2018 Kia Stinger launched!

Source: Kia

Kia has finally taken the wraps off of their 4-door sports sedan, the 2018 Kia Stinger. It's loosely based on the Stinger GT4 concept displayed at the 2014 Detroit auto show with additional 2 doors.

Powering the Stinger are 2 choices of engine: 2 litre Theta II turbocharged 4 cylinder (255 hp at 6200 rpm and 353 Nm from 1400-4000 rpm) and the more powerful 3.3 litre Lambda II twin turbo V6 (365 hp at 6000 rpm and 510 Nm from 1300-4500 rpm). Power is sent to either the rear wheels with mechanical limited slip differential or rear-biased all wheel drive with Dynamic Torque Vectoring Control. 

If you're looking for a manual-equipped Stinger, don't read any further because the Stinger only comes with an 8 speed automatic transmission. I guess Kia only let the car do the heel toe downshift😅!   

On the handling front, the front axle will ride on MacPherson strut, while the rear axle will make do with more sophisticated multi link suspension. Also included is Kia's first Dynamic Stability Damping Control, an electronically adaptive damper. Interestingly, the chassis development is led by former BMW M man, Albert Biermann. Let's see if Kia's new sports sedan will outmuscle the BMWs around corner-galore Nordschleife (apparently Kia has been tuning the chassis around the legendary 'Green Hell'). 

As always, safety first! The Stinger is equipped with Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Blind Spot Monitoring System. Tyre sizes vary depending on engine choices: V6 (225/40R19 front, 255/35R19 rear); 4 cylinder (225/45R18 all-round). Also, if you choose the V6, the braking system is courtesy of vented Brembo disc with 4 piston caliper front and 2 piston caliper rear. 

One-off Ferrari SP 275 RW Competizione-F12 Berlinetta Chassis; F12 tdf Engine and Gearbox

Source: 350z33 via wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0/ Cropped from original

One last hurrah before the arrival of 2017, Ferrari decided to roll out a homage model for their legendary 275 GTB model that left its mark from 1964 to 1968. Christened the SP 275 RW Competizione, you have to be one lucky chap to even stake your ownership claim because this homage model is limited to just...one unit. Yep, you heard it right. Only one up for grabs.

Since it's based on the V12-powered 275 GTB, it's fitting to have a V12 behemoth plonked under the hood. It's not just any V12 though, because the engine is directly taken from the lairy F12 tdf rather than from the F12 Berlinetta the chassis is based on. The upshot is a tasteful 770 hp and 705 Nm worth of naturally aspirated goodness. Sitting between the V12 and the rear wheels is the prancing horse proprietary F1 7 speed dual clutch transmission.

The yellow paint is reminiscent to the 275 GTB Ecurie Francorchamps that famously won the 1965 Le Mans GT Class. What sets apart the modern day adaptation from the Ecurie Francorchamps is the headlight and front fascia.

If you have the cash and appreciate its historic racing success, better grab your one and only chance to have your name written all over this car before someone else beat you to it! 

  

Lamborghini Aventador S-more powerful, 4 wheel steering, new Ego driving mode

Source: http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/2017-lamborghini-aventador-s-revealed-730bhp

So, you own a base Lamborghini Aventador, but you believe it needs some additional tweaking to bring out its best potential. Well, the raging bull has the answer-meet the Lamborghini Aventador S! The more potent Aventador iteration now comes with new features that previously didn't exist on the base model-more power, 4 wheel steering and Ego driving mode. 

Let's start with power shall we? If you're wary of the current trend in downsizing and turbocharging, then good news for you. Lamborghini refrains from resorting to turbo and reducing the engine capacity (phew). The good ol' 6.5 litre naturally aspirated V12 soldiers on, now outputting 740 hp (+40 hp from the base model) to Haldex Generation IV all wheel drive via the firm's 7 speed Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) transmission. The extra power comes from the adjustment made to the engine's Variable Valve Timing and Variable Intake System, plus boosting maximum rev from 8350 rpm to 8500 rpm.

If your Aventador has made you feel like pulling your hair while searching for parking space or it's downright scary at speed, the Aventador S adds the first ever 4 wheel steering on a production Lamborghini. The system works by slightly turning the rear wheels in the opposite direction of the front wheels at low speed (the car will turn tighter) and in the same direction as the front wheels at high speed (stabilises the car). 

Next up is the new driving mode dubbed as Ego. Adding to the already existing Strada, Sport and Corsa mode, Ego basically allows you to personalise the car's suspension and engine settings to suit your preferences. Great for strutting your 'machoness'.

If you're a type who craves power, razor sharp handling and a more personalised driving experience, the new Aventador S is a perfect bull for you!

