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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
RollsRoyce

ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS IN 2023: A YEAR OF SUCCESS

  • Rolls-Royce Motor Cars studies a extremely profitable yr in 2023 with robust enterprise efficiency and Bespoke commissions at file ranges
  • Secure platform for additional progress and improvement because the marque enters its 120th yr: Charles Rolls and Henry Royce met for the primary time on 4 May 1904
  • More motor automobiles bought than ever earlier than in marque’s 119-year historical past: 6,032 delivered to purchasers world wide, all together with components of Bespoke personalisation
  • Global gross sales current a balanced image, led by North America and China
  • Year-on-year progress reported in areas together with Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Europe
  • Company’s constructive financial influence grew additional with the creation of 180 new jobs on the Home of Rolls-Royce in 2023
  • New funding introduced to extend capabilities for electrical car manufacturing, Bespoke commissions and future progress in Coachbuild actions. Planning software for extension at Goodwood web site submitted in late summer season 2023


“2023 was another extraordinary year for Rolls-Royce, with strong sales performances in all regions and across the full product portfolio. It’s especially encouraging to see the enormous interest in and demand for Spectre, supporting the decision to adopt a bold, ‘all-electric’ strategy for future model development and production. The record level of Bespoke commissions, both by volume and value, also underlines our position within the luxury sector, offering our clients opportunities for self-expression and personalisation they cannot find anywhere else.

“As incoming CEO, I’m in the extremely fortunate position of taking over responsibility for a business in robust good health, with strong foundations and a clear strategy for growth and development, formidable technical capabilities and a focused, dedicated team. I’m looking forward to working with the entire Rolls-Royce team to maintain this momentum and take this great company forward with confidence and conviction.”

Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars


NEWS SUMMARY

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars loved a extremely profitable yr in 2023, with robust gross sales and demand for its merchandise in markets worldwide, and Bespoke commissions at file ranges.

The firm’s robust efficiency was as soon as once more underpinned by the distinctiveness and variety of its provide, significantly in respect of Bespoke personalisation and the marque’s unrivalled skill to satisfy and exceed purchasers’ ever-expanding expectations. The ongoing success and progress of the marque’s Bespoke capabilities – supported by the persevering with enlargement of the marque’s worldwide Private Office community – resulted in additional and better worth Bespoke commissions than ever earlier than. Global gross sales of 6,032 motor automobiles have been in keeping with inside expectations and Rolls-Royce’s standing as a world luxurious home, moderately than a volume-driven producer. All Rolls-Royce motor automobiles are hand-built on the marque’s dwelling in Goodwood, UK and each has components of Bespoke.

While the vastly standard Wraith and Dawn fashions ceased manufacturing as deliberate in 2023, the yr was most notable for the beginning of manufacturing and gross sales of Rolls-Royce Spectre, with the very first consumer deliveries going down within the autumn. Following its triumphant public reveal in October 2022, the primary all-electric Rolls-Royce in historical past has attracted huge curiosity, significantly amongst youthful purchasers; this demand has translated into orders extending into 2025, laying a agency basis for the marque’s daring, all-electric future.

The firm’s long-term concentrate on Bespoke, and the rising ambition of consumer commissions, is mirrored within the ever-increasing scope and class of Rolls-Royce’s design, know-how, engineering and craftsmanship. During 2023, the corporate introduced substantial new funding within the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood to boost capability and capabilities for Bespoke and to assist the expansion of Coachbuild. To meet purchasers’ rising demand for more and more detailed and in depth Bespoke commissions, Rolls-Royce expanded its Private Office community additional: following Dubai, which opened in 2022, Shanghai opened in autumn 2023 and the marque confirmed its plans to open Private Offices in Seoul and North America in 2024. The international Rolls-Royce Private Office community allows a brand new stage of consumer engagement with the marque and is already delivering a big uplift in Bespoke demand.


FULL PRESS RELEASE


A WORLD-CLASS BUSINESS

Rolls-Royce loved a extremely profitable yr in 2023, with robust gross sales and demand for its merchandise in markets worldwide.

Every motor automotive hand-built on the Home of Rolls-Royce consists of some component of Bespoke, the corporate’s distinctive programme providing personalisation potentialities that are restricted solely by the consumer’s creativeness. In 2023, Bespoke commissions reached new file ranges by each worth and quantity; the technical improvements required to ship particular initiatives noticed Rolls-Royce file plenty of new patents in the course of the yr. In 2023, extra Rolls-Royce motor automobiles have been delivered to purchasers world wide than in some other yr within the marque’s 119-year historical past.

To mark 20 years of manufacturing at Goodwood, Rolls-Royce commissioned an unbiased examine into the marque’s financial influence, which calculated its complete contribution to the UK financial system at over £4 billion since 2003, and now over £500 million yearly. The firm created 180 new jobs at its Global Centre of Luxury Manufacturing Excellence in 2023, whereas greater than 130 individuals joined the corporate’s Future Talent programme in Apprenticeship, Internship or Graduate Placement positions.

