$595

Zircon Sand Metallic

$450

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the gross sales, advertising, elements, and customer support assist of Mazda automobiles within the United States, Canada, and Mexico by roughly 780 sellers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada Inc. in Richmond Hill, Ontario, and operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City. For extra info on Mazda automobiles, together with pictures and B-roll, please go to the net Mazda media middle at News.MazdaUSA.com.

Follow MNAO’s social media channels by Twitter and Instagram at @MazdaUSA and Facebook at Facebook.com/MazdaUSA.

 

1 DSC-Track shouldn’t be used on public roads and may solely be used throughout sports activities driving on closed circuits with using applicable security gear. It will not be an alternative to secure and attentive driving. Please see your Owner’s Manual for additional particulars.
2 MSRP doesn’t embrace $1,165 for vacation spot and dealing with ($1,210 in Alaska), taxes, title or further charges. Dealers set precise sale costs.

News

2024 Kia Sedan Lineup: Models, Pricing, Features, And Performance

Summary

  • Kia had a profitable 12 months in 2023 with its highest-ever gross sales within the U.S., displaying that the automaker has overcome its repute for low-quality automobiles.
  • The Kia sedan lineup had blended gross sales in 2023, with the Kia Forte seeing a rise in gross sales whereas the Kia Stinger noticed a big drop.
  • The Kia Rio, which is the most affordable providing within the sedan lineup, can be discontinued after the 2023 mannequin 12 months. It affords fundamental options and a small engine however has restricted normal security options.

2023 was a record-breaking 12 months for Kia within the U.S.: The automaker recorded its highest-ever sales stateside and saw a 13 percent increase in sales from 2022. The Korean producer has come a good distance because it started operations in America again within the mid-Nineteen Nineties, promoting the sub-compact Kia Sportage and the Sephia sedan. Thanks to these woeful early choices, Kia gained a repute for providing low-cost, low-quality automobiles.

But Kia has labored exhausting to alter the general public’s notion of its fashions, because of attributes like striking exterior designs, vastly improved feature-packed interiors, and industry-leading warranties. While the automaker’s present choices, proceed to stay inexpensive, they’re not related to low high quality. In phrases of worth for cash, Kia automobiles are proper up there.

The firm’s sedan lineup skilled a blended 2023, by way of gross sales. For occasion, Kia Forte gross sales elevated by 14 p.c, whereas Kia Stinger gross sales dropped by 30 p.c. The different two sedans – the K5 and the Rio – recorded slight drops in annual gross sales. Let’s discover the Kia Sedan lineup in higher element and what the Korean automaker has in retailer for 2024.
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In order to provide the latest and correct data doable, the information used to compile this text was sourced from numerous producer web sites and different authoritative sources, together with Car And Driver and Edmunds. The fashions beneath have been ranked based mostly on their beginning MSRP.

2023 Kia Rio

MSRP: $16,750 – $17,390

Kia

The most cost-effective providing within the Kia sedan lineup is the soon-to-be discontinued Kia Rio. 2023 will be the last model year for the Rio, which, along with the Nissan Versa and the Mitsubishi Mirage, are three of the most affordable new subcompact automobiles out there. It’s provided in two trims – the LX and the S – and in two physique shapes – sedan and hatchback. The sedan options what Kia calls a ‘tiger-nose’ grille, halogen headlights, and outstanding physique traces.

Standard options on the bottom LX variant embody an 8.0-inch infotainment show and wi-fi Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. You actually don’t get a lot with the entry-level journey. Therefore, it’s most likely wiser to spend additional for the top-ranked S trim, which provides distant keyless entry, cruise management, a sliding heart armrest, and a rear USB outlet. The S variant additionally has extra elective extras, together with the Technology Package. Acres of plastic line the Rio’s easy, however neatly organized inside.

The local weather controls are nicely laid out, and the lean steering wheel options audio controls. Tall passengers might really feel cramped within the rear, however contemplating the Rio is without doubt one of the smallest new automobiles out there, it’s fairly roomy. It affords a commendable 13.7 cubic ft of cargo area; you’ll be able to improve the cargo space by folding the seats.

