Automobiles Review

Category: Galleries

  • Audi Q6 e-tron offroad concept

    Audi is redefining electric off-road potential with its striking Q6 e-tron concept, a vehicle built to merge raw capability with emotional design. This prototype isn’t just about power—though its dual motors churn out 380 kW—it’s engineered to conquer extremes. A reimagined portal axle system, distinct from traditional designs, amplifies torque at the wheels by 50%, allowing the vehicle to scale gradients as steep as 45 degrees. To put that into perspective: while most off-roaders might tackle rugged trails, this concept crawls up near-vertical challenges with ease.

    The Q6’s bold stance comes from a 160 mm lift in ride height and a track widened by 250 mm, giving it an almost imposing presence. But beneath the rugged exterior lies Audi’s signature innovation. Engineers started with a simple question: How do you craft an electric vehicle that thrills? Their answer was a ground-up redesign of portal axles, integrated into both front and rear hubs. The result? A jaw-dropping 13,400 Nm of combined torque at the wheels—enough to redefine what “off-road performance” means, even for a brand synonymous with Vorsprung durch Technik (progress through engineering).

    Built on Audi’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE), the same foundation as the production Q6 e-tron, this concept doesn’t sacrifice efficiency for brawn. While its top speed is capped at 175 km/h—plenty for off-grid adventures—the focus remains on pushing boundaries. Later this decade, Audi plans to showcase the concept’s capabilities in action at events like the 2025 F.A.T. Ice Race, with teasers rolling out on their social channels. For now, it stands as a tantalizing glimpse into an electric future where adventure isn’t just possible—it’s electrified.

  • Skoda Enyaq RS Race Concept

    Škoda Motorsport presents a new all-electric racing car concept: the Enyaq RS Race. Rooted in the Czech brand’s racing DNA, this concept supports the development of innovative technologies and sustainable materials, serving as a pilot project for future production models. The lower and wider concept car incorporates innovative, sustainable biocomposite parts that provide the same rigidity and weight advantages as carbon fibre, contributing to an overall weight reduction of 316 kg compared to the Škoda Enyaq Coupé vRS on which it is based.

    Johannes Neft, Škoda Auto Board Member for Technical Development, says: “The Škoda Enyaq RS Race was developed completely in-house by Škoda Motorsport. Based on the Enyaq Coupé vRS production model, the car features a distinctive design with strong racing DNA, enhanced aerodynamics and excellent acceleration. In terms of sustainable solutions, the new concept car also serves as a pilot project for future innovations in series production. The biocomposite parts have led to a significant weight reduction, and we are trialling them in motorsport, including in the current Škoda Fabia RS Rally2, with a view to future implementation.”

    An all-electric race car defined by the motorsport DNA of the Škoda Fabia RS Rally2
    Škoda Motorsport engineers have developed an all-electric racing car that closely matches the handling and interior space of the successful Škoda Fabia RS Rally2. Škoda’s racing DNA and the rigorous demands of motorsport continue to push the boundaries of technical innovation.

    Development of the Enyaq RS Race began in 2023. The project showcases Škoda’s activities in the field of electrified motorsport, driving progress towards a more sustainable future. Based on the Škoda Enyaq Coupé vRS, the concept car uses the same electric powertrain but is 70 mm lower, 72 mm wider at the front, and 116 mm wider at the rear. Most importantly, it is significantly lighter than the production model. Biocomposite parts, incorporating flax fibres in both the body and interior, help to reduce the car’s weight. Additionally, the concept benefits from numerous visual and technical modifications, including a wider, lowered chassis, redesigned bumpers, as well as modified shock absorbers and springs. A completely new high-performance braking system, racing seats, and a roll cage ensure the highest possible active and passive safety. The darkened front headlights feature the distinctive Škoda Motorsport logo, with the headlight housings modified to accommodate the larger wheels. The rear lights have also been darkened. In the Škoda grille, the production model’s Crystal Face has been replaced by a single elongated LED strip connecting the two headlights.

    Biocomposite parts: reducing weight and enhancing sustainability
    To reduce the weight compared to the production model, Škoda Motorsport engineers employed innovative and sustainable materials, removing all components not needed for the car’s intended use. Additionally, they incorporated side and rear windows made of lightweight polycarbonate. These measures together resulted in total weight savings of 316 kg. The sustainable biocomposite parts, developed in collaboration with Škoda’s motorsport partner Bcomp, are used in the bodywork, including the bumpers, fenders, roof, roof vent, and rear wing. These lightweight materials are also applied in the interior, such as the dashboard, door panels, and footrests for the driver and passenger. Additionally, the standard model’s panoramic glass roof was replaced with a biocomposite panel.

    Sustainable flax fibre components: a carbon alternative
    A total of 16 vehicle components are made from sustainable materials, with natural flax fibres replacing carbon in both the interior and the exterior. These are tested under the most challenging racing conditions, for instance in the Škoda Fabia RS Rally2, alongside sustainable lubricants for engines, motors, transmissions and dampers. One example is AmpliTex, a technical reinforcement fabric made from renewable flax fibres grown in Europe. These woven fibres not only reduce vibrations in the interior and contribute to weight reduction but also serve as a visually appealing design element. Moreover, the fibres are processed mechanically rather than chemically, and flax cultivation has a significantly lower impact on the soil compared to other crops.

    Bcomp’s PowerRibs™ technology utilises extremely lightweight, high-performance natural fibres also made from flax. PowerRibs™ combine maximum stiffness and minimum weight by creating a 3D structure to reinforce the thin-walled panels of the car body. The benefits include raw material savings, weight reduction, and lower production costs due to using fewer consumables. The material offers comparable rigidity and weight advantages to carbon fibre while reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 85%. This is the first time Škoda Auto has used this material for large, complex components such as the front wings, side panel and bumpers. The engineers also made extensive use of 3D printing in preparing and producing the prototype, using recycled materials such as nylon and CO2-neutral biodegradable biopolymer filaments.

    Aerodynamic optimisation of the bodywork
    To create the body of the Enyaq RS Race, individual bodywork parts were taken from the production line, redesigned from scratch, and reassembled. In addition to the roll cage made of high-strength chrome-molybdenum steel—which reinforces the body and protects the occupants—the concept car features other safety elements derived from the Škoda Fabia RS Rally2. These include Atech racing seats with six-point seatbelts, safety door filling, and an automatic fire extinguisher. Like WRC rally cars, green and red lights on either side of the vehicle indicate the status of the high-voltage system. The ride height has been lowered by 70 mm, and special protective skids on the underside of the vehicle prevent excessive wear to the chassis components and protect the battery.

    The aerodynamics package includes a large rear wing, an aerodynamically optimised roof, and a NACA air intake channelling air into the interior. Small winglets at the rear of the roof direct airflow straight onto the rear wing. The air intake for the cooling system has also been redesigned, with the front section now completely solid and air drawn in through the lower part of the bumper, necessitating a tilted radiator wall. Redesigned bumpers with two additional air curtains at the front, wider fenders, and a new rear diffuser along with the large rear wing increase the downforce, improving drivability at higher speeds. Turbulence around the wheels is minimised by wing-shaped air-guiding elements, while ventilation grilles in the front and rear wheel arches enhance both aerodynamics and brake cooling. The Enyaq RS Race can also be fitted with aerodynamically optimised wheels.

    Race-ready adjustments: handbrake, suspension, and limited-slip differentials
    Škoda Motorsport experts have adapted several components of the Enyaq RS Race. For example, the production model’s brake system has been replaced with a high-performance setup, featuring carbon-ceramic brake discs, ten-piston callipers at the front, four-piston callipers at the rear and a new brake cooling system. Moreover, the concept car has been fitted with a rally-type hydraulic handbrake with a long lever and the pedal system from the Škoda Fabia RS Rally2. Instead of the standard DCC suspension, a special sports suspension has been installed, allowing for individual adjustments to spring stiffness, compression, and rebound settings.

    The 20-inch wheels are fitted with low-profile tyres. The two electric motors, delivering a combined output of 250 kW, and the 82 kWh battery are identical to those in the production model. Like the Škoda Enyaq Coupé vRS, the top speed is 112 mph (180 km/h), but the lighter Enyaq RS Race can now accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in under five seconds.

    Enhanced steering and controls for on-track performance
    The completely redesigned interior is inspired by the Škoda Fabia RS Rally2 and also includes a modified infotainment system. Featuring new buttons, the racing steering wheel resembles the one from the successful customer rally car. Instead of the progressive rack-and-pinion steering used in the Enyaq Coupé vRS, the Enyaq RS Race is fitted with linear steering, with adjustable steering weight controlled via software, and the drive ratio has been optimised for racing performance. The drive selector and central panel for starting the car and activating the automatic fire extinguishing system are positioned between the seats in this two-seater vehicle.

    Havas sound system: amplified for an authentic motorsport experience
    The Enyaq RS Race features a Havas premium sound system that incorporates a digital sound amplifier to deliver the characteristic, exhilarating motorsport sound. This entirely new system is significantly louder than the unit in the production Enyaq Coupé vRS model, and its note can be changed. The sound is also activated at speeds above 18 mph, ensuring an exciting acoustic experience throughout the drive.

     

  • Ferrari Roma Spider Tailor Made

    Ferrari presents a unique version of the Roma Spider created by the Tailor Made department: the car will be on display at the Enzo Ferrari Museum in Modena as of today as part of the ‘Ferrari One of a Kind’ exhibition, dedicated to the exclusive world of personalisation for the Maranello-based manufacturer.

    The aim of this Roma Spider in particular is to highlight innovative component production techniques, enabled through the use of special, refined supplies. Standing out among these is work on the fabric in the central panel of the seats with manual stitching that adopts leather from the interior and applies thread obtained from recycled tyres.

    On this car, Ferrari has launched work with lasers on aluminium body components for the shield on the front wing, as well as the option of personalising the bonnet design with a compass rose and the geographical coordinates of Maranello. Aluminium recycled during the production phase in the Ferrari foundry is also used to create some components of the twin-turbo V8 engine, reducing the volume of waste to a minimum.

    Other noteworthy features include the use of chrome-free nappa leather and wood of controlled origin on the tonneau cover and rear floor, as well as components made from sand, on the centre console, recycling the sand removed from casts in the Maranello foundry.

    Collaboration with Montblanc was also of considerable importance, with Ferrari’s partner creating a special edition of the celebrated Meisterstück for the occasion. This iconic writing instrument now sports the same Oro Mida colour specifically chosen by the Maranello Styling Centre to characterise the Ferrari Roma Spider Tailor Made. This unique item is also enhanced with a nib made of hand-worked Au750 solid gold and platinum-coated with a special compass motif, and cap and sections also coated in platinum.

    In keeping with the concept of journeying as a thread running through the whole project, the writing instrument is accompanied by a logbook with a cover featuring reused leather in the same colour found in the interior of the Ferrari Roma Spider: Rosso Bologna and Pelle Metalizzata Oro Mida. Impressed on the cover are the coordinates of Maranello, the same as the ones on the body of the logbook and which recall the compass rose engraved on the bonnet, an indissoluble connection between the writing instrument and the car.