The marque additionally introduced plans for important new funding to modernise and improve its manufacturing amenities to boost its Bespoke and Coachbuild capabilities and assist manufacturing of its future all-electric product portfolio.

In 2023, Rolls-Royce additional enhanced its industry-leading experiential luxurious capabilities – a big progress space inside the luxurious sector. The marque’s profitable and celebrated international Private Office community, which provides purchasers a extremely personalised commissioning and possession expertise, expanded to Shanghai in 2023. This distinctive programme, which started with Private Office Dubai in July 2022 – the primary Private Office exterior the corporate’s dwelling at Goodwood, UK – provides purchasers direct entry to Rolls-Royce’s personal designers and engineers. The influence of those new worldwide Private Offices has already been important, with a marked enhance within the quantity and complexity of Bespoke commissions. This programme will probably be prolonged with two new worldwide areas in 2024.

In addition to this, the marque’s Whispers app witnessed important will increase in engagement. Reserved solely for Goodwood-era Rolls-Royce purchasers, the digital members’ membership allows customers to profit from unique merchandise and experiences chosen from the marque’s wider community inside the luxurious {industry}, additional establishing the model as a focus inside the lives of householders.

BESPOKE: FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

Rolls-Royce Bespoke provides each consumer the chance to specific their character by means of their motor automotive – an unparalleled expertise that was loved by all purchasers in 2023. It is that this chance to personalise any and each facet of their motor automotive, in partnership with design and engineering specialists on the Home of Rolls-Royce, that’s driving demand for Rolls-Royce merchandise amongst its patrons worldwide. In 2023, Bespoke commissions reached new file ranges by each quantity and worth, with lots of the most creatively formidable and technically difficult originating within the Middle East.

Bespoke initiatives accomplished in 2023 included many ‘firsts’ for the marque that have been additionally technical improvements. These included the scent-release mechanism hid within the headrests of Phantom Syntopia, which integrated know-how initially developed for medical purposes, whereas many Bespoke paint finishes achieved in 2023 required fully new supplies, strategies and formulations to attain.

The yr’s commissions additionally created new alternatives in the usage of uncommon and exquisite supplies and complex craft strategies. These included: beautiful mother-of-pearl inlays for ‘The Pearl Cullinan’; hand-perforated leather-based seats for Black Badge Cullinan Blue Shadow; Starlight Headliners incorporating mesmerising celestial animations for Black Badge Ghost Ékleipsis; and beautiful hand-painted Gallery artworks for Phantom ‘Inspired by Cinque Terre’.

A extra complete number of the yr’s Bespoke highlights will be considered here.

A LANDMARK YEAR FOR COACHBUILD 

Bespoke finds its final expression in Coachbuild, an exacting, extremely collaborative course of during which Rolls-Royce and the consumer co-create each element of the motor automotive, together with its bodily kind. In 2023, the marque unveiled Droptail, the primary true two-seater roadster to be constructed by Rolls-Royce in additional than half a century. Only 4 examples of Droptail will ever be constructed and every extremely particular person, deeply private fee redraws the boundaries for supplies, craft strategies, technical improvements, and creativity, not only for the automotive sector however the wider luxurious {industry}.

ANNUAL GLOBAL SALES RESULTS 2023

In complete, throughout greater than 50 international locations worldwide, Rolls-Royce delivered 6,032 motor automobiles to purchasers – greater than ever earlier than within the marque’s 119-year historical past.

While the primary half of the yr marked the tip of manufacturing for Rolls-Royce Wraith and Dawn as deliberate, the fourth quarter of the yr noticed the primary deliveries of Rolls-Royce Spectre, laying a basis for a daring electrical future during which the marque plans to provide solely fully-electric automobiles by the tip of 2030.

This robust gross sales efficiency must be seen within the context of Rolls-Royce’s elementary, persistently said place that it isn’t and by no means will probably be a volume-driven enterprise. As a luxurious home, its aim is to satisfy and exceed its purchasers’ expectations by constructing not simply ‘the best car in the world’, however the automotive that greatest represents them and their character. The international demand for Rolls-Royce merchandise and possession expertise displays the technical excellence, inventive aptitude and meticulous consideration to element the corporate brings to this course of, and which purchasers can discover nowhere else.

GLOBAL & REGIONAL SALES

Rolls-Royce studies gross sales progress within the majority of the markets during which it operates, with deliveries reaching new file ranges within the Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Europe areas.

The USA was Rolls-Royce’s single largest market worldwide, whereas Greater China reaffirmed its standing because the marque’s second-largest market. Record gross sales have been achieved in Europe, the place the UK is the biggest single market. Supported by the Private Office Dubai, the Middle East maintained its place because the main supply of extremely elaborate and technically demanding Bespoke commissions. Record annual gross sales and year-on-year progress within the Asia-Pacific area have been fuelled by a robust efficiency in Korea, whose dynamic, vibrant financial system is mirrored in a quickly increasing luxurious market.

CULLINAN LEADS THE WAY, WITH STRONG SALES FOR ALL MODELS

As in 2022, Cullinan was probably the most requested Rolls-Royce mannequin worldwide, adopted by Ghost. Phantom continues to reign supreme because the marque’s pinnacle product.

