2020 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 CoupeCosta Mouzouris / Driving INNSBRUCK, Austria The amount of snow near Innsbruck in late November was astounding. Along some mountain roads, it was piled three metres high, proving a nearly ideal setting to test the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe especially since lower elevations provided more temperate conditions, enabling an all-season test in a day.The new GLE Coupe has received a significant update, and has grown in the process. Wheelbase and overall length are 20 and 70 millimetres longer, respectively, than the current model, though wheelbase is still shorter than the GLE SUV, at 2,935 mm. Rear passengers get 35 mm more legroom, and theres more cargo space.Storage capacity in the cargo area is 655 litres, which expands to 1,790 litres with the rear seats folded; the latter is an increase of 70 litres compared to the outgoing GLE Coupe. This compares to 630/2,055 litres for the GLE SUV, so the sloping roofline does extract a cost in total luggage capacity. It also limits headroom for rear passengers; a six-footer like me just barely clears the headliner. The loading deck is 60 mm lower, and to further ease cargo loading the GLE can be lowered another 50 with the press of a button.The GLE Coupe gets a new 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six that produces 429 horsepower and 384 lb.-ft. of torque. This is an increase of 44 horsepower over the current GLE 43, though the torque figure is the same. The GLE 53 gets an additional boost in power through a 48-volt electric starter-generator mounted between the engine and transmission, which briefly adds 21 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque under hard acceleration. Combined electric and gas power push the GLE 53 from zero to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds, almost a half-second quicker than the GLE 43. A nine-speed torque-converter automatic drives all four wheels via a variable all-wheel drive system. The engine combines a conventional exhaust-driven turbocharger with a 48-volt electric turbine to boost intake pressure. The latter spools up instantly when the gas pedal is depressed, and as the engine picks up revs the conventional turbocharger takes over, providing seamless power deliver free of turbo lag.Two off-road drive modes (Trail and Sand) have been added to the existing Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus, and Individual modes. The two Sport modes lower suspension by 15 millimetres, and when in Comfort mode, it lowers only when travelling above 120 km/h to reduce drag. Suspension can also be raised 30 mm from standard for additional clearance when driving off road or in snow.The interior is well appointed, roomy and comfortable, and made even more airy by the standard panoramic sunroof. Rear visibility is hampered by the small rear windows, especially noticeable when looking at the rear-view mirror. On the dashboard, youll find a wide, seamless pane of glass behind which is a pair of Mercedes now-familiar 12.3-inch displays. The forward display features the configurable instrument panel, and the display above the air vents is a touchscreen, which forms part of the GLEs MBUX infotainment system that also uses steering wheel controls, a touchpad on the centre console, and voice commands to initiate various functions.The centre screen shows entertainment, navigation, and vehicle setting info. Augmented reality navigation is standard, and it overlays navigational instructions on a real-time forward view. It works fine, but is distracting when trying to navigate complex intersections; I find regular simulated navigational prompts are easier to follow, as long as theyre timely, which with Mercedes system, is the case. Most manufacturers are moving to smaller Type-C USB ports, and there are five of these ports in the cabin. A wireless phone charger in located just ahead of the cooled and heated cup holders in the centre console. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are included.Due to record early season snowfall in the Alps, a scheduled snow drive had to be reduced to just a few kilometres, though it was along an icy road flanked by a steep drop. While the GLE 53 handled the slippery, icy surface with ease while in Slippery mode even when prompted by two-way radio to hammer the throttle the drive was just too short to really assess its winter driving capabilities. They are no doubt exemplary, especially when equipped with Pirelli Scorpion winter tires, as was my tester.At lower elevations on dry pavement, the GLE performed admirably, returning a taut ride. The GLE 53 has Active Ride Control Plus to control body roll; it uses split anti-roll bars that incorporate electrically controlled servos to actively lean the vehicle into turns, like a motorcycle. The ride control is adjustable to three levels and you can feel it leaning in the most aggressive level.The GLE, however, feels rather hefty. This was especially noticeable when accelerating to make a pass, where it felt like maybe 50 horses werent contributing