    This Ferrari Roma Spider represented an unparalleled opportunity for research and development on materials and processing to further extend the wealth of personalisation options offered by the Tailor Made department. So it is that the car becomes part of the special ‘One of a Kind’ exhibition installed at the Enzo Ferrari Museum in Modena, which offers visitors a specific immersive experience of the personalisation programmes to which Ferrari clients have access: together with the interactive wall enabling a physical experience of materials, fabrics, colours and the vast range of options that the Ferrari Styling Centre provides for clients, the installation is now enhanced with the particular materials chosen for the Ferrari Roma Spider Tailor Made to make it unique. The car will stay on display at the Enzo Ferrari Museum in Modena until February 2025.

    FERRARI ROMA SPIDER – TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

    ENGINE
    Type  V8 – 90° – twin turbo
    Total displacement    3855 cc
    Bore and stroke   86.5 mm x 82 mm
    Max. power output*  456 kW (620 cv) at 5750–7500 rpm
    Max. torque   760 Nm at 3000-5750 rpm
    Max. revs   7500 rpm
    Compression ratio  9.45:1
    Specific power output  161 cv/l

    DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT
    Length     4656 mm
    Width      1974 mm
    Height    1306 mm
    Wheelbase   2670 mm
    Front track    1652 mm
    Rear track      1679 mm
    Dry weight**   1556 kg
    Dry/power ratio    2.5 kg/cv
    Weight distribution    48% front / 52% rear
    Fuel tank capacity    80 litres
    Boot capacity     255 litres

    TYRES AND WHEELS
    Front       245/35 ZR 20 J8.0
    Rear      285/35 ZR 20 J10.0

    BRAKES
    Front     390 x 34 mm
    Rear     360 x 32 mm

    TRANSMISSION AND GEARBOX
    8-speed F1 DCT

    ELECTRONIC CONTROLS
    EPS, VDC, ABS with EBD, F1-TCS, E-Diff3, SSC 6.0, FDE, SCM-E Frs

    PERFORMANCE
    Max. speed      > 320 km/h
    0–100 km/h     3.4 s
    0–200 km/h     9.7 s
    100-0 km/h     32.0 m
    200-0 km/h    130.0 m

    FUEL CONSUMPTION
    11.4 l/100 km – Combined WLTC cycle

    CO2 EMISSIONS
    258 g/km2 – Combined WLTC cycle

    * With 98 RON fuel
    ** With optional lightweight content

     

     

  • Dacia Bigster

    Announced as part of the Renaulution strategic plan in January 2021, Dacia is out to conquer the C-segment. Already Europe’s leading B-segment brand, Dacia is entering the C-SUV segment with Bigster, an all-new vehicle strongly embodying Dacia’s values – Essential but Cool, Eco-Smart, Robust and Outdoor.

    All-New Bigster is tailored to the specific requirements of a steadily growing market. Consumers face spiraling costs, becoming an issue for many C-SUV segment buyers who want to purchase a new car without compromising on comfort, performance and space.

    Dacia is entering the C-SUV segment with a carefully planned product strategy. With this, All-New Bigster will be followed by two other vehicles.

    DESIGN: DACIA KEEPS ITS PROMISE WITH ALL-NEW BIGSTER
    In January 2021, Bigster Concept – an emblematic car of the Renaulution – illustrated Dacia’s ambition to scale greater heights, and more specifically, the C-SUV segment. Bigster Concept was a clear promise that has since created considerable expectation.

    Today, All-New Bigster is delivering on all the promises made by Bigster Concept.

    David Durand, Dacia Design Director explains: “With All-New Bigster, we have stayed true to the intentions expressed in Bigster Concept. Bigster is the ultimate expression of Dacia’s values and is now our brand’s flagship vehicle.”

    Dacia’s values are a close fit with the requirements of the C-SUV segment. The design of All-New Bigster showcases its robust styling and ability to support car buyers in their work, leisure and family activities. Generous dimensions are accentuated by taut, geometric shapes and volumes. The large wings over the wheels, and the position of the headlights and rear lights at the far edges of the vehicle, reinforce Bigster’s assertive on-road stance.

    The strong presence of All-New Bigster and perception of robust styling are further underlined by a compact, vertical front end that is typical of SUVs. The front end is also true to Dacia’s design language, with a wide, gloss black grille featuring the iconic “Dacia Link” in the centre. The sculpted, horizontal bonnet has been designed to give the driver a clear view of the road below.

    The styling of All-New Bigster goes straight to the essentials, without forgetting the ‘cool’ touch that is part of Dacia’s brand values and is expected by C-SUV customers.

    But, famed for doing things differently, Dacia is playing it cool in its own way. Graphic design features add a touch of casual elegance on the front end and doors, as well as above the rear number plate. Rather than following a trend and adopting only gloss black, Dacia designers have opted for a mix of gloss and matt black, creating a more robust and resistant finish.

    The front and rear skid plates are dyed in the mass, making them more durable and resistant. The protection running all the way around the body – on the sides, wheel arches and lower part of the bumpers – is made from Starkle®. Dacia is using this material for a more sustainable approach.  Developed by the brand’s engineers and incorporating recycled materials, Starkle® is used in an untreated and unpainted form.

    Very Dacia, and therefore very functional, All-New Bigster adapts to the tastes and expectations of C-SUV segment customers. All-New Bigster has 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels as standard, with 19-inch wheels on the top-spec Journey trim. On higher trim levels, customers can opt for a black roof creating a two-tone finish that showcases the vehicle’s lines – a first for Dacia.

    A new body colour is also available, Indigo Blue. Exclusive to All-New Bigster, this metallic shade adds a touch of elegance.

    David Durand continues: “In terms of interior design, we wanted to underline one of All-New Bigster’s major assets: its exceptional interior space. We’ve gone for simplicity, with geometric lines that echo those of the exterior, while delivering the quality expected by customers in the C-SUV segment.”

    Inside the All-New Bigster, the designers focused on the essentials, which are space, ergonomics and comfort. The high-mounted vertical dashboard increases the space available for passengers at the front.

    For purposes of simplicity and efficiency, driving information is grouped on the 7 or 10-inch digital instrument panel (depending on trim) while information associated with the multimedia system is displayed on the 10.1-inch central touchscreen (standard on all trims). An elegant green line runs between the two screens, integrating them visually with the dashboard.

    Depending on trim level, All-New Bigster is available with three types of centre console at the front: low, intermediate or – for the first time on a Dacia – a high console with an armrest with a built-in cooler compartment, an induction charger and generous storage.

    Emphasis was further placed on the seating upholstery. Depending on the trim level, the focus is on simplicity and appeal (Expression), durability and easy cleaning (Extreme) or enhanced comfort (Journey).

    Last, the Dacia Y signature underlines the link between interior and exterior design on All-New Bigster:

    • On the inside, Y-shaped air vents (in Copper Brown on the Extreme finish), and on the door handles
    • On the outside, Y-shaped light signature at the front and within the LED lights at the rear.

    ESSENTIAL BUT COOL: THE BEST VALUE FOR MONEY IN THE C-SUV SEGMENT
    All-New Bigster is a unique vehicle, providing all the essentials required by customers in the C-SUV segment at a famed-Dacia price. It will truly reflect the brand positioning of “best value for money”.

    EXCEPTIONAL INTERIOR SPACE FOR PASSENGERS AND LUGGAGE
    All-New Bigster is built on CMF-B, the platform at the heart of Dacia’s industrial strategy, with the flexibility to deliver generous interior space. Vehicle features were designed to meet the requirements and expectations of customers in the C-SUV segment, in terms of acoustics (acoustic windscreen, thicker glazing, engine acoustics), finish (new carpet, Touch LED) and seating comfort (passenger lumbar adjustment, rear seat backrest), along with dual-zone air conditioning at the front with air vents at the rear.

    All-New Bigster is one of the most spacious vehicles in the C-SUV segment, satisfying a fundamental requirement for customers in this market. All-New Bigster comfortably accommodates five people with their luggage.

    Headroom is best-in-class at both the front and rear. Passengers at the rear gain best-in-class legroom, for exceptional comfort on long journeys.

    All-New Bigster is also best-in-class for boot capacity, with up to 667 litres VDA under the parcel shelf. An essential quality for family trips. In particular, the length and height of the load space set new standards on the C-SUV market.

    OPTIMISED FOR MODULAR, FUNCTIONAL USE
    All-New Bigster is packed with a host of practical features and touches, allowing customers to make the most of the exceptional interior space.

    The 40 / 20 / 40 rear bench seat lets users carry bulky items without compromising on passenger comfort. When only two passengers are seated at the rear, comfort can be further enhanced by folding down the central part of the backrest, which then forms an armrest incorporating two cupholders and a phone holder. With the backrests folded, All-New Bigster offers a flat boot floor with an exceptional maximum load length of 2.7 metres.

    The Easy Fold function makes it easy to fold the rear backrests from the boot, using two levers positioned left and right of the load space.

    A robust, easy-clean rubber boot mat provides ideal protection for the floor of the load space. When not in use, the mat can be easily rolled up for storage. It is standard with the Extreme trim and available as an accessory for all other Bigster trim levels.

    All-New Bigster also gets YouClip, Dacia’s ingenious new accessories system. A simple and ingenious system for securing a wide range of accessories at key points around the passenger compartment in a practical and robust way. Bigster has, as standard, four YouClip points: on the dashboard, at the rear of the centre console, in the boot and on the inside of the boot door. Customers can add a further two points using the accessory headrest support.

    YouClip anchor points can be used for a tablet holder, storage pouch, phone holder with or without an induction charger, coat hanger or an ingenious “3-in-1” device combining a cup holder, bag hook and portable flashlight. This 3-in-1 system is standard on All-New Bigster Extreme. All YouClip-compatible accessories are available online or from local Dacia retailers.

    EQUIPMENT TO MAKE LIFE EASIER
    All-New Bigster meets the requirements of C-SUV segment customers with its range of equipment, by focusing on day-to-day comfort and convenience. Bigster offers a wide choice of features as optional or standard, depending on trim level.

    Access to Bigster is made easy by the hands-free key and electric powered tailgate. Standard on All-New Bigster Journey, the electric powered tailgate can be activated in three ways: the boot button next to the registration plate light, the a dashboard button or the key.

    All-New Bigster models are equipped with a 10.1-inch central touchscreen as standard.

    Expression trims feature the Media Display multimedia system with four speakers and Apple CarPlay® / Android AutoTM wireless connectivity.

    Extreme and Journey trims feature the Media Nav Live multimedia system, which also provides connected navigation with real-time traffic information and map updates for eight years. Media Nav Live comes with a 6-speaker Arkamys 3D Sound System.

    Setting high standards in driving pleasure, All-New Bigster is equipped, as standard, with a 7-inch (Expression) or 10-inch (Extreme and Journey) digital instrument panel. The customised colour display lets drivers display the information they find most useful.

    All-New Bigster users will also benefit from the dual-zone air conditioning with dedicated air vents for passengers in the rear, a panoramic opening sunroof, wireless smartphone charger and so on. This equipment is available as optional or standard, depending on the trim level, so that customers always have a choice.

    Journey and Extreme trims feature Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) as standard on the Hybrid versions, to meet the needs of retail and fleet customers on long journeys.

    All-New Bigster is naturally compliant with GSRII, the latest European safety standard, with a range of driving aids as standard on all trim levels. Systems include advanced emergency braking (urban / extra-urban with vehicle, pedestrian, cyclist, and motorcycle detection), traffic sign recognition with speed alert, rear park assist, emergency stop signal, lane change alert, lane keeping assist, driver attention warning, and the emergency call system, eCall.