As deliberate, in 2023 Rolls-Royce ceased manufacturing of Wraith (launched in 2013) and Dawn (2015). With Wraith’s departure from the portfolio, Rolls-Royce has now made its last-ever V12 coupé, an historic second commemorated within the imposing Black Badge Wraith Black Arrow Collection. Released in March and restricted to only 12 examples, the Bespoke artistry seen inside these historic fashions was impressed by the world land pace information set in 1938 on Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats by Captain George Eyston in Thunderbolt, a seven-tonne, eight-wheeled leviathan powered by two Rolls-Royce ‘R’ V12 aero engines.

SPECTRE 

Rolls-Royce unveiled Spectre to the world in October 2022, with manufacturing beginning in late summer season 2023 and the primary automobiles delivered to purchasers within the autumn. The first all-electric collection Rolls-Royce in historical past has attracted huge curiosity worldwide, significantly amongst youthful purchasers, setting a transparent course of journey and establishing a strong basis for the marque’s daring electrical future.

ECONOMIC IMPACT

In 2023, Rolls-Royce marked the primary 20 years of manufacturing at Goodwood by commissioning an unbiased examine into the financial influence the corporate achieves. Conducted by a workforce from the London School of Economics (LSE) the examine calculated Rolls-Royce’s complete contribution to the UK financial system at over £4 billion since 2003, and now greater than £500 million yearly.

Around a fifth of that contribution is made immediately in Chichester and West Sussex, by means of native provide chains and employment of its native workforce. There at the moment are over 2,500 individuals working on the Home of Rolls-Royce, Goodwood; 180 new jobs have been created throughout 2023 alone.


FUTURE TALENT

One of the biggest employers within the Chichester space, Rolls-Royce continues to spend money on its individuals by means of in depth ongoing coaching programmes and its Future Talent programme. Established in 2006, this programme helps greater than 100 Apprenticeships, Graduate Placements and paid Internships yearly, guaranteeing the marque’s expertise pool is at all times capable of service ongoing product and Bespoke demand. In 2023, the corporate welcomed 27 Apprentices, who will spend between two and 4 years studying specialist craft expertise alongside skilled colleagues, whereas learning for nationally recognised vocational {qualifications}. The new cohort additionally consists of Degree Apprentices, who will full their undergraduate research on the close by University of Chichester.


BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

In 2023, Rolls-Royce submitted plans for a significant new funding to modernise and improve its manufacturing amenities. The plans will improve and lengthen the marque’s Bespoke and Coachbuild capabilities in addition to assist manufacturing of its future all-electric product portfolio. This important funding represents the only largest injection of recent capital on the Home of Rolls-Royce because the web site opened in 2003. This displays the size of the transformation within the firm’s measurement, actions, industrial success and international affect within the intervening twenty years.

While over this time the present plant has seen important modifications internally – most notably going from two manufacturing traces to at least one – the constructing itself is actually the identical because it was on day one. Then, it employed round 300 individuals and produced only one motor automotive a day.

Following in depth session with native residents, in late summer season 2023 the corporate submitted a proper planning software for an extension to the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood on land instantly adjoining to its present 42-acre web site. The plans take account of the positioning’s distinctive location, on the south-west nook of the historic Goodwood Estate and near the South Downs National Park boundary. Like the unique constructing, the brand new extension will probably be extremely sustainable, and largely invisible at floor stage past the positioning. Around one-third of the brand new web site will probably be landscaped, reflecting the corporate’s ongoing dedication to supporting native wildlife and biodiversity.

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2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR Winter Test Is An Ultra-Limited Race Replica

The Kawasaki Ninja is arguably probably the most profitable supersport bike vary in existence. The identify itself has gone to outline the very essence of a sportbike, with non-enthusiasts generally referring to any sportbike, whatever the producer, as a Ninja. That mentioned, the bike’s iconic standing is not at all unfounded, as even right now, the Ninja ZX-10RR stays one of the crucial aggressive machines within the Superbike World Championship.

To rejoice this success, Kawasaki has launched an ultra-limited-edition model of the Ninja ZX-10RR referred to as the Winter Test Edition. There have been Winter Test Editions of superbikes prior to now, often launched in the direction of the top of the 12 months the place it’s winter in most elements of the northern hemisphere. However, the 2024 Ninja ZX-10RR Winter Test Edition is made additional particular, with solely 25 models set to ever see the sunshine of day. Each bike has been designed and ready by none apart from the WSBK Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) technical division, and is aligned to the racing group’s rigorous requirements.

The fortunate homeowners of the 2024 Winter Test Edition will get a motorbike that’s draped in a livery just like that of the WSBK KRT Ninja Winter Test bike. There’s additionally a numbered plate on the tank protector, in addition to an exhaust system from Akrapovic. To high all of it off, homeowners of the brand new bike will get a two-person VIP go to entry any 2024 WSBK spherical of their alternative. The particular go entitles you to entry the paddock throughout your chosen WSBK spherical, in addition to VIP entry to Kawasaki Racing Team hospitality and containers. You’ll additionally get a guided tour of the KRT Box, and get to satisfy and greet Team Green’s racers Alex Lowes and Axel Bassani.

