Bentley will update its best-selling model – the Bentayga SUV – next year to bring it up to scratch with its latest models, and disguised prototypes have begun cold weather testing. The test mule is clearly recognisable as a Bentayga, but heavy camouflage to the front and rear suggests Bentley is planning a number of design updates. At the rear, we can see the brakelights have been reshaped and expanded, while the current model’s deep numberplate recess looks to have been brought forward. At the front, the Bentayga retains its prominent grille and three lower air intakes, but will receive a reconfigured headlight design to bring it into line with the firm’s new Continental and Flying Spur – both of which have launched since the Bentayga arrived in 2016. We can also expect the front and rear bumpers to be redesigned. Just as significant will be the technology overhaul inside. The current car’s infotainment system is often criticised for feeling out of date next to cheaper siblings from Audi and Porsche, so the priority will be to bring in the latest system from the Continental GT and Flying Spur. A fully digital instrument display will likely also feature, while the range of active safety technology should advance. The flagship W12 engine is expected to receive upgrades to boost efficiency, but don’t expect anything dramatic across the rest of the range. The V8 is relatively new, too, while the six-cylinder plug-in hybrid model still isn’t on sale after a lengthy delay. Question marks remain over the diesel model, which was officially axed from the firm’s line-up in 2018. A change in attitude towards the fuel was blamed for its removal back then, but since then sister brand Audi has introduced several large capacity S-badged diesel models to its range. Expect to see more details emerge early next
Origin: Updated 2020 Bentley Bentayga to feature revamped design
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Updated: More details on new 612bhp V8-powered Ferrari Roma
Ferrari has revealed a new 612bhp V8 front-engined coupé called the Roma. While it shares some underpinnings with the Portofino drop-top, the new machine features bold new styling and is described by the Italian firm as an all-new model. The fifth new model Ferrari has launched in 2019, the Roma is termed a “2+” coupé, which Ferrari says features “refined proportions and timeless design”, while offering “unparalleled performance and handling.” The two-door Roma, which is set to rival the Aston Martin Vantage and Mercedes-AMG GT, features a bold grille at the end of its elongated front bonnet, with sharp lines over the bold wheel arches. The back features a sloping rear window, distinctive narrow lights and quad exhausts. An active rear spoiler integrated into the rear screen deploys automatically at high speeds for optimal downforce. The Roma is powered by a revamped version of the 3.9-litre turbocharged V8 engine used in the Portofino drop-top and elsewhere in Ferrari’s line-up, albeit using the eight-speed DCT gearbox that was introduced on the SF90 Stradale. In the Roma, the unit delivers 612bhp between 5750 and 7500rpm, with 591lb ft of torque between 3000 and 5750rpm, up from 592bhp and 561lb ft in the Portofino. The version of this powerplant used in the recently launched F8 Tributo produces 710bhp. Ferrari claims a 0-62mph time of 3.4secs, and a top speed of more than 199mph. Ferrari also says it has ‘completely redesigned’ the exhaust system to incorporate petrol particulate filter technology and enhance its sound. Notably, the Roma has a dry weight of just 1472kg with lightweight options fitted, around 80kg less than the Portofino’s dry weight. The eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox alone weighs six kilograms less than the seven-speed unit in the Portofino, and is claimed to offer reduced fuel consumption, faster shifts and enhanced comfort in urban driving situations. The new model measures 4656mm long and is 1974mm wide, making it marginally shorter and narrower than the Portofino, while both models feature a wheelbase of 2670mm. Inside, the driver is separated from the front-seat passenger by a central divider, in what Ferrari calls “an evolution of the dual cockpit concept that embraces the entire cabin rather than just the dashboard as was previously the case”. The steering wheel is an all-new design, and hosts all the main driver settings to ensure constant focus on the road ahead. The traditional analogue speed and rev counter dials have been replaced by a 16in screen mounted behind the steering wheel, while a centrally mounted, vertically oriented 8.4in unit displays infotainment functions. A boot capacity of 345 litres is roughly equal to that of the Roma’s AMG GT and Aston Martin Vantage rivals. 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 one car it would reveal this year would be “in a new segment”. Ferrari’s current focus is on increasing revenues rather than strictly increasing
Origin: Updated: More details on new 612bhp V8-powered Ferrari Roma
Updated: 2019 Los Angeles motor show preview