2017 Dodge Challenger GT AWD-all wheel drive, V6, 8 speed auto

Rear wheel drive. The mainstay of American muscle cars for decades. Now Dodge decides to go against the grain with their latest Challenger model-2017 Dodge Challenger GT AWD. Yep, it's all wheel drive now. Is Dodge proving a point with the snowy picture?

I heard you exclaiming 'What?! All wheel drive??'. No worries. In normal condition it's purely rear wheel drive. The active transfer case will engage the front axle only when traction-limited.

There's no V8 nor manual for this beast. Only a 3.6 litre Pentastar V6 is hiding under the bonnet, good for 305 hp and 363 Nm of torque. An 8 speed TorqueFlite automatic with paddle shifters is your only transmission option.

Second-generation Toyota GT86 is on its way!

Source: http://pinthiscars.com/image-post/1281-toyota-gt86-2017-9.jpg.html#gal_post_1281_toyota-gt86-2016-5.jpg

Long live the hachiroku! If you're a fan of the GT86, then Toyota has a good piece of news: the second-generation GT86 is on its way! You may have to wait until 2018 or 2019 though.

What sort of engine will it get and will Subaru continue to be Toyota's partner in crime? Autocar spoke with Karl Schlicht, the boss of Toyota European division. Schlicht hasn't confirmed if Subaru will continue to co-develop the second-generation GT86, but is highly likely the partnership is still on the card to take advantage of the low-mounted boxer engine.

"I don't know. But for the concept to carry on, with the low engine, we'd have to do that. There are a lot of reasons to continue with Subaru." said Schlicht.

If you recall, the GT86 was given a mid-life makeover early this year, with revised suspension and for manual model, a slightly higher power (from 200 to 205) and torque (from 205 to 214) plus shorter gear ratio. 

To me personally, there's more to be desired. Though I've never driven the GT86, 200 hp is just too low personally. Toyota, we want more powahhh! Ferrari 458 engine swap anyone?

Ferrari 488 Challenge replaces Ferrari 458 Challenge EVO

Source: https://twitter.com/FerrariRaces/status/804846713454415872

Old cars will eventually be replaced by new cars. The same rule applies to race car. Meet the new Ferrari 488 Challenge, the successor to the outgoing 458 Challenge EVO in conjunction with the 25th anniversary since the inception of Ferrari's Challenge series in 1992. The new race car was presented during the Finali Mondiali which took place in Daytona, USA.

Unlike the 458 Challenge EVO, the 488 Challenge will introduce turbocharging for the first time in the brand's one-make race series. The engine is directly derived from the production car's 661 hp 3.9 litre twin turbo V8, which won the 2016 International Engine of the Year Award. Ferrari further enhanced the 488 Challenge's aero and chassis which, together with the engine's unique race-optimised engine mapping, smashed the 458 Challenge EVO's Fiorano lap record by a second, now standing at 1:15.5.

The gear ratio for the proprietary F1 dual clutch transmission has been shortened, which will see improvement in acceleration. Shorter gearing aside, the transmission also employs "racing shift strategy" which (whatever it means) enables a blistering 6 seconds acceleration from dead stop all the way to maximum rpm in 4th gear.  

The marque's Side Slip Angle Control system is making its debut in the Challenge series. The system works in conjunction with the traction control, electronic differential and adaptive damper to improve lateral acceleration. This should theoretically endow the 488 Challenge with competitive edge around bends.

Aerodynamic has also been given a good tweak. To improve air flow over the radiators and reduce drag during racing conditions, Ferrari revised the front radiator layout, inverting the rake so it's inclined towards the rear. The front bumper features more aggressive splitter and flicks for more downforce and equalise load between the front and rear. Hot air flow from the radiator is directed rearwards thanks to the triple vents and integrated flaps on the front bonnet. A large rear wing has been added to double the downforce generated.

Out goes the old car, in goes the new car with new goodies. Hope this will spice up the next season of the Ferrari's Challenge Series!

Information Source: http://races.ferrari.com/en/finalimondiali2016/news/ferrari-unveils-488-challenge-world-finals-daytona/

NextEV Nio EP9 smashed Nurburgring lap record; 1341 hp, 0-100 kph 2.7 seconds, 313 kph top speed, 24019 N downforce

Source: http://www.nio.io/ep9

The wave of electrification is stepping up a gear, and now looks like it's ready to zap the Nurburgring. Meet the NextEV Nio EP9. 

The Chinese electric car start-up,who currently competes in Formula E, revealed their new electric supercar a fortnight ago, but already proven to be a capable performer, as evidenced from its Nurburgring lap time. 