Apart in fact from the particular perks and added options on the ZX-10RR Winter Test Edition, the bike is one potent piece of equipment as it’s. It’s packing 214 horsepower courtesy of a 998cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, inline-four cylinder engine. Torque is rated at 82.5 pound-feet, so that you’re promised unwavering acceleration and an exhilarating high finish.

Other options embrace a complete suite of electronics reminiscent of a fast shifter, traction management, and cornering administration. There’s additionally an Ohlins steering damper to make sure most management. For higher road-going functionality, the bike will get built-in cruise management, and a big, full-color TFT show to maintain tabs very important experience stats.

Naturally, a motorbike of this caliber would command fairly a premium, and the ZX-10RR Winter Test Edition is not any exception. It carries an MSRP of 33,000 euros, translating to about $35,532 USD on the time of writing. Only 25 models will likely be offered, with 10 reserved for the French market. There’s no phrase simply but if this bike will make its method stateside, however I wouldn’t financial institution on it if I have been you.


8 Photos

BMW

BMW M Sports Trophy: BMW M Motorsport honours probably the most profitable non-public groups and drivers of the season.

Munich. For the 61st time, BMW M Motorsport honoured probably the most profitable non-public groups and drivers for his or her performances in BMW race automobiles all over the world on the BMW M Sports Trophy Awards final Saturday. Turner Motorsport topped the workforce rating this time, whereas Michael Schrey (GER) triumphed within the driver rating. BMW M CEO Franciscus van Meel congratulated the winners on website and likewise paid tribute to the long-standing GT3 workforce Walkenhorst Motorsport, which can face a brand new problem in 2024 and can solely symbolize the BMW M Motorsport colors with the BMW M4 GT4.

 

“It is a decades-long tradition at BMW M Motorsport to offer the private teams and drivers the big stage they deserve as ambassadors of BMW and BMW M around the world at the end of each racing season through the BMW M Sports Trophy Awards,” stated Franciscus van Meel. “I thank all participants for their loyalty and dedication and congratulate the winners very warmly. Especially the first-placed Turner Motorsport and Michael Schrey, who have contributed significantly to an overall very successful season for the BMW M Motorsport family. At the same time, I wish Walkenhorst Motorsport, which will face a new challenge in the GT3 sector in 2024, all the best! We will always remember the shared victories – especially the triumph at the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps – and look forward to continuing to work together in GT4.”

Between 2013 and 2023, Walkenhorst Motorsport competed with BMW M Motorsport GT3 automobiles. In 2018, the workforce celebrated the most important success in its historical past with the 24-hour victory at Spa-Francorchamps (BEL) with the BMW M6 GT3. Walkenhorst Motorsport has additionally represented the colors of BMW M Motorsport excellently within the DTM and different high-class GT racing sequence. In 2023, the workforce gained 5 season races of the Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS) with the BMW M4 GT3 and secured the title within the NLS Speed Trophy. In addition, they gained the GT title within the Asian Le Mans Series. Walkenhorst Motorsport completed fourth within the BMW M Sports Trophy workforce rating.

This time, Turner Motorsport from North America topped the workforce rating. Thanks to sturdy outcomes with the BMW M4 GT3 within the IMSA WeatherTech SportsAutomobile Championship and the Fanatec GT World Challenge America, in addition to title wins with the BMW M4 GT4 within the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge and the IMSA VP Racing SportsAutomobile Challenge, the workforce of Will Turner prevailed with 1,165 factors. BimmerWorld Racing and Adrenalin Motorsport adopted intently behind in second and third place.

Michael Schrey triumphed within the driver rating with 912 factors, primarily resulting from his title win within the GT4 European Series. He was additionally profitable within the NLS. Second place within the driver rating went to his teammate at Hofor Racing by Bonk Motorsport within the GT4 European Series, Gabriele Piana (ITA). Third place went to Chandler Hull (USA).

“Congratulations to all BMW M Motorsport teams and drivers who have celebrated successes this season – especially to the winners of tonight’s awards,” stated Björn Lellmann, Head of Customer Racing at BMW M Motorsport. “We look back on a fantastic season for our race cars. The BMW M4 GT3 has won titles in the IMSA series, the GTWC Europe Gold Cup, British GT, Italian GT, NLS, and the Asian Le Mans Series, and has won major individual events such as the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, the 24 Hours of Dubai, 9 Hours of Kyalami, and 8 Hours of Indianapolis. The BMW M4 GT4 has won titles in the GT4 European Series, the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge, the VP Racing SportsCar Challenge, the GT4 Asia, and the GT4 America. In addition, we have seen great brand trophies with the BMW M2 CS Racing. A very special congratulations goes to Adrenalin Motorsport for their sixth consecutive overall NLS victory – what an incredible achievement! I can’t wait to watch our teams and drivers strive to top this outstanding record again in 2024.”