Key Features

  • Wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay
  • 8.0-inch infotainment show
  • Folding rear seats
  • Roomy inside
  • Cruise management and keyless entry on the S variant

Performance And Specifications

All Kia Rios function a 1.6-liter inline-four engine that put out 120 horsepower and 112 pound-feet of torque. Power goes to the entrance wheels by way of a CVT. 120 horsepower is comparatively low, even for a automotive that weighs round 2,900 kilos. Therefore, take additional care when lining up an overtake or merging onto the freeway. One advantage of such a small engine is that the Rio may be very economical, sipping a gallon of gasoline each 32 miles within the metropolis and consuming an analogous quantity after each 41 miles of freeway driving. The Kia Rio has a combined MPG rating of 36 miles.

Engine

Naturally aspirated 1.6-liter inline-four

Transmission

CVT

Horsepower

120 horsepower

Torque

112 pound-feet

Driveline

FWD

0-60 MPH

8.6 seconds

Top Speed

N/A

(Specs: Kia)

Pros

  • Frugal engine
  • Well-organized inside
  • Affordable sticker value

Cons

  • Few normal security options
  • Lethargic engine
  • Cramped rear seats
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2024 Kia Forte

MSRP: $19,790 – $25,390

Gray 2024 Kia Forte

The Kia Forte is available in 4 trims: LX, LXS, GT-Line, and GT. The Forte has a sporty entrance finish and demeanor that will get sportier as you climb the trim ladder. Luxury and normal tools additionally improve because the trims get dearer. The base LS trim options an 8-inch infotainment display as normal, as does the LXS variant.

The high two fashions, GT-Line and GT, have a bigger 10.3-inch show with SiriusXM and in-dash navigation. As with the smaller Rio, wi-fi Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are normal. The inside is nicely laid out, with probably the most important capabilities managed by bodily buttons and dials. Given the worth of the Forte, you shouldn’t count on a cabin with premium supplies. However, the Forte’s inside is so skilfully put collectively that you could be forgive the dearth of high quality contained in the cabin.

Key Features

  • 8-inch or 10.3-inch infotainment display
  • Sporty exterior
  • Neat and useful inside
  • Ample passenger and cargo area
  • Many normal options

Performance Specifications

The base LX and the mid-range LXS and GT-line function a 2.0-liter inline-four engine good for 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. It’s not quick, nevertheless it affords glorious gasoline economic system. The top-of-the-line GT trim gets a turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four churning out 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. The distinction in efficiency between the 2 engines is stark – the turbocharged Forte hits 60 MPH from zero 1.5 seconds quicker than the naturally aspirated Forte.

Engine

Naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-four

Turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four

Transmission

CVT

Seven-speed computerized or six-speed guide

Horsepower

147 horsepower

201 horsepower

Torque

132 pound-feet

195 pound-feet

Driveline

FWD

FWD

0-60 MPH

8.2 seconds

6.7 seconds

Top Speed

123 MPH

123 MPH

(Specs: Kia)

The naturally aspirated energy unit pairs with a CVT, whereas the turbocharged engine pairs with a seven-speed computerized or a six-speed guide. The guide gearbox prices $700 greater than the dual-clutch auto, a small value to pay for the driving engagement {that a} stick shift supplies.

Pros

  • Availability of a guide gearbox
  • Sports-tuned suspension and twin exhaust on the GT trim
  • Large trunk for its class

Cons
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2024 Kia K5

MSRP: $25,590 – $31,990

Kia

Kia affords 4 K5 variants: LXS, GT-Line, EX, and GT. The K5 shares plenty with its Korean sibling, the Hyundai Sonata. The K5’s exterior options daring traces, a sporty entrance finish, a fastback roofline, creative headlights and taillights with snaky parts, and a tall rear trunk lid. Like the cheaper Forte and Rio, the K5 has a well-organized inside, with buttons and dials controlling important capabilities.

Unlike its extra inexpensive siblings, nevertheless, the K5 sports activities upscale supplies and options like wooden trim and ambient inside lighting, justify its larger sticker value. An 8.0-inch infotainment display providing wi-fi Android Auto and Apple Carplay sits subsequent to the gauge cluster of the bottom LXS variant. The different trims get a much bigger 10.3-inch display, which, weirdly, requires cables to combine Android Auto and Apple Carplay.