Origin: First Drive: 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe
Coupe
New Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe 4Matic on sale from £72,530 in UK
Mercedes-Benz has announced UK pricing and specifications for the second generation of its GLE Coupé, ahead of the model’s arrival in dealerships in spring 2020. Prices for the re-engineered BMW X6 rival start from £72,530 for the entry-level GLE 400 d 4Matic equipped with the AMG Line Premium Plus package, and rise to £80,615 for the AMG-tuned GLE 53 4Matic+ performance model. First customer deliveries are expected in summer 2020, with additional trim packages expected to be available nearer the time. The standard car is equipped with a 3.0-litre straight-six diesel motor producing 325bhp and 516lb ft, with the firm’s EQ Boost hybrid technology allowing for temporary boosts of 22bhp and 184lb ft. Fuel economy is quoted at up to 37.6mpg combined, with a certified emissions rating of 193g/km. The SUV can accelerate from 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 149mph. As standard, AMG Line Premium Plus trim brings a pair of 12.3in digital infortainment displays, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Burmester surround sound system, 22in alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof and a range of advanced driver assistance programmes. An optional towing package – allowing for a towing capacity of 3500kg – is available for an additional £1150. The top-rung AMG model’s straight-six engine is petrol-powered, bumping power up to 429bhp for a 0-62mph time of 5.3 seconds and top speed of 155mph. Additional equipment over the standard car includes AMG’s active ride control technology, AMG steering wheel controls and a smartphone app which analyses journey and performance data. The newcomer raises the number of Mercedes SUV models to eight, indicating the significance to the brand of a sector that accounts for a third of its global sales. The GLE Coupé joins an ever-growing segment of style-focused variants of traditional high-riding models and can also count the Porsche Cayenne Coupé, Audi Q8 and Range Rover Velar as competitors. Despite sharing its underpinnings with the standard GLE, the GLE Coupé is 15mm longer and a substantial 63mm wider. Its wheelbase is 20mm longer than the previous version’s but is still 60mm shorter than the GLE’s. Mercedes claims this benefits handling and visual proportions. The roof height is 1722mm, 56mm lower than that of the standard model. Mercedes says aerodynamic efficiency has improved by 9% compared with its predecessor. From the bottom of the A-pillar forwards, the GLE Coupé looks nearly identical to the GLE, but from there back, it’s entirely different, with a steeper windscreen and rear window rake to account for that sloping roof, plus a bespoke rear-end shape. Wheels come in sizes from 19in to 22in, depending on the car’s spec. The interior of the GLE Coupé shares almost everything with its sibling, too, with the same dashboard layout dominated by two 12.3in screens and a raised centre console with integral grab handles. However, sports seats and a nappa leather sports steering wheel are standard fitments in the Coupé. Amazon Music streaming will also be available at launch. Mercedes claims the new car offers “tangibly more room” and a “significantly better sense of spaciousness” than its predecessor, thanks to the longer wheelbase and larger door openings. Storage capacity has increased, too. In seats-up form, the boot is only five litres larger than the old car’s, but with the 40/20/40 split folding rear bench down, that increase rises to 70 litres. The loading sill is lower than before, too, and the air suspension can drop the rear by a further 50mm at the press of a button. The chassis of the GLE Coupé is said to feature different tuning from its sibling, which is aimed at offering a “sportier and tauter” driving experience, with the air suspension fitted as standard on UK cars. The same 48V E-Active Body Control system is also available, which includes the ability to individually control spring and damper forces at each
Origin: New Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe 4Matic on sale from £72,530 in UK
An electric Mustang coupe is inevitable, says Ford engineer
