Mercedes-Benz will move its S-Class flagship saloon to a new generation next year, and prototypes are beginning to drop disguise in new shots. Latest images show more of the BMW 7 Series rival’s overall profile, and we can see that the brand isn’t ditching the curvy surfacing of the outgoing model. It will have, however, a redesigned front end with lights inspired by the latest-generation CLS. A spy photographer previously managed to point their lens inside of a prototype, revealing Mercedes has totally redesigned the cabin around a large, portrait-oriented central touchscreen. The Tesla-style display is significantly larger than any screen Mercedes has offered in previous models, and detail shots show the bottom half of it is dedicated to the limo’s climate control functions, with touch-capacitive shortcut buttons below. It’s likely further updates to the brand’s already new MBUX user interface will boost features and usability, while the brand’s trademark digital dials are also visible. The seventh-generation S-Class looks set to regain its place at the forefront of the brand’s technical knowhow, with a range of new electrified powertrains and advanced driver assist features. Comfort and technology levels will take a boost with the target of lifting it beyond rivals such as the Audi A8 and BMW 7 Series. The new Mercedes flagship, which is due in UK showrooms next year, has been developed to support two distinctly different saloon models for the first time. While standard versions are set to receive a range of plug-in hybrid drivetrains, the German car maker also plans to introduce an aerodynamically optimised pure-electric version that insiders say will serve as the flagship model for its new EQ electric vehicle sub-brand. Badged EQ S, the new model will offer a claimed range in excess of 310 miles on the latest WLTP test cycle when it goes on sale in 2022. Plug-in hybrid versions of the S-Class will feature part-time zero-emission capability for distances of up to 62 miles, together with the option of a newly developed 4Matic four-wheel-drive system with fully variable apportioning of drive between the front and rear axles. The EQ S forms part of Mercedes’ £9 billion programme to introduce more than 10 dedicated electric vehicles to the UK market within the next six years. In a further change, it is believed that Mercedes-Benz has decided to do away with its long tradition of offering the standard S-Class, which goes under the internal codename W223, with two different wheelbases. Nothing is official at this stage, but it is understood that the growth of the E-Class to a length of 4920mm is behind a decision to produce the new S-Class exclusively in long-wheelbase guise, with the car measuring around 5280mm in length. However, while the standard S-Class sits on the MRA platform, the more technically advanced four-wheel drive EQ S will be the first Mercedes-Benz model to be based on the new modular electric architecture (MEA) platform. Unlike the structures being developed to underpin smaller EQ models, it is not based on an existing platform but has been developed as dedicated EV architecture with a flat floor to house batteries. The drivelines set to power hybrid versions of the new S-Class are based around Mercedes’ latest 3.0-litre and 2.9-litre in-line six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines and the AMG-developed 4.0-litre V8, all of which operate in combination with a disc-shaped electric motor housed within the automatic gearbox and a lithium ion battery located in the boot floor. The pure-electric EQ S is set to receive two electric motors – one acting on the front axle and the other driving the rear – providing permanent four-wheel drive in all variants. In the upcoming EQ C, this set-up delivers more than 400bhp and some 516lb ft, although engineers involved on the development of the EQ S suggest it will offer even greater levels of power and torque, with a planned AMG performance model earmarked to produce more than 600bhp. Despite the differing platforms, both the standard S-Class and the EQ S are set to share the same active suspension system. A development of the existing S-Class’s AirMatic+ system, it works in combination with a 48V electrical architecture and a stereo camera that scans the road ahead to adjust the spring and damper action on each wheel, allowing it to not only counteract body lean in corners but also to better control pitch. Stylistically, the new S-Class is claimed to break new ground with a lineage that Mercedes-Benz design studio sources say will influence a whole new generation of models. Recent prototype spy shots preview a design that will feature distinctive tri-band LED multibeam headlights, a new interpretation of the classic Mercedes-Benz grille and door handles that retract back into the bodywork to help improve aerodynamic properties. It is understood that the EQ S will adopt its own distinct styling. Reflecting the
Origin: 2020 Mercedes S-Class seen testing with less disguise