BMW M works driver and BMW SIM Racing ambassador Bruno Spengler (CAN) offered the awards, which for the primary time additionally included the popularity of one of the best contributors within the BMW M SIM Trophy, the digital counterpart to the BMW M Sports Trophy. Those sim racers had been honoured who had been most profitable in digital BMW M race automobiles.

BMW

BMW M Motorsport News, 30th October 2023.

Björn Lellmann, Head of Customer Racing at BMW M Motorsport:

“Congratulations to Jens Klingmann and Bruno Spengler on their Sprint Cup title win in the Italian GT Championship. It was a well-deserved victory for BMW Italia Ceccato Racing. The title win for Century Motorsport in the British GT Championship was equally exciting. Dan Harper and Darren Leung took home the overall title, while Michael Johnston and Chris Salkeld secured the Pro-Am class title with the BMW M4 GT4. Jody Vullo, Gianni van de Craats, and Sen Roodenburg also emerged as champions in their respective races with the BMW M2 CS Racing Cups Italy and Benelux.”

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Italian GT Championship: Spengler and Klingmann claim the title with a podium at Imola.

Jens Klingmann and Bruno Spengler won the Sprint Cup title in the Italian GT Championship after a thrilling race in Imola. Despite some difficulties in previous races, the BMW Italia Ceccato Racing team managed to secure the championship. Klingmann expressed his pride in winning the title with the BMW M4 GT3, while Spengler credited the team’s hard work throughout the season. The championship win was well-deserved after a close competition.

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British GT Championship: Harper and Leung win the title after a thrilling finale.

Dan Harper and Darren Leung clinched the title in the British GT Championship after an intense season finale at Donington Park. Despite facing challenges during the race, Harper managed to make an impressive comeback and secure second place. The victory marked their fourth podium finish of the season and secured them the overall championship title. Harper described the emotions as “unbelievable” and expressed his gratitude to BMW M Motorsport and his teammate Darren Leung.

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ADAC GT Masters: Season finale at Hockenheim.

Schubert Motorsport had a disappointing weekend at the ADAC GT Masters season finale in Hockenheim. Eduardo Coseteng and Ben Green finished seventh in Saturday’s race but failed to finish the Sunday race. As a result, they ended the season in seventh place overall.

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ADAC GT4 Germany: Podium for the BMW M4 GT4 at the season finale.

Marat Khayrov and Gabriele Piana achieved a podium finish in the final race of the 2023 ADAC GT4 Germany season. Starting from tenth on the grid, they battled their way to second place, fulfilling their goal for the season. Their teammates Tim Reiter and Leon Wassertheurer finished fifth, completing a successful weekend for the BMW M4 GT4 team.

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BMW M2 CS Racing Cup Italy: Jody Vullo is the 2023 champion.

Jody Vullo surprised many by winning the title in the BMW M2 CS Racing Cup Italy. In a thrilling final race at Imola, Vullo secured a victory that lifted him ahead of his title rivals and crowned him as the champion. His teammate Mattia Simonini also finished on the podium, completing a one-two victory for Pro Motorsport by BYmyCAR Milano.

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BMW M2 CS Racing Cup Benelux: Van de Craats and Roodenburg win the title.

Gianni van de Craats and Sen Roodenburg claimed the title in the BMW M2 CS Racing Cup Benelux at Assen. The final race saw van de Craats collide with the championship leader, ultimately ending his rival’s chances at the title. Although van de Craats received a 20-second penalty, it was enough to secure the championship for him and Roodenburg. Despite not finishing the race, they finished fifth, securing their position as champions.

News

10 Reasons Why The Corolla Cross Hybrid Is Special

Toyota, a well-respected and successful automaker, is known and loved worldwide. The Corolla series, which has been evolving since its launch in 1966, is available in over 150 countries and has sold 50 million copies as of 2021.

The Corolla Cross Hybrid is a hybrid SUV that combines the features of a small crossover, offering the best of both worlds. With a starting price of just under $30,000, it is an affordable option.

The Corolla Cross Hybrid has a modern and sporty design, with distinct elements that set it apart from its gasoline sibling. It also offers ample cargo space, with 21.5 cubic-feet of room, expanding to 61.8 cubic-feet with the rear seats down.

Based on Toyota’s New Global Architecture platform, the Corolla Cross Hybrid benefits from a lowered center of gravity and increased rigidity, resulting in superb handling and a smooth driving experience.

The interior of the Corolla Cross Hybrid features an eight-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and optional JBL Premium Audio for a high-quality sound experience.

The Corolla Cross Hybrid is powered by a hybrid system that produces 196 combined horsepower, providing ample power for daily commutes. It also delivers a combined fuel economy of 42 miles per gallon.

Toyota’s commitment to safety is evident in the Corolla Cross Hybrid, which comes equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of advanced safety features.

The Corolla Cross Hybrid is backed by Toyota’s comprehensive warranty plan, including a 10-year warranty for the hybrid system.