The electric Ford Mustang is coming, but nobody knows when, Motoring reports.According to Ron Heiser, chief engineer behind the new Mustang Mach-E utility, a non-SUV Mustang with battery power is an inevitability.I think if you look out in the future who knows what timeframe that is the market is eventually going to roll over to EVs, Heiser told Australias Motoring.The next-generation Mustang is rumoured to sit atop a modified Explorer SUV chassis, which will set up the vehicle with a hybrid option for the first time.While an electric Mustang is likely already in the works, it wont share that same platform. Luckily, Ford already has a new EV-capable platform in the form of the Mach-E. The Mustang Mach-E debuted riding on a modular platform set to underpin a few different electric vehicles of various sizes, with either front- or rear-wheel-drive. Its likely a modified version of this platform will underpin the future electric pony.The Mach-E took the name of the classic muscle car, but not all vehicles that ride on the platform will wear the Mustang badge.It doesnt need to have a Mustang name on it, but we chose the first vehicle on this platform to be a Mustang, said Heiser. We dont give them names any more, he laughed.The Mach-E is not based on Volkswagens MEB EV platform, but Ford will use that platform for two new Ford models for Europe.LISTEN: In this week’s episode, we talk about all the electrifying news coming out of the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show with Postmedia Driving senior writer David Booth, including Ford’s bold Mustang Mach-e SUV. And, of course, we get Booth’s take on Tesla’s Cybertruck. Plugged In is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Podcasts.Is the player not working? Click
Origin: An electric Mustang coupe is inevitable, says Ford engineer
Car Review: 2020 Jaguar F-Type Coupe
2020 Jaguar F-TypeBrian Harper / Driving OVERVIEW All-wheel-drive, two-seat sports coupe PROSStunning looks, smooth driving, sounds terrific CONSNo more manual transmission, poor visibility VALUE FOR MONEYFair WHAT TO CHANGE?Nothing HOW TO SPEC IT?As is but without the Checkered Flag package, power tailgate or all-wheel drive It was at the 2006 Concorso dEleganza where I saw the car a diminutive two-seat hardtop coupe called the Cisitalia 202, one of the first new sports cars to come out of post-Second World War Italy. Initially, I gave it a quick glance on my way to look at bigger, fancier, more exclusive automobiles dotting the lawn of the Villa dEste on the outskirts of Como. But something drew me back to the Pininfarina-designed 202 and I spent the next half-hour walking around it, studying the handbuilt coachwork from every angle before determining, in my mind, that the cars proportions were, in a single word, perfection. That one of the 170 or so Cisitalia 202s built has been on permanent display at New York’s Museum of Modern Art since 1951 has further bolstered this belief.The 202 was a progenitor of the coupe-bodied sports car, and since then, I can count on the fingers of one hand the number of times the now iconic silhouette has left such a profound impression, the last being at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show when Jaguar debuted the F-Type Coupe. A product of then-director of design Ian Callums fertile mind his extensive portfolio includes the curvaceous Aston Martin Vanquish and DB9 the F-Type was, and still is, the most gorgeous sports car he has ever penned, far more than a mere hardtop version of the F-Type Convertible that had predated it.Sensuous, with pardon the obvious clich a jungle cat stealth and perfectly integrated lines that accentuate not only speed and power, but elegance, the car still draws admiring glances from passersby, quite the accomplishment for an aging machine in this increasingly jaded world.With its looks, I could (almost) forgive the F-Type if it drove like a Massey-Ferguson tractor, which fortunately, it doesnt. The testers supercharged 3.0-litre V6 throws out a solid 380 horsepower, plenty enough to move the 1,674-kilogram coupe along at a quick clip zero to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds is Jaguars claim.In addition to being offered with a milder 340-horsepower version of the supercharged six, the F-Type can also enhance its pace with a supercharged 5.0L V8, available with as much as 575 horsepower. Conversely, if a more sedate boulevardier appeals to you, the base model comes with a 2.0-litre turbo-four with 296 horsepower. Finally, though rear-wheel drive is the normal state of affairs, all-wheel drive is optional on V6 and standard on V8 models, this tester being so fitted.As if supermodel beauty and a decent amount of scoot werent enough, the F-Type announces its presence with an aural alert from its four inboard-mounted tailpipes, starting with a somewhat obnoxious fart on startup. Then theres the cars active sports exhaust; by pressing the console-mounted override button, electronically controlled bypass valves in the exhaust open and alter exhaust gas routing into a freer-flowing path to reduce backpressure and enhance sound quality. The result is a thundering blat under hard acceleration especially in Dynamic mode and, on downshifts via the eight-speed automatics paddle shifters (the manual has since been discontinued), a snarling, crackling stanza of hooliganism that startles all those