Tag: Cars

Volvo Polestar Precept

Polestar has confirmed it will put the Precept into production. Revealed earlier this year, the Polestar Precept started life as a manifesto to illustrate the brand’s future vision and was described as a commitment car, not a concept car.

Showcasing the Swedish electric performance brand’s future design direction, Precept also highlights Polestar’s path for digital technology and the use of innovative sustainable materials, inside and out.

“‘Stunning. Spectacular. Cutting-edge. We’d like to see it on the road!’ – this is what the press wrote about Precept and the public said, ‘We want it’, so we decided to build it,” comments Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar CEO.

“Consumers want to see a change from this industry – not just dreams. Now, Precept becomes an even stronger statement. We are committed to reducing the environmental impact of our cars and our business. The aim has to be climate neutrality, even though I recognize that is a long-term goal.”

The interior of Polestar Precept features a mix of sustainable materials including recycled PET bottles, reclaimed fishing nets, and recycled cork vinyl. A flax-based composite developed by external partner Bcomp Ltd has featured in many interior and some exterior parts. Polestar’s ambition is to bring much of this sustainability into production.

With product development underway, Polestar confirms it will produce Precept in China, where a new production facility will be established. The aim is to ensure the facility will be carbon neutral and one of the most intelligent and connected automotive production facilities in the world.

This climate-positive narrative was started by Polestar’s original manufacturing facility in Chengdu where the Polestar 1 is produced. Inaugurated in 2019, the Polestar Production Centre became the first LEED Gold-rated automotive production facility in China and runs on 100% renewable energy.

“China is a home market for Polestar and we recognize the increasingly important drive for greater sustainability here,” continues Thomas Ingenlath, speaking at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition 2020. “With this new factory, we will again raise the bar, aiming to produce the most advanced and premium electric car in China with the lowest carbon footprint.”

October 15, 2020
Audi Q5 familiarity

The reassuringly robust foundations of an SUV and the charismatic curves of a coupé – Audi has already successfully combined these elements to create striking new Sportback versions of its Q3 and e-tron models, and the mid-size Q5 is now following suit. The new Q5 Sportback will appeal to customers who appreciate the innately family-friendly utility and sophisticated technology of the standard Q5 but also admire the expressive and distinctive design of more purebred sports cars. It will line up alongside its perennially popular SUV counterpart with a choice of Sport, S line, Vorsprung and Edition One specification options in the first half of 2021.

“Form often carries as much weight as function for Audi customers, many of whom have been drawn to the brand by our longstanding commitment to combining design that innovates and inspires with fundamental everyday versatility and usability,” says Director of Audi UK Andrew Doyle. “In new Sportback form the ever popular Q5 makes a far more expressive statement visually, but remains impressively fit for whatever life throws at it. Like the Q3 and e-tron Sportbacks it really is a best-of-both-worlds proposition.”

The Q5 Sportback has great presence, as is typical of the Q models from Audi. Large air inlets flank the octagonal Singleframe, and the headlights with their distinctive daytime running light signature feature LED technology, with matrix LED units reserved for S line models and above. The continuous, elegantly sweeping shoulder line emphasises the wheels, and the side sill trim on the doors suggests resilience and solidity. The glasshouse extends low over the body and begins its downward slope early so that the third side window tapers sharply to the rear. The sloping rear window and the seemingly high-mounted rear bumper give the Q5 Sportback a very dynamic and powerful appearance. This is particularly true of models equipped to S line specification and above, which combine an even more distinctive rear bumper treatment with exclusive detail enhancements to the Singleframe and side air intakes. In Vorsprung and Edition 1 versions, these are complemented by a black styling package as is customary in the UK Audi range.

Innovative: rear lights with digital OLED technology
The state-of-the-art technological sophistication of the new Q5 Sportback is underscored further in Vorsprung versions by rear lights featuring innovative digital OLED technology. The units each incorporate three organic light-emitting diodes, each of which is divided into six segments that can be controlled individually and configured differently. Customers can choose from three different rear light signatures at the point of order, all of which include a dynamic coming-and-leaving-home lighting sequence and an additional safety feature – if another vehicle approaches from the rear to within two metres of the stationary Q5 Sportback, all OLED segments illuminate as a proximity warning.

At 4.69 metres in length, the Q5 Sportback is seven millimetres longer than its sister model. Its height and width are identical, but its coefficient of drag is lower at 0.30. The long wheelbase of 2.82 metres facilitates ample room for five in the cabin, the focal point of which is the cleanly styled two-section dashboard with its freestanding 10.1-inch MMI display. As in the recently updated Q5 SUV, incorporation of the third generation modular infotainment system or MIB 3 has rendered the rotary MMI control dial obsolete and enabled the introduction of full touch-screen functionality for the monitor, as well as a greatly enhanced natural language voice control system.

This latest system is able to access information from the cloud to inform its responses, and can be activated by either pressing a button on the steering wheel or by saying “Hey Audi.”

The Audi Virtual Cockpit plus with its panoramic 12.3-inch display is standard for all versions in the UK, as are MMI Navigation Plus and Audi connect internet connectivity, meaning that when guiding the driver the Q5 Sportback can display high-resolution satellite images from Google Earth and use the swarm intelligence of the Audi fleet to deliver lane-by-lane information on traffic flow and traffic forecasts in real time, as well as providing alerts for upcoming hazards such as slippery roads and fog. Useful resources such as a news feed, weather and travel updates, local fuel pricing listings and an on-street parking assistant that gauges the likelihood of finding a space at a given location also form part of the Audi connect package.

Vorsprung versions raise the bar even further technologically, adding features such as a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, a head-up display, Audi Phone Box wireless handset charging and a host of advanced driver assistance upgrades covering everything from manoevring into a parking space and then reversing out again to turning at junctions, monitoring blindspots and observing motorway lane boundaries. A step up from the standard cruise control to adaptive cruise assist is also included, enabling the Q5 Sportback to largely take over the tasks of accelerating, decelerating and steering within the limits of what is currently legally permissible. Its presence also helps another high-tech Vorsprung highlight – the predictive efficiency assistant – to automatically adjust the driving speed to suit the situation, the topography of the route, speed limits and road users up ahead, helping to reduce fuel consumption by as much as ten percent.

Flexible space configuration: rear seat bench plus
The standard powered tailgate glides upwards to reveal a luggage compartment with a volume of 510 litres, which increases to 1,480 litres when the rear seats are folded down. Vorsprung versions offer increased variability thanks to their sliding rear bench seat plus, which has a 40:20:40 configuration and offers a movable seat base and adjustable backrest angle, liberating extra space for passengers or luggage as required. When its base is positioned as far forwards as possible luggage capacity can be increased by as much as 60 litres to a maximum of 570 litres. The optional storage and luggage compartment package keeps things orderly and holds luggage securely.

The engine lineup: one TDI and two TFSI units
The Q5 Sportback is set to launch in the UK with two powerful 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines – a TDI and a TFSI – each with 204PS and therefore identifiable by 40 TDI and 40 TFSI designations. The potent SQ5 Sportback with its 347PS twin-turbo V6 TDI will also form part of the first wave. Plug-in hybrid TFSIe variants with a choice of two outputs will follow a little later.

The four-cylinder engines are combined with a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, while the V6 TDI in the SQ5 Sportback works with an eight-speed tiptronic. All versions are shored up by quattro all-wheel-drive, with some featuring an on demand system that can disengage the rear axle in everyday driving conditions for maximum efficiency, and reconnect it predictively within fractions of a second when required. To further boost economy a mild hybrid system employing a belt alternator starter also stores electrical energy generated during braking in a lithium ion battery. With its help the Q5 Sportback and SQ5 Sportback can coast with the engine idling or completely shut down, and are able to more fully reap the benefit of start-stop technology by disengaging their engines during deceleration at a higher speed of 13mph and below while also restarting impressively smoothly.

The 2.0 TDI in the Q5 Sportback 40 TDI quattro is not only efficient, but also particularly clean. It meets the limits of the latest emissions regulation Euro 6d-ISC-FCM or EU 6 AP. Thanks to a twin-dosing SCR system with double AdBlue injection, nitrogen oxide emissions are further reduced as appropriate for the respective operating situation. The urea solution is injected into each of two SCR catalytic converters arranged one behind the other in the exhaust system: one close to the exhaust manifold and one farther away from the engine in the exhaust system.

More ground clearance off-road: the adaptive air suspension
Comfort for the long haul is assured in all versions of the new Q5 Sportback thanks to its exceptionally lightweight multilink front and rear suspension, which from S line level upwards has a tauter sport tuning. A set-up with adaptive damper control is also available for even keener tracking of the road surface, while an adaptive air suspension system that can vary the ride height of the bodyshell in five stages and by up to 60 millimetres features in Q5 Sportback Vorsprung models. The SQ5 Sportback and SQ5 Sportback Vorsprung are equipped with an S-specific version of this versatile system, which can even make loading easier by lowering the rear axle individually by 55 millimetres at the touch of a button in the luggage compartment.

The Audi drive select dynamic handling system puts the driver in control of several technical components, including the air suspension in Vorsprung and SQ5 variants, and forms part of the standard equipment package for all models. The driver can choose from up to seven profiles.

October 15, 2020
Mazda 100th Anniversary

Built to celebrate Mazda’s centenary, the 100th Anniversary Special Edition series is a range of special versions of all the key passenger cars in the firm’s global line-up and they’ve now arrived in the UK. Designed to celebrate the company’s centenary, the 100th Anniversary models adopt a white-and-burgundy two-tone exterior/interior combination, inspired by high-grade versions of Mazda’s first passenger car: the Mazda R360 Coupe.

With Snowflake White Pearlescent exterior paint contrasted with burgundy interior carpet and burgundy leather seats, the 100th cars are a stand-out celebration of Mazda’s centenary. Additionally, the 100th Anniversary Special Edition models feature a host of bespoke touches to further add to their exclusivity. This includes the unique 100th Anniversary badge featuring on the burgundy floormats, on the key fob, and embossed into the headrests. Externally, the same badge is on the wheel centers and the side of the car. Additionally, the 100th Anniversary MX-5 Convertible features a Dark Cherry fabric roof.

Revealed in Japan earlier this year, the first 100th Anniversary Special Edition models have now arrived in UK dealerships. The £29,995 Mazda3 is powered by the 180ps Skyactiv-X engine and with just 100 examples of this car being sold in the UK, it becomes the unique halo for the award-winning Mazda3 range. Likewise, the £31,695 100th Anniversary Mazda CX-30 shares the same Spark Controlled Compression Ignition SPCCI Skyactiv-X engine and the rarity of just 100 cars being sold in the UK.