News

10 Things We Expect To See In An Electric Audi R8 Successor

Introduced in 2006, the R8 has been one of Audi’s most successful and popular supercars in recent times. It has won numerous endurance races and received multiple awards. The R8 shared engines with the Gallardo and Huracan (currently). However, Audi is now shifting towards electric vehicles, and it has been confirmed that the R8 will be discontinued after 2023. An electric successor is already in development and here are ten things we expect to see in the new electric Audi R8.

Information sourced from official automaker websites and press releases, reputed international news publications like Reuters and U.S. News & World Report, authoritative automotive sites like Formula1, and other reputed automotive publications.

Related: Here’s What Really Makes The Audi R8 V-10 Special

1 It Will Be Based On Porsche’s SSP (Scalable Systems Platform) Sports Platform

Volkswagen

The next electric Audi R8 is expected to be based on Porsche’s Scalable Systems Platform (SSP) Sports Platform. The SSP Sport platform will also underpin other high-performance vehicles like the next-gen Panamera, Taycan, and the upcoming Bentley EV. With powertrains capable of delivering up to 1700 horsepower and supporting electrical systems ranging from 400V to 800V, this platform will provide the necessary performance and technology for the electric R8.

2 Ultra Lightweight Technology

Audi

The current R8 is known for its lightweight construction, and the electric successor is expected to continue this tradition. The new R8 will likely incorporate innovative materials such as carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) and other lightweight materials to reduce weight while maintaining structural rigidity. By utilizing lightweight technology, Audi can enhance the performance and range of the electric R8.

3 All-Electric Powertrain

Audi

The most significant change in the new electric Audi R8 will be the replacement of the internal combustion engine with an all-electric powertrain. While specific details are not available yet, the electric R8 is expected to offer impressive performance and acceleration thanks to the instant torque and responsiveness of electric motors. The powertrain configuration and battery technology are still unknown, but Audi will likely leverage its partnership with Porsche and Volkswagen to develop a high-performance electric drivetrain.

4 High-Performance Capabilities With Up To 1,000 Horsepower

Audi

The next-generation Audi R8 is expected to be the most powerful Audi ever produced. Insider sources suggest that the electric R8 will have more power than anything else in Audi’s lineup, with some reports even predicting up to 1,000 horsepower. With electric powertrains becoming more advanced, the new R8 has the potential to achieve mind-blowing acceleration and performance figures, making it a true high-performance supercar.

5 Porsche’s Solid-State Battery Technology

Porsche

Instead of using conventional lithium-ion batteries, Audi is considering solid-state battery technology for the new R8. Solid-state batteries offer several advantages over traditional lithium-ion batteries, including higher energy density, faster charging times, and improved safety. Audi’s collaboration with Porsche and QuantumScape in solid-state battery development could lead to the adoption of this technology in the electric R8, providing a longer range and enhanced overall performance.

6 Racing-Inspired Exterior Design

Audi

The Audi R8 has always been known for its distinct and aggressive design inspired by racing cars. The electric successor of the R8 is expected to continue this trend, incorporating racing-inspired exterior elements such as aerodynamic bodywork, a sculpted body, and sharp lines. Concept cars like the Skysphere and PB18 e-Tron showcase the direction Audi might take with the new R8’s design, while also making necessary adjustments to improve aerodynamics and weight distribution.

7 Audi’s “Interior-First” Design Concept

Audi is changing its approach to design by prioritizing the interior over the exterior. The future R8 may feature an interior-first design concept, focusing on creating a human-centric and immersive driving experience. The Activesphere concept gives a glimpse of Audi’s vision for the interior of its upcoming models. With this new design philosophy, expect the new R8 to offer a futuristic and technologically advanced cabin, integrating the latest digital interfaces and driver assistance systems.

8 Upgraded Infotainment System With Virtual Reality

Audi’s Multi Media Interface (MMI) infotainment system is already known for its advanced features and user-friendly interface. The new R8 is expected to receive further upgrades, including a state-of-the-art MMI system with improved speed and functionality. Audi has also introduced virtual reality (VR) technology in selected models, and this immersive feature may be incorporated into the new R8. With holoride-ready capabilities, the R8 will provide an enhanced multimedia experience for passengers.

9 Advanced E-Mobility Technology: The E3 2.0 Software Platform

Audi

Volkswagen’s software unit, CARIAD, is developing the E3 2.0 software platform, which will be utilized in future Audi models, including the new R8. This advanced software platform will enable various digital innovations, including autonomous driving capabilities. It will provide a seamless and integrated user experience for the electric R8, enhancing its performance, connectivity, and overall functionality. Level 4 autonomous driving features may also be integrated into the R8 through this software platform.

10 Expensive Price Tag Of Around $300,000

Audi

With the introduction of new technologies and a focus on high-performance capabilities, the next-generation Audi R8 is expected to come with an expensive price tag. The current R8 GT Coupe is priced at $250,000, so the electric R8 could cost around $300,000 or even more. However, the final price will be influenced by factors such as inflation and the availability of advanced technology. Despite the high price, the new R8 will offer unparalleled performance and cutting-edge features, justifying its premium status in the market.