within earshot. Sophomoric? Yes, but it still gives me the giggles. Despite the cars performance bona fides, the F-Types ride and handling is neither extreme nor unpleasant. Its not as sharp or precise as a Porsche 911; theres a little more comfort built in to the suspension so as not to rattle your teeth when the 20-inch Pirelli P-Zero tires roll over a tar strip. In fact, the car proved quite livable during a 1,100 kilometre-long summer road trip. My wifes sole complaint was that the seat back did not recline enough for her to properly nap while I drove.This particular 2020 model-year tester bears the unwieldy name of F-Type Coupe P380 AWD Checkered Flag Limited Edition $110,600 as-tested the latter half of this designation denoting a cosmetic package adding nothing to the cars performance capabilities. According to Jaguar, Checkered Flag models celebrate the automakers rich sports car heritage dating back to the 1948 XK 120. It does so by featuring a range of subtle visual enhancements to the exterior and to the driver-focused cabin.Externally, the Checkered Flag edition adds extended side sills, plus exclusive twin-spoke 20-inch wheels and red brake calipers. Inside, highlights include a black contrast headliner and a luxurious Windsor leather interior featuring performance seats with embossed headrests, red seatbelts, contrast stitching throughout the cabin, dark brushed aluminum centre console trim, and a steering wheel
Origin: Car Review: 2020 Jaguar F-Type Coupe
BMW’s 2020 M8 Gran Coupe is more practical for more people
BMW M8 Gran CoupeDerek McNaughton / Driving What is it?A four-door version of the M8 coupe arguably the best-looking new BMW in dealers right now that tries to hide the fact it has four doors. The 2020 M8 Gran Coupe takes all the good looking bits of the M8 Coupe, adds a sloping roofline and two more doors to create a sportier presence than youd get with a four-door luxury sedan. And yet its still an M car with proportions that are more practical for more people. Riding on a longer wheelbase, the Gran Coupe also gets much more rear seat room a six-foot adult can sit in the back without slouching to clear the sloping roof.Check out all of our latest auto show coverage hereWhy does it matter?Along with its good looks is impressive power, the M8 Gran Coupe models get 600 horsepower and 553 lb.-ft. of torque from a twin turbo 4.4-litre V8, while the Competition models get 617 horsepower, allowing for zero-to-100 km/h times of 3.3 seconds and 3.2 seconds, respectively. All of that is routed through an eight speed M-Steptronic transmission with three shift modes. That is crazy fast for something so big.Standard features abound on the Gran Coupe, including an adaptive differential, 20-inch wheels, laser headlights, a slew of driver assists, Harman/Kardon infotainment with Apple CarPlay, wireless charging, WiFi hotspot, Connected Package Pro, and other conveniences. The Gran Coupe also comes standard with a panoramic roof and M Sport brakes. When is it coming?The first cars will start to arrive in January 2020.Should you buy it?At $148,000 for the M8 Gran Coupe and $161,000 for the Competition, the one-per-centers of the world wont find much to fault in this
Origin: BMW’s 2020 M8 Gran Coupe is more practical for more people
New Ferrari Roma is 200mph+ front-engined coupe
Ferrari has revealed a new 602bhp mid-front-engined coupé called the Roma; it’s effectively a fixed roof version of the Portofino with substantially reworked styling. The Italian firm described the machine as a “2+” coupé featuring “refined proportions and timeless design”, with the Italian firm also promising “unparalleled performance and handling.” The Roma gains a bold grille at the end of its elongated front, and sharp lines over the bold wheel arches. The Roma is powered by a revamped version of the 3.9-litre turbocharged V8 unit as in the Portofino drop-top, albeit using the eight-speed DCT gearbox that was introduced on the SF90 Stradale. In the Roma, the unit delivers 602bhp between 5750 and 7500rpm, with 591lb ft of torque between 3000 and 5750rpm. That output is up from 592bhp and 561lb ft in the Portofino. Ferrari claims a 0-62mph time of 3.4secs, and a top speed of more than 199mph. The version of this powerplant used in the recently launched F8 Tributo produces 710bhp. Notably, the Roma has a dry weight of just 1472kg with lightweight options fitted; that’s a little less than 200kg lighter than the Portofino. It measures 4656mm long and is 1974mm wide, with a wheelbase of 2670mm. So far, Ferrari has only released limited details of the Roma, along with a small number of images. The only interior shot so far shows a dramatically sculpted cockpit featuring a digital instrument display and a touchscreen mounted at the front of a large centre console. There is also no indication of what Ferrari means by a 2+ seater. The California, which preceded the Portofino, was