Sure to be popular with British sports car fans, all 100 examples of the £29,995 100th Anniversary MX-5 Convertible are powered by the 184bhp 2.0-liter engine and join the 1.5-liter R-Sport in the limited-edition MX-5 range currently offered in the UK. Even more rare, just five examples of the £20,995 Mazda2 and £33,995 Mazda6 100th Anniversary will arrive later in the Autumn, while five examples of the 100th Anniversary Mazda CX-5 will arrive by the end of 2020.

Each vehicle will arrive with a bespoke key presentation box to be used on vehicle handover. Following delivery, the customer will also receive a beautifully crafted, limited edition book documenting the 100th anniversary of Mazda, as well as a 1:43 model of the Mazda R360 that inspired this range of special edition models.

Destined to be some of the most exclusive Mazdas on UK roads, all of these cars wear the unique 100th Anniversary badge inside and out, this special 100th Anniversary symbol overlays the current Mazda badge atop the original round logo of the Toyo Kogyo company. The design of which reflected the desire of Mazda founder Jujiro Matsuda to contribute to the world through engineering and the determination to constantly strive forwards.

Returning to his native city of Hiroshima having had a successful career in engineering in Osaka, where having started as an apprentice blacksmith, he founded his own foundry company, Matsuda joined the Toyo Cork Kogyo cork company. After renaming the company Toyo Kogyo in 1927, he led the company into machinery manufacturing, which ultimately led to the production of three-wheeled trucks, building the basis of the Mazda we know today.

Launched in 1960, the Mazda R360 was the firm’s first production car, this stylish coupe micro-car proved to be a huge sales success, and the white body/red roof two-tone design of high-grade versions has 60 years later inspired the exterior-interior color combination of Mazda’s 100th Anniversary models. With just 100 examples of each coming to the UK, the Mazda MX-5 Convertible, Mazda CX-30 and Mazda3 100th Anniversary Special Edition’s will offer a desirable blend of stand-out design and exclusivity for UK Mazda fans.

Commenting on the 100th Anniversary Special Editions, Mazda UK Managing Director, Jeremy Thomson, said: “ Mazda Corporation has created these special models as a token of appreciation for the customers who have supported Mazda through the years. We are proud to now have special versions of the MX-5 Convertible, CX-30, and Mazda3 in our UK showrooms. UK buyers have always loved special edition MX-5s so I’m sure that with its distinctive cherry roof and burgundy interior, the 100th Anniversary Special Edition Convertible will be very popular, while the first opportunity to have distinctive limited-edition versions of our latest cars: the Mazda3 and Mazda CX-30 are equally exciting”.

Adding, “Mazda’s have been sold in the UK for over 50 years and today, just as in the past, UK owners love the style, quality and driver involvement of our cars. Since the inception of Mazda UK in 2001, we’ve sold more than 795,000 cars in the UK, so it’s great to be able to celebrate the centenary of Mazda Corporation by offering these special models, at the same time as looking forward to our exciting future, including the launch early in 2021 of our first electric vehicle: the Mazda MX-30.

October 14, 2020
Mercedes-Benz S-Class new Generation
The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class is now on sale, with prices starting from £78,705 on-the-road for the standard wheelbase S 350 d AMG Line.

The S 350 d features an inline six-cylinder diesel engine, which produces 286 hp and 600 Nm of torque. It emits 173 g/km of CO2 and delivers between 40.4 and 42.8 combined mpg (39.2 and 39.8 mpg for LWB). It can reach 62 mph from a standstill in 6.4 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.

Priced from £94,135 OTR, the S 400 d 4MATIC – only available in long-wheelbase – uses an inline six-cylinder diesel engine, producing 330 hp and 700 Nm. It emits 192 g/km of CO2 and delivers between 37.7 and 38.7 mpg on the combined cycle. It can travel from 0 to 62 mph in 5.4 seconds and also has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.

The petrol-powered S 500 4MATIC – with prices starting from £89,105 – produces 435 hp and 520 Nm of torque and can sprint to 62 mph in just 4.9 seconds. The S 500 uses EQ Boost which features an integrated starter-generator powered by the 48 V on-board electrical system – thus also enables certain hybrid functions, ultimately improving overall performance and efficiency. As a result, the S 500 delivers between 32.8 and 34.9 mpg (31.7 and 32.5 mpg for the long wheel-base variant) and emits 184 g/km of CO2.

All models come as standard with a 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission. The S 400 d and S 500 are also now available with 4MATIC all-wheel-drive.

The new S-Class features the next generation of Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) with a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen central display, a 12.3-inch digital driver display, plus an MBUX tablet – which can be used as a fully-fledged tablet outside of the vehicle, including the ability to download Android apps (MBUX tablet is available as part of the Executive line). The driver display is also optionally available with 3D technology, including facial recognition which can monitor driver drowsiness and exterior mirror settings.

The ‘Hey Mercedes’ virtual assistant is also more intelligent than ever, now recognizing instructions or requests from any seat in the car.

The Driving Assistance Package is now standard equipment on all S-Class variants and includes updates to various features such as:
- Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC – responds to stationary road users to prevent collisions up to 80 mph (previously 37 mph)
- Traffic Sign Assist – now warns of inadvertently running a stop sign or red light
- Active Lane Keeping Assist – uses active steering intervention (instead of braking intervention) and can indicate potential hazards via the ambient lighting
- Active Evasive Steering Assist – responds to cyclists and ends of tailbacks in addition to pedestrians. The operating range on urban routes has been expanded to 67 mph (previously 44 mph)
Standard equipment on AMG Line short wheelbase – 350 d and 500 4MATIC only – includes 19-inch AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels; Nappa Leather upholstery; 12.8-inch OLED media display with augmented navigation and 12.3-inch driver display; KEYLESS-GO with seamless door handles and soft-close doors; heated seats front and rear; memory seats and wireless charging in the front; Driving Assistance package; MBUX premium; MULTIBEAM Intelligent Light System and reversing camera.

AMG Line Premium (available on short and long-wheelbase models, from £85,200) offers
20-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels; Burmester® 3D Surround sound system with sound personalization; a panoramic sliding sunroof; 12.3-inch 3D driver display; remote parking package including 360° camera and active ambient lighting. Long wheelbase models add electrically adjustable rear seats with memory, luxury head restraints, and climatized rear outer seats.

AMG Line Premium Plus adds augmented reality head-up display; DIGITAL LIGHT with ULTRA RANGE high beam; 21-inch AMG multispoke alloy wheels; ENERGIZING Comfort Package; AIR BALANCE; heated center armrest (front only) and heated front and rear door armrests, plus heated steering wheel and windscreen; active multi-contour, climatized front seats and luxury head restraints. AMG Line Premium Plus is only available on long-wheelbase models and starts from £95,695.

For another £3,795, the range-topping Executive line can be added to either Premium or Premium Plus long-wheelbase models and includes MBUX rear tablet with 7-inch touchscreen; electric sunblinds in rear doors and rear window; double sun visors with pivoting section; chauffeur package with a foldable, removable head restraint on the front passenger seat; the front passenger seat adjustable from the rear; and electrically extendable footrest on the back of the front passenger seat.
October 14, 2020
Hyundai i30 N
Hyundai Motor has unveiled the new i30 N, which comes with an enhanced design, a new wet-type eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (N DCT), and new advanced driver assistance and safety features, providing drivers with a better experience whether they’re on the road or on the track. With a variety of new features to improve both every day and high-performance driving situations, the new i30 is truly a racetrack-capable everyday sports car.

The i30 N became Hyundai’s first high-performance production car when it launched in 2017. So far, over 25,000 i30 N units have been sold in Europe.

The new i30 N builds on the success of its predecessor. As well as offering a range of design and driving enhancements, it is also equipped with more lightweight materials, resulting in more agility and better handling.

Like the previous version, the new i30 N is available in both hatchback and fastback body types.

“Since its market debut in 2017, the Hyundai N original high-performance car has received multiple outstanding reviews and awards. Drivers seeking maximum fun-to-drive on the road as well as on the track, now receive an even wider range of performance and design features, with the new Hyundai i30 N,” says Thomas Schemera, Executive Vice President and Head of Product Division at Hyundai Motor Company. “Especially the new design, new wheels, N Light Seats, and the new wet-type eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, make the Hyundai N experience sportier and more convenient than ever before.”

An enhanced exterior design focused on dynamic performance

The new i30 N’s design can be described in three words: performance, emotion, statement. Beyond a styling exercise, performance defines the changes made exclusively for the i30 N. Every design feature around the car has been developed with a focus on dynamic performance: the new i30 N’s appearance shows that it was naturally born for the racetrack.

At the front, the N signature can be found on the wide center grille. Its specific, sharp mesh design reminds the viewer of airplane wings and has been optimized to allow efficient engine cooling. The N logo has also been integrated onto the wheel caps.

Other design enhancements include new LED headlamps with V-shaped Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). Meanwhile, the outer bumper corners, dominated by the typical aerodynamic side fins, incorporate the air curtains to significantly improve the airflow and reduce turbulence into the wheel housing.

The new i30 hatchback N features an updated rear-end design, while the rear of the new i30 Fastback N remains unchanged. On the hatchback, the large wing spoiler with the distinctive N triangular brake light creates a downforce and excellent balance, while the rear lamps have also been updated and feature a new LED signature. Two large exhaust pipes integrated into the lower bumper diffuser complete the image of the pure high-performance i30 N.

The form following function design of the new i30 N makes the car look fast even in standstill. Purposeful and energetic, it is ready to tackle the road and track.

The new i30 N comes in seven exterior colors, including Performance Blue, which is exclusive to Hyundai N models.

Exterior colors:
- Performance Blue
- Polar White
- Engine Red
- Sunset Red
- Shadow Grey
- Dark Knight
- Phantom Black
The new i30 N with standard trim is fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels. When outfitted with the Performance Package (see below), it comes with a series of design upgrades, including the newly-developed 19-inch forged alloy wheels. The lightweight optimized, five-double-spoke wheels were designed for minimum unsprung mass and high strength. Together, the 19-inch forged alloy wheels are 14.4 kg lighter than the current 19-inch cast alloy wheels. Their dark satin grey matte finish, contrasting with the N-specific red brake calipers with N logo, underlines the racing spirit of the car. The new i30 N with Performance Package has also been outfitted with high-performance Pirelli P-Zero tires, developed especially for the i30 N, while the standard trim offers Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.