Key Features

  • A sporty exterior
  • Standard wired or wi-fi Android Auto and Apple Carplay
  • Two engine choices
  • Standard FWD and out there AWD on GT-Line trim
  • Well-organized inside with high-quality supplies

Performance And Specifications

The base engine is a 180-horsepower turbocharged inline-four, which produces much less energy than the turbocharged inline-four powering the Kia Forte GT. As such, variants powered by the inline-four are slower to 60 MPH than the top-of-the-line Forte. All variants come normal with front-wheel drive; Kia affords all-wheel drive as an possibility with the GT-Line trim.

Engine

Turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four

Turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four

Transmission

Eight-speed computerized

Eight-speed dual-clutch computerized

Horsepower

180 horsepower

290 horsepower

Torque

195 pound-feet

311 pound-feet

Driveline

FWD or AWD

FWD

0-60 MPH

7.0 seconds

5.2 seconds

Top Speed

N/A

155 MPH

(Specs: Kia)

The most expensive GT variant features a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine churning out 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of twist. Other distinctive options of the GT embody a specially-tuned suspension, giant 19-inch rims with broad tires, larger brakes, and an unique eight-speed computerized gearbox.

Pros

  • Sporty exterior and fashionable inside
  • Powerful GT trim
  • Optional AWD with the GT-line variant

Cons

  • All-wheel drive solely provided on the GT-line trim
  • Underpowered base engine
  • No elective summer time tires
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2023 Kia Stinger

MSRP: $36,690 – $51,890

It’s stunning that arguably probably the most engaging and positively probably the most highly effective sedan within the Kia lineup, the Stinger was a significant model for Kia, nevertheless it did not stay as much as its potential. Sales dipped massively in 2023, suggesting that Kia was proper to discontinue the Stinger after a six-year run. It is available in two trims – the GT-line and the GT2.

The broad Stinger featured a protracted, sculpted hood, raked windscreen, and a modern, aerodynamic physique.

Dark chrome accents, twin twin-exit exhausts, and bulging fenders intensify the Stinger’s sporty seems. The elective Grand Tourer and Apex aesthetic packages add black facet view mirrors and exhaust suggestions. Inside, you get a leather-based inside as normal and elective Nappa leather-based seat trim.

Rising from the middle of the dashboard is an 8.0-inch or 10.3-inch touchscreen, relying on the trim chosen, and a nine-speaker audio system is normal. Tech choices embody a Harman/Kardon audio system with 15 audio system, in-dash navigation, and wi-fi smartphone charging.

Key Features

  • Sleek, sporty exterior
  • Hatchback rear door
  • Leather-lined inside
  • Optional V-6 engine
  • Spacious inside

Performance And Specifications

The base Stinger mill is a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing an honest 300 horsepower. It is highly effective sufficient for the Stinger, however not the best selection for consumers seeking to exploit its full sporting potential. A 3.3-liter twin-turbo V-6 delivering 368 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque caters to the efficiency sedan fanatics.

Engine

Turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four

Twin-turbocharged 3.3-liter V-6

Transmission

Eight-speed computerized

Eight-speed computerized

Horsepower

300 horsepower

368 horsepower

Torque

311 pound-feet

376 pound-feet

Driveline

RWD

RWD

0-60 MPH

5.2 seconds

4.6 seconds

Top Speed

167 MPH

167 MPH

(Specs: Kia)

Both engines channel power to the rear wheels through an eight-speed autobox. All-wheel drive is elective on each trims. On the bottom GT-line, choosing AWD additionally provides a heated steering wheel; the AWD bundle on the top-ranked GT2 variant provides a heated steering wheel and 19-inch all-season tires.

Pros

  • Powerful engine choices
  • Optional AWD
  • Hatchback rear door

Cons

  • Sloping roofline reduces rear headroom
  • The high GT2 trim could also be too costly
  • AWD possibility replaces summer time tires with all-season tires on the GT2 variant