orignially offered with the choice of two tiny rear seats or a bench, an option the Roma could re-introduce. According to Ferrari, the Roma was named after the Italian capital – where it was revealed at a launch event – because it “is a contemporary representation of the carefree, pleasurable way of life that characterised Rome in the 1950s and ’60s.” That implies that the machine will focus more on everyday usability and relaxed driving than being intended as a long-distance grand tourer. The decision to introduce a new nameplate, rather than just producing a hard-top version of the Portofino, has likely been taken to target the car at a new audience. By turning the car into a “2+” coupé, it can likely broaden its offering at the entry level of its range. Earlier this year, Ferrari’s marketing chief, Enrico Galliera, told Autocar that the firm would become “less predictable” and said that at least car it would reveal this year would be “in a new segment”. Ferrari’s current focus is on increasing revenues rather than strictly increasing sales. Ferrari is expected to reveal more information and details about the Roma tomorrow
Origin: New Ferrari Roma is 200mph+ front-engined coupe
Car Review: 2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4-Door Coupe
2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4-DoorPeter Bleakney / Driving OVERVIEW Beauty meets brutality in AMG’s first four-door car PROSballistic, engaging, sharp handling, exquisite interior, hatchback configuration CONSA tad to edgy for those seeking true GT characteristics VALUE FOR MONEYcompetitive WHAT TO CHANGE?Find a little more compliance in Comfort mode HOW TO SPEC IT?This colour, this interior get two thumbs up. The optional rear spoiler? Go for it. Might as well get this out of the way right off the bat: The 2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4-Door Coupe, finished here in satin Designo Brilliant Blue Magno, is quite a looker. No car, this side of a Lamborghini or McLaren, has attracted so much attention during its brief stay at Chez Bleakney. Sitting in my driveway, the AMG drew gawkers like buzzards to a squashed possum. Most of my neighbours are pretty blas about what I bring home, but not with this car.Yet the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door is not in-your-face outrageous. It seduces with a masterful blend of grace and menace, art and aggression, beauty and brutality. Its lines are pure, flowing and unadorned, yet that toothy grill looks hungry for small children.The $177,500 Benz does not write any visual cheques it cant cash this car backs up its looks with bonkers performance or so Ive read. Driving on public roads is essentially an exercise in frustration; other than a few wide-eyed felonious blasts and some off-ramp strafing, I came nowhere near pushing this nutty hatchbacks envelope. But in reality, nor will most who buy it, unless they live in Germany or take it out for a day at the track.This is the second car designed and built in-house by AMG, and while it follows the svelte two-seat AMG GT Coupe, it does not share that cars all-aluminum/rear transaxle architecture, instead riding on the bones of the Mercedes-AMG E 63 Wagon. This is, after all, a long and luxurious executive express with generous rear legroom and a hatch able to swallow a full compliment of luggage. Nonetheless, it goes about its business with the classic AMG atomic-fist-in-a-velvet-glove sedan thing that, up until now, has not seen this level of ferocity. And that is saying something.It all stems from AMGs masterpiece of a 4.0L twin-turbo hot-vee V8 that, in this 63 S iteration, makes the most power of any application yet 630 horsepower and 669 lb.-ft. of torque. Yes, you can buy a turbocharged straight-six version of the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, or even the slightly detuned V8-powered 63 variant with 577 horsepower, but why would you? In for a penny, in for pound, I say. With a body this sexy, you might as well take the engine that drop kicks the laws of physics into whimpering submission. Just because.I liken the four-door AMG GT to Danielle House, the Newfoundland beauty who lost her 1996 Miss Canada International crown for punching out her exs new girlfriend in a bar. Its not all about explosive straight-line acceleration, however, even though the 63 S will eclipse the speed limit in a tick over three seconds. The chassis shines, displaying a sharpness, agility and sense of communication that belies the cars 2,045-kilogram mass, no doubt helped by the standard rear wheel steering. Grip from the optional 21-inch forged wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires ($1,500) seems unending, and the steering is precise and connected. The 4Matic all-wheel-drive system is decidedly rear-biased, and theres even a Drift Mode that disengages the front wheels entirely for those times when exiting the Sobeys parking lot requires