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  • Automobili Pininfarina showcases new Battista hyper car at the Monterey Car Week festival

    2021 Battista Hyper GTThe world’s first pure-electric hyper GT, the Automobili Pininfarina Battista, has made its debut in production form on the roads of California. As a part of a special programme of events during the Monterey Car Week, the Battista’s first road drive.

    The debut of the production-spec Battista will ensure that the US clients are among the first to experience the 1,900hp performance and to take a look at the beautiful Black Exposed Signature Carbon body design.

    The exclusive bodywork and precise drivetrain system are complemented by an exclusively tailored interior with Pilota seats and satin black leather, quilted Iconica Blu Alcantara, and Jewellery Pack finished in brushed aluminum anodized in black.

    The audience at the event will also see the US debut of the Battista Anniversario, a limited-run of merely five vehicles that represent the pinnacle of the brand in terms of design, aerodynamics, and performance.

    Both machines will also be on display at the Concours d’Elegance festival, as the pure-electric GT will be placed among other exclusive Battista machines from different periods of the brand’s 91-year history.

    SEE ALSO: BMW showcases new details for the upcoming iX3 lineup

    René Wollmann, Product Platform Director Sports Cars, Automobili Pininfarina, said: Every driver has an emotional bond with a car and the sound of Battista will nurture this connection, not by replicating a familiar car sound, but with one that radiates the beauty of Battista’s design both inside and out. This way, the Battista will not only impress with its aesthetic appeal and performance but also on a new emotional level enhanced through the sound. We look forward to the input we will receive from clients in the US as we fine-tune Battista’s sonic experience.

  • BMW showcases new details for the upcoming iX3 lineup

    2021 BMW iX3With a new and striking appearance, the new BMW iX3 showcases tons of new features, goodies, and drivetrain upgrades. In terms of visuals, the newcomer proudly reveals a larger front grille with a single-piece frame, which comes in Pearl-effect Chrome and with a blue accent.

    Furthermore, the headlight contours are now ten millimeters slimmer, which helps the BMW iX3 a sharper look and a distinctive silhouette. Also, the lower intake, which comes in ten-stage active air flap control, has been enlarged, as well as the L-shaped air curtains at the outer edges of the front end.

    The Air intakes in the front side panels also come with a new M-specific design, while the blue accent in the side skirts is now gone. The aggressive and massive rear apron neatly blends with the rear-end design and gives space for the new LED rear lights that are now marked out even more precisely by a black surrounding.

    SEE ALSO: Nissan reveals details for the upcoming 2022 Frontier lineup

    Also, customers will have the choice of four exterior metallic body paints, Carbon Black, Mineral White, Phytonic Blue, and Sophisto Grey, and will benefit from High Gloss exterior trim, alongside 19” Black aerodynamic wheels, automatic tailgate, adaptive suspension, heated steering wheel and panoramic sunroof completing the exterior look of the BMW iX3 M Sport.

     

  • Nissan reveals details for the upcoming 2022 Frontier lineup

    2022 Nissan FrontierThe latest 2022 Nissan Frontier will arrive at dealerships in September 2021. The vehicle will be offered in King Cab version with either a 4×2 or 4×4 system, and with a 6-foot bed. The Crew Cab version is also available with either 4×2 or 4×4, the same with the S and SV grades, along with the PRO-4X and PRO-X. Also, all Crew Cab models in the lineup feature a 5-foot bed except the SV LWB model, which comes with a bit longer bed, a 6-foot long one.

    The all-new 2022 Frontier builds on Nissan’s six-plus decades of mid-size truck leadership with a bold new exterior, adventure-oriented interior, and the latest driver assistance and connectivity technologies, said Mike Colleran, senior vice president, Nissan U.S. Marketing and Sales. It’s an authentic midsize truck with a range of body, drivetrain and equipment configurations carefully selected to fit customer needs.

    Also, there are three optional packages that are offered: Premium, available for SV and PRO models, Convenience, also available for the SV and PRO, and Technology, again for SV and PRO versions.

    SEE ALSO: Concours of Elegance announce strategic partnership with Gooding & Company

    As it seems, Nissan continues to impress both brand skeptics and enthusiasts and with each new announcement and debut showcases new technologies, approaches, and ways to deliver both comfort and safety for customers.

  • Concours of Elegance announce strategic partnership with Gooding & Company

    2021 Concours of EleganceThe Concours of Elegance has built its reputation as the event that gathers the world’s most refined and rarest vehicles. Now, in order to continue to impress the audiences, the team behind Concours of Elegance has settled a new partnership with the world’s leading automotive auction house, Gooding & Company.