This year’s motor show calendar is in full swing, with Frankfurt’s IAA event bringing us pivotal new models from countless mainstream manufacturers, and last month’s Tokyo motor show demonstrating that, for many firms, creativity is key in today’s challenging market environment. Now though, it’s time to look ahead to the Los Angeles Auto Show, at which we’re expecting a huge variety of important US and Europe-focussed models to appear in the metal for the first time. Last year’s edition saw the debut of Porsche’s acclaimed 992-generation 911, the striking Audi E-tron GT concept and Mazda’s reinvented 3 hatchback to mention but a few, and 2019 is already shaping up to be just as significant. Take a look at everything we’re expecting to see here: Audi E-tron sportback Shown in camouflaged prototype form at March’s Geneva motor show, the rakishly styled Sportback variant of Audi’s E-tron electric SUV has since lost its disguise in the run-up to its LA reveal. The standard E-tron’s 402bhp twin-motor powertrain is carried over unmodified, meaning the Sportback will be capable of 0-60mph in 5.5 seconds, a range of around 248 miles and 150kW rapid charging. Changes look to be 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 ‘Mach E’ electric SUV Ford will kickstart its electrification strategy with a sleek SUV-shaped model inspired by the Mustang sports car, showing the model for the first time at LA. Due to go on sale in 2020 as a rival to Tesla’s new Model Y, the model has been confirmed to offer a range of 370 miles on the WLTP cycle, but the company is withholding additional details pertaining to the model’s performance, pricing and design until its unveiling. Hyundai PHEV concept Hyundai’s ‘ground-breaking’ new SUV concept takes inspiration from 2018’s Le Fil Rouge show car, and looks to preview a futuristic plug-in hybrid production model to sit below the Santa Fe seven-seater. Technical details remain scarce, but a preview image shows off a sleek, rakish roofline, squared-off wheel arches and a bespoke grille design with integrated cooling flaps. 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 are finally coming off. Confirmed details include a £34,995 starting price and sub-eight minute Nordschleife laptime, but we’ll have to wait to see just how Oxford’s answer to the Mercedes-AMG A35 will differentiate itself style-wise from the standard Cooper JCW. 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 year. It’s likely that Porsche will show the manual 911 at LA. Taycan 4S Launched as the entry point into Porsche’s new Taycan electric super-saloon range,
Origin: Updated: 2019 Los Angeles motor show preview
After far too long, Nissan’s updated Frontier pickup is coming soon
2019 Nissan FrontierHandout / Nissan There are few sureties in life: death, taxes and the stale styling of the Nissan Frontier. Thanks to the companys glacier-like design cycle, the looks of the current Frontier are very nearly old enough to get a licence and drive themselves.Thats about to change, according to the gearheads at Automobile.In an interview with the mag at this weeks Tokyo Auto Show, Ivan Espinosa, corporate vice-president of global and Japan product planning, said a new Frontier is a priority for the company and will probably appear within the next calendar year.In a vacuum, those words arent much to go on. However, when asked about the new trucks styling, Alfonso Albaisa, global vice-president of design, went on to say it will have a spirituality of adventure and be bolder than the overall design direction of other Nissan products thanks to it being, yknow, a truck. Albaisa described the look as strong, and the expectation is itll be more than just an evolution of the current trucks styling. Your author, for what its worth, thinks the next Frontier will share design cues with the 2020 Titan.In addition to new duds, theres an excellent chance the next Frontier will also have new modes of motivation, even if it rides on the same old platform. The current truck allows customers to choose between an inline-four making 152 horsepower and a 4.0-litre V6 making 261 ponies. Neither are exactly cutting-edge technology, so any upgrade here will be a marked improvement.Despite its age, theres a solid argument to be made that Nissan doesnt need to rush in bringing a new Frontier to market. The current model is posting robust sales numbers, thanks in no small part to its price-leader status. Canadian customers can get into a King Cab 42 for less than $25,000. Absent of large changes since the mid-2000s, parts availability is vast and cheap.In the meantime, Nissan is busying itself with introducing the refreshed Titan truck. If the above timeline holds, itll be good practice for when they roll out a new Frontier next
Origin: After far too long, Nissan’s updated Frontier pickup is coming soon
Updated: 2019 Tokyo motor show preview – the star cars
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. The 2019 Tokyo motor show opening its doors on October 24 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. Here are the cars we expect to see in the Big Sight convention centre, though keep in mind carmakers often announce new models days, hours and minutes before the start of 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 generation of Subaru’s Levorg estate will arrive with a more streamlined design and an array of electronic driving aids. The company’s teaser video noted we’re “in an era where autonomous driving technology is widely spreading” so it’s reasonable to assume the scope of its EyeSight suite of driver assistance features will be expanded. At the other end of the spectrum, Subaru will send off the 20-year old EJ20 flat-four engine with a commemorative WRX STI limited to 555 examples. Suzuki Waku Suzuki’s big themes for Tokyo are mobility and personality, as embodied by its retro-styled show star – the Waku. An ultra compact plug-in hybrid, the Waku features a number of design elements that can be swapped out according to personal preference, and is intended for families to “share fun and excitement”. Hanare The Hanare, taking its name from the Japanese for a small dwelling attached to a house, is Suzuki’s take on the autonomous shuttle. As with the Waku, it blends futuristic technology with 1960s-style design elements, and is said to be fully