    To make life easier for customers, Dacia has combined these features with an ingenious function called ‘My Safety’. This allows the driver to immediately switch certain ADAS to a personalised mode on start-up, to avoid having to adjust each one every time the car starts.

    ECO-SMART: ELECTRIFIED POWERTRAINS AND SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS
    All-New Bigster is the first vehicle to have Dacia’s new electrified powertrains, delivering best-in-class efficiency. Strongly reflecting its values, Dacia has increased its use of sustainable materials on All-New Bigster.

    NEW ELECTRIFIED POWERTRAINS
    All-New Bigster HYBRID 155.     Bigster is the first Renault Group model to gain the all-new HYBRID 155 powertrain, combining a 107 bhp 4-cylinder petrol engine, two electric motors (a 50 bhp motor and a high-voltage starter/generator), a 1.4 kWh battery (230V) and an automatic electric gearbox. It has four gears for the ICE engine and two others for the electric motors. This combined technology is made possible by the absence of a clutch.

    The HYBRID 155 powertrain complements the HYBRID 140 range available on All-New Duster and Jogger. It delivers more power (up 15 bhp), more torque (up 20 Nm to 170 Nm for the combustion engine alone) and increased towing capacity (up 250 kg to around one tonne). Efficiency has also been improved, with a 6% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions, owing primarily to optimised engine speed management.

    Combining regenerative braking with the high energy recovery capacity of the battery and the efficiency of the automatic gearbox, Bigster can remain in all-electric mode up to 80% of the time in the city. The car always starts up in all-electric mode.

    All-New Bigster TCe 140. Available for the first time in the Dacia range at this level of power, this powertrain is based on the TCe 130 available on All-New Duster. This first level of electrification combines a new-generation 1.2 litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine based on the Miller cycle (optimised efficiency and reduced pumping loss) with a 48V mild hybrid system and a 6-speed manual gearbox.

    The hybrid system supports the combustion engine during the start-up and acceleration phases, optimising driving pleasure and reducing average fuel consumption (5.6 l/100 km) and CO2 emissions (129g/km) by around 10% compared with an ICE of equivalent power. Regenerative braking recharges the 0.8 kWh battery as part of a process that is completely transparent to the driver.

    All-New Bigster TCe 130 4×4. All-New Bigster is built to head off the beaten track with an all-wheel drive system mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, and a 48V mild hybrid system to maximise efficiency. This hybrid system supports the 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged engine during start-up and acceleration, reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, while providing enhanced driving pleasure. Regenerative braking recharges the 0.8 kWh battery as part of a process that is completely transparent to the driver.

    SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS
    As part of its Eco Smart approach, Dacia is proud to be using a larger proportion of sustainable materials on All-New Bigster. Overall, Bigster includes almost 20% of recycled plastics, a higher proportion than usual in the automotive industry.

    All-New Bigster uses Starkle®, a material invented by Dacia’s engineers and first used on All-New Duster. Starkle® contains up to 20% of recycled polypropylene. Used untreated and unpainted, it has a smaller carbon footprint in manufacture. The lower body and wheel arch protection, as well as parts of the front and rear bumpers are made from Starkle®, recognisable by its mottled appearance.

    The front and rear skid plates on All-New Bigster are dyed in the mass, a technique that uses less paint while keeping the parts looking good for longer.

    As part of a more environmentally-friendly approach, Dacia has decided to stop using leather and chrome trim on all its models and to limit the use of paper. As a result, the onboard user manual is smaller. A complete, interactive, digital version is accessible via the My Dacia app and the Dacia website.

    ROBUST AND OUTDOOR: A C-SEGMENT SUV ‘DACIA STYLE’

    EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES FOR GETTING AWAY FROM IT ALL
    Dacia’s ingenious modular roof bars     are standard on All-New Bigster Extreme. The roof bars are longitudinal in the standard position but can be quickly repositioned crosswise. As a result, customers do not need to buy conventional roof bars that have to be continuously assembled and dismantled. All other Bigster models are fitted with fixed longitudinal roof bars as standard.

    Enjoy the open air from the passenger compartment with the panoramic opening sunroof: a first for Dacia. Dacia’s first panoramic opening sunroof is 120 cm long, designed to open by 35 cm with a tilt-and-turn function.  Standard on Extreme, the panoramic opening sunroof lets the light shine in.

    Dacia InNature accessories.

    • Sleep Pack: simple, portable and affordable, the Sleep pack fits into All-New Bigster’s boot. It includes three main parts: a double bed (1m90 long and up to 1m30 wide) that can be deployed by a single person in less than two minutes, a tablet and storage space. The Sleep Pack is designed specifically for the interior dimensions of Bigster.
    • Roof rack: ideal for outdoor activities, the roof rack is simply fixed to the modular roof bars in the crosswise position or to cross-roof bars available after-market (maximum dynamic weight on vehicle roof: 80 kg).
    • Tent: designed for a perfect fit with the rear of All-New Bigster, it provides particularly spacious accommodation while adventuring.

    All-New Bigster offers a range of unique accessories.

    • The nomad armrest in the center of the second row transforms into a backpack, and instantly accompanies the passenger on the next leg of their journey when they leave All-New Bigster.
    • The organiser transforms the front seatback into ergonomic storage for the rear passenger.
    • The Cargo Box attaches to All-New Bigster’s tow bar, providing additional cargo volume without compromising roof clearance.

    ALWAYS READY FOR ADVENTURE
    All-New Bigster is the ideal companion for open-air family adventures, able to go down trails requiring the traction of a 4×4.

    A well-protected body and passenger compartment.

    • You do not have to be afraid of scratches and minor knocks that are an inevitable part of outdoor adventures. The all-round body protection is generous, robust and durable. Made from recycled, unpainted material, the Starkle® used in the wheel arches, side protection and parts of the bumper was developed to resist the knocks and bumps that are frequent in off-road conditions. Similarly, any impacts go virtually unnoticed on the dyed in the mass front and rear skid plates.
    • Inside, All-New Bigster features particularly hard-wearing materials and fabrics. The Extreme trim has, as standard, washable Microcloud synthetic TEP upholstery and rubber floor mats at front and rear, as well as in the boot. These mats include 20% of recycled materials.

    Efficient 4×4 transmission.
    All-New Bigster TCe 130 4×4 features Terrain Control 4×4 transmission, with five driving modes:

    • AUTO: the transmission automatically distributes torque between the front and rear axles depending on grip and speed.
    • SNOW: optimises grip on slippery roads with specific settings for the ESC and traction control functions.
    • MUD/SAND: for driving on loose surfaces such as muddy or sandy tracks
    • OFF-ROAD: delivers the best off-road capability on tough terrain and tracks. This mode distributes torque automatically and efficiently between the front and rear wheels depending on grip and speed.
    • ECO: optimises fuel consumption by adjusting the air conditioning and vehicle performance. It fine-tunes the distribution of engine torque between the front and rear axles to limit fuel consumption while adapting to grip conditions.

    Hill descent control system is standard on Extreme. This system is particularly useful for driving off-road or on steep slopes at low speeds. It continually adjusts the brakes for a controlled descent at an appropriate speed (depending on driver input) of between 0 and 19mph. The system operates in all gears, including reverse. The driver no longer has to worry about the accelerator and brake pedals, just the steering wheel.

    A SIMPLE RANGE TAILORED TO THE NEEDS OF C-SUV CUSTOMERS
    All-New Bigster reflects Dacia’s ambition to deploy model ranges that are simple and clear, meeting the needs of all customers. All-New Bigster is available with three trim levels: Expression and two top-spec models for an similar price, Extreme (built for outdoor enthusiasts with a panoramic opening sunroof, modular roof bars, hill descent control, rubber mats and a 3-in-1 YouClip system as a standard) and Journey (for customers who want to travel in style, with its two-tone body paint (optional black roof), electric powered tailgate and driver’s seat with power controls as a standard).

    Main standard equipment
    Expression:     dual-zone automatic air-conditioning, electric parking brake, rain sensors, 17-inch alloy wheels, fixed roof bars, Media Display with 10.1-inch central touchscreen, 7-inch digital instrument panel, rear parking sensors and camera, electric front and rear windows, power folding mirrors, 40/20/40 rear modular bench seat with the Easy Fold function.

    Extreme: as for Expression + 18-inch alloy wheels, modular roof bars, Copper Brown exterior and interior trim, panoramic opening sunroof, hands-free key, washable Microcloud synthetic TEP upholstery, rubber floor and boot mats, 10.1-inch digital instrument panel, Media Nav Live system with 10.1-inch central touchscreen and connected navigation, 6-speaker Arkamys 3D Sound audio system, hill descent control.

    Journey: as for Expression + 18-inch alloy wheels, two-tone paintwork, electric powered tailgate, hands-free key, high centre console with armrest, driver’s seat with power controls, 10-inch digital instrument panel, New Media Nav Live system with 10.1-inch central touchscreen and connected navigation, 6-speakers Arkamys 3D Sound audio system, wireless phone charger, adaptive cruise control.

     

  • BMW Skytop

    BMW is poised to set pulses racing among fans of exclusive driving pleasure and collectors of automotive masterpieces once again with a strictly limited-run small-series model. Following in the tyre tracks of the BMW 3.0 CSL – revealed in 2022 to mark the 50th birthday of BMW M GmbH – is the BMW Skytop (fuel consumption, combined: 11.6 litres/100 km [24.4 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions, combined: 264 g/km in the WLTP cycle, CO2 class: G; provisional values).
    The BMW Skytop wraps the joy of driving for which the brand is renowned in a timelessly elegant design characterised by precision craftsmanship in every last detail. Initially shown in design study form as the BMW Concept Skytop at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2024 on the shores of Lake Como, the two-seater roadster sent waves of excitement through the assembled connoisseurs and automotive aficionados. This rapturous response prompted BMW to convert the concept into a strictly limited production run of 50 examples.

    The decision was announced by Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Group Design, at an event hosted by the House of BMW in Milan, Italy, where the highly desired design study was again on display. It was also revealed here that all examples of the BMW Skytop reserved for enthusiasts and collectors found their future owners within a very short space of time. “The BMW Skytop is a truly exotic design and offers a combination of driving dynamics and elegance at the highest level,” said van Hooydonk. “To finally be able to announce that this car will be built is like a dream come true. Thank you for the very positive response around the globe and to the passionate team that worked on the project.”

    Dynamism and elegance continue the tradition of legendary BMW roadsters.
    BMW recently presented the likewise strictly limited-run BMW 3.0 CSL. Production of this exclusive sports car was also capped at 50 cars. In both concept and design, the special edition served as a homage to the legendary BMW 3.0 CSL “Batmobile” of the early 1970s.

    The BMW Skytop is another desirable collector’s item from the Bavarian premium carmaker. The open-top two-seater celebrates BMW’s history of iconic roadsters, among them the BMW 507 and BMW Z8. The sculptural athleticism of its body is constructed from taut, muscular surfaces defined by a few precise lines, the BMW Skytop emitting a powerful sense of dynamism before it even turns a wheel. The pronounced arrow shape of the bonnet, evocative BMW shark-nose design and tightening tail are all carefully chosen references to the BMW Z8.