    Gooding & Company returns to the eventfor the start of the new sponsorship in 2021, having hosted a record-breaking auction at the event last year. Back in 2020, the “Passion of a Lifetime” auction presented a selection of incredible automobiles from a private collection – the vehicles represented a dedication to bringing together the most coveted and valuable examples of European sportscars of the 20th century.

    David Gooding, President and Founder, Gooding & Company, said: We are elated to announce our new, multi-year sponsorship of the Concours of Elegance and broaden our reach as an international auction house. We are proud to partner with James Brooks-Ward and his team, and following last year’s highly successful inaugural auction at the Hampton Court Palace, we are confident in the long-term trajectory of this joint endeavor.

    The Concours of Elegance is focused on gathering collectible vehicles that are so rare that visitors won’t be able to see them anywhere else. In fact, some of the vehicles shown at the event have never been seen in the UK, making it a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many visitors.

    SEE ALSO: mountune team reveals a new upgrade kit for Ford Focus ST

    James Brooks-Ward, Concours of Elegance CEO, said: From our venue to our cars to our partners, we hand-pick each and every aspect of the Concours of Elegance. Gooding & Company shares the same dedication to the rarest cars in the world like us. David Gooding has been a great supporter and we’re delighted to align our two businesses even more closely, further building the stature of the Concours of Elegance among the world of elite global automotive events.

     

  • mountune team reveals a new upgrade kit for Ford Focus ST

    2021 mountune Ford Focus STThe owners of hot hatch vehicles can finally realize the full potential of their mk4 Ford Focus ST with the latest and advanced upgrade kit from mountune- the m365. The kit increases the performance and power,  as well as enhancing the handling capabilities and at the same time does not compromise the everyday usability of the vehicle.

    All the components within the pack have undergone a rigorous testing and development process and contribute to a higher-power output final result of 365hp and 560Nm of torque, which is a significant kick of 85hp and 140Nm over the standard numbers.

    This result was made possible thanks to the highly-acclaimed Bluetooth OBD dongle and the SMARTflash app that can run on any smart device. In terms of tech gadgets, the upgrade pack features a high-flow panel air filter, a 3-inch high-flow downpipe with sporty catalyst, and a new Sport GPF, which dramatically reduces exhaust gas back-pressure.

    SEE ALSO: Cadillac presents the high-performance CT Blackwing lineup. Check it out!

    We are delighted to launch our latest upgrade kit for the much-loved mk4 Focus ST. Ford has done a great job with the stock ST and what we have done with this m365 upgrade kit is to fully optimize the calibration with our newly engineered low-back pressure exhaust hardware – this means maximum performance is available throughout the rev-range and it’s now a seriously fast car, which is also great fun to drive, too. David Mountain, Managing Director, mountune.

     

     

  • Cadillac presents the high-performance CT Blackwing lineup. Check it out!

    2022 Cadillac CT5-V BlackwingCT4-Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing are still the fastest Cadillac production models up to date and now receive an upgrade with new gadgets, performance rates and technological approaches.

    As it comes particularly to the CT5-V Blackwing, it is the most powerful Cadillac vehicle to that moment and has a top speed of 200mph, while its smaller sibling, the CT4-V is the most powerful vehicle in the subcompact division.

    Furthermore, the CT5-V Blackwing uses an upgraded and hand-assembled 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine that generates a total of 668 horsepower (498 kW) and 659 lb-ft of torque (893 Nm), while the CT4-V Blackwing is driven by a Cadillac 3.6L Twin-Turbo V-6, which is rated 472 hp (352 kW) and 445 lb-ft of torque (603 Nm).

    The six-speed gearbox used in each vehicle is also special – it features unique gear-cut changes that enhance the quietness and durability, compared to other models. There’s also an optional 10-speed automatic that was also fine-tuned for performance driving.

    Also, the two models come with functional aerodynamics such as the available carbon-fiber aero package, advanced performance braking system, and upgraded Electronic Limited Slip Rear Differential, optimized for each driving mode and each Performance Traction Management setting. The engineers have also included a fourth-generation Magnetic Ride Control (MR 4.0).

    SEE ALSO: 2022 Hyundai Tucson receives TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS by the IIHS

    When it comes to luxury and technology, the V-Series Blackwing models offer the following:

    • Three premium interior choices, with unique trim, appoints and technologies
    • An 8-inch-diagonal color touchscreen1 is standard on CT4-V Blackwing and a 10-inch-diagonal color touchscreen1 is standard on CT5-V Blackwing
    • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
    • AKG premium audio system with 15 speakers integrated within CT4-V Blackwing and 16 speakers within CT5-V Blackwing
    • Available second-generation Performance Data Recorder
    • High-performance steering wheel with carbon fiber accents on CT4-V Blackwing
    • Surround Vision5 with recording and Head-Up Display5 on CT5-V Blackwing
    • Available carbon fiber-accented racing seats on CT5-V Blackwing

    2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing

     

  • 2022 Hyundai Tucson receives TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS by the IIHS

    2021 Hyundai TucsonHyundai’s best-selling SUV, the 2022 Tucson, won the 2021 TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Tucson was recognized for its overall excellent crashworthiness, LED headlights and standard SmartSense suite crash prevention features. 2022 Tucson joins the 2021 Palisade and NEXO, which also have earned TSPP. In fact, the Hyundai brand have managed to collect a total of 14 TSP and TSPP awards.