How fast is the Nio's lap time? Hold your breath: It's 7:05.12! That's faster than the Nissan GT-R Nismo (7:08.68) and Ferrari 488 GTB (7:21.63).

How does it achieve this feat? For starter, there are 4 inboard electric motors with a transmission for each individual motors, feeding a monstrous 1341 hp and 1480 Nm of torque to each 4 wheels. This remarkable output allows it to sprint from 0-100 kph in just 2.7 seconds and a top speed of 313 kph.

Another possible reason behind its impressive lap time: downforce. NextEV claims the Nio generates a whooping 24,019 N (2449 kg) downforce at 238 kph (149 mph).  That's twice the downforce generated by the stonking Dodge Viper ACR at its top speed of 283 kph (177 mph), where Dodge claimed close to a tonne (1000 kg) of downforce was produced.

Are we heading towards the day where supercars are all powered by electric motors? Sound off in the comment section below.

    

Rezvani Beast Alpha added removable targa-style hardtop and SideWinder doors

Source: http://www.rezvanimotors.com/beast-alpha/

After spawning the Beast and Beast X, Rezvani Motors, a Californian-based automaker, has unveiled the brand new Beast Alpha, with a twist.

Where the Beast and Beast X are roofless, the Beast Alpha adds a removable targa-style hardtop.

Source: http://www.rezvanimotors.com/beast-alpha/

The highlight of Rezvani's latest offering has to be the fancy 'SideWinder' doors, where the doors open by sliding them forward. Handy if your daily dealings involve a lot of tight parking spot.

The Beast Alpha will be motivated by the Honda-sourced K24 2.4 litre turbocharged DOHC engine, feeding 500 horses to either a 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission or an optional sequential automatic. 0-60 mph is done and dusted at 3.5 seconds (3.2 seconds if you opt for the sequential automatic).

Thanks to carbon fibre construction, the Beast Alpha weighs only a scant 884 kg, giving it a brilliant power-to-weight ratio of 566 hp/tonne. 

Source: http://www.rezvanimotors.com/beast-alpha/

Step inside, and you'll be greeted by racing-style digital dashboard, providing information such as engine revs, road speed, shift light, lap time and engine temperature.

This Toyota Land Speed Cruiser will have Bugatti Veyron for lunch

Source: http://www.equipmentworld.com/toyota-unveils-land-speed-cruiser/

You're driving your Bugatti Veyron down a highway, minding your own business. Everything seems to be heavenly, with its colossal 8.0 litre quad turbo W16 1000+ horsepower singing its beautiful musical note. Your eyes slowly shifted to your rear view mirror, only to have it filled by a big, towering SUV.

Say hello to the soup-up Toyota Land Speed Cruiser. Recently unveiled at the ongoing SEMA auto show, this has to be the attention grabber. 

The highlight of this SUV is the engine. Lurking under the bonnet is Toyota's 3UR-FE 5.7 litre V8 petrol serving up to 2000 horsepower thanks to the 'volleyball-sized' Garrett turbocharger hanging off each cylinder banks. You heard that right. 2000 horses! That's way higher than what the Veyron offers (the Grand Sport Vitesse, Veyron's most powerful iteration to date, only goes as high as 1200 horsepower). All this comes from smaller package (Toyota's 5.7 litre twin turbo V8 vs Bugatti's 8.0 litre quad turbo W16). 

To achieve this feat from a smaller displacement V8 feed by 2 turbochargers is a brilliant achievement by Toyota.   

2017 BMW M550i the fastest 5-series...or maybe not

Source: http://www.bmw.com/com/en/newvehicles/5series/sedan/2016/showroom/m_performance.html

With the world going bonkers over the launching of the seventh-generation G30 5-series, BMW decides to spice things up-by previewing the performance figure of the upcoming one-rung-below performance variant of the 5-series, the 2017 M550i. It turns out to be the F10 M5 killer.

Its 4.4 litre twin turbo V8 (the same engine found on the current F10 M5) churns out 462 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque to the eight speed automatic, good for 0-100 kph time of 4.0 seconds. That is 0.4 seconds faster than the current F10 M5 (4.4 seconds). This is in spite the fact the older M5 generates more power than the M550i. This could be due to the fact the M550i has the traction benefits of the proprietary xDrive all-wheel drive, while the F10 M5 is driven solely by the rear wheels.

Despite this, it can be assured the 2017 M550i would not be wearing the 'fastest 5-series' crown for long, as the upcoming F90 M5 is set to make more power (around over 600 horses), along with the fitment of xDrive all-wheel drive and lightning fast dual clutch transmission.