Interior design connects the car with the driver

The interior of the new i30 N is focused on connecting the driver with the car at all touchpoints. The analogue cluster includes features such as the active variable LED red zone, which varies according to engine oil temperature, and the shift timing indicator, which shows the driver the best time to switch gears. The new i30 N is also available with a heated steering wheel and heated front seats.

The new i30 N features sporty, metal pedals, and Performance Blue stitching on both body types. New to this model are seatbelts with Performance Blue accents. The interior comes in one-tone Black with a full cloth or artificial suede and leather seats.

N Light Seats

For the first time, the new i30 N comes with the option of N Light Seats, a set of lightweight, high-performance front seats. These uniquely-designed mono form high-performance sport seats are 2.2 kg lighter than the standard seats. The pronounced bolsters offer excellent lateral support. N Light Seats are made of premium leather and Alcantara materials and come with Performance Blue stitching and an illuminated N logo on an integrated headrest for a high-quality feeling.

An improved engine delivers an even more intense motorsport feeling

The new i30 N comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with either a six-speed manual transmission (6MT) or – for the first time – a wet-type eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (N DCT).

With the standard trim, the new i30 N with 6MT delivers a maximum power output of 250 PS and a maximum torque of 353 Nm. New i30 N customers can also select the Performance Package option. With the Performance Package, the engine delivers 280 PS. This is an increase of 5 PS from the original i30 N and is available with both 6MT and N DCT. The maximum torque for the Performance Package variation has been increased by 39 Nm to 392 Nm.

The 280 PS engine offers flat power, which ensures high responsiveness and improved acceleration for even more fun on the road or on the track. Flat power provides more torque and power at lower RPMs, thus utilizing more of the engine’s potential in everyday driving situations. The new i30 N keeps maximum torque between 1,950 and 4,600 RPM and achieves maximum power at 5,200 RPM. This improves acceleration in the mid- and high-speed range and delivers consistently high performance even in a variety of ambient conditions.

Both trim levels have a maximum speed of 250 km/h, and the new i30 N with the Performance Package can go from 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, an improvement of 0.2 seconds or 3 percent as compared to the previous model.

As with its predecessor, the new i30 N is equipped with a range of high-performance driving features including Rev Matching, Launch Control, Rear stiffness bar, and more.

N DCT makes the new i30 N even more fun to drive

The new N DCT eight-speed dual-clutch transmission enables a range of high-performance driving features, making the new i30 N even more fun to drive. N DCT is a wet type transmission, meaning that oil is used to cool the clutch components, which creates less friction and allows a higher amount of torque to be transferred through the gearbox. The new transmission option was designed to provide the engaging experience of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic transmission. Drivers can choose to enter manual mode and shift gears either by using the paddle shifters on the steering wheel or the gear stick. The paddle shifters allow the driver to shift gears without taking their hands off the steering wheel for an even sportier experience. If the driver decides to use the gear lever instead, the gear lever comes with sporty shifting logic: to downshift, push forward, and to upshift, pull back.

The N DCT enables three new N performance functions for even more driving fun: N Grin Shift, N Power Shift, and N Track Sense Shift.

N Grin Shift (NGS) increases torque by allowing turbocharger overboost and maximizes transmission response for 20 seconds – a performance that is sure to bring a grin to the driver’s face. To activate, the driver pushes a button on the steering wheel, and a countdown begins on the cluster showing the remaining seconds for this function. When NGS is activated, the driver will experience a “push feel” when upshifting.

N Power Shift (NPS) engages when the car accelerates with more than 90 percent of the throttle, thereby mitigating any reduction in torque by using upshifts to deliver maximum power to the wheels. This gives the driver a responsive feeling of dynamic acceleration when shifting.

Finally, N Track Sense Shift (NTS) automatically recognizes when the road conditions are optimal for dynamic driving, for example, if it recognizes that the car is driving on a racetrack, and activates automatically. By selecting the right gear and shift timing, it provides optimal performance, just like a professional race car driver.

N Grin Control System

As with the previous generation i30 N, the N Grin Control System gives customers the choice between five distinct driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, N, and N Custom. The driving modes adjust the parameters of the engine, the suspension, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), N Corner Carving Differential (Electronically-controlled Limited Slip Differential), exhaust sound, steering, and transmission to optimize them for a variety of driving conditions. In the N Custom mode, drivers can select from Eco, Normal, Sport, and Sport+ settings for each of these components to match driving preferences and road conditions.

Ride and handling

As with its predecessor, the new i30 N features an Electronic Controlled Suspension. The suspension and steering systems have been returned, resulting in improved ride and handling performance for both transmission types.

Customers who select the Performance Package can also benefit from the N Corner Carving Differential, an Electronically Controlled Limited Slip Differential (eLSD). Additionally, for the Performance Package, the front brake disc size has been increased from 345mm to 360mm for better braking performance.

The weight saved through the high-performance N Light Seats and 19-inch forged alloy wheels result in better performance and handling for a more agile driving experience.

Safety

The new i30 N has been upgraded to include more Hyundai SmartSense active safety and driver assistance features. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist has been upgraded to include pedestrian detection (FCA-P). Lane Following Assist (LFA) works to keep the vehicle centered in its lane even before the vehicle begins to drift to one side. The hatchback version of the new i30 N with N DCT comes with the option of Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA-R). This function can activate the brakes to prevent a collision when switching lanes on the highway or when exiting a parallel parking spot. Similarly, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA), also available on the hatchback with N DCT, can activate the brakes when an obstruction is detected directly behind the vehicle and the car is in reverse, such as when exiting a normal parking spot.

Hyundai SmartSense safety features:
- [NEW] Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with a vehicle and now also with pedestrian detection (FCA-P)
- [NEW] Lane Following Assist (LFA)
- [NEW] Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) (hatchback only)
- [NEW] Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA-R) (only DCT, hatchback only)
- [NEW] Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Warning (RCCW) (hatchback only)
- [NEW] Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) (only DCT, hatchback only)
Another safety feature, e-call, can contact emergency services at the push of a button, and automatically contacts first responders if the vehicle’s airbags have been deployed.

Tech & Connectivity

The new i30 N features a Performance Driving Data System to monitor and improve the driver’s track skills, with updated graphics for even more ease of use. This feature saves and displays driving data, including information on PS, torque, turbo boost. It also includes a lap and acceleration timer, which comes in handy on the track.

The new i30 N comes with an optional 10.25-inch touchscreen navigation system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is also available with the latest version of Bluelink, Hyundai’s state-of-the-art connected car services. This offers a range of new benefits and services for Hyundai customers including Connected Routing, Last Mile Navigation, and live parking information, and a new user profile feature.
October 13, 2020
ŠKODA joins forces with Parkopedia to help drivers find parking spaces quicker and easier in real time

ŠKODA drivers now receive enhanced support in their search for vacant parking spaces. To achieve this, the Czech car manufacturer has concluded a cooperation agreement with Parkopedia, the world’s leading parking service provider. As a result, ŠKODA drivers have access to real-time information on millions of parking spaces throughout Europe, which is displayed via the vehicle’s navigation system or the ŠKODA Connect App. The parking space locator is one of many features of the mobile online services included in ŠKODA Connect.

Finding a vacant parking space or the nearest multi-story car park in a strange town can be a nerve-racking experience. ŠKODA drivers are already supported in their search for a parking space through the mobile online services of ŠKODA Connect. Thanks to a new partnership, the scope of the service have been comprehensively expanded. ŠKODA drivers have access to information on millions of parking spaces throughout Europe as a result of the collaboration with Parkopedia, the world’s leading parking service provider. Using the vehicle’s navigation system or the ŠKODA Connect App, which can be downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, the cheapest and closest parking options are displayed at the respective location or a selected address. In addition to the fees, it also shows whether the parking spaces are actually vacant – in real-time, subject to availability. The latest version of the ŠKODA Connect App or the navigation system can also provide route guidance directly to the selected parking space.

Jan Havlas, coordinator of Connected Car projects at ŠKODA AUTO, says: “We are constantly expanding our ŠKODA Connect service offers with the aim of making remote vehicle access and communication more convenient for our customers. The partnership with Parkopedia is another important element of this. Parkopedia offers ŠKODA drivers the parking service and integrative user experience via the ŠKODA Connect app and the vehicle’s infotainment display”.

Founded in 2007, Parkopedia provides detailed information on more than 70 million parking spaces in 15,000 cities and 89 countries worldwide. These include multi-story car parks, public and private parking facilities.

October 12, 2020
Land Rover Range Rover Velar

The Range Rover Velar is now even more desirable, sustainable and intelligent with the introduction of an electric plug-in hybrid option, advanced new infotainment technology, an elegant new design features.

The mid-size luxury SUV, which sits between the Range Rover Evoque and Range Rover Sport in the family line-up, offers customers the perfect balance of design and technology – now with electric power. The new 2.0-liter four-cylinder P400e plug-in hybrid offers a smooth and refined drive, producing a combined 404PS and 640Nm of torque from its 300PS petrol engine and 105kW electric motor, with an impressive 0-60mph in 5.1 seconds (0-100km/h in 5.4 seconds). A 17.1Wh lithium-ion battery, located under the boot floor, can be charged to 80 percent in just 30 minutes†† using a fast DC charge point, or 1 hour 40 minutes using a standard 7kW wall box. With zero tailpipe emissions in electric mode, an impressive real-world all-electric range of 33 miles (53km), the fuel economy of up to 130.2mpg (2.2 litres/100km), and CO2 emissions from just 49g/km*, the Range Rover Velar is now even more sustainable by design.

A new family of 3.0-litre straight-six Ingenium engines is also introduced to the Range Rover Velar for the first time. The latest generation of smooth and efficient petrol and diesel engines are available with 48-volt mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) technology for reduced fuel consumption and heightened refinement. The new straight-six engines developed in-house, are available as D300 (300PS diesel) and P400 (400PS) petrol all-wheel-drive variants, each fitted with air suspension as standard for signature Range Rover comfort.

The new engines are available with mild-hybrid electric vehicle technology (MHEV) in addition to the latest engine technologies, for efficient performance. The MHEV system uses a Belt integrated Starter Generator (BiSG) in the engine bay to harvest energy usually lost under deceleration, which is then stored in a 48V lithium-ion battery located beneath the rear loadspace. It is able to redeploy the stored energy to assist the engine when accelerating away, while also delivering a more refined and responsive stop/start system.