just a tad more drama.The AMGs attitude is easily altered by the nifty rotary controller placed at four oclock position on the steering wheel. Switch from Comfort to Sport, Sport+, and Race, and the sedan gets progressively louder, stiffer and more alert. Yet even in Comfort mode, the 63 S never really relaxes every ripple on the road is felt and 21-inch tires thwap away on expansion joints. At lower speeds the nine-speed AMG Speedshift transmission can be jerky, too Porsches PDK twin-clutch, this is not. And if you have the exhaust in Sport mode all the time guilty as charged well, it just furthers the impression the car is dog that would rather hunt than sit on the porch.But thats what I love about this beautiful bruiser. Its unapologetic about its status as Mercedes fastest and most aggressive four-door. You want something almost as fast but a bit softer? Theyre happy to sell you the 603-horsepower E 63 S sedan, at $117,000. The interior of this tester is the most visually pleasing of any Mercedes Ive seen, stunning with its Saddle Brown/Black Nappa Leather (an $1,800 option) and Grey Ash Open Pore trim (another $500). The dash panel features the broad expanse of digital screenage found in most Mercedes sedans now, while the centre console with its array of buttons for modifying the cars behavior is snagged from the AMG GT Coupe. I found the ventilated sport seats supremely
Origin: Car Review: 2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4-Door Coupe
First Drive: 2020 BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe, M8
2020 BMW M8Handout / BMW FARO, Portugal Located in Portimao, Algavre Motorsports Park has a 4.7-kilometre circuit that is demanding and very fast. Its a track that really exploits the handling characteristics good or bad of anything challenging its paved surface. If theres anything wonky about a cars handling, itll come out somewhere along the undulating, serpentine and high-speed course.Halfway through my track session, my 2020 BMW M8 Coupe Competition tester has exhibited nothing but stellar road-holding. Its 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 claims 617 horsepower and 553 lb.-ft. of torque, an increase of 94 horses over the M850i xDrive Coupe and 17 more than the non-Competition M8). That brute power drives all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic, and transforms the circuits nearly kilometre-long front straight into a short chute between turns.It also drops a half second from the M850is zero-to-100 km/h time, to 3.2 seconds. Brakes haul it down hard repeatedly from more than 240 km/h without fading, though they are the optional, $9,500 carbon-ceramic brakes. Even after Im asked via radio to turn off the stability control something Ive never before been asked to do during a track test of a road-legal car it reveals no faults, at least none when considering it weighs a hefty 1,960 kilograms.What prompted my hosts to allow a track session free of electronic intervention was their confidence in the M8s AWD system and its electronically controlled Active M rear differential, both of which contribute greatly to the cars turning ability via torque vectoring. Despite its weight, it steered precisely, readily forgave driver-induced miscues, and if coaxed into understeering, a harder push on the gas pedal pulled the front end back in. This is the same car or at least, the carbon-fibred hardtop variation of the M8 Cabriolet Competition that brought me to the track in near coddling comfort. While the ride is firm in Comfort mode, and sharp jolts upset cabin serenity when hitting sharp bumps, its nonetheless relatively compliant. In that same mode the engine is smooth, quiet and almost docile if driven accordingly in town. Switching to Sport or Sport Plus firms up the suspension considerably, and returns an angry snarl, especially if you hammer the throttle along your favourite back road.From the drivers seat of any of the M8 models youll see an uncluttered digital instrument cluster with speedometer and tachometer dials flanking a configurable central display, as well in the standard heads-up display. BMWs iDrive displays control buttons in a sidebar on the left of 10.25-inch touchscreen located atop the centre stack. The screen can be tailored to display navigational, infotainment and car setting info, and it works like a tablet, allowing you to swipe across for different tabs.The driver-centric cockpit is surrounded in warm and inviting materials, cueing you to the M8s blend of luxury with performance. The instruments and controls are logically laid out, and the front seats are comfortable and have deep side bolsters for added support when cornering hard. Of course, the rear seats are there mostly for appearance, since rear quarters are cramped and access is difficult. But if you want more room for passengers, BMW would gladly steer you toward the 8 Series Gran Coupe.M8 pricing starts at $151,000 