The G30 generation 5-series sports changes to the exterior to differentiate itself from the F10 5-series, such as the front headlights extending to the kidney grille a'la the current F30 generation 3-series, and the 'hockey stick' door recess a'la the new G11/G12 generation 7-series (good for going to hockey match??). 

Honda NSX GT to terrorise Super GT

Source: Honda

It seems like Honda is not ceasing to produce more racing version of their NSX supercar. After the introduction of the NSX GT3 and the quad electric motor NSX Pikes Peak, Honda has rolled out their Super GT challenger, the NSX GT. 

Just like the NSX GT3, the NSX GT ditches the road-going version's Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD) and 9-speed dual clutch automatic for rear-wheel drive and 6-speed sequential racing transmission. The difference though lies in the engine specs. Where the NSX GT3 retains the 3.5 litre twin turbo V6, the NSX GT makes do with a 2.0 litre turbo 4 cylinder projected to output around 600 horsepower.

Will Honda continue to spawn more racey NSX? This writer wonders if an LM GTE NSX is secretly being planned for future introduction?  

W213 Mercedes-AMG E63 4MATIC+, E63 S 4MATIC+ launched!

Source: http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/2017-mercedes-amg-e-63-officially-revealed

Say you are a family man. Your daily grind involves dropping your kids off at school, a trip to your office, or taking your family on a nice vacation. Having a sedan is most likely in your bucket list to transport yourself and family in great comfort. But, does it have to be a boring endeavour? Is the sedan's sole purpose to be a comfortable, family-carrying cruiser? If fun is what you want, but you still need the extra room to carry your family, Mercedes got you cover: say hello to the W213 Mercedes-AMG E63 4MATIC+ and E63 S 4MATIC+!

Yes, you have 2 variants to choose from, with the E63 S 4MATIC+ the obvious hardcore version. Regardless of which variants you choose, both will be fitted with AMG's 4.0 litre twin turbo V8. The E63 4MATIC+ makes 563 horsepower and 750 Nm of torque, while the hotter E63 S 4MATIC+ makes 603 horsepower and 850 Nm of torque. As a result, the E63 4MATIC+ will hit 62 mph from standstill in 3.5 seconds (3.4 seconds for the E63 S 4MATIC+). Furthermore, the potent E63 S 4MATIC+ is equipped with a dynamic engine mount which strikes the balance between soft and firm mount to ensure comfortable ride quality, but without sacrificing handling dynamic.

On the transmission front, both variants will receive the AMG Speedshift MCT nine speed transmission, utilising a wet start-off clutch in place of torque converter to improve throttle response. Feeling like a budding racing star? You can play around with a pair of steering wheel-mounted paddle shifter.

Living up to its name, both E63 variants will channel twin turbo V8 grunt to AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all wheel drive system. It features an electronically-controlled coupling that varies the torque distribution between the rear and front axle to optimise handling dynamic. Pick the base E63 4MATIC+, you make do with a mechanical differential lock; the potent E63 S 4MATIC+ will come with an electronically-controlled differential lock.

Thinking you are the next Keichii Tsuchiya? Mercedes AMG has you covered thanks to the addition of drift mode. You heard that right. This new W213 generation E63 lets you have your sideway fun (unless if your spouse thinks otherwise). To engage the drift mode, select Race mode, pull the paddle shifter (don't forget to turn off ESP!) and put the transmission in manual mode. Congratulations, you are a new drift hero! Drift mode remains engaged until you deactivate the mode.

Speaking of driving mode, both E63 variants offer AMG Dynamic Select. There are four driving modes - Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual. The E63 S 4MATIC+ adds a fifth mode, the Race mode for track use. Launch Control function is also available. To engage it, select Sport, Sport Plus or Race mode (assuming you have the E63 S 4MATIC+), left foot on the brake and floor the throttle pedal, and enjoy a nice, clean launch.

Worry about fuel? Again, AMG has you covered. Just select Comfort mode, drive at partial throttle and the AMG Cylinder Management will shut off the second, third, fifth and eighth cylinder.

Onto the braking system, both variants will be stopped by AMG high-performance braking system. Go with the E63 4MATIC+, you will have 360 mm discs front and rear; the E63 S 4MATIC+ sports a larger 390 mm front discs with no change in diameter to the rear discs. If you go with the E63 S 4MATIC+, you have the option of speccing it with the optional AMG Carbon Ceramic brakes, which measures 402 mm front and 360 mm rear.

As for suspension, both variants will sit on the Air Body Control air suspension. To further keep the car glued on the tarmac, Mercedes AMG dials in higher negative camber.

