Welcome to Autocar’s extended coverage of the 2019 Los Angeles motor show, one of the last major shows of this year’s automotive calendar. As ever, it is a uniquely Californian show that plays home to a varied mix of SUVs, V8s and electric cars. Manufacturers including Audi, Ford and Volkswagen are all in attendance, with major announcements expected throughout the week. Some brands even jumped the gun, revealing all ahead of the show floor opening to the industry. We’re on the ground in LA to bring you all the news as it breaks from the show, as as well as providing insight and comment from industry figures, and first drives of some of the biggest new launches. LA motor show: What’s on display There are plenty of big names revealing new metal at this year’s show. While we’ve focused on the models most likely to go on sale in other markets as well as the US, there’s still lots to see. Aston Martin DBX Although Aston Martin chose China for the official reveal of its first ever SUV, it also made sure to bring one to Los Angeles. The £158,000 SUV promises the kind of sporting pedigree Aston is famed for, with a 4.0-litre V8 delivering 542bhp. A luxury interior and capable off-road credentials should make it a threat to the likes of Bentley’s Bentayga and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo. Audi E-tron sportback The rakishly styled Sportback variant of Audi’s E-tron electric SUV carries over the standard car’s 402bhp twin-motor powertrain, but the Sportback sees major efficiency gains that help boost range to 278 miles – a significant step up over the E-tron. Visual changes are largely limited to the reshaped roofline and a subtly restyled rear end, which includes an LED brake light bar similar to that of the A8 luxury saloon. BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé The largest model in BMW’s 2 Series line-up will make its public debut at LA, following a reveal in October. The firm’s first small four-door coupe sits atop the same front-wheel-drive platform as the smaller 1 Series, and shares that model’s range of petrol and diesel powerplants. The range-topping M235i xDrive, however, gains all-wheel drive and will take on the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35, with a 2.0-litre twin-turbo petrol unit pumping out 302bhp and 332lb ft. M8 Gran Coupe At the other end of BMW’s performance saloon range is this, the fearsome M8 Gran Coupe. Going up against the Porsche Panamera with up to 616bhp from its 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8, the five-door version of the firm’s new M8 is priced from £120,935, with deliveries due to take place at the start of next year. Bollinger B1 and B2 Newly established American firm Bollinger will showcase prototype versions of its B1 and B2 electric SUVs. The rugged-looking off-roaders sit atop a skateboard-style chassis and have been engineered to meet road-legal requirements around the world. In spite of their aerodynamically unfriendly design and imposing size, the boxy models will hit 60mph from rest in just 4.5 seconds, thanks to a pair of electric motors that combine to produce 614bhp. Ford Mustang Mach-E Ford kickstarted its electrification strategy with the sleek SUV inspired by the Mustang sports car, showing the model for the first time at LA ahead of the main show. Due to go on sale in 2020 as a rival to Tesla’s new Model Y, the Mustang Mach-E will offer a range of 370 miles on the WLTP cycle in extended battery form. At launch, a range-topping First Edition version will produce 332bhp, with a GT model set to make around 459bhp shortly after. Lexus LC500 Convertible The long-teased Lexus halo model was finally shown off in production form at this year’s LA show. Previously revealed as a concept, the soft-top LC will arrive first in ‘500’ form with a 5.0-litre V8 engine. A V6 hybrid is expected to follow later. Mercedes Maybach GLS Conceived as a rival to the Range Rover SVAutobiography, Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan, the Maybach GLS is an ultra-luxurious reworking of Mercedes’ GLS flagship SUV. The standard model’s silhouette is retained, but spy shots show that the Maybach version will feature bespoke design elements inspired by 2016’s Maybach 6 coupe concept. There are suggestions that the top-of-the-line GLS could also offer improved rear legroom, courtesy of an extended wheelbase. Mini John Cooper Works GP Mini’s fastest model yet, the 300bhp JCW GP, has been teetering on the edge of an unveiling for a while, with prototypes making public appearances at high-profile events like the Nurburgring 24 Hours and Goodwood Festival of Speed, but now the wraps have finally come off. The 302bhp hot hatch will have a £34,995 starting price and be limited to 3000 units worldwide. Porsche 911 manual Not a new car, but almost as exciting, is the news that Porsche is adding a seven-speed manual option to its 911 sports car. The option is rolling out at no extra cost to buyers in the US, with a UK launch expected in the new
Origin: 2019 LA motor show: live coverage