    Just like its legendary roadster ancestor, the BMW Skytop takes to the road with the most powerful V8 in the brand’s armoury. The 4.4-litre petrol unit generates maximum output of 460 kW/625 hp and teams up with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. Maximising traction is the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which distributes the engine’s power between all four wheels as required, and optimises stability and driving dynamics in any situation. With this drive configuration in place, the handsome two-door will sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in around 3.3 seconds.

    Exclusive materials and traditional craftsmanship.
    The exclusivity of this unique masterpiece of automotive craftsmanship is also reflected in its timelessly elegant appearance. Headlining the exterior design is the pronounced spline that extends from the bonnet to an aluminium bar on the boot lid, emphasising the dynamic flow of the special edition’s form. Winglets discreetly integrated into the door shoulders take the place of conventional door handles and – together with the light-alloy wheels with their intricate fins between the spokes – feed into the car’s clean, graceful appearance. The illuminated BMW kidney grille and the headlights also play their part in the progressive look of the front end. The LED units are positioned on aluminium carriers and have the slimmest profile currently available for automotive headlights. They were custom developed for the BMW Skytop and group together all the lighting functions. The rear lights likewise have an arrestingly slim design and carry the progressive design theme of the BMW Skytop into the rear end.

    Like the leather-covered rollover bar behind the seats, the fully retractable rear window and leather-trimmed soft-top roof generate a pure-bred roadster feeling. The two removable roof sections, which are finished with high-quality synthetic leather, stow away in a special compartment in the luggage area.

    The harmonious colour scheme ensures a smooth visual transition from interior to exterior – both with the soft-top open and closed. At the rear of the car, the reddish-brown of the roof flows into the Floating Sundown Silver exterior paint finish, whose chrome shadow effect gives it impressive visual impact. The elaborate colour gradient was applied by hand by experienced master painters.

    Inimitable ambience, exquisite appointments and high-quality equipment.
    Inside the BMW Skytop, too, precision craftsmanship, handpicked materials and warm, monochrome colour tones create a feel of cosseting luxury and singular elegance. In common with other elements of the interior design, the leather seats, accented by brogue-style decoration, come in the same shade of brown used for the roof. Crystal applications embedded ornately into the cockpit also contribute to the sumptuous on-board ambience.

    The exclusive character of the BMW Skytop is additionally underscored by high-quality equipment features such as a soft-close function for the doors and the stunning Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes the full-colour BMW Head-Up Display, which projects driving and navigation information directly into the driver’s field of view.

  • The True cost of owning a Subaru Forester in 2024

    2022-subaru-forester-e-boxer

    The Subaru Forester has long been a favorite among SUV enthusiasts, offering a combination of practicality, reliability, and all-wheel-drive capability. However, owning a vehicle involves more than just the purchase price. In this article, we’ll break down the true cost of owning a Subaru Forester in 2024, considering purchase price and financing, insurance, fuel, maintenance, and depreciation.

    Purchase Price and Financing

    The starting MSRP for a 2024 Subaru Forester is around $27,500 for the base trim, while higher trims like the Touring can cost upwards of $37,000. Adding features such as roof racks, premium audio systems, or off-road accessories can increase this price further.

     

    For financing, if you opt for a 5-year loan at a 6% interest rate with a 10% down payment, your monthly payment for a base model would be approximately $450–$550, depending on your credit score and additional fees.

    Depreciation

    Depreciation, the reduction in value over time, is a significant factor in the total cost of ownership. Subaru vehicles typically retain their value well, with the Forester losing about 40–45% of its value after 5 years. For a $30,000 vehicle, this translates to approximately $13,500 in depreciation over 5 years.

    Fuel Costs

    The Subaru Forester is equipped with a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine. The 2024 Subaru Forester delivers an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway, averaging about 29 mpg combined. With gas prices hovering around $3.50–$4.00 per gallon in 2024, annual fuel costs for driving 15,000 miles would be approximately $1,800–$2,000.

     

    For those considering the Forester Wilderness trim, which is designed for off-road enthusiasts, fuel efficiency drops slightly due to its all-terrain tires and different gear ratios.

    Maintenance and Repairs

    Subarus are known for their reliability, but regular maintenance is key to keeping the Forester in good shape. Expect to spend around $600–$800 per year on oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine services. Owners should also budget for unexpected repairs, especially as the car ages.

     

    • Factory Warranty: Subaru offers a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
    • Extended Warranty Options: For added peace of mind, Subaru provides extended warranties starting at around $1,500.

    Insurance Costs

    Car insurance is a significant factor in the cost of ownership. The average annual insurance premium for a Subaru Forester in 2024 is around $1,300–$1,700, depending on the driver’s age, location, driving history, and coverage options.

     

    Subaru car insurance varies based on the model, your location, driving history, and the level of coverage you choose. Subaru vehicles, including popular models like the Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, and Impreza, are generally affordable and are considered safe vehicles, thanks to their EyeSight Driver Assist Technology and excellent crash test ratings, which can lower insurance rates. However, owners who opt for full coverage and lower deductibles should anticipate higher premiums. Subaru vehicles are affordable to insure due to their excellent safety ratings, robust build, and widespread availability of replacement parts.

    Taxes and Registration

    Annual taxes and registration fees vary by state but typically range from $300 to $700 in the first year, decreasing as the vehicle depreciates. Some states also impose additional fees for vehicles with higher emissions, though the Forester’s efficiency keeps these costs modest.

    Total Ownership Costs

    When all factors are considered, owning a Subaru Forester for five years can cost between $40,000 and $50,000, depending on trim level, driving habits, and regional factors.

    Conclusion

    The Subaru Forester remains a solid choice in 2024, offering excellent value for its capabilities. While its upfront cost and long-term expenses may be higher than smaller vehicles, the Forester’s reliability, safety features, and all-wheel-drive system make it a worthwhile investment for those who need a dependable SUV. By understanding the true cost of ownership, you can better decide if the Forester fits your budget and lifestyle.

  • Alpine A390 Beta Concept

    The A390_β show car, the very first 100% electric Alpine sport fastback introduces a new dimension to the brand’s sporting universe. It foreshadows the second of three Dream Garage models, the ideal garage by Alpine for all enthusiastic drivers.

    After the A290 and before the future electric A110, the A390_β anticipates the second phase of Alpine’s Dream Garage, the trio of sports cars marking the brand’s electric transition.

    The name A390_β follows Alpine’s nomenclature, which combines an A followed by three numbers. The 3 refers to the size of the vehicle, and the 90 to the brand’s multi-purpose, everyday vehicles. The Greek letter beta refers to the intermediate stage of development before the official launch of the production car.

    The A390_β offers a glimpse of the future road car designed for daily use and capable of transforming itself into a racing beast like the iconic A110, for a far sportier driving experience. Alpine defines it as a true sports car under a “dressed” design, like a racing car in a tailor-made suit.

    Like the Alpenglow concept car presented at the 2022 Paris Motor Show, the A390_β show car draws inspiration from the Alps’ mountain ranges. Rock, minerals, and snow are natural elements that have fuelled the design and choice of materials, giving it its strength of character.

    Drawing on its heritage and racing DNA, Alpine proposes a creation emblematic of French savoir-faire, a perfect blend of daring and innovation. At a time when low-carbon transport is becoming essential in the automotive sector, the Alpine A390_β show car is more than just a promise. It demonstrates the Alpine brand’s commitment to high-end, exhilarating, and sustainable sportiness.

    “A390_β previews the future Alpine sport fastback, which we have designed like an A110 with 5 seats. The duality between the racing spirit and the refinement of this show car embodies the performance and driving experience that we will deliver from 2025 onwards in our production vehicle, produced in France at the historic Dieppe Manufacture. More than the promise of a 100% Alpine experience, it’s a genuine commitment.”
    Philippe Krief, Alpine CEO

    A390_β EXTERIOR DESIGN: THE SPORT FASTBACK, AN ALPINE FIRST & FOREMOST

    At first glance, the A390_β catches the eye with its undeniably Alpine look, interpreted here as a minimalist, high-tech strip of light.

    A390_β, the new Alpine silhouette
    The silhouette of the A390_β, as dynamic as it is fluid, unveils a genuine sculpture. It resembles a monolithic bubble, drawing its inspiration from a drop of water. This natural shape offers the optimum balance between functionality and aerodynamics. Lastly, the side of the car follows the signature line of Alpine cars, adding an impression of movement, even when stationary.

    “Bleu Specular”, an iconic colour
    The A390_β’s intense, multi-faceted blue highlights the show car’s sharp shapes. The moving paint particles vibrate with movement. The tint oscillates between bright, light-catching blues and deeper shades; this interplay of contrasts accentuates the vehicle’s lines.

    The lighting signature, the soul of the show car
    The Alpine A390_β show car stands out for its distinctive lighting signature, in line with Alpenglow. A swarm of illuminated triangles called “Cosmic Dust” under the front and rear lighting strip evokes a comet piercing the atmosphere. Lastly, the slender light bars at the front and rear, which seem to split the air like a blade, evoke lightness.

    Aerodynamics for even more sportiness
    As if flowing through the air, the A390_β features visible aerodynamic elements. At the front, a “flying bridge” enhances airflow over the upper part of the vehicle. The micro-perforated grille guides the air in the best possible way, while the wide side scoops create an air curtain to accelerate the natural flow.

    The more conceptual rear end is the interpretation of “Light Follows Function”: the light underlines the show car’s aerodynamic elements. The shark fin, a reference to the Alpines racing at Le Mans, is synonymous with fluidity and stability.

    Lastly, in harmony with the rear diffuser, the illuminated light strip can be extended or retracted by 80 mm, enabling the A390_β to transform from a ‘short-tail’ to a ‘long-tail’ design. This ability to extend reduces the aerodynamic drag coefficient and improves the vehicle’s operating range.

    The snowflake as a source of inspiration
    The design of the A390_β show car’s wheels are inspired by the crystalline properties of a snowflake, both strong and light. The 22-inch front and 23-inch rear wheels are enhanced by a cabochon in the wheel centre, illuminated by a bluish halo reminiscent of jewellery. The transparent effect of the central flange, which resembles a thin layer of ice, highlights the Active Torque Vectoring function in the background.

    The definition of sport fastback, according to Alpine
    For a show car whose exterior design is 85% true to that of the future production model, A390_β embodies a philosophy where form follows function and the technical and aerodynamic elements are intentionally sporty.

    It takes the form of a sport fastback, combining fluidity and sportiness with spaciousness. This silhouette, with its plunging rear window, like an unbroken line, contributes to the vehicle’s aerodynamic performance.

    As a result, A390_β boasts lines combining lightness and dynamism and is, first and foremost, an invitation to experience sportiness with others.

     

    A390_β INTERIOR DESIGN: SPECTACULAR DUALITY

    While the exterior of the A390_β show car tends to resemble the future production model, the interior is deliberately conceptual, allowing a glimpse of a futuristic vision of Alpine interiors while preserving the brand’s fundamentals.

    “Duality is at the heart of the A390_β’s design, a powerful vector of emotion and creation. The colourful exterior contrasts with the monochrome interior, where sharp black mineral contrasts with the whiteness of immaculate snow. Technology coexists with nature, the raw with the refined, the hot with the cold… The driving position itself has two facets: a simple press of the central control transforms it into a Formula 1 cockpit.”
    Antony Villain, VP, Alpine Design

    An immediate immersion in the Alps
    The antagonistic opening of the side doors and the absence of a B-pillar reinforce the feeling that the A390_β is an invitation to climb aboard and reveal an overall symbolism inspired by the Alps. The interior is designed like a mountain landscape, exploiting all the sensations this universe provokes in our imagination.