Source: http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/2017-mercedes-amg-e-63-officially-revealed

Source: http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/2017-mercedes-amg-e-63-officially-revealed 

Sporty performance has to be accommodated by sporty looks. Wheel arches are menacingly wide as a result of wider track width. AMG lettering is conspicuous between the twin silver chrome front radiator grille. At the rear, boot spoiler decks out the back end along with the lovely quad trapezoidal exhaust pipes with chrome-surround. Large 19-inch wheel is standard fitment on the E63 4MATIC+ (E63 S 4MATIC+ will get a much larger 20-inch wheel).

Mercedes new engines detailed

Mercedes has unveiled a new family of engines at Mercedes Benz TecDay event. The new engine features both petrol and diesel fuel, ranging from four-cylinder motor to V8 motor. All engines feature 500 cc per cylinder displacement, so do expect displacement ranging from 2.0-4.0 litre.

For more details on the new engines, keep on reading this post to find out.

M256 inline six petrol

A 48V electrical system dispenses of the need for engine belt-driven ancillaries. For instance, the water pump and air-cond compressor are no longer driven by the engine, allowing for belt-free engine block. Powering the said ancillaries is the new 48V electrical system. The upshot? It gives the block a much cleaner, clutter-free appearance and allows the ancillaries to be placed anywhere within the engine bay. Also, this can theoretically improve engine efficiency thanks to the reduction in parasitic losses.

The 48V electrical system also drives the turbochargers, dubbed as electric auxiliary compressor (eZV) to reduce turbo lag. Also, an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) is sandwiched between the engine and transmission to provide hybrid function, such as electrically-assisted power boost and energy recovery.

Over 408 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque is expected from the M256, along with 15 percent reduction in CO2 emission over the outgoing V6.

A particulate filter (typically featured on diesel) is added, with cordierite the material used in place of silicon carbide on diesel particulate filter to take advantage of its good heat resistant property.

The M256 will make its first appearance in the facelifted W222 S-Class next year.

OM656 inline six diesel

Expected to output 313 horsepower, in contrast to 258 horsepower outputted by the outgoing diesel engine, with 7 percent reduction in fuel consumption.

Utilises stepped-bowl combustion (named after the piston head's bowl shape), Nanoslide technology (coating the cylinder wall with low-friction coating), two-stage turbocharging and CAMTRONIC variable valve timing.

M176 twin turbo V8 petrol

Displacing 4.0 litres, it is expected to output 476 horsepower and 700 Nm of torque.

Utilises closed deck block to increase the block's rigidity, cylinder deactivation to shut down four of its cylinders on light loads up until 3250 rpm made possible my the CAMTRONIC. Just like the M256 inline six petrol engine, the M176 is equipped with a particulate filter.

This engine will debut in the facelifted W222 S-Class.

M264 four cylinder petrol

Just like the M256, the M264 will be equipped with a 48V electrical system. Unlike the M256, a belt-driven starter-alternator (BSA) will draw power from the 48V electrical system instead of the M256 ISG. The BSA hangs off where a conventional alternator sits. Mercedes claims such setup improves the smoothness of the auto start/stop, sharpens acceleration from electric power up to 2500 rpm, energy recovery up to 12.5 kW and cuts off the engine when coasting to reduce fuel consumption and emission.

The engine rams air into all four cylinders via a twin scroll turbo. Exhaust emission is further reduced with the addition of a particulate filter.

Koenigsegg Agera RSR, the Japanese market Agera RS

Source: http://koenigsegg.com/koenigsegg-agera-rsr-debuts-in-japan/

The Agera nameplate, introduced by Koenigsegg in 2010 to replace the CCX and CCXR and winner of the TopGear 2010 Hypercar of the Year award, has produced memorable iteration spawning the likes of the Agera R (notably introduced the E85-powered iteration in 2013), Agera S (introduced in 2013 for non-E85 market), One:1 (named after its 1:1 power-to-weight ratio and the brand's 'megacar' as its 1341 hp is equivalent to 1 megawatt) and finally Agera RS (the progeny of Agera R, Agera S and One:1). Agera is a Swedish verb meaning 'to act'. The Agera RS made headline at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, limited to just 25 examples. 

Just recently, the supercar brand from Angelholm, Sweden has launched two special bespoke edition of the Agera RS: (1) the Agera XS, an American version of the Agera RS with bigger carbon fibre rear wing (both the bigger wing and name change were requested by the owner) making its debut at the Monterey Car Week and (2) the Agera RS 'Naraya', a European special named, according to Koenigsegg, after close association to the owner's family name, and made its appearance at Salon Prive Concours d'Elegance. 

Now, its the Japanese market who will be getting their bespoke edition, christened as Koenigsegg Agera RSR. The company founder and CEO, Christian von Koenigsegg, spoke at the Agera RSR launch event: 

“Japan has been an important market for Koenigsegg since the earliest days of the company. It brought us great pleasure to work with our Japanese clients to bring the Agera RSR to life. The cars they have designed add a new dimension to the already exclusive Agera RS series.” 