for the Coupe and $160,500 for the Cabriolet. If the M8 Competition isnt exclusive enough, Canada will be the only market worldwide to get the M8 Individual Manufaktur Edition, which commemorate the M8 prototype of the early 1990s. Based on the M8 Coupe Competition, only 20 will be built, in exclusive exterior colours, interior finishes, and lots of carbon fibre, for $198,0008 Series Gran CoupeI get confused when manufacturers call sedans, coupes. Traditionally, a coupe has two doors and a sedan has four. Sounds simple enough, yet somehow adding a sloping roofline to a sedan magically transforms it into a four-door coupe. Call it what you will, but the 2020 BMW 8 Series Gran Coupes sloping roof does give it a flowing, streamlined, and sexy silhouette, as well as a sportier presence than a stately luxury sedan.From the outside, the Gran Coupe looks great from any angle, with near perfect proportions. The interior follows through with rich materials and a cockpit identical to its two-door sibling. Its the second set of doors that sets the Gran Coupe apart from the coupe, making access to the rear seats easy. With a 200-millimetre longer wheelbase, the Gran Coupe also has much more rear seat room a six-footer such as myself can sit back there without slouching to clear the sloping roof, though you can barely slip the palm of your hand in the space between your scalp and the headliner.Our test drive is in the M840i Gran Coupe, which we wont be getting in Canada. It gets a power from a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six, claiming 335 hp and 369 lb.-ft. What will be available in Canada is the
Origin: First Drive: 2020 BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe, M8
BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe leaked ahead of tonight’s reveal
BMW’s new 2 Series Gran Coupé is due to be revealed later tonight, but official images have been leaked online to spoil the show. The new shots show the four-door Mercedes-Benz CLA rival’s exterior styling in full, with a distinct visual difference compared to the larger 3 Series and new 1 Series. While the front-end is recognisable from the 2 Series’ hatchback sibling, the rear-end shape appears to be inspired by the firm’s latest coupe SUV, the BMW X4, with similar tail-lights and tailgate shape. The need to accommodate two conventional front-hinged rear doors and sufficient rear seat leg room is said to be behind the decision to give the new car a wheelbase that’s halfway between the 2690mm span of the 2 Series Coupé and the 2810mm of the 3 Series saloon. Inside, the 2 Series Gran Coupé will sport a new interior layout that’s also set to be adopted by the successors to today’s 2 Series Coupé and 2 Series Convertible, which are due in 2020. The turbocharged three-cylinder and four-cylinder engines of the 2 Series Gran Coupé will mirror those of the existing line-up. On the petrol side of the range, expect a 134bhp 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine in the 218i, 181bhp and 242bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder units in the 220i and 225i, with a more potent version in the M235i. Among the diesels will be 148bhp, 187bhp and 221bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines in the 218d, 220d and 225d respectively. Like its two-door siblings, the 2 Series Gran Coupé will offer a choice of a standard six-speed manual or optional eight-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox, with xDrive four-wheel drive available as an option. However, the latter will be offered in combination with only a limited range of engines. The highlight of the new line-up, though, will be the M2 Gran Coupé. This model will use the same 365bhp turbocharged 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder engine as its highly lauded two-door sibling. It will be offered with a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Although it’s still early days, that engine – designated S55B30 – is expected to provide the M2 Gran Coupé with similar performance to the M2, which has an official 0-62mph time of 4.4sec in manual form and an electronically limited top speed of 155mph. The 2 Series Gran Coupé will be produced alongside the 2 Series Coupé and 2 Series Convertible at BMW’s plant in Leipzig, Germany. A plug-in hybrid model is also mooted. This is expected to use BMW’s turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor mounted within the forward section of a standard eight-speed automatic gearbox. With a lithium ion battery pack positioned beneath the floor of the boot, the hybrid set-up is intended to provide the 225e with an electric-only driving range of up to 31
Origin: BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe leaked ahead of tonight’s reveal
Car Review: 2019 Mercedes-AMG E53 4Matic Coupe