    Two very distinct worlds, cut by a clear diagonal, can be found:

    • at the front, mineral meets technicity with sharp lines forging a Formula 1 cockpit The A390_β reveals all its sportiness thanks to a driving cockpit and a double driving position, both dynamic and innovative.
    • at the rear, an immaculate blanket of powder reminds the purity of snow-covered peaks and embodies ultimate comfort.

    Lastly, the floor features a unique structure made from ultra-light recycled carbon. Thanks to the multiple raised inserts of carbon elements, this floor evokes speed and asphalt as you watch it roll by under your feet.

    The cockpit, the centrepiece of the show car
    The cockpit of the A390_β is an immersive space that promises to offer drivers a “Feel@One” experience, where they become one with their car. The cockpit consists of a luminous triangle graphically representing the driving axis. Three glass slats behind the steering wheel, positioned successively, create a holographic effect for a dynamic, multi-dimensional reading of driving information.

    The steering wheel, F1 at your fingertips
    Directly inspired by Formula 1, the A390_β’s steering wheel is compact, technical and precise, inviting you to drive. It features two different geometries, allowing drivers to switch between the world of everyday driving and that of extreme sportiness.

    The driver places an ice crystal (as a key) at the centre of the steering wheel to bring the vehicle to life. Like a jewel, it is inspired by the crystals found in high mountains. It seals the famous Alpine A-arrow logo as if set in ice.

    Derived from F1, the OV or ‘overtake’ button – already featured on the A290’s steering wheel – allows full engine power to be delivered instantly with a light touch.

    Further buttons allow for modifying the hydraulic suspension, metering the regenerative braking and adapting the multimedia modes.

    An enhanced driving experience
    The P-R-N-D transmission buttons on the centre console take on a mineral aspect, like cut and polished pieces of rock. The seat control, positioned just to the right of the driver and in the heart of the cockpit, initiates the driver’s seat position change to “F1” mode. As for the passenger, he becomes the co-driver thanks to the glass blade levitating in front of him, displaying information on the road configuration.

    Step into the shoes of an Alpine driver
    To fully enjoy the sporting experience, the Alpine design team scanned a Formula 1 bucket seat to develop the A390_β driver’s seat. It offers two driving positions for two types of use: daily versatility or high-performance sportiness combined with comfort.

    The first position is high, with pedals closer to the floor for daily use. The second position, activated by an aeronautical-inspired control, is about performance and sportiness: the entire seat tilts into F1 position, the pedals are raised, and the steering wheel tightens. The seat nearly levitates above the floor. This lightness is exemplified in the choice of materials: the seat is a carbon shell, the headrest a flexible 3D-printed structure inlaid with a transparent element that appears to be carved from ice.

    The front seats include a two-tone, four-point Sabelt harness, reminiscing the extraction system of an F1 car.

    Rear seat comfort in a snowy cocoon
    In contrast to the driver-oriented front of the interior, the rear area embodies comfort. This is achieved through the use of memory foam for maximum on-board comfort. The white bench seat is assembled in one seamless piece to give passengers the impression of being the first ones to step onto a blanket of pure snow. The curved shapes of the door panels, central area and headrests evoke the curves of winding slopes.

    In the centre, a cube in the form of a hologram addresses the rear passengers. At the top of the seat, speakers encased in ice blocks provide an immersive sound experience, echoing those in the front seats. On the rear deck, Stratasys crystals evoke the sparkle of snow under the sun’s rays.

     

    THE FUTURE A390: BETWEEN FRENCH TECHNOLOGIES AND SAVOIR-FAIRE

    In keeping with the spirit that has driven Alpine since its creation in 1955, the brand’s engineers are passionately committed to imagining the sports car of tomorrow. Their challenge: to reinvent sportiness for the electric age while providing just as much – if not more – driving thrills and sensations. Following the A290, which reinterprets sportiness in the city, the A390 aims to bring the A110 driving experience to life in a sporty fastback that can accommodate up to 5 people on board. Alpine is well on the way to demonstrating that this dream can become reality, thanks to the technologies developed in-house for this new addition to the Dream Garage.

    “The A390_β foreshadows our future sport fastback that will enrich the Alpine range by ushering in the era of electric driving pleasure for car enthusiasts looking for the sportiness of an A110 and the perfect balance between distinction, performance and everyday use. The A390 will bring together the best technologies developed at Alpine and by our partners. This show car is concrete proof of the French know-how championed by the brand, just as the A390 will be.”
    Sovany Ang, VP, Alpine Product Performance

    A platform adapted for Alpine
    Alpine’s future sport fastback car will be designed to be electric, based on a heavily modified version of Ampere’s AmpR Medium platform. The flexibility and advantages of this platform, dedicated to electric motors, have enabled Alpine’s engineers to make the modifications necessary to develop a resolutely sporty fastback. The batteries, for example, are positioned under the passenger compartment to ensure that the centre of gravity is as low as possible, thereby improving road holding. On-board space is optimised by a flat floor that gives all passengers a greater sense of space than in a comparable combustion-powered vehicle.

    Intelligent motricity for sporty, dynamic performance
    The A390_β show car reveals the driving qualities of the future production vehicle and a powertrain that will offer the sensations of an A110 transposed into this all-new model.

    This sport fastback will feature three electric motors developed by Alpine: one at the front and two at the rear. It will also feature an innovative, non-permanent AWD (all-wheel drive) system. Axle drive will be managed by an intelligent torque management system entirely developed and perfected by Alpine engineers: Active Torque Vectoring.

    By intelligently controlling the distribution of torque between the front and rear axles and independently to the left and right rear wheels, this technology optimises the vehicle’s longitudinal performance and cornering dynamism while guaranteeing a high degree of reassurance and confidence in the system, whatever the level of grip under each wheel. A balancing act that gives the vehicle the lightweight feel of an A110, virtually reducing the inertia perceived when cornering most efficiently, for a unique experience in every driving mode. This technological combination of three electric motors monitored by the Active Torque Vectoring, previously reserved for hypercars produced in small runs, is a world first in the segment.

    A sport fastback steeped in French savoir-faire
    The A390_β show car is a concentration of French savoir-faire, a fundamental value and one of the pillars of the Alpine brand.

    The vehicle’s floor is made from high-performance carbon by Lavoisier Composites, a Lyon-based start-up specialising in developing and manufacturing eco-sourced composite parts. Inspired by the mineral aesthetics of basalt organs, the floor consists of a multitude of triangular-section elements whose facets reveal the depth of carbon and the brilliance of silicium. This exclusive creation is made entirely from recycled materials from the aeronautical and photovoltaic industries.

    The seat headrests are 3D printed by Erpro Group, the French leader in 3D printing, which develops cutting-edge prototypes for the automotive, aeronautical, design and luxury sectors. They used a bio-sourced elastomer, Arkema’s Pebax® Rnew®, produced partly from castor seed.

    As with the show car, the bespoke acoustic architecture designed and developed by Devialet guarantees ultra-premium sound quality for the production vehicle, giving passengers the impression of travelling in a recording studio. The system will enhance the ADS, or Alpine Drive Sound, derived from the engine’s natural harmonics, to bring all the power of a sporty sound experience to the driver and passengers in the cabin.

    The existing partnership with Michelin will enable the production model to be fitted with tyres developed in collaboration with Alpine, providing a unique driving experience dedicated to the A390.

    100% electric, 100% French
    The production version of the A390 will be manufactured from 2025 at the Manufacture Alpine Dieppe Jean Rédélé, based on the AmpR Medium platform. Its three electric motors will come from the Cléon Megafactory, and the batteries will then be assembled in Douai, confirming the short production cycle of the future A390.

     

     

  • CUPRA Terramar

    Against the backdrop of the America’s Cup, one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events, CUPRA unveils the new CUPRA Terramar, the brand’s new hero for a new era. The sporty SUV moves CUPRA upmarket into the hotspot of the fastest growing segment in Europe as part of the brand’s biggest ever product offensive following the recent launches of the new CUPRA Leon, Formentor, Born VZ and Tavascan.

    “With the CUPRA Terramar, we will not only grow our portfolio of products but at the same time help our brand to “grow-up” by bringing CUPRA upmarket, to new customers and new growing segments, without, however, losing our rebellious and challenger spirit.” said Wayne Griffiths, CEO of CUPRA. “A car that reinforces CUPRA today as a brand that is more mature, more confident in its direction, and more certain in its identity than ever before, without ever compromising on a rebellious spirit and authenticity.”

    To date, CUPRA has delivered around 700,000 vehicles and the brand recently extended its record-breaking journey, registering the best first half year in its history by delivering 125,700 cars, an increase of 17.2% compared to the same period in 2023 (107,300).

    CUPRA Terramar: the new hero of a new era

    The CUPRA Terramar embraces the brand’s new design language, with a bold and confident look. The new sporty SUV features the iconic three triangle signature, with CUPRA Matrix LED Ultra, with High-Definition Technology.

    The front exterior design is extenuated as the grille gives way to the performance-oriented functional lower mouth, suggestive of sports cars. The sporty proportions skip from the front of the SUV to the side, with sweeping lines that shift from the front across the side to heighten the SUV’s sense of performance.

    As the eye moves to the CUPRA Terramar’s rear design, its wide proportions give the SUV a strong presence, with the integrated and illuminated CUPRA logo positioned centrally between the rear lights along with the Terramar name illuminated. The rear diffuser contrasts with the other elements of the design helping to lighten its proportions, giving it a defiant character.

    The CUPRA Terramar will be available in nine exterior colours, including two matt options –Century Bronze Matt and Enceladus Grey Matt, as well as the Dark Void, inspired by the plasma colour of the CUPRA DarkRebel Showcar.

    The interior reinterprets sportiness with a driver-oriented cockpit enhanced by the design of the centre console. It also embraces sustainability with bucket seats wrapped in its central areas either with textile created from 100% upcycled SEAQUAL® YARN, Dinamica with at least 73% recycled textile or leather that uses a plant-based tanning process.

    Digitalisation is at the centre of the driver’s focus with a newly designed HMI implemented in the digital cockpit, as well as in the 12.9” infotainment system with a retro-illuminated slider. In addition, CUPRA continues its collaboration with the audio experts of Sennheiser mobility, integrating a high-fidelity 12-speaker sound system.

    The CUPRA Terramar brings together the possibilities of combustion and electrification with five different powertrains across three technologies: TSI (petrol), eTSI (mild hybrid) and the new generation of plug-in hybrid (e-HYBRID) engines, delivering from 150PS to 272PS. Driving dynamics is enhanced thanks to the standard sport suspension and progressive steering, as well as the new adaptative chassis control and Akebono brakes.

    Designed and developed in Barcelona, the CUPRA Terramar will be produced in Audi’s Györ plant in Hungary. Deliveries will start during the last quarter of this year.

    An unforgettable experience

    Under the motto ‘There is no second’, the CUPRA Terramar was presented in the context of the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup, the world’s most prestigious sailing competition and the biggest sporting event to come to Barcelona after the 1992 Olympics.