The new P400 straight-six engine generates 550Nm torque and delivers an impressive 0-60mph time of 5.2 seconds (0-100km in 5.5 seconds.) The engine features an electric supercharger supported by a twin-scroll turbocharger and Continuous Variable Valve Lift (CVVL), for refined performance.

The D300 diesel generates 650Nm torque, offering 0-60mph in 6.1 seconds (0-100km/h in 6.5 seconds) with a fuel economy of up to 37.2mpg (6.3litres/100km) and CO2 from 199g/km. Series sequential turbos and an advanced after-treatment system make it one of the world’s leading clean diesel engines.

The new in-line Ingenium diesel engine designs meet Real Driving Emissions Step 2 (RDE2) standards and Euro 6d-final real-world driving compliance with 48V Mild-Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) technology boosting responses and fuel economy. As a result, the new Ingenium diesel unit – also now available in the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport – is one of the world’s leading clean diesel engines.

Additionally, the next-generation four-cylinder Ingenium D200 (204PS diesel) is introduced on the Range Rover Velar, offering more power, lower CO2, and improved fuel economy. The engine is offered with the same 48-volt mild-hybrid technology as the rest of the range, with CO2 from 165g/km and fuel economy of up to 44.9mpg (6.3 litres/100km)*.

Velar features a reductive design emphasized with beautifully integrated digital screens that are now fitted with Land Rover’s state-of-the-art infotainment system, Pivi, and Pivi Pro. The intelligent and intuitive system, offered as Pivi ProΔ from an S-specification pack, transforms the digital experience inside Velar.

Pivi is designed around ease of use, with a simple interface reducing the number of interactions to enhance safety. Crisp new graphics and super-fast responsiveness are enabled with a new electrical architecture under the surface, ensuring the screens and navigation system are ready to go in seconds, thanks also to a dedicated power source. Customers can access software updates ‘over-the-air’ reducing the need to visit a retailer. An embedded data connection means customers have access to the latest maps, apps, and vehicle software modules with updates scheduled via the touchscreen at a time to suit them.

Streaming music and media has never been simpler. Spotify is integrated directly within the infotainment menu for the first time, with data included ΔΔ, while there’s Bluetooth connectivity for two phones at once.

Nick Rogers, Executive Director, Product Engineering at Jaguar Land Rover, said: “The Range Rover Velar’s name and bloodline date back to the code name of the original Range Rover prototypes. It has been fifty years since the introduction of the pioneering Range Rover in 1970, and now every family member is electrified with our awesome plug-in hybrid technology. Electrified powertrains and cleaner mild-hybrid diesel engines mean the Velar is an even more efficient and sustainable option for our customers. Jaguar Land Rover’s new Electrical Vehicle Architecture – EVA 2.0 – supports the new Pivi and Pivi Pro infotainment, as well as Software-Over-The-Air (SOTA), and a whole suite of advanced driver assistance systems, cameras, and clean-air technology, making the Range Rover Velar cleaner, safer and smarter than ever before and one of the most technologically advanced luxury SUVs in the world.”

The experience inside the Range Rover Velar is now an even calmer sanctuary with the addition of Active Road Noise Cancellation***. The intelligent technology works like a pair of high-end noise cancellation headphones, constantly monitoring vibrations from the road surface and calculating the opposite phase sound wave needed to remove the noise heard by the occupants. The effect is subtle, but the minimum reduction of 4 decibels ensures an even more refined and calming interior space. The system is even able to adjust the level and position of sounds played into the cabin based on the number of passengers and their position inside the vehicle by using the seatbelt sensors. This advanced system delivers a more serene experience inside Velar, even reducing driver tiredness, which can be brought about by extended exposure to low-frequency sound on long journeys.

A new Cabin Air Filtration system enhances the relaxing and clean sanctuary inside Velar, reducing levels of harmful particulates, pollen, and even odors. The new system – introduced in addition to the existing Cabin Air Ionisation feature – filters out fine particulate matter, allergens, pollen, and even strong smells. Activated via a ‘Purify’ button in the lower touchscreen, it is capable of filtering ultrafine particulates (up to and even below PM2.5). Drivers and passengers can be assured the air they breathe inside the Range Rover Velar is cleaner than the air outside.

Also available is the new second-generation wearable Activity Key, which can totally replace the traditional key fob when necessary. The water-resistant and shock-proof wrist device now incorporates an LCD watch and allows customers to start, stop, lock, and unlock the vehicle, with no need to take a traditional key fob out with them.

Additional new design features introduced on Velar include a new steering wheel design which has integrated smart buttons ready to receive the latest ADAS software updates over-the-air. A tactile new Drive Selector also replaces the rotary gear selector.

The ‘Range Rover Velar Edition’ provides even more customer choice and features a combination of exterior and interior upgrades. Based on the R-Dynamic SE specification□, enhancements include a black contrast roof and matching 20-inch black alloy wheels, for sophisticated presence. The distinctive new special edition model is available exclusively in Lantau Bronze metallic paint, as well as the new Hakuba Silver, Santorini Black or Eiger Grey.

October 9, 2020
Lotus Evija development car
Lotus today reveals further details on the Evija all-electric hypercar in a stunning new film featuring an engineering development vehicle testing on the 2.2-mile track at Hethel.

At the wheel is Gavan Kershaw, Director of Vehicle Attributes for Lotus, who provides extensive new commentary on key elements of the Evija project. At almost five minutes long and using on-board cameras to reveal new views of the car, it’s the most detailed insight yet into the dynamic excellence of Britain’s first all-electric hypercar.

The film has been launched as the Evija takes center stage at this week’s Salon Prive Concours d’Elegance, the UK’s most exclusive motor show. It’s staged in the beautiful gardens of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site in heart of the Oxfordshire countryside.

In the film, Kershaw reveals how from the earliest discussions about what the Evija should be, the goal was to create a hypercar with genuine everyday usability. He reveals new details on the progressive deployment of power and torque through the car’s five drive modes:
- Range mode is limited to 1,000PS of power and 800Nm of torque and intelligently switches the Evija from four-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive to maximize the distance available from the battery and its intelligent power management system.
- City provides greater power control and decreases the level of regenerative braking for urban environments.
- Tour provides automatically switchable four-wheel or rear-wheel drive, delivering over 1,400PS of power with torque-vectoring.
- Sport delivers performance figures of 1,700PS and 1,700Nm linked to stability control systems to increase traction levels.
- Track mode is the most extreme, boosting power delivery to the maximum 2,000PS. It delivers the highest level of torque-vectoring with the Evija’s Drag Reduction System (DRS) available on request. The chassis setting is automatically switched to Track.
Also included in the film are exclusive dynamic views of the battery pack located immediately behind the two seats, echoing the classic mid-mounted powertrain layout of so many Lotus cars. As Kershaw explains, this creates an optimum weight distribution and makes the Evija exceptionally maneuverable as it races towards its top speed of more than 200mph.

As with all Lotus cars past, present, and in the future, agile handling and exceptional steering are embedded in the brand’s DNA. Kershaw explains they were among the top priorities in setting the performance characteristics of the Evija: “Lotus cars are very nimble, inspiring great confidence when being driven, and the Evija is no different to that,” he states.

The Lotus Evija marks the start of an exciting new chapter in the history of an iconic and much-loved British sports car brand. With class-leading in-gear acceleration and an output of 2,000 PS – making it the most powerful series-production road car ever built – it sets new standards in the global hypercar market.

Satisfying a brief to be the most powerful and dynamically accomplished road car in the history of the company, the Evija represents a thrilling new high watermark for Lotus driving performance. As well as signaling the beginning of a contemporary new Lotus design language, the Evija is a bold statement of intent about the brand’s future ambition to be a truly global performance car company.
October 9, 2020
MG HS Plug-in

MG is taking a bold new step into an entirely fresh market area as it continues its incredible growth, which has seen it become the only car brand to increase UK sales volumes in 2020 and develop into the fourth best-selling electric car company in Britain.

The new MG HS Plug-in SUV goes on sale in October with a great value entry price of £29,995 and adds a new dimension to MG’s electrified drivetrain line-up, building on the popularity and success of ZS EV.

It becomes MG’s first model to feature a Plug-in Hybrid drivetrain, using the existing model’s 1.5-litre turbocharged engine working in tandem with a 90KW electric motor to give an EV-only range of 32 miles with zero tailpipe emissions – plenty enough for most commutes.

Together the electric and petrol motors develop a combined power output of 258PS, giving the model a performance advantage, too. It has the ability to accelerate from 0-60mph in 6.9 seconds. MG HS Plug-in also introduces an innovative new 10-speed transmission that works with both the petrol and electric motors to optimize power delivery and efficiency.

Daniel Gregorious, MG’s Head of Sales & Marketing, said: “Since MG HS arrived in showrooms last year it has established itself as a high-quality flagship for MG, building on the success of the smaller MG ZS to offer even more comfort, practicality, and great value features that are prized by
C-segment SUV buyers.

“New MG HS Plug-in makes the already terrific value MG HS range even more appealing as it brings with it the promise of a zero-emissions 32-mile range, with added performance and at a price point comparable to some other manufacturers’ smaller internal combustion engine models. It’s a tremendously affordable package that we think will be a huge hit with both family and fleet customers.”

BACKGROUND

MG HS arrived in the UK in October 2019 as the brand’s C-segment SUV, a larger alternative to the established MG ZS, which remains MG’s overall best-selling model.

MG HS Plug-in is a larger car, ideal for growing families, and features a number of high-tech features including MG Pilot – a suite of driver assistance systems that gives the MG HS one of the most comprehensive safety packages in its class. MG HS has already been endorsed by the achievement of a 5 Star Euro NCAP rating.

It’s high tech, the high-quality interior is matched by a dynamic package that puts it right up there among the most surefooted and engaging SUVs to drive, while comfort, refinement, and pleasing details are at the fore, including a 10.1-inch color touchscreen and 12-inch fully digital Driver Information Display.

The launch of the new Plug-in model is a crucial part of MG’s Momentum and Growth Plan, as it brings plug-in hybrid power to the sector at an incomparable price point, making a family-sized SUV PHEV attainable to those who may not realize that such a desirable car is within their budget.

With competitive PCP and PCH rates, MG HS Plug-in will appeal to families and fleets alike.

DESIGN

By combining high quality with keen pricing, the MG HS has already created a new definition of affordable luxury for new car buyers in the UK.