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2019 Tokyo motor show: live blog and pictures
Welcome to Autocar’s extended coverage of the Tokyo motor show, one of Japan’s biggest automotive events and the first chance to see many of the cars Japanese manufacturers will be bringing to Europe in the next few years. The 46th edition of the biennial show opens its doors on the 24th of October and will, somewhat unsurprisingly, highlight electrification. Most of the production and concept cars scheduled to break cover during the event will incorporate some degree of electrification, whether it’s mild hybrid technology or a battery-powered drivetrain. While doors officially open tomorrow, Autocar is already on the ground in Tokyo to bring you full coverage of the opening press day. Tokyo motor show live blog 17:30 Tuesday 22 October The show may not officially be under way just yet, but several manufacturers have pre-announced their new arrivals. Mitsubishi has teased a roofless electric SUV, Toyota’s self-driving LQ concept promises to add artificial intelligence to your dashboard, and Mazda has confirmed its first electric car is on the way. Several high-profile leaks seem to have given the game away for some of the biggest names at the show, with Japanese media revealing the updated Subaru Levorg and hybrid-only Honda Jazz before an official announcement, which is expected tomorrow. Every edition of the biennial Tokyo motor show explores a different facet of Japan’s unique automotive industry. Some put an unabashed focus on performance while others place technology front and centre. What never changes is that the event is dominated by Japanese carmakers – you won’t hear much from European, American and other Asian brands, and the companies that display cars in Japan’s capital are on a bold quest to show their wild side. This is their chance to shine on their home turf. What’s on Display in Tokyo With much more than simply Japanese market cars on display at this year’s show, there will be lots to see inside the Big Sight convention centre. Our A-Z list contains every major new car reveal from the show: Honda 2020 Jazz The next-generation Honda Jazz (known as the Fit in some markets) will exclusively be available with petrol-electric hybrid powertrains. Honda previously explained it developed a more compact version of the twin-motor i-MMD hybrid technology that equips the CR-V to use in smaller cars. While additional details remain few and far between, spy shots show a front end that falls in line with Honda’s current design language and familiar proportions. Jazz sales will begin in early 2020. Although it has historically lagged behind its rivals, it’s a hugely important model because it’s Honda’s best-seller in the UK. Lexus Electric car concept The concept Lexus will introduce in Tokyo will take it into the electric car segment for the first time. It’s a small, city-friendly model with a tall roof that clears up a generous amount of cabin space. Screens positioned on either side of the steering wheel display the infotainment system and the model relies on innovative in-wheel electric motors for power. While it will be presented as a simple design study, Lexus strongly hinted at least some parts of it will reach production in the coming years. “We feel that our future could resemble this design,” Lexus vice-president Koji Sato told Autocar. Mazda 2020 production EV Mazda’s Wankel rotary engine will make a long-awaited comeback in Tokyo but don’t look for a follow-up to the RX-8 on the show floor. It will perform range-extending duties in the company’s first series-produced electric car. We haven’t seen it yet, the test mules are all disguised as CX-30s, but we know it will arrive as a standalone model rather than as a battery-powered variant of an existing nameplate. It will be an SUV with a 35.5kWh lithium-ion battery pack that zaps a 140bhp motor into motion. Mitsubishi MI-Tech Concept Mitsubishi’s Tokyo-bound concept will primarily serve as a preview of its next plug-in hybrid drivetrain, which swaps the traditional combustion engine for a gas turbine generator. The company pointed out it made the powertrain smaller and lighter than the one currently found in the Outlander in order to electrify more compact models like the Eclipse Cross. A selection of preview images show the technology will be showcased in a futuristic-looking SUV with externally-mounted speakers and carbonfibre inserts. Expect the powertrain, not the concept, to reach showrooms in the coming years. Nissan IMk concept As with most Japanese kei cars, Nissan’s new IMk concept is tall, boxy and geared towards urban mobility, but, in a break from convention, sits atop an all-new EV platform and showcases the firm’s plans for the future of small cars. The concept builds upon Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility programme with a lounge-style interior and lack of physical controls, and early suggestions are that it could be sold globally. Subaru 2020 Levorg The next
Origin: 2019 Tokyo motor show: live blog and pictures
Frankfurt motor show 2019: Live blog, updates and pictures