Origin: Updated: 2019 Tokyo motor show preview – the star cars
Updated Renault Koleos to cost from £28,195
The updated Renault Koleos large SUV will cost from £28,195 when it goes on sale in the UK in November. The new version of the model was first revealed at the Shanghai motor show, and receives a number of changes to bring it into line with the recently refreshed Kadjar sibling. External changes are as subtle as they are on the Kadjar and include an altered grille, new skid plates front and rear and additional chrome. LED headlights are now standard fit across the range, while new two-tone alloy wheels and a Vintage Red paint scheme are added. Interior upgrades include new soft-touch materials, trim details and two-stage reclining rear seats on all models. A new pedestrian detection function has been added to the active emergency braking system, while the infotainment now gets full-screen Apple CarPlay capability. Renault has also added two new diesel engines to the Koleos. The first is a 148bhp 1.8-litre unit, replacing the 1.6-litre diesel in the outgoing model. It’s front-wheel-drive only, puts out 250lb ft of torque and is claimed to emit 143g/km of CO2 emissions. A new 2.0-litre also features with 187bhp and 280lb ft of torque, claiming 150g/km of CO2. The marque has seemingly taken the opportunity to make both engines CVT-only, reflecting the decreased popularity of manual transmissions in this class. Greater refinement is also claimed, while the more powerful diesel comes with an intelligent all-wheel-drive system. Alongside the material changes, Renault has also simplified the Koleos range. Two trim levels are now offered: Iconic and GT-Line. Iconic models receive kit including a 18in alloy wheels, a 7in touchscreen, front and rear parking sensors, a rear parking camera, LED headlights, automative lights and wipers, and heated and cooled cup holders. Prices start from £28,195 for the 148bhp dCi 150, and £31,195 for the 187bhp dCi 190. GT-Line trim adds 18in alloy wheels, an 8.7in touchscreen, an electric tailgate, leather seats and heated electrically adjustable front seats. That model costs £30,195 and £33,195 for the dCi 150 and dCi 190
Origin: Updated Renault Koleos to cost from £28,195
Honda Civic Si gets updated for 2020
2020 Honda Civic Si CoupeHonda Honda is giving its iconic Civic Si a small makeover for the 2020 model year that includes a minor facelift, as well as a few much-needed hardware upgrades.The changes are mostly cosmetic, with a revised front fascia that features new glossy fog light surrounds; and LED headlights for the coupe.The sedans rear bumper has been massaged to better match the front-end design, while both models get new infotainment systems. Honda has even changed out its awful touchscreen volume controls for a physical knob, simplifying an action that doesnt need to be complicated by touch controls.The powertrain remains the same except for the final drive ratio, which according to Honda is six per cent shorter. That means that acceleration should be improved while still retaining the same transmission ratios. The Sis six-speed manual is the only option for the Civic, coupled to the venerable 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, which pumps out 205 horsepower and 192 lb.-ft. of torque. The sound of the engine will also now be piped into the cabin, like in a BMW, using a system Honda is calling Active Sound Control.On the inside, the seats have also been revised, as has the dashboard to include more red trim. A set of 18-inch matte black wheels are now standard on the Si, with all-season tires fitted. Summer tires are an added-cost option.For the driver who prefers a little fun, the Civic Si occupies a perfect space in Hondas lineup; it offers a manual transmission and enough power to get you in a little trouble without having to step up (and mark-up) to the Type
Origin: Honda Civic Si gets updated for 2020
Updated 2020 Bentley Bentayga to receive tech overhaul
Bentley will update its best-selling model – the Bentayga SUV – next year to bring it up to scratch with its latest models, and disguised prototypes have hit the road. Although not exactly long in the tooth, the Bentayga has been around since 2016 with no significant styling or technology upgrades. Since its launch an all-new Continental GT has come to market, while the latest generation of Flying Spur will arrive in dealers soon. In order to ensure the Rolls-Royce Cullinan rival isn’t left behind by both its competitors and its siblings, revisions to the exterior will bring it into line with the latest brand look. It’s too early to tell how extensive these will be, but expect a reshaped grille, fresh bumpers and tweaks to the lights front and rear. Just as significant will be the technology overhaul inside. The current car’s infotainment system is often criticised for feeling out of date next to cheaper siblings from Audi and Porsche, so the priority will be to bring in the latest system from the Continental GT and Flying Spur. A fully digital instrument display will likely also feature, while the range of active safety technology should advance. The flagship W12 engine is expected to receive upgrades to boost efficiency, but don’t expect anything dramatic across the rest of the range. The V8 is relatively new, too, while the six-cylinder plug-in hybrid model still isn’t on sale after a lengthy delay. Question marks remain over the diesel model, which was officially axed from the firm’s line-up in 2018. A change in attitude towards the fuel was blamed for its removal back then, but since then sister brand Audi has introduced several large capacity S-badged diesel models to its range. Expect to see more details emerge early next