BMW

BMW M Motorsport News, 17th October 2023

Björn Lellmann, Head of Customer Racing at BMW M Motorsport:

“Another successful race weekend in the USA! Congratulations to Turner Motorsport on winning two titles with the BMW M4 GT4 and achieving a podium finish with the BMW M4 GT3 at Road Atlanta! Turner Motorsport has a long history with BMW M Motorsport and is a great ambassador for our brand in North America. Thank you for your loyalty and commitment over the years. I’m also thrilled that BMW Italia Ceccato Racing won the Pro-Am title in the Italian GT Endurance Championship. Team Principal Roberto Ravaglia is a BMW M Motorsport legend, and the race series provides an excellent platform. Now, I’m looking forward to the Sprint finale in two weeks!”

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IMSA series: Two titles for Turner Motorsport.

Turner Motorsport had a successful weekend at the IMSA race at Road Atlanta (USA). In addition to a second-place finish in the GTD class of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship with the #96 BMW M4 GT3, Turner Motorsport also won two titles with the BMW M4 GT4.

In a thrilling finale to the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge, Robby Foley and Vincent Barletta celebrated a slightly fortunate victory. They finished 13th in the #96 BMW M4 GT4, which initially meant they would have missed out on the title. However, due to penalties for two other cars, they were promoted two positions, securing their championship win by just ten points. Foley expressed mixed feelings about the win, acknowledging that a more decisive result would have been preferable. Team Principal Will Turner described the race as a reflection of the whole season, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the championship. In the GSX class of the IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge, Turner Motorsport and driver Francis Selldorff secured a clear victory with a 150-point lead in the championship.

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Italian GT Championship: Pro-Am Endurance title for BMW Italia Ceccato Racing.

BMW Italia Ceccato Racing team clinched the Pro-Am class title at the season finale of the Italian GT Endurance Championship at Vallelunga (ITA). A fifth-place overall finish in the final race secured the title for Stefano Comandini, Marco Cassarà, and Alfred Nilsson in the #7 BMW M4 GT3. The team also finished as runners-up in the overall championship. In the same race, Francesco Guerra, Salvatore Tavano, and Carlo Tamburini finished third overall, winning the Pro-Am class in the #8 BMW M4 GT3.

The Sprint Championship season finale will take place at the end of October, with BMW M works drivers Jens Klingmann and Bruno Spengler in contention for the title.

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Super GT Series: Penultimate event at Autopolis.

In the seventh of eight races in the 2023 Super GT Series at Autopolis (JPN), BMW M works driver Bruno Spengler achieved a top-ten finish alongside Seiji Ara. Starting from eleventh on the grid in the #7 BMW M4 GT3, Spengler and Ara fought their way up to eighth place. Despite carrying 60 kilograms of success ballast, Spengler was pleased with the result and cautious driving towards the end due to brake issues. The points earned in this race were important for the team.

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BMW M2 CS Racing Cup Benelux: Victories for Rappange/Warmerdam and van der Sloot.

In the BMW M2 CS Racing Cup Benelux at Spa-Francorchamps (BEL), Dante Rappange and Dirk Warmerdam won the opening race in the #15 BMW M2 CS Racing, while Sandra van der Sloot claimed victory in the second race in the #34 BMW M2 CS Racing. Rappange and Warmerdam started from pole position and finished with a three-second lead over Senna von Soelen and Mark van de Aa. Van der Sloot started from pole position in race two and maintained her lead to secure the win. Van Elk finished second, and Sen Roodenburg and Gianni van de Craats finished third after a drive-through penalty.

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Sim racing: BMW M SIM Cup at Road Atlanta circuit.

Matt J. Farrow and Josh Lad from the Williams Esports team won the BMW M SIM Cup on iRacing at the Road Atlanta circuit. Despite a seventh-place finish in qualifying, Farrow and Lad made a remarkable comeback, crossing the finish line first with a 1.5-second lead. In the GT3 class, Salva Talens and Alejandro Sanchez secured their first victory of the season in the #99 BMW M4 GT3, while Alexander Thiebe and Sam Kuitert finished third. Team Redline’s race was disappointing as Tom Burns crashed early on, preventing Max Verstappen from taking the wheel.

News

The Unrivaled History Of Ford Sports Cars

Summary

  • The Ford Capri was a successful European alternative to the Mustang, selling over 1.9 million units during its production run.
  • The Ford RS200, a Group B rally car, was one of the most desirable classic sports cars with only 200 made and high prices reflecting its rarity.
  • Ford’s hot hatches, like the Focus RS, offered practicality, great handling, and power, making them fun vehicles to drive in any weather condition.

Ford is a well-known automotive brand with a long and respected history. They have been in business for over a century and are recognized globally for producing affordable vehicles that cater to the masses. However, their reputation isn’t solely derived from selling a large volume of cars. Ford has also made a name for itself through its impressive racing heritage on foreign soil.