Limited to just 3 examples for delivery to Japanese Koenigsegg enthusiasts, the Agera RSR was launched on the 5th September by Koenigsegg Japan in Tokyo. The car is based on the 1160 hp Agera RS, alluding to the company's bonkers 5.0 litre twin turbo V8 engine.

The Agera RSR shares close resemblance to the hallow One:1 design cue, particularly the rear wing and air intake scoop.

Source: http://koenigsegg.com/koenigsegg-agera-rsr-debuts-in-japan/

A closer look at the above picture reveals the One:1-style rear wing, which Koenigsegg claims "provides greater downforce and improved handling".

Source: http://koenigsegg.com/koenigsegg-agera-rsr-debuts-in-japan/

The One:1 design cue does not end at the rear wing. According to Koenigsegg, the air intake scoop looks similar to the One:1 'megacar', only shorter to enable "the roof to be stored in the car". The company also claimed that the scoop enhances breathing when you take the RSR up to higher speed, improving power output when you are pressing on.  

Source: http://koenigsegg.com/koenigsegg-agera-rsr-debuts-in-japan/

Mazda G Vectoring Control

                               

                                             Source: Norbert Aepli via Wikimedia Commons CC BY 4.0

Jinba Ittai. Literally horses and riders. In Mazda's parlance, that is Mazda's philosophy in delivering their adoring customers with an unadulterated synergy between the driver and the car. Mazda has decided to take the Jinba Ittai to the next level: by adding SKYACTIV-VEHICLE DYNAMICS to the firm's suite of SKYACTIV technologies. The first technology to appear under the SKYACTIV-VEHICLE DYNAMICS family is the G Vectoring Control (GVC), which had been recently added to the facelifted Mazda 3 and Mazda 6.

GVC is basically a software that actively communicates with the engine in response to steering input to optimise vertical loading on each tyres. It does this by either reducing or reinstating torque based on steering angle. 

The idea is that by reducing torque, deceleration is induced. This initiates forward load transfer which helps in improving turn-in response when the driver begins turning the steering. This should, in theory, neutralise understeer (the car wants to go straight even after the steering has been turned).

Once the driver maintains steering mid-corner, the system reinstate torque, inducing acceleration. This transfers load to the rear which stabilises the car. Theoretically, this will make the car less prone to oversteer (the front end turns more, giving the sensation you are spinning out).  

According to Mazda, neither drivers nor passengers will notice GVC at work. Mazda assures that GVC offers significant comfort to the vehicle occupants, as GVC reduces the amount of buffeting experienced by vehicle occupants. This could be due to drivers not having to make corrections directly with the pedals and steering which (I am sure you have experienced this as a passenger) will almost always spill your coffee!

Also, with GVC, Mazda assures that it will enhance straight line stability. In other words, it reduces steering correction on straight road. Most of us barely notice it, but we do constantly make slight steering adjustment to compensate for road undulation and surface imperfection. Thanks to GVC, the lack of steering correction, according to Mazda, should reduce fatigue.

As it is just a software, Mazda assures this will not add weight and complexity as this does not require the addition of extra hardware.

All in all, the newest addition to the SKYACTIV-VEHICLE DYNAMICS family may transform your Mazda into a tiny handling monster capable of making the supercars look silly around curves, or when you are barreling down the freeway. Hopefully, Mazda's tireless pursuit for enhanced Jinba Ittai will show itself in their products.      

Source: http://insidemazda.mazdausa.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/mazda_g_vectoring_press-information.pdf  

BMW F10 5 series bowing out with a bang, with the M5 Competition Edition

Source: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Like everything in life, there is the beginning and the end. The same rule applies to cars. Once it reaches the end of its generation, it ceases existence, and a new generation model takes over its place. In the case of the BMW F10 generation 5 series, its end is drawing to a close, with the next generation G30 and its high-performance F90 M5 alter ego slated to take over. But, it would not be a muted farewell as Munich wants to give a special valediction to the F10 series, in a form of BMW M5 Competition Edition.

What better way to close the F10 chapter, other than giving it an extra boost of power to its wonderful 4.4 litre TwinPower Turbo V8. Thanks to recalibration of boost pressure, 600 hp and 700 Nm overall output is yours to play, up from 560 hp and 680 Nm. Result? 3.9 second 0-100 kph time, a good 0.5 second quicker than the non-Competition Edition M5. Before being consigned to the history book, it is a good idea to leave unforgettable performance figure that makes the car meaningful.