    The presentation took place at the America’s Cup Experience, the first and only official exhibition center of the competition, located in the historic IMAX building, in the harbour of Barcelona. This innovative space allows visitors to discover the secrets of the oldest sports competition in the world, where tradition and history are linked with cutting-edge technology and passion. In this emblematic location, it is also possible to experience first-hand all the emotions that make this competition unique, thanks to a simulator and immersive experiences.

    As the official car of the competition, the CUPRA Terramar World Premiere counted on the presence of Grant Dalton, CEO of the America’s Cup, who joined Wayne Griffiths, CEO of CUPRA, to underline their commitment to continue inspiring the world from Barcelona. The strategic alliance, forged in December 2023, was established based on both brands’ winning attitude, innovation, performance, and the ambition to connect with the people of the Mediterranean city.

    The new CUPRA Terramar was presented with its brand-new global campaign, a unique film made in collaboration with J.A. Bayona, CUPRA’s brand ambassador. The renowned film director explained his inspiring creative process in the making of this project about the brand’s competitive spirit, self-improvement, and the concept of ‘There is no second’. Moreover, he highlighted the values his work shares with CUPRA: Defying expectations, creating emotions, and pushing boundaries with challenging stories. With this collaboration, CUPRA and J.A. Bayona are bringing the worlds of cinema and auto together to inspire the next generation of storytellers and drivers.

    Under the umbrella of the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup, the collaboration between CUPRA and the sailing competition took a step further with the launch of the limited edition CUPRA Terramar America’s Cup. CUPRA will only produce 1,337 units of the car with a special design and style cues that embrace the partnership. including exclusive black wheels and the unique Enceladus Grey Matt colour.

    Furthermore, CUPRA keeps challenging the status quo with two new collaborations showcasing the spirit of the prestigious competition, infused with CUPRA’s bold and unconventional design, created by the new CUPRA Design House.

    CUPRA and De Antonio Yachts have recently launched the E23 Terramar, a 100% electric yacht inspired by the iconic elements and colours of the CUPRA Terramar.

    In addition, CUPRA has also released a new Capsule Collection representing the sailing spirit of the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup. The new collection is available for sale in the race village during the whole duration of the competition, as well as at the IMAX during the CUPRA Terramar World Premiere event.

  • NOVITEC Maserati MC20 Cielo

    Get ready for a stunning look with exposed carbon fiber and sleek 21-inch wheels. NOVITEC has fine-tuned the Maserati MC20 Cielo to deliver 523 kW (711 hp) and 818 Nm of torque. This beast goes from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds and can reach speeds over 325 km/h.

    NOVITEC specializes in taking already amazing cars and making them even more unique. The German experts have given the Maserati MC20 Cielo a fresh, thrilling look. Custom naked-carbon aerodynamic parts add a bold touch to the sporty design of this two-seater with a retractable roof.

    The car features NOVITEC NF11 high-tech forged wheels, 21 inches in diameter, filling out the wheel arches perfectly. These wheels were developed with Vossen, a top American manufacturer. The twin-turbo V6 engine, with NOVITEC’s tuning, now cranks out 523 kW (711 hp) and 818 Nm of torque. This power propels the open-top sports car from 0-100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds, and it hits a top speed of over 325 km/h.

    The NOVITEC high-performance exhaust system enhances both sound and performance. The lightest option is made from INCONEL alloy, and there’s even a version with 999 fine gold plating.

    NOVITEC also offers exclusive interior customization, tailoring every detail to the owner’s preferences.

    NOVITEC has been enhancing supercars’ looks and aerodynamics for decades. They’ve created bodywork components for the Maserati that meet their high standards. All NOVITEC aerodynamic parts for the MC20, both coupe and spider, are made from naked carbon with a glossy finish.

    The NOVITEC front spoiler gives the two-seater an even more striking look and reduces lift at high speeds. It fits onto the original front fascia. The NOVITEC ducktail rear spoiler complements it aerodynamically. Naked-carbon inserts for the front hood’s air intakes complete the bodywork makeover.

    NOVITEC and Vossen teamed up to create the exciting new NF11 wheel design for the MC20 Cielo. These wheels have twin-spokes that reach the rim’s edge, making the 21-inch wheels look even larger. Advanced forging and machining technology ensure these wheels are both lightweight and strong. The centerlock design adds to the racing look. These wheels come in more than just gold; Vossen can produce them in 72 colors and various finishes.

    NOVITEC offers the largest wheel combo for the MC20: 9Jx21 wheels with 255/30 ZR 21 tires in the front, and 12Jx21 rims with 325/25 ZR 21 tires in the rear. NOVITEC sports springs lower the car by about 25 millimeters, improving both looks and handling.

    NOVITEC also tunes the twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine with special maps for injection, boost pressure, and ignition. These are introduced via two NOVITEC N-TRONIC plug-and-play modules.

    The high-performance exhaust system includes actively controlled butterfly valves. Customers can choose between stainless steel and INCONEL, the latter used in Formula 1. All versions have high-temperature insulation, with an optional 999 fine gold plating for the INCONEL variant. The exhaust system helps the V6 breathe better and, with open valves, produces an even more thrilling sound. Sports catalysts and custom particulate filters add extra horsepower. NOVITEC carbon/stainless-steel tailpipes, 100 millimeters in diameter, give the rear a visual boost.

    Combining high-performance maps and the sports exhaust boosts the engine output by 81 hp and torque by 88 Nm. The tuned V6 engine produces 523 kW (711 hp) at 7,400 rpm and 818 Nm of torque between 3,000 and 5,500 rpm. This power propels the MC20 Cielo from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds and to 200 km/h in 8.4 seconds. Its top speed exceeds 325 km/h.

    NOVITEC also offers top-quality, handcrafted interior designs. Customers can choose from a huge range of colors for the leather and Alcantara used inside.

  • Bentley Batur Convertible

    Bentley Motors has unveiled the third coachbuilt Bentley of the modern era – the Batur Convertible. Created by Mulliner, Bentley’s bespoke division, the Batur Convertible follows the exquisite Bacalar and Batur coupe. Mulliner continues its legacy of crafting unique cars tailored to each client’s wishes.

    The Batur Convertible showcases innovative design elements from its coupe counterpart, shaping Bentley’s future car designs. It retains Bentley’s powerful 750 PS, 6.0-litre W12 engine, one of the last models to feature this legendary powertrain before it ceases production this summer.

    Bentley’s rich history of open-cockpit cars dates back to 1919. The Batur Convertible’s design blends the Bacalar and Batur, featuring a wraparound cockpit and a dramatic ‘airbridge’ behind the seats for a dynamic, driver-focused experience. The convertible roof combines beauty and practicality, deploying in just 19 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph, transforming the car from a coupe to an open-top grand tourer.

    Mulliner’s team co-creates each Batur Convertible with the customer, using a visualizer to customize every detail. Customers can choose colors, finishes, and materials to create a truly unique car. Options include bespoke paint, customizable brightware, and 3D-printed rose gold accents crafted by expert goldsmiths.

    Each Batur Convertible is handcrafted at Bentley’s carbon-neutral factory in Crewe, England, limited to just 16 units. The powerful W12 engine, paired with an eight-speed double-clutch transmission and sports exhaust, delivers exceptional performance. The engineering development car, Batur Convertible Car #0, features bespoke Vermillion Gloss and Satin Duo tone paint, with high gloss carbon fiber accents and a stunning grille design.

    With the Batur Convertible, Bentley offers a blend of heritage, innovation, and personalization, ensuring a luxurious and unique driving experience.

  • Ferrari 12Cilindri

    There has been a single leitmotif that has been thrilling Prancing Horse enthusiasts since 1947: the naturally-aspirated, mid-front-mounted V12, the very first Ferrari engine to roar its way through the factory gates in Maranello. Unveiled today to public and media against the spectacular backdrop of Miami Beach in celebration of the 70th anniversary of Ferrari’s arrival on the American market, the Ferrari 12Cilindri is the natural evolution of the company’s uncompromising powertrain philosophy, which over the decades has continued to develop without ever straying from its original DNA and the marque’s core values.

    The Ferrari 12Cilindri is inspired by the legendary Grand Tourers of the 1950s and ‘60s, embodying the front-mounted Ferrari V12 two-seater mission with its effortless combination of elegance, versatility, and performance. The car represents the latest evolution in this bloodline and continues that unique legacy, elevating it towards new standards in performance, comfort, and design. Its silhouette exudes sportiness and class: simple yet harmonious lines feature an integrated active aerodynamic device to guarantee peerless performance, a front-hinged bonnet that exalts the view of the engine bay, and the two twin tailpipes that have become a signature of Ferrari’s 12-cylinder cars.

    The Ferrari 12Cilindri’s engine is the latest development of the iconic V12 that laid the foundations for the Maranello legend, in this version unleashing 830 cv and with maximum revs rising to a heady 9500 rpm. The impressive power curve ensures 80% of total torque is already available at just 2500 rpm, resulting in instantaneous pick-up for maximum accelerator response and a feeling of never-ending power all the way to the red line.

    The Ferrari 12Cilindri’s cockpit guarantees superb comfort for both driver and passenger, even on long journeys: its feeling of airiness and space is heightened still further by a glass roof, prestigious materials and a central display in addition to one for the driver and a third ahead of the passenger.

    The Ferrari 12Cilindri is aimed at driving enthusiasts, but also at those who demand new standards of performance, comfort and design: long-standing Ferraristi, loyal to the unique emotions that only the Ferrari V12 can deliver, as well as new clients dreaming of combining comfort and Italian design with exhilarating driving pleasure. The Ferrari 12Cilindri is designed for connoisseurs with a very clear vision of what Ferrari’s DNA has always been, truly making it a car for the few.

    POWERTRAIN

    The F140HD engine equipping the Ferrari 12Cilindri is the new version of the iconic naturally-aspirated Ferrari V12, the purest expression of Ferrari’s soul: its peerless performance, powerful soundtrack and exclusivity make it the worthy heir to the legendary berlinetta sports cars that wrote some of the most glittering chapters in the marque’s history. The engine can unleash up to 830 cv while its max revs have been increased to 9500 rpm by adopting challenging and innovative solutions.

    The engine features modified components and software, some of which were already adopted on the special series 812 Competizione, ensuring it tops its category in terms of performance. To allow the V12 to rev so high, the engineers worked to reduce the weight and inertia of the engine’s components, adopting titanium con rods, which guarantee a saving of 40% in rotating mass compared to steel with the same mechanical resistance. A different aluminium alloy was used for the pistons, making them lighter than on previous applications. Further weight reduction was gained by the adoption of a rebalanced crankshaft which is 3% lighter.

    The valvetrain with sliding finger followers is derived from Ferrari’s unparalleled experience in Formula 1 and was developed specifically for the V12 with the aim of reducing mass and availing of more high-performance valve profiles. The sliding finger follower, which is steel with a Diamond-Like-Carbon (DLC) coating, transmits the action of the cam to the valve using a hydraulic tappet as the pivot for its movement. The use of DLC reduces the coefficient of friction at critical points, significantly improving the mechanical efficiency of the engine.

    Most of the modifications focused on optimising torque delivery in all operating conditions. The result is an engine with exhilaratingly smooth, seamless response, that delivers peak power at the red line.