What sets Ford apart from many other manufacturers is their ability to produce a wide range of sports cars that cater to different types of enthusiasts. The best sports cars usually come from manufacturers with a background in producing regular cars, as they are built to the same high standard. Ford has excelled in this area, and while the Ford Mustang is the most well-known, they have also created other exceptional high-performance sports cars.

This article is based on information from Ford, Collecting Cars, and Goodwood.

The Ford Capri Was A British Mustang

Wikimedia Commons/Ermell

The Ford Capri, produced from 1968 to 1986, was often referred to as the British Mustang. It was created as a European alternative to the successful Mustang, which was not available in the European market. Ford Europe aimed to replicate the Mustang’s success, and the Capri proved to be a hit, selling over 1.9 million units during its production run. Despite not having the same power as the Mustang, the Capri targeted a younger audience and offered a fun sports car experience. It borrowed parts from existing Ford models, such as the Escort, Cortina, and Corsair. The Capri also borrowed its name from the Consul Capri, another Ford model from the 1960s. While it lacked a V-8 engine, it featured inline four and V-6 engines. The Capri’s popularity led to its availability in other markets, including Australia, South Africa, and North America. It even achieved success in rallying and touring car championships, further proving its capabilities.

The Ford RS200 Was A Group B Racer For The Road

Bring-A-Trailer

The Ford RS200 was a rare and highly desirable sports car that was born out of Ford’s participation in Group B rallying. To meet the racing requirements, Ford had to produce a minimum of 200 road-legal units of the RS200. This mid-engine, four-wheel drive sports car was homologated for road use, giving enthusiasts the chance to experience the performance of a Group B rally car.

Ford RS200 Group B Spec

Engine

Four-cylinder turbo

Displacement

1.8 liters

Power

450 horsepower

Torque

360 pound-feet

Transmission

Five-speed manual

Drivetrain

All-wheel drive

(Specs sourced from Ford)

The RS200 was built by the Reliant Motor Company, with the chassis designed by a former Formula One designer and engineer. While the road version of the RS200 had four-wheel drive, it had less power compared to its racing counterpart, which produced 350–450 horsepower. The RS200 had a short racing career due to the ban on Group B rallying, but its legacy lives on as one of the most desirable classic Ford sports cars. With only 200 units produced, the RS200 commands high prices in the collector car market.

Ford Focus RS: An All-Purpose Hot Hatch

Ford

The hot hatchback segment is one of the most intriguing in the automotive industry. While Ford has discontinued the Focus and Fiesta models, their hot hatches were highly regarded for offering a blend of performance and practicality. The Ford Focus RS, first introduced in 1998, gained popularity when the Focus RS WRC car achieved success in rallying, including winning championships under the late Colin McRae. The road-going Focus RS made its debut in 2009 and featured a limited edition RS500 variant. The third generation of the Focus RS was particularly exciting, as it introduced all-wheel drive, making it a practical car with great handling capabilities. It offered seating for four and decent luggage space, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a sports car with versatility and smaller dimensions. With up to 375 horsepower and different driving modes, including a drift mode, the Focus RS delivered an exhilarating driving experience. Although Ford has discontinued the Focus RS for the North American market, it remains a highly sought-after hot hatch among enthusiasts.

Ford GT: Le Mans Racer Turned Icon

Mecum

The Ford GT is an American icon and a representation of the best of American automotive engineering. From the legendary Le Mans-winning GT40 to the modern versions introduced in 2004 and 2016, Ford has celebrated its heritage and pushed the boundaries of performance. The original GT was the first series production supercar in America, featuring a mid-engine layout, supercharged V-8 engine, and a manual transmission. The latest generation GT deviated from the traditional V-8 engine, opting for a twin-turbo V-6 and the latest racing technology. Despite the change, the current GT retains the design cues of the original GT40, ensuring its recognition as one of the best sports cars ever created.

Ford Had Some Of The Most Successful Race Cars

Ford’s legacy extends beyond its road cars to include some of the most successful race cars in history. From rallying to Formula One, Ford has competed in various motorsport disciplines, which have greatly influenced their road cars. Ford’s dominance in touring car championships with the Ford Sierra RS500 showcased the brand’s ability to produce competitive midsize/large family sedans. The Ford Mondeo continued this success in the super tourer class, winning championships with the help of Prodrive. In Australia’s supercar championship, the Ford Falcon V8 stood as a formidable competitor to the Holden Commodore, winning eight out of 21 championships.

Rally racing is another motorsport discipline where Ford has excelled since the 1960s. Their rally cars, such as the Ford Escort RS1800 and the current Focus and Puma WRC models, have achieved numerous victories, accumulating over 76 wins. However, Ford’s racing legacy is perhaps most renowned for its iconic victories at Le Mans with the GT40. Ford’s bold move to conquer Le Mans paid off immensely and solidified their status as a global force in the automotive world. The second-generation Ford GT continued this success, once again winning the prestigious endurance race.

Ford’s reputation in the automotive and racing scenes is well-deserved. Many older Ford models have become highly desirable classic cars, sought after by collectors worldwide. The brand’s commitment to incorporating race car technologies into their road cars has resulted in exceptional sports cars loved by enthusiasts everywhere.