It is designed to look purposeful, sporty, and perfectly at home on British and European roads. At the front, the latest iteration of MG’s stellar field grille perfectly frames the largest MG logo yet. At the rear, twin tailpipes and an aluminum lower bumper add a classy and sporty finish.

Exclusive versions also get LED headlights, with eye-catching LED sequential indicators front and rear.

Inside, soft-touch materials reign supreme as MG’s designers have prioritized comfort and quality to make the cabin a very inviting place. The well-appointed driving position and roomy seats make MG HS a quality space for quality family moments.

Front passengers can enjoy class-leading shoulder, hip, and headroom with soft-touch materials in all the right places. Piano key buttons, turbine design air vents, and soft-touch door cards are pleasingly tactile, adding to the sense of comfort and quality inside the car. Rear seat passengers are catered for too with the reclining seats offering bags of space, twin air vents, two USBs, and a sleek fold-out armrest, which cleverly opens to reveal storage space and twin cup holders.

It’s a well-thought-out and harmonious piece of design that was conceived to appeal to forward-thinking, modern family motorists, offering a boldly styled and high-quality alternative to run-of-the-mill SUVs. MG is also adding a vibrant new color with the new MG HS Plug-in – the vibrant Pimlico Blue.

POWERTRAIN

MG HS Plug-in is MG’s third model with an electrified powertrain and the company’s first-ever PHEV. Alongside the established MG ZS EV and All-New MG5 EV, the three electrified models are expected to account for over 50% of MG Motor UK’s total sales in 2021, further strengthening the position of what’s already Britain’s fourth best-selling EV brand.

MG HS Plug-in features the popular and proven 1.5-liter turbo engine from the petrol MG HS range but adds a 90kW electric motor giving a combined output of 258PS (versus the 162PS of the standard petrol model).

With an impressive combined power figure and the added driveability and instant response from the electric motor, MG HS Plug-in will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.9 seconds.

Yet despite these impressive power and performance figures, MG HS Plug-in boasts very impressive economy figures and a low CO2 emissions figure of just 43g/km. In EV-only mode emissions are 0g/km and this gives a range of up to 32 miles, easily enough to cover the average daily commute.

Helping achieve those performance and economy figures, and providing seamlessly smooth gear changes, is an ingenious 10-speed automatic transmission transferring power to the front wheels.

Power from the petrol engine is channeled through a six-speed automatic gearbox, while the electric motor transfers power through a four-speed electronic drive unit. Together they combine to provide 10 electronically controlled gear ratios that always provide the optimal gear combination, keeping emissions as low and driver enjoyment and performance as high as possible.

CHARGING

Using a Type 2 fast charger, the MG HS Plug-in can be charged from zero to 100% in just three hours.

INTERIOR

A great convenience feature offered as standard on Exclusive versions is the power tailgate. This opens up to an impressive 448 liters of luggage space. Folding the rear seats flat extends the total capacity to 1,375 liters. There’s also a dual-height boot floor virtually eliminating any lip when loading items and giving a flat load area, with better luggage space than many rivals whose luggage area is heavily compromised by an EV drivetrain.

Just as in petrol versions, rear-seat passengers are very well catered for. There is a class-leading leg and shoulder room, even with three adults in the back, while back seat passengers in Exclusive versions will also benefit from additional light coming into the cabin through the opening panoramic Sky Roof. Exclusive also gets power-adjustable sports seats in what is already a well-appointed cabin.

Extending the quality across the dashboard is a tactile soft-touch finish with contrasting stitching.

MG PILOT – HIGH-TECH DRIVER ASSISTANCE

One of the key features of MG HS Plug-in is its high-tech driver assistance suite called MG Pilot, which is carried over from the 5 star Euro NCAP rated petrol version and comes as standard.

MG Pilot includes a number of safety aids, including Active Emergency Braking. At speeds below 27mph, the car will automatically deploy the vehicle’s brakes to avoid a collision with a car, bicycle, or pedestrian. At speeds above 27mph, the vehicle will brake automatically to reduce the likelihood or mitigate the severity of any impact.

Using an intelligent combination of forward-facing radar and camera technology, MG Pilot is an excellent companion on long-distance, mile-munching journeys. Lane Keep Assist will automatically intervene if it detects the car leaving lane or leaving the carriageway, providing steering input to ensure the vehicle remains on the road. Blind Spot Detection provides a visual warning to the driver of any nearby vehicles in adjoining lanes.

Another feature is MG Pilot’s Adaptive Cruise Control. By setting the target speed and following distance, the driver instructs MG Pilot to automatically adjust the car’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. If the road clears, MG Pilot will accelerate to and maintain the set speed. When the Adaptive Cruise Control is active, MG Pilot will maintain the vehicle’s position in the lane with minimum steering input from the driver. Intelligent Speed Limit Assist will read speed limit signs and will display the current speed limit to the driver.

MG Pilot also includes Traffic Jam Assist, which enables the car to automatically follow the car in front at speeds below 35 mph, automatically steering, braking, and accelerating within the same lane. If the vehicle in front comes to a complete stop, so will MG HS, and if it moves away within a short period of time, MG HS will do the same.

Alongside MG Pilot’s active systems, a selection of warning and alert features complement the driver, maintaining safety and simplifying everyday driving. Fitted as standard with Forward Collision Warning, MG Pilot’s frontal radars will trigger a warning message if the preceding vehicle decelerates rapidly, allowing enough time for a successful emergency brake application.

Drivers can be safe in the knowledge that they have excellent visibility with the advantage of Blind Spot Detection, Lane Keep Assist, and Lane Departure Warning System. Monitoring the area behind the car’s C-pillars, the Blind Spot Detection system will alert the driver, through an A-pillar mounted warning light, if the unseen area is occupied by another car. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Door Opening Warning also help to mitigate the risk of collisions.

MODEL RANGE, EQUIPMENT, AND PRICING

Two models are offered in the MG HS Plug-in line-up, starting with the £29,995 Excite.

The Excite is extremely well-equipped and comes with MG Pilot (detailed above), 18-inch ‘Hurricane’ diamond-cut alloy wheels, leather-style trim, electrically adjustable heated front seats, auto headlamps and wipers, keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, a 10.1-inch color touchscreen with Android Auto TM and Apple CarPlay TM capability, a 360-degree parking camera, and smart silver roof rails.

The upmarket Exclusive trim adds a power-operated tailgate, panoramic sky roof, full leather upholstery with ambient interior lighting which can be fully-adjusted to the driver’s preference, metal sports pedals, an electrically adjustable passenger seat, and LED bi-function headlights with sequential LED turn signals.

The Exclusive model costs just £32,495 OTR.

MARKET OPPORTUNITY

There are multiple reasons why MG HS Plug-in makes sense, from company car user choosers wanting to make the most of its 10% benefit-in-kind taxation (under WLTP protocols), to fleet managers wanting to adopt plug-in hybrid technology to reduce costs, especially in urban environments.

It’s the retail opportunity that’s especially strong, though, and the good news is that MG HS Plug-in is much bigger and more spacious than other plug-in models available from the same £29,995 price point, while if you want a vehicle in the same size category comparable PHEVs are much pricier.

The Ford Kuga, Mitsubishi Outlander, Peugeot 3008, and Vauxhall Grandland X are all between £3,590 and £6,705 more expensive (correct at September 2020). And none of those four cars can match MG’s 7-year warranty.

FURTHER INFORMATION

MG currently has a network of 112 dealers with further expansion planned before the end of 2020.

October 7, 2020
Renault Arkana Coupe-SUV
Renault is continuing to expand its model range with the All-New Arkana SUV set to go on sale across the UK and Europe from 2021. The mid-sized compact SUV offers a standout exterior design with a strong coupé silhouette, increased refinement, along with the latest in advanced hybrid technology and connectivity.

Combining SUV proportions with the sloping roofline of a coupé, the Arkana delivers space and practicality for the whole family in a package only slightly longer than the New Megane Hatchback. The new model will be built on the Alliance’s CMF-B modular platform which underpins the All-New Clio and All-New Captur, bolstering Renault’s existing SUV line-up, which currently consists of the All-New Captur and Kadjar.

The cabin of the New Arkana features the latest interior finishes and design touches to ensure a premium feel and finish as well as exceptional comfort for all occupants. This is combined with one of the largest digital displays in its segment thanks to two screens, as well as advanced connectivity systems that deliver seamless convenience and minimal distraction for the driver.

The All-New Arkana will be available with a selection of electrified powertrains featuring hybrid technology which ensures refined and efficient performance. The new SUV model will feature Renault’s latest full hybrid E-TECH technology while mild-hybrid technology will be offered with the 1.3-liter four-cylinder turbocharged direct injection TCe petrol engine.

The All-New Arkana will be available to order in the UK from July 2021, with the first customer deliveries expected in September 2021.

Exterior design
The All-New Arkana features a sophisticated and sleek design that combines its elevated SUV body and ground clearance, with a coupé-like shape featuring muscular beltline and wide shoulders for a premium and assertive appearance. The front and rear skid plates and the wheel arch protectors enhance the SUV look, while the plunging roofline combined with rising window line delivers an agile and slender curved design that extends to the rear windows, enhancing the dynamic look.

The front grille, featuring a larger Renault logo in the center, is flanked by chrome brightwork and trim elements which provide added elegance and sophistication. Below, the expressive front bumper enhances the dynamic design while the skid plate gives the car a robust look.

All-LED headlights feature the C-shaped lighting signature found across the rest of the Renault range and further underline the dynamic design of the All-New Arkana. The rear of the vehicle also features the C-shaped lighting signature with a strip extending over the whole width of the tailgate, emphasizing the All-New Arkana’s taut and distinctive look.

The profile of the All-New Arkana is one of its most striking features. The unique coupé-style SUV outline of the car is instantly recognizable, combining a sleek and sturdy shape. Measuring 4,568mm in length, 1,571mm in height, and with a 2,720mm wheelbase, the car’s overall size gives it a flowing profile. Chrome elements, such as the trim accentuating the windows, the side door protection, and the front fender trim, further enhance the premium design.

Following on from the All-New Clio and New Mégane, the All-New Arkana will be available in R.S. Line trim, combining premium finishes with a more dynamic design. It draws its inspiration from Renault Sport’s DNA and the New Mégane R.S. model. The car’s bold design is further enhanced by the Orange Valencia color and black-painted and dark metal exterior elements, including the Formula 1-inspired aerodynamic blade. The bumper features red inserts and Shadow-Tinted wheels that are unique to this model. An R.S. Line badge has been added to the wing trims while the rear sports a chromed dual exhaust outlet and a darker skid plate.