Source: www.press.bmwgroup.com

It wouldn't be a perfect send off if you end up in the ditch somewhere. So, BMW outfitted an uprated spring, an electronically controlled damper and a thicker stabilizer bar courtesy of the M Competition Package. Also, carbon ceramic brakes housed within the 20-inch 7 double-spoke alloy wheels ensure the farewell party doesn't end with mangled metal for our F10 friend.

Only 200 units are available. Colour wise, there are 2 available colour schemes: Carbon Black and Mineral White, with 100 units each getting either colour schemes.

With the F10 on its way out, hopefully the upcoming G30 and F90 M5 will be even better.

Source: www.press.bmwgroup.com 

Fiat 124 Spider, an ND MX 5-bodied Italian sports car

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fiat_124_Spider_(2016)

Ah, the revival of a classic moniker, that captivates car enthusiasts from 1966-85. The Fiat 124 Sport Spider was a roadster that appealed to the enthusiasts looking for a basic top-down sports car during that juncture. Fast forward to 2016, Fiat Chrysler Automobile (FCA) has brought back the 124 nameplate, christened as the 124 Spider. 

Unlike the Pininfarina-designed 124 Sport Spider, the modern 124 Spider is not a result of Fiat and Pininfarina's collaboration, but rather a joint venture with a Hiroshima-based manufacturer who subscribes to the Jinba Ittai philosophy in sports car design. If you can guess what I am alluding to, kudos to you. But in case if you don't, the manufacturer in reference is Mazda. 

The 124 Spider is underpinned by the fourth generation ND Mazda MX-5 (MX-5 Miata in the US). Thanks to findings by Top Gear, the chassis is built in Mazda's Hiroshima factory. The engine, however, is not built by Mazda, but by Fiat instead. In a nutshell, lurking under the 124's bonnet is Fiat's proprietary 1.4 liter turbocharged MultiAir four banger rather than Mazda's 2.0 litre Skyactiv-G naturally aspirated four banger. Result? The 124 Spider makes more power than the MX-5, 160 for the 124 Spider vs 155 for the MX-5. Does not sound much, but every ponies count. Upon completion, the engine is then shipped to Hiroshima where Mazda's engineers marry the engine to the chassis. 

Fiat engineers then applied their own Jinba Ittai to the suspension tuning, with retuned dampers, stiffer springs and anti-roll bar to embarrass the donor car in the twisty bit. 

Taking advantage of the extra low-end torque, Fiat lengthen the gear ratio. The extra grunt at low rev is more than enough to compensate for the longer gearing. 

All these retuning sounds like a recipe for a more unadulterated driving experience. With more power and an uprated suspension, this little pocket rocket may have what it takes to make MX-5 owners clamouring for the 124 Spider.   

Source: Top Gear

Bravo Aston!

Source: www.dubicars.com

Seems like our friend from Gaydon has whipped up something special. Nope, it is not another James Bond special, but it is a rather special offering that will whet the enthusiast's appetite. Meet the new 2017 Aston Martin V12 Vantage S. 

Okay, what is so special about Aston's new V12 Vantage S compared to the previous iteration? Well, it is not really Aston going bonkers with liberating extra juice from the same 6 litre V12 (it still makes the same 563 hp at 6750 rpm and 620 Nm of torque at 5750 rpm). What makes it special is the bit that passes the V12 power to the rear wheels, the transmission.

What is so special about the transmission I heard you ask? Well, the new V12 Vantage S is a departure from the previous model where manual was not even an option (only a 7 speed Sportshift III automated manual was offerred mind you). This time round our Gaydon friend has shoehorned...hold your breath...3 pedals and a human-operated H-gate shifter!

Source: paultan.org

It is not a 6 speed, but it is a 7 speed. It is not just a 7 speed, but it is a 'dogleg' transmission. Dogleg? What is that? It is basically 1st gear sits where 2nd gear should be like on traditional shift pattern, meaning 1st gear on dogleg transmission is to the left of neutral and down. This layout is popular on high performance sports cars and racing cars as 1st gear is seldom used. This allows a faster shift to the gears most often used, such as 2nd and 3rd gear as they are inline with each other requiring just a straightforward shove back and forth.

To top it off, the transmission is equipped with the AMSHIFT, which automatically blips the throttle on downshift to simulate a clean heel toe downshift, made possible by clutch, gear position and propshaft sensor. If you wish to do your own heel toe, the system can be turned off.

The return of manual in the V12 Vantage S after a brief hibernation should be a welcome relief to the enthusiasts camp. The 7 speed Sportshift III automated manual remains an option in the new Vantage S if clutching in and out is not your idea of driving.