Welcome to Autocar’s extended coverage of the Frankfurt motor show, one of Europe’s major motoring events and the place to see an extensive list of new cars make their debut. Traditionally the world’s largest motor show, Frankfurt sees the automotive industry descend on the city every two years to see new metal for the first time. This year is no exception, with game-changing unveilings from, Volkswagen, Land Rover and more. Electric cars promise to be big news at this year’s show, with the Volkswagen ID 3 having made its global debut, along with the Honda E, Porsche Taycan, Peugeot e-2008 and more all making an appearance. That said, there will no doubt still be quite a crowd gathered around conventionally fuelled new cars – especially the reborn Land Rover Defender, which is almost certain to dominate proceedings. We’re on site in Frankfurt to bring you every single reveal, so be sure to follow along with our live blog, and on our Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube channels for up-to-the-minute news and images. Frankfurt motor show 2019: Live blog 07:15 Tuesday 10th September First announcement of the morning comes from Hyundai, with the 1970’s-inspired 45 Concept. Expected to eventually enter production, the electric crossover uses strong angles and lots of LEDs to make a visual statement while the interior hints at an autonomous future. Even before last night’s big ID 3 reveal, it was clear this year’s Frankfurt show was going to heavily feature electrification. With tough new emissions targets about to be introduced, car firms are having to push EVs and alternative powertrains like never before, argues Hilton Holloway. Environmental protestors have pledged to picket the show for weeks now, and it appears Greenpeace are leading the way this morning at the event entrance in Frankfurt. Further demos have been pledged throughout the day, with more disruptive protesters having hinted at picketing some of the press conferences. Kudos then to VW Group boss Herbert Diess, who went head to head with one of the protest group leaders in a live web debate on the subject, outlining why he believed a world without personal transport was unviable, how cars like the ID3 can be part of the environmental solution. 07:00 Tuesday 10th September Welcome back to our Frankfurt coverage. The show floor officially opens this morning, and we’ll be there to see all the new reveals. Overnight saw Audi announce the redesigned RS7 Sportback, which shares its 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 and 48v mild hybrid powertrain with the RS6 Avant. In the RS7, it results in a 0-62mph time of 3.6 seconds and 189mph top speed if you opt for the derestricted Dynamic Plus pack. “The beauty and the beast” is how Audi Sport managing director Oliver Hoffmann descries the new RS6 and RS7. Which one’s which, you ask? Anything and everything appears to be on the cards for Audi Sport as part of its expansion plans – even an RS8. “We have the S8, but there’s no decision yet on an RS8,” said Oliver Hoffmann. Nothing has been ruled out at Audi Sport for now. 21:00 Monday 9th September With all the covers at VW’s Group night now removed and all the cars on display, we’re nearing the end of the first day at Frankfurt – but there’s plenty more to come. Make sure to set your alarms as tomorrow morning sees new metal from BMW, Audi and Hyundai. It’s Land Rover that’s almost certain to steal all the attention, though. It is set to reveal the all-new Defender at 9am BST. We’ll have all the details here on the site, and you can watch the livestream right here: 20:30 Monday 9th September News editor Lawrence Allan says he is “certainly impressed by the cabin tech of the ID 3”, but thinks the material quality (traditionally a VW hallmark) doesn’t seem up to Golf standards: “There’s more hard plastics and plain surfaces than I expected – but maybe that’s the price to pay for an EV offering of relative value. Hey, it’s worked for Tesla…”. 20:15 Monday 9th September The Volkswagen ID 3 was the big star of the traditional pre-show VW Group Night, but once the new EV had its starring moment, those in attendance got to glimpse some of the other new machines from the group’s various brands. They included the new Porsche Taycan, which was revealed last week but is making its public debut in Frankfurt. Also on display was the new Audi Sport RS7, which hasn’t actually been officially revealed yet. So while we can show you a picture, we can’t give you full details yet (we suggest you keep an eye on autocar.co.uk for full details soon. 20:00 Monday 9th September Hybrid and electric car customers typically need more support from retailers before they commit to a purchase, according to Mercedes-Benz’s head of sales and marketing Britta Seeger. “While many are very well informed, we take the time to identify if the car really suits their needs,” she said. “These are big changes, and it is right that customers take their
Origin: Frankfurt motor show 2019: Live blog, updates and pictures
Goodwood Festival of Speed 2019: Live updates and pictures