Origin: Updated 2020 Bentley Bentayga to receive tech overhaul
Updated Rezvani Tank now packs 1,000 horsepower
Looking for all the world like an extra out of Demolition Man, the Rezvani Tank is a brute of a machine designed for either quashing a dissident uprising or tooling around Beverly Hills.While it is surely capable of the former, one look at the promotional videos on the brands homepage assures us the Tank will be used for the latter.Rezvani is a company based out of Orange County in California, so that revelation should not be a surprise.Previously available with a Pentastar V6 or SRTs 6.4-litre mill, reports have surfaced the updated Rezvani will offer yet another engine one which cranks out 1,000 horsepower. Itll be called the Tank X, and it can be yours for a mere $349,000.While the press bumf loudly touts the 1,000-hp figure, this isnt the Hellephant engine Mopar introduced at SEMA last year. The company specifies this mill is a 6.2-litre Supercharged V8 Demon. Those with long memories an elephant never forgets, right? will recall the enormous 426-cubic-inch Mopar monster displaces an even 7.0 litres. A six-speed automatic is the Tank Xs only option.A quick perusal of Rezvanis build-and-price tool reveals the $349,000 sticker price to simply be a starting point for financial hilarity. Adding a Dana 60 rear end costs $8,500 while automatic side steps are another $2,500. Thermal night vision, perfect for tracking down pesky infidels, adds $6,500 to the invoice.After learning Rezvani charges an eye-popping $12,500 for a six-inch lift kit, your author decided he is definitely in the wrong business.For fun, we went through the configurator and checked every box, including the ones for a $6,500 starry night headliner and $7,500 auxiliary gas tank. Total price? $429,585.Checking in at 84 inches wide and 190 inches long, the Rezvani Tank X puts down a footprint roughly that of a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, albeit one that is ten inches wider than stock. Its about ten inches taller than a Wrangler as well, so watch that low bridge. Truth be told, the new Wrangler JL does form the basis of this beast, explaining the design changes to this 2020 model compared to last years tank, which used the old JK Wrangler as its starting point.By the way, this thing is packed with bulletproof armouring and EMP protection, meaning youll still be able to drive to your secret lair after the attack. Bombs
Origin: Updated Rezvani Tank now packs 1,000 horsepower
Hyundai Ioniq: UK pricing confirmed for updated model
Hyundai has released pricing details for its refreshed Ioniq family hatchback. The range now starts from £22,795 for the entry-level hybrid model, with the upgraded electric version priced from £29,450. The Toyota Prius rival now offers 182 miles of WLTP-certified range in fully electric form, marking a 36% improvement over the range of the outgoing 28kWh model. It’s still around 100 miles less than the currently sold-out Kona Electric, however. The Ioniq Electric’s 38.3kWh battery pack is mated to an electric motor producing 134bhp and 218lb ft of torque, and is fitted with a new 7.2kW onboard charger compatible with Type 2 AC charging points. Hyundai claims the facelifted EV can be charged to 80% capacity in as little as 54 minutes as a result. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain variants are unchanged, but the latter now has a WLTP target electric range of 32 miles. The Ioniq Hybrid will be offered in three basic trim levels, along with a limited edition 1st Edition. The entry-level SE Connect features 15in alloys, rear parking sensors, an 8in touchscreen and a number of driver assistance features. The Premium trim, starting at £24,695, adds bespoke 15in alloy wheels, keyless entry, wireless charging, heated seats and a widescreen 10.25in touchscreen. Above that, Premium SE starts from £26,995 and includes 17in wheels, an electric parking brake, electrically adjustable seats and adaptive cruise control. The 1st Edition costs £24,955 and is based on Premium spec, with 17in wheels and an electric parking brake. The plug-in hybrid and electric versions are both offered in two trim levels: Premium and Premium SE. Premium models start at £29,950 for the plug-in hybrid and £29,450 for the electric version. They include 16in wheels, a 10.25inch widescreen touchscreen, wireless charging pad, keyless entry and rear view monitor. Premium SE models cost from £31,950 (PHEV) and £31,450 (electric) and add the likes of privacy glass, chrome door handles, leather heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, an electrically operated driver’s seat and automatic windscreen wipers, along with safety features including blind spot detection and rear cross traffic alert. Prices for the electric model include the UK Government’s discount. Visually, the new Ioniq is marked out from its predecessor by a redesigned front fascia (on both hybrid and electric models), revised front and rear bumpers and reshaped front and rear light
Origin: Hyundai Ioniq: UK pricing confirmed for updated model
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