An optional Colour pack further enhances the look of the New Arkana R.S. Line: it’s front and rear bumper and the lower protective door strip will be painted in the color of the bodywork, with a black roof and gloss black spoiler.

Customers will be able to choose from seven body colors: Opaque White, Pearl White, Metal Black, Metallic Grey, Zanzibar Blue, Fire Red, and Valencia Orange (exclusive to the R.S. Line version). An optional black roof and three choices of 17- and 18-inch wheels will also be available.

Interior
Despite the coupé-like body shape, the Arkana provides the levels of practicality expected of an SUV. The boot space has a load capacity of 513 liters and features a raised floor and seats which can be folded completely flat. Meanwhile, the front of the cabin offers a large amount of storage space, including a storage net on the passenger side with door pockets each large enough to hold 1.5-liter bottles.

The stylish architecture of the dashboard features modern ergonomic elements with the upper part covered with a soft feel foam lining, and each trim level boasting its own exclusive lining strip. All models feature chrome details across the door handles and air vents, while a leather-finished gear lever adds an extra touch of quality. Moving up the model range brings a leather steering wheel, with chrome inserts added to the dashboard and cup holder, and the upper part of the doors covered with a foam lining.

R.S. Line models benefit from a specific interior, with a carbon-finish dashboard and door lining, a red trim running along the top of the dashboard and a black roof. Stylish and sporty red topstitching embellishes the leather steering wheel as well as the mixed leather/suede-like upholstery and door panels, while a red strip features on the seat belts. Completing the package is an aluminum pedal unit, an e-shifter gear selector (with the E-TECH Hybrid engine), and R.S. Line badges.

Powertrains
The All-New Arkana will be available with a choice of two engines. Following on from the All-New Clio E-TECH Hybrid, the All-New Arkana will be the second Renault model available with the 140hp E-TECH hybrid powertrain. Alternatively, a 1.3-liter TCe four-cylinder turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine will also be available, featuring mild-hybrid technology and 140hp.

The full hybrid powertrain will combine a 1.6-liter petrol engine with a lithium-ion battery and two electric motors for a total power output of 140hp. As with other E-TECH models, it will also feature a smart multi-mode clutchless gearbox. The system utilizes advanced F1-inspired E-TECH technology and has been the subject of more than 150 patents. The ground-breaking combination of the electric engines and dog box transmission optimizes and smooths gear-shifting, whilst the architecture –the fruit of the Renault DP World F1 team’s labor – provides greater energy efficiency.

Incorporating the energy management modes, also developed by the Renault F1 experts, the E-TECH hybrid technology enables the vehicle to start in the all-electric drive, offering greater pleasure in all driving conditions with crisp, immediate acceleration. The engine also has excellent energy efficiency, thanks to its innovative multi-mode gearbox, its powerful energy recovery braking system, and its high-level automatic battery-charging system.

The E-TECH hybrid powertrain can provide up to 80 percent of city driving time with all-electric power, reducing CO2 emissions and fuel consumption by up to 40 percent over a combustion engine in urban driving. Drivers can use the MultiSense settings to select a specific driving mode: My Sense for daily driving, Eco for even lower fuel consumption, and Sport to combine the power of the engines.

Also available is the efficient 1.3-liter four-cylinder, turbocharged TCe petrol engine. Paired with an EDC dual-clutch automatic transmission, it will produce 140hp and 260Nm of torque from 1,600rpm; offering a perfect combination of low running costs and engaging driving experience.

The engine will be available with mild-hybrid technology which is delivered through an added alternator-starter system paired with a 12V lithium-ion battery under the passenger seat. This technology improves Stop & Start and enables energy regeneration during deceleration. It also assists the engine during the highest fuel-consumption phases, when the engine starts or accelerates. It reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions and ensures smoother engine restart and greater driving comfort.

Technology
Following on from the All-New Captur, All-New Clio, and New ZOE, the All-New Arkana features the latest connected technologies as well as a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.

A digital dashboard features a 4.2-, 7- or 10-inch Driver Information Display (dependent on the model), offering a personalized, intuitive driving experience. This is complemented by the 7-inch horizontal or 9.3-inch portrait Easy Link touchscreen infotainment display-oriented towards the driver, ensuring heightened convenience for both driver and front passenger while ensuring distraction is kept to a minimum with easy-to-view information.

The center console features a wireless smartphone charging system and an electric automatic parking brake with Auto-Hold option, as standard, while E-TECH Hybrid models feature the elegant e-shifter gear selector. The All-New Renault Arkana also gets four USB plugs (two at the front, two at the rear) for powering electronic devices and providing connectivity for all passengers.

With Renault Easy Connect, the All-New Arkana is able to access a number of services through the MY Renault app and the Easy Link multimedia system. It features continuous 4G connectivity and additional services offered by partners such as Google (address finder) and TomTom (real-time traffic information).

From remote vehicle control to real-time traffic information, including door-to-door navigation with the destination information sent to the car, vehicle location, and remote door control, all systems aim to offer a unique connected experience, both inside the vehicle and outside, via the driver’s smartphone. The Renault Easy Link multimedia system and onboard mapping also provide automatic and regular updates thanks to “Over the Air” technology.

The Renault Easy Link multimedia system will be available in three configurations, all compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay; with a 7-inch screen, 7-inch screen with sat-nav, or 9.3-inch screen with sat-nav. Influenced by smartphone design, the Renault Easy Link multimedia system provides a practical, ergonomically designed interface. Users can create profiles and customize certain screens using widgets, enabling everyone to access their favorite features directly.

Renault MultiSense technology gives drivers the opportunity to personalize their driving experience depending on their mood. Interacting with engine mapping, power-assisted steering, ambient lighting, and the digital screen configuration, MultiSense settings offer three available modes:
- Eco: Uses a more measured mapping of the accelerator pedal and adapted gear changing for the most economical drive.
- Comfort: steering assistance increased for greater flexibility and ease of driving, from 10 to 40 percent depending on the vehicle speed
- Sport: steering assist is now 25 percent firmer and the engine mapping offers 20-25 percent more torque at the same throttle position for a more dynamic drive
- My Sense: Best for everyday use, My Sense offers the best compromise in terms of performance and economy, using as much electric power as possible, but in the most efficient way.
MultiSense settings can be easily accessed from the Easy Link multimedia system’s interface or a special keypad on the center screen. A single touch will open the MultiSense window and allow drivers to change their preferences, including eight ambient lighting options. Depending on the selected mode, drivers can also display a customizable widget on the dashboard screen, such as the consumption in Eco mode or power and torque in the Sport mode.

The latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems provide added convenience and safety for the driver. The All-New Arkana will be available with a selection of systems including Motorway & Traffic Jam Companion, Adaptive Cruise Control (with Stop & Go), Active Emergency Braking System (AEBS), Blind Spot Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Departure Warning, and Lane Keep Assist.

Motorway & Traffic Jam Companion combines Adaptive Cruise Control (with Stop & Go) and lane-centering assistance, which even works on curved roads up to a certain level. It controls car speed from zero to 99.4mph and maintains safe distances between vehicles while providing lane-centering assistance. It is particularly useful in heavy traffic conditions and automatically stops and restarts the car after three seconds without any action by the driver.

For added convenience, a series of features make it easier for the driver when performing low-speed maneuvers, or parking. The 360-degree camera features an additional four cameras, offering a view from above the vehicle that provides a single image of all the obstacles around it. The 360-degree camera is simple to use and automatically activated when the car is reversing. The system displays two images: the front or rear view based on the selected speed and the choice between a 360-degree view or a zoom of the passenger-side camera. Further to this is Easy Park Assist (for parallel, oblique or vertical parking) making maneuvering easier when entering or exiting a parking space. The sensors control steering while drivers control the pedals and transmission.

The All-New Renault Arkana will be available to order from July 2021, with first deliveries in September 2021. Prices to be confirmed.
October 6, 2020
McLaren Senna GTR

Five unique McLaren Senna GTRs, created in celebration of the McLaren F1 GTR race cars that dominated the 1995 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race in an astonishing display of motorsport achievement that included overall victory, are today revealed by McLaren Special Operations (MSO).

Designated McLaren Senna GTR LM, the five customer-commissioned cars are the latest examples of what is possible when MSO is engaged to undertake unique and bespoke projects. Each is designed and crafted as an homage to one of the five McLaren F1 GTRs that finished the race, crossing the line in 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 13th positions – an unforgettable achievement given that this was the first time McLaren had raced at Le Mans, and coming only three years since its first production road car – the McLaren F1 – had been introduced.

The five cars each wear a bespoke, hand-painted livery that either replicates or pays tribute to the design of each of the 1995 cars. The attention to detail is such that every McLaren Senna GTR LM took at least 800 hours to paint, with individual cars far exceeding that.

“The incredible cars of the McLaren Senna GTR LM collection are an exceptionally fitting way to celebrate the 25th anniversary of our Le Mans victory in 1995,’” commented Mike Flewitt, CEO of McLaren Automotive. “That achievement is widely acknowledged as one of the greatest endurance racing performances of all time, but for McLaren its importance was even greater because it demonstrated an immediate and undeniable connection between the racing DNA of our brand and the start of our road car journey.”

Every painted detail on the five cars was finished by hand at McLaren Special Operations. Special permissions were granted by brand owners such as Gulf and Harrods and by Le Mans organiser the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO), to recreate logos and trademarks. The roof of each car even features an authentically recreated scrutineering sticker, which is the only piece of vinyl in the livery.

The relationship between each McLaren Senna GTR LM and its F1 GTR predecessor is further fused by the presence of a dedication plaque on the inner surface of the carbon fibre tub denoting each car’s one-off status and its original F1 GTR chassis number identifier. Each car also wears an etched dedication to its Le Mans ‘twin’, including the date of the race, the names of the three race drivers in that car and the position in which they finished.

In addition to the visual power of the liveries and the outstanding detailing, each McLaren Senna GTR LM has a portfolio of exclusive features and technical enhancements that elevate it above the already exceptional track car on which it is based: the McLaren Senna GTR. That remarkable car was engineered to have the highest power-to-weight ratio of any McLaren at the time and aerodynamically optimised to be able to generate more than 1000kg of downforce.

Enhancements to the GTR’s twin-turbocharged, 4.0-litre M840TQ engine include valve spring retainers made from metal matrix composite (MMC) to deliver a 65% weight reduction, higher grade steel for the valve springs and hand-polished, CNC ported cylinder heads.