    Hyundai’s commitment to ‘safety first is our highest priority, said Brian Latouf, chief safety officer, Hyundai Motor North America. We are extremely proud of the 2022 Tucson’s recent TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating and continuing Hyundai’s industry leadership in IIHS awards. Our commitment to safety is paramount.

    In order to qualify for the recognition, a vehicle must earn at least earn good ratings in all six IIHS crash-worthiness evaluations, including the driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side roof strength, and head restraint tests. Also, vehicles must be available with a front crash prevention system that earns advanced or superior ratings in both the vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian evaluations and good or acceptable headlights must be standard across all trim levels, regardless of trim level.

    The Tucson is available with two different front crash prevention systems, one standard and one optional, said Joe Young, public affairs, IIHS. Both systems earned superior ratings in the vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian evaluations.

  • Lotus showcases new Emira at the Monterey Car Week

    2021 Lotus EvijaThe new Lotus Emira, the latest petrol-powered vehicle from the premium brand, makes its US debut at the Monterey Car Week. The flagship machine will also make a debut at the legendary Laguna Seca Raceway.

    Also, the audience at the show will see the Evija, the brand’s pure-electric hypercar that takes the central stage in California with an eye-catching new livery that resonates with the US motorsport fans. Indeed, the vehicle is covered with yellow and blue accents, all inspired by the Type 99T from 1987 – the vehicle in which F1 legend Ayrton Senna won that year’s Detroit Grand Prix.

    The 99T also featured advanced computer-controlled suspension, which allowed the vehicle to ride the bumpy and technically demanding street circuit. This particular vehicle and the win it achieved became legendary among F1 fans and showed that the Lotus team has this innovative and very effective approach towards technical matters.

    SEE ALSO: Mercedes-Benz presents exclusive SL models at the Concours d’Elegance

    This is the second time the Evija has appeared at the Monterey Car Week. Just weeks after it was revealed in July 2019 in California, the vehicle is now ready for its display at the event, and then heads towards Japan, China and the Middle East.

  • Mercedes-Benz presents exclusive SL models at the Concours d’Elegance

    2021-Concours-d'Elegance-Mercedes-Benz-910This year’s annual Monterey Car Week at the Pebble Beach Golf Club will be a host of an exclusive lineup of Mercedes-Benz lineup. The main focus is on the SL models – examples of several generations will be presented, including 300 SL racing sports car from 1952 and the legendary 300 SL Roadster from 1957 to an SL 55 AMG of 2003.

    In fact, the entire SL lineup has a close connection with the USA. Back in 1953, Max Hoffman believed that a sports car from Mercedes would make a successful run on the American market. This idea resulted in two models – 190 SL (W 121) and the 300 SL (W 198). The idea worked out: more than 85% of the vehicles were exported to the USA.

    In the USA, people expect Mercedes-Benz, a company with a particularly good name in that country, to offer under all circumstances a sports car which alone can provide a basis for the existence of the dealer organization.

    Currently, at the 2021 event, Mercedes-Benz will present six vehicles from the SL heritage collection in connection with Concours d’Elegance. These vehicles are:

    • Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (W 194) #11: the racing prototype further developed for the 1953 season – a true one-off.
    • Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W 198), 1957
    • Mercedes-Benz 280 SL “Pagoda” (W 113), 1969
    • Mercedes-Benz 380 SL (R 107), 1982
    • Mercedes-Benz SL 500 (R 129), special model for the USA, the “Silver Arrow Edition”, 2001
    • Mercedes-Benz SL 55 AMG (R 230), 2003

    Also, the Mercedes-Benz team will be presenting some more valuable classics from the brand’s heritage. Enthusiasts will have the chance to see:

    SEE ALSO: Volkswagen is about to debut the SUV coupe ID.5 GTX at the IAA

    • Mercedes-Benz S Tourer (W 06), 1927
    • Mercedes-Benz SS Armbruster Cabriolet (W 06), 1927
    • Mercedes-Benz 680 S Saoutchik Torpedo (W 06), 1928
    • Mercedes-Benz 680 S Gangloff Sport 4 (W 06), 1929
    • Mercedes-Benz S Barker Tourer (W 06), 1929
    • Mercedes-Benz SS Erdmann & Rossi Roadster (W 06), 1930
    • Mercedes-Benz SSK “Count Trossi” Roadster (W 06), 1930
    • Mercedes-Benz 38/250 SSK Roadster (W 06), 1931
    • Mercedes-Benz 500 K Special Roadster (W 29), 1936
    • Mercedes-Benz 540 K Special Roadster (W 29), 1937
    • Mercedes-Benz 540 K “Autobahnkurier” (W 29), 1938
    • Mercedes-Benz 300 S Coupé (W 188), 1952
    • Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing” (W 198), 1954
    • Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing” (W 198), 1955
    • Mercedes-Benz 230 SL Pininfarina Coupé (W 113), 1964

  • Volkswagen is about to debut the SUV coupe ID.5 GTX at the IAA

    2021 Volkswagen ID.5 GTXVolkswagen presents the new ID.5 GTX – the vehicle is about to make its debut on the 7th of September at the IAA Munich Motor Show. This is the brand’s first SUV to be based on the Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB) and is expected to showcase some neat new technologies and features.

    Exterior design

    At the front, the vehicle showcases a new IQ.Light LED matrix lights design that generates an intelligently controlled beam and gives the vehicle this elegant look. Also, the flat sloping A pillars at the right and near the front give an elegant flow of the roofline and stretches over the body, and taper out in an integrated rear spoiler. At the rear, there are horizontal lines that accenturate the width of the vehicle and attract attention with the light strip. The design is completed with a set of LED rear lights with a 3D design.

    A new approach with a GTX badge

    GTX means enhanced athleticism and high performance. The vehicle will continue the tradition to bring electrified solutions to the GTI, GTD, and GTE models and proceed towards electrified transition.

    SEE ALSO: Mitsubishi improves its ranking in top 10 for Best Car Manufacturer in 2021 Driver Power

    As it seems VW aims to become the most popular brand in terms of sustainability and electrification. The goal is to increase the share of all-electric vehicles and to become a carbon-neutral brand by 2050.

  • Mitsubishi improves its ranking in top 10 for Best Car Manufacturer in 2021 Driver Power

    2021-Mitsubishi-Outlander-910Mitsubishi Motors in the UK has improved its rankings in the Auto Express 2021 Driver Power Survey to secure a top ten placement in the best car manufactures. At the moment the brand is placed at the 8th position, which is an improvement of 8 places from 2020 and 13 from 2019.

    The Auto Express 2021 Driver Power Survey is in its 20th year and provides detailed responses from vehicle owners and this year debut an additional focus on the in-car technology and a new assessment for value for money.

    Customers and Mitsubishi enthusiasts have listed the overall low running costs, along with the enhanced reliability and good overall build quality as the main strengths of Mitsubishi. Other features that receive positive feedback are the boot space, interior storage space, and smooth gearbox systems.

    Steve Fowler, Editor-in-Chief, Auto Express said: Mitsubishi has done brilliantly to climb the Driver Power league table over the past few years and sit in an impressive eighth place this year. Its owners are clearly a happy bunch praising the reliability, quality and practicality of their cars and say that running costs are good, too. That all makes it more of a shame that the brand is withdrawing from the UK market later this year.

    SEE ALSO: Kia reveals the exclusive Soul EV Boardmasters Edition

    Following the announcement of going up the ranks, Mitsubishi drivers will see no change in the standards of services they receive by the brand and will continue to meet their high expectations.

     

  • Kia reveals the exclusive Soul EV Boardmasters Edition

    2021 Kia Soul EV Boardmasters EditionKia has revealed the Soul EV Boardmasters Edition, a recycled and pre-production car saved from the crusher to instead live out on the beach.

    Designed exclusively for surfers, the Soul EV is a special vehicle that features a zero-emission drivetrain system and generates a total of 201hp via a 64kWh long-range battery pack.

    In terms of design, the Soul EV features an exclusive set of 17-inch aluminum alloys and 215/55 R17 tires, raised ground clearance, muscular proportions, and yet elegant appearance.

    One of the most striking features is the exclusive steel roof rack. Created out of lightweight steel, the rack has been hand-crafted exclusively for the Soul EV Boardmasters Edition in order to accommodate a pair of 7ft9 Tahe Bic Malibu surfboards. The shape and low profile allow the vehicle to avoid overhead height restrictors and enable the tailgate to open fully to access the boat.

    SEE ALSO: Bentley will unveil new models at this year’s Monterey Car Week

    There are also significant changes to the suspension and drivetrain system that altogether contribute to the overall performance and give a kick to the electric range of the vehicle. Also, thanks to the 64kWh battery pack and efficient motor, the Boardmasters Edition vehicle will offer greater more range compared to other EVs in the same category and class.