    The manifold and the plenum layout is now very compact: shortening the length of the tracts and optimising the cam profiles allows power to be unleashed at high revs, while the torque curve is optimised at all engine speeds by a system of variable geometry inlet tracts which enables the length of the intake tract to be continuously varied to maximise the dynamic charge in the cylinder.

    For the very first time on a naturally-aspirated engine, an innovative software strategy was developed that can modify the maximum torque available as a function of the gear selected. This gives the driver the feeling of smooth, progressive pick-up as the transmission ratio increases, another vital factor in making the driving exhilaration delivered by the Ferrari 12Cilindri truly unique.

    A crescendo of never-ending acceleration and power delivery has been a signature of all Ferrari V12s. Now innovative Aspirated Torque Shaping (ATS) has allowed the Maranello engineers to sculpt the torque curve in third and fourth gears using sophisticated electronic control that improves perception of the torque without impinging on acceleration, all to the benefit of driving pleasure. The introduction of new gear ratios furthermore keeps acceleration levels high and allowed the engineers to define a new torque curve shape for an aspirated engine.

    Optimising the engine’s mechanical efficiency and that of the lubrication circuit is critical to delivering blistering performance and low fuel consumption. The calibration of the variable displacement oil pump allows the oil to circulate throughout the entire engine and then be recovered along with the vapours from the sump. A solenoid valve, controlled by the engine ECU in a closed loop, is used to control the pump’s displacement in terms of engine revs and pressure, delivering only the amount of oil required and thereby simultaneously saving a significant amount of energy. The new configuration of the oil tank and pump’s hydraulic circuit reduces losses to a minimum and optimises functionality in all operating conditions.

    The gasoline direct injection system (GDI at 350 bar) comprises two petrol pumps and four rails with pressure sensors that provide feedback to the pressure control system. The electronic injectors can also control up to three injections per engine cycle. The ignition system is constantly monitored by the engine control unit which has a single and a multi-spark function. The ECU also controls combustion in the chamber to ensure that the engine is always working in peak thermodynamic efficiency conditions, using a sophisticated strategy that recognises the octane rating of the fuel in the tank to avoid knocking.

    The new exhaust system, developed to allow the car to comply with the latest emissions requirements (EU6E, China6B and BIN50), introduces a ceramic catalytic converter coupled with a particulate filter. This is the most advanced emissions-reduction technology available and involved lengthy calibration of the software strategies.

    Sound is pivotal to marrying the comfort, luxury and exhilarating driving emotions typical of a Ferrari V12: to this end, every element of the intake and exhaust lines were optimised. Equal-length exhaust tracts, the 6-in-1 manifold for every cylinder bank and the innovative design of the central sections has resulted in Ferrari’s typical V12 howl that comprises all of the noble combustion orders. The perfect integration and calibration of high and low frequencies coming from the intake and exhaust systems respectively also influence the engine’s timbre. The shape of the ducts and the internal fluidynamics of the silencer baffles have been designed to reduce backpressure to a minimum thereby improving power delivery. The geometry of the forms and curves of the exhaust system was also perfected to guarantee the very purest notes of the signature Ferrari sound all the way to the limiter.

    To guarantee that the soundtrack in the cabin is perfectly balanced, the intake tract was modified: modifying the position of the resonators also changed the pressure waves resulting in a richer range, particularly in terms of the middle frequencies. The result is a cleaner, more full sound in the cabin in all driving conditions, but especially in sportier situations.

    The Ferrari 12Cilindri sports the 8-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) that received such an unanimously rapturous welcome on other cars in the range, starting with the SF90 Stradale. Thanks in part to larger tyres on 21” rims, this solution delivers 5% shorter gear ratios in the lower gears and a 12% increase in torque at the wheels compared to previous V12 applications, all to the benefit of longitudinal performance under acceleration and gear shifting times (30% faster than the previous V12 berlinetta applications).

    Performance under acceleration through the gears has been significantly improved and the introduction of the 8th gear improves range in motorway driving. The eight-speed DCT thus both improves efficiency and is more engaging in all gears.

    DESIGN
    EXTERIOR

    With the Ferrari 12Cilindri, Flavio Manzoni and the Ferrari Styling Centre design team set out to radically transform the stylistic codes of Ferrari’s previous mid-front-engined V12s. The car in fact marks a clear departure from the sculptural language that characterised the 812 Competizione, for example, instead favouring a more sophisticated language that still retains the necessary formal design rigour to achieve a sense of stylistic unity.

    Clean lines dominate the car’s geometry, underscoring the volumes that make up a seamlessly interconnected whole. The ultra-clean flanks sweep back along the entire car from a dihedral section. Although retaining a signature Ferrari sensuality, the wings have been sculpted with extreme geometric precision: all the lines are the result of intersections between the volumes and a more functional approach to form has been taken that echews nostalgia. The muscular rear wing is imposing, yet also perfectly controlled geometrically. On the front wing, that muscular tension extends slightly, coming to rest along the flank and further accentuating the car’s monolithic aesthetic.

    The sculpted bonnet is extremely sleek and incorporates the front wings. Removing the cut lines from the wings gives a smooth, uninterrupted surface to the muscularity of the design, lending the entire bonnet a sense of ultra-clean fluidity, interrupted only by two vents to cool the engine bay. One of the objectives of the Ferrari 12Cilindri was to explore design languages only tangentially related to the car world. The front has thus lost certain signature elements, such as the elongated form of the headlights and the traditional grille shape, in favour of geometries and intersections innate to the car’s design. The headlights are integrated into a single wraparound band from which the DRLs emerge like blades.

    A similar approach has been taken with the rear architecture: once again, rigour is the order of the day with the shape obtained by the subtraction of volume. Consistent with the front of the car the taillights are set into a blade that traverses the entire, concave rear section and also provides what is possibly the Ferrari 12Cilindri’s real signature theme, demonstrating once again how cleverly the Ferrari Styling Centre’s designers are able to meld technical and functional demands with beauty.

    Instead of adopting a rear spoiler, the designers have used two active flaps integrated with the rear screen, creating a signature delta theme. The overall perception is of a seamless whole, creating the idea of a very high-tech form. The development of this concept allowed the designers to treat the Ferrari 12Cilindri’s cabin in a new way, tracing the frame of the surface in body colour to echo the rear screen theme and integrate organically with the rest of the cabin which itself is characterised by a black screen effect.

    The tail section ends in a very clean, monolithic volume in body colour as well. The lower section – in black or carbon fibre – is characterised by the prominent diffuser keels over which the body almost seems to float. This area also includes the sensors and two twin tailpipes. The latter, comprising four elements altogether, also have a completely new shape, with a metal surround to reduce the perception of their size and create a more compact look.

    COCKPIT

    The design of the Ferrari 12Cilindri’s interior sees it split into three different levels: the first, dominated by the upper part of the dash, continues around to blend into the door panel trim. Next is the central area while the third includes the footwells and seats. Each level is clearly defined, heightening the dual-cockpit effect through the colour and material combinations. These are used to create either an elegant or sporty look for the seats and other features. Ferrari’s signature luxury and performance are flanked on the Ferrari 12Cilindri by a focus on environmental sustainability: extensive use has been made of sustainable materials such as Alcantara© containing 65% recycled polyester.

    The interior style takes its inspiration from the Prancing Horse’s dual-cockpit architecture. In recent years, that layout was used for the Ferrari Roma and Roma Spider as well as the Ferrari Purosangue. The Ferrari 12Cilindri’s cabin has an almost-symmetrical structure comprising two modules for driver and passenger and offering an astonishing standard of comfort and involvement in the driving experience.

    The dashboard extends horizontally, a fact underscored by a clear separation between the trimmed volumes in the upper section and the technical functions in the lower section. The upper section features two distinct binnacles dedicated to the driver and passenger instrumentation and to the climate control vents. A deftly elegant colour and material change draws the eye to the two volumes separated by the body of the dash, which seem almost to float, further enhancing the feeling of lightness in this area.

    The panels of the central tunnel extend outward from the dashboard geometries as if they were almost an extension of the latter. The trimmed area features a large sculptural gash emphasised by contrasting materials. The armrest is in the trimmed area of the tunnel and extends into the medallion area, revealing contrasting metallic edging that creates an elegant intersection between the volumes. The side section of the tunnel itself has been scooped out, again recreating that floating feeling. It is trimmed with luxury materials and also features a Y-shaped metal element into which the iconic gate shift has been set.

    On the Ferrari 12Cilindri, the quality of life on board was one of the main drivers for the development of the bespoke interior’s features. A new a new generously-sized tinted glass roof has been incorporated, which significantly improves the airiness of the cabin and thus the feeling of space on board, ensuring optimum thermal efficiency in both summer and winter. In terms of design, the darkened glass roof is perfectly integrated into the upper part of the cabin, giving it an elegant and refined appearance and creating continuity between the windscreen and the rear screen.

    The Ferrari 12Cilindri introduces a new Human Machine Interface (HMI) comprising three displays that raise the Ferrari V12 berlnietta onboard experience to new heights. All of the main functions can be controlled from the central 10.25” touchscreen capacitive display within reach of both driver and passenger. This is flanked by a 15.6” driver display showing all of the driving and vehicle dynamics information. Lastly the passenger is always completely involved in the driving experience thanks to an 8.8” display that ensures they feel like a genuine co-driver.

    The car sports the capacitive steering wheel seen on all of the latest models in the range featuring the indented buttons for ease of use. This means that command activations are more precise, instant and intuitive even in sporty driving conditions. The Ferrari 12Cilindri comes with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto®-based mobile connectivity systems as standard, both easily controlled from the new central display. A wireless charging mat on the central tunnel (as standard) makes phone charging simple too.

    Available as an optional on the Ferrari 12Cilindri is the high-end audio system developed in collaboration with Burmester®, comprising 15 loudspeakers and unleashing a massive 1600 W for a genuinely unprecedented in-car experience at any volume and any speed. The high frequencies are crystal clear and sparkling, thanks to Ring Tweeter technology which minimises distortion. The powerful dual coil subwoofer guarantees a wonderfully full, rich sound which, thanks to Ultraflat Headliners, is all part of a 360-degree listening experience.

    AERODYNAMICS

    The main objective of the Ferrari 12Cilindri’s aerodynamics was to produce a sober, elegant car without compromising on performance. The 25 nm nolder on the boot lid and the active aero are the two signature elements of the tail section. The former guarantees the recompression required to maintain the car’s aero efficiency when drag is minimal while the flaps permit two different configurations, Low Drag (LD) and High Downforce (HD) respectively.

    In the low drag position, the flaps are flush with the bodywork so that the air runs over it uninterupted, making them invisible to the flow. This configuration is retained until a speed of 60 km when downforce is not very relevant to the performance of the car, something that is also the case over 300 km/h. In between these two speeds, however, downforce plays a central role and the spoilers’ movement depends on the car’s longitudinal and lateral acceleration. In high downforce configuration, the Ferrari 12Cilindri generates maximum downforce and guarantees that the car is aerodynamically balanced.

    The underbody is designed to maximise efficient vertical load generation, also by managing the airflow out of the central radiators. The plan form and profile of the louvres in the central opening of the underbody minimise the impact of the hot air which is not highly energised. Two louvres have been created in the low-pressure area behind the front wheels which, by reducing overpressure inside the engine compartment, increase the efficiency of the radiating masses, lowering drag and increasing downforce generation.