Recalibration of the powertrain electronics releases power of 845PS – an increase of 20PS over the ‘regular’ McLaren Senna GTR – and revised torque curve characteristics that deliver more torque at lower revs and enable a rev limit set closer to 9,000rpm than the ‘soft limit’ of 8,250rpm.

Other unique LM cues abound. The GTR’s Inconel exhaust system, which exits from the rear deck beneath the rear wing, has been further enhanced by the addition of specially designed LM twin-exit pipes. OZ Racing, which supplied the wheels for the McLaren F1 GTR, created a bespoke, five-spoke GTR LM wheel design. Brake calipers finished in satin gold are another nod to the F1 and the suspension wishbones are in an anodised version of the same colour.

Inside the car, exclusive LM features include a racing steering wheel with anodised gold gear shift paddles and control buttons (in tribute to the McLaren F1’s gold-coloured gear linkage); titanium nitride pedals with LM logos; leather door-pull straps and lightweight carbon fibre racing seats complemented by bespoke headrest embroidery and an MSO six-point racing harness coloured black with body-colour pads.

“We wanted to make a major statement with this collection,’” explained Ansar Ali, Managing Director of McLaren Special Operations. “In creating these incredible cars to the requirements of some of our most discerning customers, we are showcasing the astonishing array of talent we have within MSO – a team that can visualise, design, produce and deliver products that really do take your breath away.

“The McLaren Senna GTR LM project has been a labour of love for nearly two years; we have gone to great lengths not only to perfect the engineering aspects of the cars, but also to gain co-operation from brand holders and partners to maximise authenticity.”

One of those stakeholders is Le Mans itself, in the shape of the ACO. The famous racing club helped facilitate a breathtaking opportunity for the five GTR LM owners. Each one will enjoy a VIP visit to the 24 Hours of Le Mans race with a chance to drive their own GTR LMs around the circuit on the morning of the race, accompanied by the original F1 GTRs that competed in 1995.

“The COVID pandemic has meant that we have had to delay this opportunity until 2021,“ said Ansar Ali. “But each of the owners of these car will still be able to enjoy an unprecedented experience that reflects the unique customer journey MSO is able to offer.”

The cars – five icons reborn

McLaren Senna GTR LM 825/1

An homage to McLaren F1/01R, often referenced as ‘The Ueno Clinic car’ and the outright winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1995

The car bearing race number 59 was driven in 1995 by two-time Le Mans winner Yannick Dalmas, Japanese veteran Masanori Sekiya and former Formula One driver, JJ Lehto.

The race was one of the wettest in Le Mans’ history, which played into the hands of the bulletproof reliability of the McLaren F1 and also the skills of the drivers – especially Lehto, who was so quick in the wet his team tried to persuade him to slow down.

The charcoal grey livery branded with the name of Japanese sponsor Ueno Clinic was not widely recognised at the time but has since passed into legend. The MSO team has faithfully recreated it on the McLaren Senna GTR LM, precisely matching the colour by mixing a new tone dubbed ‘Ueno Grey’ – a fitting tribute to achievements of the car, and of course its three drivers.

This car has been very authentically reproduced from the original race-winning F1 GTR, echoing every last detail right down to recreating car 59’s unique driving lamps, which have been specially commissioned by the GTR LM’s owner*.

The OZ Racing wheels are finished in matching grey, completing the menacing look that still sends shivers down the spine of race fans 25 years after the chequered flag fell.

McLaren Senna GTR LM 825/6

An homage to McLaren F1/06R, often referenced as ‘The Harrods car’.

Car number 51, driven by an all-British line up of Andy Wallace, Derek Bell and Justin Bell, might well have won had it not suffered a transmission glitch two hours from the flag that saw Wallace have to nurse the car home in third place.

The car’s famous yellow livery with bold green stripe bore the name of iconic London department store, Harrods – and that prestigious relationship has been reunited for the GTR LM. While the colours have been worn again by a McLaren since the 1995 race – a McLaren P1™ GTR was finished in the livery in 2015 – this is the first time that the famous Harrods logo has been seen on a McLaren for 25 years.

The MSO paint team used a vivid colour called Solar Yellow for the body of the car, and that distinctive wide stripe is applied in Heritage Green, shadowed by a matching green pinstripe and green detailing within the front aero diffuser.

McLaren Senna GTR LM 825/2

An homage to McLaren F1/02R, often referenced as ‘The Gulf car’

Brazilian Maurizio Sandro Sala joined Brits Mark Blundell and Ray Bellm behind the wheel of the McLaren F1 GTR for 291 rain-lashed laps of La Sarthe in 1995, eventually finishing in fourth place.

Car number 24 had arguably the most iconic livery of any of the cars. The Gulf Racing blue, perfectly reimagined here by MSO as Gulf 95 Blue, fits the McLaren Senna GTR LM seamlessly. Its ‘Gulf 95 Orange’ pinstripe traces the rear diffuser and the imposing shape of the rear wing’s LMP1-style endplates, tracks along the lower sill and unites at the front with vivid orange blades on the front splitter.

The OZ Racing wheels conform to the theme, being finished in equally vivid orange, while the lower sills and roof stripe are painted in Gulf 95 Silver. The actual Gulf Oil logo appears on the bonnet and doors, and a finishing touch is provided by Ayrton Senna’s signature boldly recreated on the rear quarter of the bodywork.

McLaren Senna GTR LM 825/7

An homage to McLaren F1/07R, often referenced as ‘The Jacadi car’

Car number 50 was run by French-based customer team Giroix Racing. Two French drivers – Fabien Giroix and Olivier Grouillard – joined Swiss pilot Jean-Denis Deletraz to bring the car home in fifth place, just a lap down on the Gulf car.

The unmistakeable royal blue livery was proudly French-themed and has been preserved by the McLaren Senna GTR LM’s new owner by the specification of a startlingly bright colour called Le Mans Blue for the body of the car. It looks particularly stunning on the GTR LM’s massive rear diffuser.

That blue is complemented by a blue metallic called ‘Polaris’, and further offset by the use of authentic Elf logos belonging to the French oil company which sponsored the 1995 race car. The car is the only one of the five to wear the French Tricolour flag.

McLaren Senna GTR LM 825/5

An homage to McLaren F1/05R, often referenced as ‘The Cesar car’

Displaying the most intricate livery design of all the McLaren F1 GTRs that raced in 1995, car number 42 finished 13th position, completing the McLaren roll of honour of finishers.

Run by French team Société BBA, the striking car was driven by an all-French line-up of Jean-Luc Maury-Laribiere, Marc Sourd and Hervé Poulin. Maury-Laribiere and Poulin were pioneers of ‘art cars’ and asked renowned artist Cesar Baldaccini to envisage a livery for the F1 GTR they would be racing at Le Mans.

An experienced endurance racer, Poulin’s fine collection of racing trophies became the inspiration for Cesar’s work on the McLaren.

McLaren Senna GTR LM 825/5 is a modern reinterpretation of the livery, drawing in new elements, such as pole position lap times; contemporary race trophies and Le Mans branding cues.

An immensely complex piece of work produced using many techniques – including extensive airbrushing – this was the car that took longest to paint, to the point where MSO stopped recording the time taken. As an estimate, several thousand hours of work were needed to finish the project to exemplary standard that is now so evident.

All five McLaren Senna GTR LMs have now been completed and will be delivered to owners in the United States, Europe and the UK. As with all bespoke commissions created by McLaren Special Operations, their value remains undisclosed unless the owners choose to share this detail.

October 5, 2020
Ferrari Portofino M
The Ferrari Portofino M, the evolution of the Prancing Horse’s 2+ GT spider, the Ferrari Portofino, was unveiled today. In a move unprecedented in the Maranello marque’s 70-year-plus history, the new car’s premiere took place entirely online. The build-up to the unveiling included the sending out of a series of newsletters to clients over recent weeks at the end of which they were given access to a platform containing exclusive videos illustrating the concept behind the car, its restyling and main technical contents.

The Portofino M is the first Ferrari to be presented in the wake of the company’s temporary closure due to the Covid-19 crisis, making it the symbol of a voyage of rediscovery. It is the (re)starting point for Prancing Horse’s pursuit of innovation whilst fully respecting its heritage, passion and constant search for perfection. All of these values are reflected in the new Portofino M. In fact, the ‘M’ in its moniker stands for ‘Modificata’, which in Ferrari nomenclature refers to cars that have undergone an evolution that has significantly boosted their performance.

There is no shortage of technical innovation in the stunning new evolution of the Ferrari Portofino, the most notable being its redesigned powertrain, a brand-new eight-speed gearbox and the five-position Manettino that includes a Race mode, an absolute first for a Maranello GT spider. As a consequence of these and many other new features, the Portofino M guarantees an unprecedented combination of authentic GT performance, driving pleasure, agility and exceptional versatility in everyday driving contexts.

This latest design and engineering masterpiece from the Prancing Horse is the perfect evolution of the Ferrari Portofino. Sportier in character than its predecessor, it also delivers superior handling whilst not only maintaining but enhancing on-board comfort, courtesy of specific new optional features, such as ADAS, and ventilated and heated seats. The Ferrari Portofino M thus retains the Ferrari Portofino’s twin soul and is the only car on the market that can rightfully be described as an authentic coupé with its top closed and a genuine spider when it is open. This is thanks, of course, to the Retractable Hard Top (RHT), the signature feature of all the Prancing Horse’s convertibles.

The Portofino M’s compact dimensions also make it ideal for all occasions. In fact, its unparalleled versatility and on-board comfort turn every trip into a voyage of (re)discovery.

POWERTRAIN
The Ferrari Portofino M’s 3855cc engine belongs to the V8 turbo family voted “International Engine of the Year” on four consecutive occasions (2016-2019). The power unit can punch out 620 cv at 7,500 rpm, 20 cv more than the Ferrari Portofino. To achieve these performance levels, the Ferrari engineers used new cam profiles to increase valve lift and optimise combustion chamber filling.

A speed sensor was also added to the turbocharger assembly to measure the turbine revolutions. This in turn allowed the maximum revolutions per minute of the turbine to be increased by 5,000 rpm.

Lastly, to comply with the strictest pollution emissions standards, a Gasoline Particulate Filter has been included in the exhaust system. The GPF allows the car to comply with the strictest European anti-pollution standards (Euro-6D) without compromising driving pleasure.