Welcome to Autocar’s extensive coverage of the 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed. One of the UK’s most hotly anticipated motoring events opens its doors today, with hundreds of thousands of spectators expected to arrive over the weekend. The covers have started coming off all manner of supercars, classic metal and upcoming new releases, and we’re here throughout the weekend to bring you all the announcements. Be sure to follow along here, and on the Autocar Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to get a first look at some of the industry’s most important and exciting new cars. This year’s event has seen some changes to the Festival layout, with the Supercar paddock relocated to make room for the Arena, a new showcase of the extreme end of motorsport: think stunt driving, drift cars and daring motorcycle displays, with some of the biggest stars of each discipline set to appear. The Goodwood Central Feature, an always impressive monument, is this year dedicated to Aston Martin, in honour of the 70th anniversary of the brand winning its first race at Goodwood. Some of the world’s rarest, most valuable and most exciting Astons are on display to mark the occasion. This year’s event is also celebrating the career of seven-time F1 champion Michael Schumacher, with team-mates, former rivals and a collection of his most iconic Formula 1 cars coming together in one place. Watch the Goodwood live stream If you aren’t able to make it to the Festival of Speed in person, don’t worry: Goodwood will be streaming all the action, so you don’t have to miss a thing. Every burnout, every drift, every attempt to smash the hill climb record – it will all be broadcast live. You can watch it all right here: All the cars revealed at Goodwood 2019 One of the biggest reasons so many people come to Goodwood every year? The huge list of new models on show, either on static display or being driven flat out up the hillclimb. Here’s a list of everything revealed so far, as well as what’s due to make an appearance across the weekend: Airspeeder flying car Developed by Australian start-up Alauda Racing, the Airspeeder is a vision of what the world’s first flying car race series could look like. The Mk. II Speeder will perform its first public display at the Goodwood Aerodrome, while the company’s new Airspeeder Mk. IV, the world’s first piloted octocopter, will appear at the festival as a vision of the world’s first flying sports car. Alfa Romeo is celebrating its return to Formula 1 with two special-edition variants of the Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio. The limited-run ‘Alfa Romeo Racing’ versions of the performance saloon and SUV gain a red and white livery and come with the brand’s Sparco carbonfibre-shell bucket seats fitted as standard. The 503bhp 2.9-litre V6 remains the same, however. Aston’s presence at Goodwood 2019 will be bigger than ever, as the brand celebrates the 50th anniversary of its fabled 1959 Le Mans victory with an extensive display of its most revered models. The new DBS Superleggera Volante will head up Aston’s collection, and will make its dynamic debut on the hillclimb. Revealed in May, the £250,000 model features a 715bhp 5.2-litre V12, with Aston claiming a “sensory overload” thanks to the electric folding soft-top. Also on display will be the recently launched hardcore Rapide AMR, and its seven-speed manual gearbox stablemate, the Vantage AMR. The firm’s new Rapide E will put its 602bhp all-electric powertrain to the test on the hill, before we get our first chance to hear the upcoming DBX SUV driven in anger. Making its UK debut is the newly completed DB4 GT Zagato Continuation (fresh from its first public appearance at Le Mans last month), which will sit alongside the Vulcan AMR Pro, Aston’s current World Endurane Racing Vantage GTE, and a selection of Vanquish Zagatos. It’s been eight years since Cheshire-based Briggs Automotive Company (BAC) first launched the Mono single-seater. Now, at long last, the company is turning up the wick with a new version heading to Goodwood. It’s set to be unveiled on the Thursday, with preview images showing that it doesn’t look dramatically different but sports a newly modified engine to make it faster. We’ll learn more about it at the show. Bentley revealed the new Flying Spur late last month, and it’ll be shown in static and dynamic form at Goodwood. The luxury four-door is taking aim at the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class and Rolls-Royce Ghost. Based on the platform of the Continental GT, it is the first Bentley to feature all-wheel steering – while it promises to offer the firm’s most tech-laden cabin yet. Citroen is celebrating its centenary at the 2019 Festival of Speed. Alongside what’s expected to be a huge variety of iconic classics spanning its history, we will be seeing the UK debut of two concepts. The first is the Ami One, a quirky, budget two-seater that meets Europe’s quadricycle regulations and could be
Origin: Goodwood Festival of Speed 2019: Live updates and pictures
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