    As was the case with the 812 Competizione, downforce on the front underbody is generated by three pairs of vortex generators optimised in the wind tunnel. The front underbody also contributes to brake cooling by delivering a flow of lower-temperature air from the front splitter.

    The central underbody was designed to correctly channel air flows to retain the available energy all the way to the rear diffuser. To that end, the transmission tunnel opening was reduced to balance the amount of air that would flow inside it. A raised section ahead of the rear wheel shields the tyres and deflects the flow towards the rear.

    The rear underbody sports a pair of vortex generators which are used to produce efficient downforce and channel the flows towards the extractor. In line with Ferrari’s philosophy of transferring innovations from the racing world to the road-going sports cars, the engineers designed an air inlet near the outer edge of the rear fence to provide ventilation for the silencer’s electronics.

    COOLING LAYOUT

    The heat dissipation requirements of the engine and ancillaries demanded a redesign of the car’s entire cooling system which resulted in front underbody evacuation being optimised, with no fewer than seven openings in the front bumper. In particular, the space between the longitudinal elements of the chassis houses the engine coolant radiator and air-con circuit condenser, which are fed by the central opening, while the oil radiator has been split into two separate elements, lying ahead of the front wheels. The two side air intakes are divided in two: the outer part is designed to cool the engine oil radiator while the inner one cools the brakes.

    A generous brake cooling duct is fed by two openings, one between the radiator intakes and the other on the lower part of the front splitter. The entire system is integral to the oil radiator intake to optimise the routing of the front brake intakes. The side intakes are framed by an L-shaped element designed to maximise the amount of air entering the opening whilst simultaneously correctly channelling the flow along the car’s flanks.

    The air in the engine bay exits through two vents on the bonnet which reduce overpressure, improving cooling efficiency. Thanks to the latter, there are fewer openings on the underbody, thereby maximising efficient downforce generation. On the wing behind the front wheels there is also a vent for the air from the wheelarch which minimises overpressure on the underbody caused by the cooling duct for the brakes and front diffusers.

    VEHICLE DYNAMICS AND CHASSIS

    The Ferrari 12Cilindri boasts the very state of the art in front-engined berlinetta dynamic controls. The introduction of brake-by-wire allowed the latest innovations from the range to be adopted, including ABS Evo that debuted on the 296 GTB and the 6D sensor that guarantees optimal precision to the Virtual Short Wheelbase (PCV) 3.0 and Side Slip Control (SSC) 8.0 systems, together with reduced braking distances and a more accurate repeatability of braking. The Aspirated Torque Shaping, an entirely new control logic, also emphasises even further the smoothly linear power delivery from the legendary naturally-aspirated engine, thanks to electronic control.

    The SSC 8.0, a new evolution of the famous Ferrari control unit, allows the systems to talk to each other using a shared language that calculates the optimal operating mode for each one in order to maximise the car’s overall performance. The SSC 8.0 integrates the Ferrari 12Cilindri’s controllers and creates natural synergy with the new ABS Evo.

    The SSC 8.0 is Ferrari’s proprietary system and has been optimised to further improve estimation accuracy and learning speed (+10% compared to previous applications), as well as control on very low grip surfaces. Grip estimation is flanked by the contribution of the grip recognition logic: by using the information from the EPS CPU and the side-slip angle estimated by the SSC 8.0, the Ferrari 12Cilindri can estimate the tyre-road grip level even when steering. Thanks to this approach, the grip can also be estimated in normal use conditions and not just on the limit, making it faster for the system to learn real grip levels.

    The Ferrari 12Cilindri features the four-wheel independent steering (4WS) that debuted on the special series 812 Competizione, which manages the movement of every wheel independently to improve yaw management in cornering and responsiveness during rapid direction changes. The rear-wheel steering has innovative mechanical characteristics that significantly improve precision of control of the position of each single actuator, giving faster axle response time and consequently improved responsiveness through corners. Optimum handling is also ensured thanks to a near-ideal weight distribution – 48.4% front and 51.6% rear and the car’s responsiveness also benefits from the 20-mm reduction in the wheelbase compared to the 812 Superfast.

    TYRES

    The Ferrari 12Cilindri can be fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport S5 or Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport tyres, both of which were developed in a new size for the Maranello company: 275/35ZR21 at the front and 315/35ZR21 at the rear. Development benefited from physical and virtual sessions, the latter carried out through simulator testing to reduce the number of physical prototypes and, consequently, development times and cycles.

    Performance has been optimised thanks to the adoption of the latest technologies in terms of compounds, tread design concepts and casing characteristics. Extensive testing has led to improved performance, dry grip levels and balance, stability on the limit and stability in the wet, as well as improved comfort and noise characteristics both internally and externally, including a 10% reduction in rolling resistance compared to the previous Ferrari front-engined V12 berlinetta applications.

    CHASSIS

    The Ferrari 12Cilindri’s all-aluminium chassis, featuring a 20-mm reduction in wheelbase compared to the 812 Superfast’s, is completely new: specific attention was focused on the geometry of cast components such as the shock towers and A and C pillars, to improve torsional rigidity whilst simultaneously reducing weight

    The greenhouse topping the new chassis guarantees superb NVH and safety performance in addition to clean load lines which allowed stiffness to be improved without increasing weight compared to previous Ferrari 12-cylinder applications. The result was an increase of 15% in torsional rigidity compared to the 812 Superfast which ensures more predictable dynamic behaviour, with consequent benefits for suspension precision. Lastly, thanks to more extensive use of castings, the number of extruded components requiring assembly has been significantly reduced, making the assembly process more efficient.

    For the first time on a Ferrari production car, a secondary alloy with 100% recycled material has been used to make the shock towers of the gearbox subframe: its introduction allows a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions of 146 kg of CO2 for every car produced. Thanks to an extensive development phase, it was possible to guarantee that the mechanical characteristics are the same as non-recycled alloy, exploiting the slight differences in chemical composition. For the validation of this new alloy, extensive testing was undertaken to assess the static and dynamic behaviour of the components and ensure excellent results in fatigue and crash tests.

    7-YEAR MAINTENANCE

    Ferrari’s unparalleled quality standards and increasing focus on client service underpin the extended seven-year maintenance programme offered with Ferrari 12Cilindri. Available across the entire Ferrari range, the programme covers all regular maintenance for the first seven years of the car’s life. This scheduled maintenance is an exclusive service that allows clients the certainty that their car is being kept at peak performance and safety over the years. This very special service is also available to owners buying pre-owned Ferraris.

    Regular maintenance (at intervals of either 20,000 km or once a year with no mileage restrictions), original spares and meticulous checks by staff trained directly at the Ferrari Training Centre in Maranello using the most modern diagnostic tools are just some of the advantages of the Genuine Maintenance Programme. The service is available on all markets worldwide and from all Dealerships in the Official Dealership network.

    Ferrari 12Cilindri – TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
    POWERTRAIN

    Type V12 – 65° – Dry sump
    Overall displacement 6496 cm3
    Bore and stroke 94 mm x 78 mm
    Max. power output* 830 cv @ 9250 rpm
    Max. torque 678 Nm @ 7250 rpm
    Max. revs 9500 rpm
    Compression ratio 13.5:1
    Specific power output 128 cv/l

    WEIGHTS AND DIMENSIONS

    Length 4733 mm
    Width 2176 mm
    Height 1292 mm
    Wheelbase 2700 mm
    Front track 1686 mm
    Rear track 1645 mm
    Dry weight 1560 kg
    Dry weight-power ratio 1.88 kg/cv
    Weight distribution 48.4% front / 51.6% rear
    Fuel tank capacity 92 litres
    Boot size 270 litres

    TYRES AND WHEELS

    Front 275/35 R21 J10.0
    Rear 315/35 R21 J11.5

    BRAKES

    Front 398 x 223 x 38 mm
    Rear 360 x 233 x 32 mm


    TRANSMISSION AND GEARBOX
    8-speed DCT

    ELECTRONIC CONTROLS
    SSC 8.0: TC, eDiff, SCM, PCV 3.0, FDE 2.0, EPS, ABS-Evo in all Manettino positions, 6D sensor, performance ABS/ABD

    PERFORMANCE

    Max. speed > 340 km/h
    0-100 km/h 2.9 s
    0-200 km/h <7.9 s
    100-0 km/h 31.4 m
    200-0 km/h 122.0 m

  • Nissan Kicks

    The 2025 Nissan Kicks arrives this summer, poised to disrupt the compact crossover segment. Boasting innovative technology, a head-turning design inspired by premium footwear, and exceptional versatility, the Kicks caters to the modern driver seeking both style and functionality.

    Unveiling Unexpected Capability

    The Kicks transcends expectations for a compact crossover. It offers best-in-class standard ground clearance and cargo space, allowing for effortless handling of diverse terrains and ample storage for all your essentials. The introduction of available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive across all trims further enhances the Kicks’ capability, providing drivers with confidence and control in various weather conditions.

    A Bold Statement in Design

    The 2025 Kicks exudes a powerful presence with its robust exterior. The wide stance and prominent fenders project a sense of strength, while the sleek upper body complements the lower half’s purposeful design. The rear boasts a distinctive spoiler and full-width LED taillights, leaving a lasting impression. Intricate details inspired by athletic sneakers accentuate the rocker panels, adding a touch of visual intrigue.

    A Haven of Comfort and Technology

    Stepping inside the Kicks reveals a thoughtfully crafted interior. The modern and airy cabin prioritizes comfort, creating a cocoon-like environment for passengers. A dual-screen setup integrates the instrument cluster and infotainment system seamlessly. The Kicks SR boasts a particularly impressive 12.3-inch display with customizable views.

    The intuitively designed center console offers ample storage solutions, catering to everyday needs. Nissan’s Zero Gravity™ seating, now featured in both rows, ensures optimal comfort on extended journeys. Higher trims offer additional touches of luxury, such as touch-sensitive climate controls and red-stitched accents for a sportier feel.

    Unmatched Functionality

    The 2025 Kicks prioritizes maximizing space without compromising its compact footprint. This translates to increased passenger room compared to the previous model year, with significant gains in shoulder and legroom for both front and rear occupants.

    Cargo capacity remains best-in-class, offering up to 30 cubic feet with the seats upright and a cavernous 60 cubic feet when folded. A flexible luggage board allows for further customization, optimizing cargo space for various needs. The wide cargo opening and low liftover height enhance loading and unloading convenience.

    Enhanced Driver Confidence

    The Kicks prioritizes driver confidence with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance features. Nissan Safety Shield® 360 comes standard on all trims, encompassing automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and more. Higher trims offer advanced features like ProPILOT Assist, which helps maintain lane centering on highways.

    Effortless Connectivity and Entertainment

    The Kicks integrates seamlessly with your digital life. An intuitive infotainment system with available wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ keeps you connected. Multiple USB ports cater to device charging needs, while the available Bose® Personal Plus audio system delivers exceptional sound throughout the cabin.

    A Responsive Powertrain

    The 2025 Kicks delivers a confident and responsive driving experience. Each trim is equipped with a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine paired with Nissan’s latest Xtronic transmission. This combination ensures smooth acceleration and a comfortable ride.

    Three Distinct Trims

    The Kicks is offered in three trims – S, SV, and SR – each catering to different customer preferences. Additionally, Premium packages further enhance the features and amenities available on the SV and SR trims. This allows buyers to personalize their Kicks and select the configuration that best suits their lifestyle.