This result comes thanks to a control logic that continuously regenerates the filter, limiting the amount of accumulated particulate matter. This is achieved by using two dedicated sensors per cylinder bank to accurately measure differential pressure deltas up- and down-stream of the GPF.

The 8-speed gearbox is a completely new unit compared to the previous 7-speed version and is based on a dual-clutch oil bath architecture. It differs from the SF90 Stradale’s 8-speed transmission in its longer gear ratios and the introduction of a mechanical reverse gear. The new layout and integration of its components have also optimised the gearbox’s size and its installation in the car.

Like all the other turbo cars in the range and in line with the “zero turbo lag” concept, the Ferrari Portofino M delivers instantaneous throttle response throughout the rev range. The car boasts Variable Boost Management, a control software developed by Ferrari that adjusts torque delivery to suit the gear selected. The result is increasingly powerful pick-up as revs rise, whilst optimising fuel consumption. As the car goes up through the gears (from 3rd to 8th), the amount of torque delivered by the engine increases all the way up to 760 Nm in 7th and 8th gear.

On the one hand, this has allowed Ferrari to use longer gear ratios in the higher gears, which helps keep fuel consumption and emissions down, while on the other, adopting a steeper torque curve through the rev range in the lower gears for a feeling of smooth and powerful pick-up.

The introduction of the eighth gear and the improvement in transmission efficiency have resulted in a significant reduction in fuel consumption in urban and motorway contexts in addition to noticeably improving performance even under sportier, more press-on driving.

The new clutch module is 20% smaller but delivers 35% more torque, with up to a maximum 1,200 Nm of dynamic torque transmitted when gear shifting. The transmission software strategy has also been evolved with a more powerful ECU.

Lastly, particular attention was focused on gear change strategies aimed at improving the power unit’s fuel consumption and emissions levels. Due to more efficient clutch torque control, the car is now also easier to drive in urban contexts during Start&Stop cycles. This guarantees that the car is smoother to drive at low speeds in traffic, as well as delivering a more intuitive experience and improved responsiveness.

By tradition, every single Ferrari engine has its own particular soundtrack that makes it unique. The Ferrari Portofino M is no exception. In addition to the flat-plane crankshaft, the geometry of the entire exhaust line is new. The two rear silencers have been eliminated (which in addition to boosting sound also significantly reduces backpressure in the tailpipes) and the by-pass valves are now oval in shape to enhance the exhaust sound. Both solutions significantly reduce exhaust backpressure and improve sound quality. The last notable modification is “proportional” by-pass valve control, which is continuous and progressive depending on the driving situation.

VEHICLE DYNAMICS
The Portofino M sports the vehicle dynamics control system known as Side Slip Control (SSC), which incorporates an algorithm that delivers an estimate in real time of the side slip angle to all the various on-board control systems. The SSC coordinates all the vehicle dynamics interventions as the systems are all integrated using shared data.

Now in its sixth generation, the SSC integrates the E-Diff, F1-TCS, SCM-E Frs and the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE) control systems. The FDE is a lateral dynamics control system that uses Ferrari software to adjust the hydraulic brake pressure at the callipers on all four wheels. On the Ferrari Portofino M, it is available only when the Manettino is in Race mode. The FDE is designed to make the car’s lateral dynamics more predictable both through and exiting corners by ensuring the steering wheel and throttle are more intuitive for the driver to use. That said, the FDE is not a stability control system and flanks rather than replaces the traditional VDC and stability control system (ESC).

Another noteworthy factor is the more modulable brake pedal pressure which, when combined with a reduction in pedal travel of around 10%, delivers more precise, instantaneous responsiveness to inputs during braking.

The aim of the five-position Manettino, a first on a Prancing Horse GT spider, is to make the Ferrari Portofino M’s handling and grip even more accessible by extending the setting ranges still further with the introduction of the Race position. Supported by the introduction of the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer, that position focuses on maximising driving pleasure.

Below are the five positions on the Ferrari Portofino M’s Manettino and their respective performance goals:

Position Performance goal

Wet Maximum stability and control

Comfort Normal use on dry roads

Sport Sporty driving

Race Maximises driving pleasure

ESC-Off VDC and F1-TCS both deactivated

DESIGN
The new Ferrari Portofino M’s harmonious styling is the product of a global approach to design in which all the various elements are treated as part of a single whole and builds on the success of the Portofino design. This applies both to the bodywork, where the front, flanks and tail are part of a single seamlessly sculptural design, as it does to the cabin where the general arrangement of the volumes and lines is stylistically consistent. This approach can be seen in the interaction between the car’s exterior and interior.

EXTERIOR
The fact that the Portofino M’s performance is more powerful than the Portofino resulted in the Ferrari Styling Centre’s designers making very precise, targeted adjustments to highlight the model’s characteristics and underscore its sportiness.

The wraparound front bumpers incorporate imposing, sculptural air intakes that lend a decisive, aggressive look to the front of the car. They also feature a new air vent at wheelarch height, added because of the need to reduce the car’s overall drag. Part of the air flow coming off the front radiating masses is directed towards the new vents and then accelerated up as it exits, boosting its extraction power. The resulting improvement in aerodynamic performance is underscored by a slash on the front bumper that flows into the design of the flanks, adding visual harmony to the side view of the car. Thus, the signature Portofino side scallop finds its visual counterpart on the Ferrari Portofino M’s front bumper, which has been sculpted to accentuate the car’s dynamic profile.

The grille features new aluminium slats with contrasting faceted tips that highlight this noble material.

At the rear, the new exhaust system has allowed the removal of the silencer assembly, making the Ferrari Portofino M’s tail more compact. The result is that the rear bumpers are now more streamlined and sculptural. Visually, their forms are lighter too and their styling more in harmony with the front bumpers, creating a much more coherent overall aesthetic.

The rear diffuser has been completely redesigned and is now separate to the bumpers. This allows clients to be able to specify it in carbon-fibre, which further underscores the car’s sporty character.

Specific diamond-finish wheel rims were designed for the Ferrari Portofino M. Their styling references that of the car’s flanks, a perfect marriage of elegance and sportiness. The unusually sculptural design of the spokes and their chiaroscuro look visually lightens the rim.

INTERIOR
With the top down the Portofino M reveals its stylish GT soul and occupants will appreciate how compact and organic the whole car feels. There is exceptional design coherency in the development of the cabin, in fact. The Styling Centre team began by pinpointing certain specific prerequisites essential to the success of the design, the foremost of these being formal and functional coherency between the car’s exterior and its interior, weight reduction and more occupant space.

The crafting of the interior began with a multi-level dashboard structure comprising an upper half and then an intermediate gap designed to lighten the perceived mass of the lower half.

Obtained by subtracting rather than adding volumes, this breaking up of the dash into different levels allowed the designers to organise the technical elements and in-car devices to very rational effect while simultaneously defining its signature full-width architecture. A central horizontal aluminium blade divides the instrument panel, air conditioning vents and passenger display into separate areas in the upper section. The other control functions are located in the scooped section below, with a 10.25” touchscreen at the centre. This type of layout hints at flawless ergonomics and highlights the construction quality of every single detail through its seamless marriage of ultra-high-tech elements and materials with handcrafted assemblies and trims.

Seen in plan view, the cockpit’s symmetrical arrangement and the ample rear seat space are clear. From a construction perspective, the interior – and the dashboard architecture in particular – feature two shells incorporating all of the technical components and a bridge that visually connects the instrument panel area with the central tunnel.

This layout is designed to involve the passenger and is underscored in the styling of the door panels, handles and various controls and devices available, including the central and passenger touchscreens.

The seats are the product of a special research project and have an innovative magnesium structure. Different density padding and an ultra-compact seatback profile have freed up space for rear occupants too.

Also available is three-level ventilation for the seat and backrest, and the very popular neck warmer for use in winter months. The latter offers a choice of three heat levels and the system constantly adapts the speed of the warm air flow from the headrest to ensure it is proportional to the car’s speed, outside temperature and the position of the retractable top.

INFOTAINMENT AND HMI
The Ferrari Portofino M’s HMI (Human-Machine Interface) centres on a digital cluster with dual TFT displays arranged around the analogue rev counter in a generous circular, anti-glare binnacle. Located on exactly the same axis as the multifunctional steering wheel, this cluster allows the driver to interact more easily and intuitively, both visually and physically, with the car by delivering optimal driving feedback.

The infotainment system functions are controlled via the touchscreen handily located at the centre of the dash within easy reach of both driver and passenger. Designed to be as quick and accessible as possible in terms of both use and content, it includes a full HD multi-touch capacitive screen with Split View to allow different types of content to be viewed simultaneously. Both Apple Car Play and Android Auto are also available.

The passenger has an optional dedicated capacitive display on the dashboard. It is directly linked to the main screen providing all information relating to car speed, rpm and gear engaged. This 7” colour full HD and Full Touch display also allows the passenger to interact with the car’s on-board systems. They can, for instance, select music to listen to, view sat nav information or select a new point of interest (POI), such as a restaurant, which is then automatically integrated into the route. So essentially, the passenger becomes a co-driver.

The advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) available as optionals for the Ferrari Portofino M are:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop&Go function for driving in traffic
- Predictive Emergency Brake System that can alert the driver to potential collision risks readying the car to lessen the consequences of a frontal impact
- Blind Spot Monitoring to alert driver to vehicles in the blind spot
- Lane Departure Warning with acoustic and/or visual alert that the car has strayed out of its lane
- Automatic High Beam, which automatically turns on and off high beams when driving at night
- Traffic Sign Recognition, which constantly displays the speed limits on the particular road/street vehicle
- Surround View with 3D display
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which warns driver of moving obstacles hidden in the car’s rear blind spot, when reversing.
7 YEARS MAINTENANCE
Ferrari’s unparalleled quality standards and increasing focus on customer service underpin the extended seven-year maintenance programme offered with the Ferrari Portofino M. Available across the entire range, the latter covers all regular maintenance for the first seven years of the car’s life. This scheduled maintenance programme for Ferraris 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 of 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 and 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 on the Official Dealership Network.

The Genuine Maintenance programme further extends the vast range of after-sales services offered by Ferrari to meet the needs of clients wishing to preserve the performance and excellence that are the signatures of all cars built in Maranello, itself long synonymous with leading-edge technology and sportiness.
October 2, 2020

Position	Performance goal
Wet	Maximum stability and control
Comfort	Normal use on dry roads
Sport	Sporty driving
Race	Maximises driving pleasure
ESC-Off	VDC and F1-TCS both deactivated