2019 Mercedes-AMG E53 4Matic CoupeJil McIntosh OVERVIEW A sleek-looking coupe with performance to match PROSSuperb engine and transmission, sharp handling CONSOdd brake pedal feel, and some awkward controls VALUE FOR MONEYLots of performance for the price WHAT TO CHANGE?Give it a simpler, touch-activated infotainment system HOW TO SPEC IT?Add the Premium Pack Heres the scoop on the Mercedes-AMG E53 Coupe, the first E-Class coupe to wear the brands performance badge: If youre expecting the same fire-breathing, bat-out-of-hell brawn that usually comes out of an AMG, youre going to be disappointed. But if you like smooth yet thrilling acceleration, served with a large side of luxury and some fuel efficiency to boot, youre definitely going to want this car.Its the first E-Class Coupe to come under the AMG designation, which usually means eight cylinders have been stuffed under the hood. Instead, the E53 gets a new, turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine that uses both an exhaust gas turbocharger and an auxiliary electric compressor. Theres also an electric starter-alternator unit sandwiched between the engine and the nine-speed automatic transmission, and a 48-volt mild-hybrid electrical system (that doesnt need to be plugged in).The engine makes 429 horsepower and 384 lb.-ft. of torque. When you want extra acceleration, that electric unit, dubbed EQ Boost, can briefly kick in an additional 21 horses and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. Power goes to all four wheels, with torque distributed between the front or rear axle, depending on driving conditions. The E53 starts at $86,000, but theres a lot that can be added on top of that. My tester had a full score, adding a very long list of options including a premium sound system, active safety assists, a head-up display, and even a perfume scent dispenser, all for $102,250 before freight and taxes.Hybridization originally arrived in mainstream vehicles to cut back on fuel and emissions. Many premium automakers are now joining gas and electricity together to significantly increase power without going to a bigger engine. For all its grunt, the E53 is rated at a very decent 10.6 L/100 kilometres in combined driving, and in a week of having fun with it, I came in at 10.8.The beauty of this powerplant is evident as soon as you put your foot down. The electric compressor boosts the engine right away without any lag, while the EQ Boost tosses in its extra strength. By then, the exhaust gas turbo is on board, and its just torque, torque, and more torque all the way up the tach but even then, its smooth as silk. The electric motor starts the engine, including the auto-stop at idle, which is unobtrusive but can be turned off if you prefer. In Comfort mode, the E53 is a grand tourer with a pliable ride that will take you across the country, but keep you relaxed and refreshed. Switch to the Sport modes and you can feel the car tighten up, with quicker throttle response, sharper steering, and stiffer shocks that keep the car tight in the corners. The sport exhaust rumbles beautifully and it blips when the transmission shifts, and it just adds to the fun. You can sequentially shift between gears using the wheel-mounted paddles, which are cheekily labelled up and down.This coupe is a good-looking car, especially with its pillarless styling that turns it into a hardtop when all the windows are down. The interior is equally lovely, especially with my testers optional woven-metal trim. The metal switchgear feels substantial, the dash is leather-wrapped, and its all put together flawlessly as it should be, of course, at this price.The configurable instrument cluster and infotainment system are combined into a single glass panel. Its not a touchscreen and Ive never been fond of Mercedes control system for it, which uses a joystick and trackpad to wade through menus that arent always intuitive. That said, I did like the tiny touchpad on the steering wheel that lets you switch between functions, screens and radio stations when you swipe it. As well, the voice control has been expanded and now includes some vehicle functions such as the climate settings. Taking the luxury a step beyond, my car had mood settings for relaxing or energizing. Select one and it automatically changes the ventilation flow, turns on the massage, selects a scent, and even turns on either soothing or upbeat music although you can switch back to your preferred station while everything else continues to coddle you.Typically for a coupe, the front seats are spacious, while the two rear seats let your friends know you didnt buy this car to cart their butts around. Even so, its relatively easy to get into those rear chairs, since the front ones slide forward and back electrically. The trunk is also fairly tight in keeping with the cars configuration, but theres a bin under the cargo floor, along with a very handy pop-up tote box.A lot of automakers
Origin: Car Review: 2019 Mercedes-AMG E53 4Matic Coupe
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