Self-shifter 'GT3 RS', Porsche's commitment to the 3 pedal 911?

                                              Source: porsche.com/italy/models/911/911-r/

All hail the brand new Porsche 911 GT3 RS with it's appetising, raucous 4 litre naturally aspirated flat-six, giant rear wing and....hang on a minute? Is that a PDK gear selector sticking out from the centre console? Heads bow in abject dejection. Stirring the H-gate stick is not even an option on the GT3 RS because being a track car, beating the clock is of much greater importance than indulging oneself in a self-gratifying heel toe downshift.

Source: porsche.com/italy/models/911/911-r/

Fear not manualphiles, Porsche have you in mind and whip up a manual version of the hardcore GT3 RS sans rear wing, and striking red strips extending from front to back along the flank: say hello to the 911 R.

With the same 4 litre naturally aspirated flat-six derived from the track-going GT3 RS slung out at the back, your insatiable desire for tactile pleasure of feeling the cogs stirring under your palm, the 911 R will surely stroke your insistence for 'manualness' (do the word even exist?).

Source: porsche.com/italy/models/911/911-r/

Well folks, seems like our friend from Stuttgart really do stick to their words. In an interview with Car And Driver, Erhard Mossle, Porsche's engineering head honcho for the 911 Turbo, Carrera 4 and Targa, reassured that 3 pedals will remain in the 911 DNA for as long as possible.

"It's a unique selling proposition for Porsche to have a manual in the 911 range, and I think we will fight for that as long as possible," he told Car And Driver. "Even if it's only 10 percent of the market, it's important for some customers and for some markets, especially the U.S., to have that kind of gearbox."

He also acknowledges the emotional appeal of flicking the gear lever.

"What we learned from the last two years with the Cayman GT4 and Boxster Spyder is that it's not only a discussion of lap times, but also of emotion, of being fun to drive," he said. "Even if the car is not the fastest, it is fun to drive with a manual. Of course the PDK is faster, but a lot of customers want to change gear by themselves. Therefore I think we should keep it, for the next generation also."

The 911 R is a sign of Porsche's dedication to keep manual in the 911 family as long as a sizeable number of customers ask for it.

Features treating future 911 R owners are automatic rev matching function which can be switched off by a press of a button and an optional single mass flywheel for extra zing when you gun the loud pedal.

Rear wheel steering and mechanical rear locking differential will ensure enhanced stability while you are busy heel toeing to gratification.

To keep 500 hp in check, Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake is standard for an eye-popping stopping power. With lap time not prioritised, the rear wing had been hacked off.

Unlike certain automakers who had completely threw manual into the dumpster (Ferrari and Lamborghini comes to mind), Porsche has not completely given up on the row-your-own-gear option. The 911 R may well be a ray of hope for the manualphiles around the globe that the surge of the state-of-the-art, lap time 'special' automated transmission will not completely supplant the traditional tactility that 3 pedals and H-gate shifter provide to those who do not see clutching in and out as a humdrum chore.

Borgward, back from the dead with BX7

Source: jalopnik.com

After more than 50 years hiatus, a dormant German marque has been resurrected after decades of inoperation. Borgward is finally back in business and set to launch their SUV model, christened the BX7. 

Borgward was found in 1929 by Carl F.W. Borgward. As a result of financial problem, the marque was liquidated in 1961. Fast forward to 2015, the founder's grandson, Christian Borgward, announced the revival of the marque and will be financially backed by Foton, a Chinese truck manufacturer.

Now onto the new BX7. The BX7's front fascia is decked out by 16 slats vertical chrome grille with the marque's insignia smack dab at the centre of the grille, LED headlights flanking the upper corner of the grille and the horizontal, narrow lower air intake with fog lights flanking the latter.

Source: topspeed.com

The rear fascia sports a horizontal tail lamp with dual exhaust pipe, one on each side. There is also a roof mounted spoiler awning the rear windshield and of course, the marque's name printed between the tail lamps. 

   

The newly restored marque will offer two drivetrain trims: petrol-powered 2.0L turbocharged four cylinders that churns out 225 hp, mated to a 7 speed dual clutch transmission and all wheel drive. Also, a plug-in hybrid version that churns out 401 hp will follow suit. 

Borgward's revival after more than half a decade made this writer wonder; does being defunct after a particular period of time means it is the end of the world for the marque in question? As proven by the likes of Maybach (initially ceased production in December 2012; then revived by Daimler, the parent company, in November 2014 as a sub-brand to the Mercedes S-Class) and TVR (set to launch new models by 2017 with partnership from Gordon Murray and Cosworth), all hope is not lost. Fingers cross for the revival of marques like Pontiac for instance which has been defunct since 2010.