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2020 BMW X3 lineup grows with a new plug-in hybrid model
2020 BMW X3 xDrive30eDerek McNaughton / Driving What is it?BMWs most popular model the X3 will soon be available as a plug-in hybrid with an electric range of 50 kilometres.Why does it matter?While a fully electric X3 is still a distant possibility, the X3 XDrive30e with standard AWD bridges the gap between a future BEV and the partial electric X3 today. Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder turbo engine with 184 horsepower and an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission.Check out all of our latest auto show coverage hereThe high-voltage battery can be charged via a conventional household socket using the standard-equipment charging cable. In this way, the battery will fully charge in less than six hours. For commuters who travel less than 50 kilometres each day, it could be months before ever needing gas. Together, the two drive units yield 292 horsepower, allowing for a zero-to-100 km/h sprint in 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h. Average fuel economy, when bolstered by the batterym is 2.4L / 100 kilometres.More importantly, the lithium-ion battery pack is located underneath the rear seat while the fuel tank is positioned above the rear axle, so the cargo space of 450 litres is the same as a conventional X3. When is it coming?The X3 plug-in hybrid is coming to Canada late spring, 2020, with pricing will be announced closer to the launch.Should you buy it? If you like the looks and driving dynamics of the X3, as lots of people do, then saving fuel, cutting emissions and never having to suffer range anxiety sounds like an ideal formula for this popular premium SUV.LISTEN: What do car dealers think about electric vehicles? Are they keen to have them in their showrooms? We talk to Vancouver GM dealer Blair Upton about this and much more during this week’s episode of Plugged In. Plugged In is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Podcasts.Is the player not working? Click
Origin: 2020 BMW X3 lineup grows with a new plug-in hybrid model
Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 is a three-row sport-brute with 603 HP
Mercedes-AMG GLS 63Nadine Filion / Los Angles What is it?Yet another uber-powered sport-brute in the Mercedes-AMG performance division, this one both more powerful and emissions-conscious than ever.Why does it matter?Well, the GLS is the biggest SUV in Mercedes lineup and now, with its AMG-tuned 4.0-litre enhanced with EQ Boost electrification, its the baddest. In regular AMG 63 guise, the twin-turbo V8 is enhanced by the starter-generators 21 horses for a total of 603 horsepower. More impressively, the EQ produces 184 pound-feet of the 63s driveshaft-twisting 627 lb.-ft. Zero to 60 mph (96 km/h) is said to take 4.1 seconds, incredibly quick for a gargantuan three-row SUV. Top speed is 280 km/h and even that is electronically limited. Theres no mention of the new GLSs fuel economy, but previous 48-volt mild hybrids from Mercedes have boasted a slight increase in fuel economy despite their increased performance.Check out all of our latest auto show coverage hereOther performance enhancements include the nine-speed Speedshift transmission that allows for multi-gear downshifts; for instance, you can kick down from fifth to third and directly from ninth to fifth. AMGs Ride Control+ air suspension, meanwhile, keeps the heavy no curb weight announced but dont expect it to be any lighter than the current GLS 450s 2,425 kilograms from rolling excessively during hard cornering. Sport and Sport+ modes lower the suspension by 10 millimetres when you start getting serious about speed. There are even electronically controlled roll bars at both ends that, according to Mercedes, almost keeps the big GLS flat round hairpins. All told, this is one family hauler that will always be on time for soccer practice. When is it coming? The GLS 63 will launch in the U.S. in mid-2020, but Canadian availability is yet to be determined.Should you buy it?Do you have the requisite $140,000 or so? Do you really want to scare your children or anyone in the rear seats, for that matter that much? Or, do you just need the biggest, baddest SUV in Mercedes lineup? If the answer to any or all of those questions is yes, then maybe you should be shopping the GLS 63. If not, the basic 450 4Matic version will probably do you just
Origin: Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 is a three-row sport-brute with 603 HP
Audi bolsters its EV lineup with the 2020 e-tron Sportback
2020 Audi e-tron SportbackHandout / Audi What is it?The Audi e-tron Sportback takes the lower half of current e-tron SUV and marries it with the top half of an A7. When launched, the sharp-looking Sportback will be offered in two different flavours: The Sportback 55 has the same powertrain as the current e-tron, meaning a 95 kWh battery and two electric motors good for 355 horsepower and 414 lb.-ft. of torque. The key difference is Sportbacks sleeker aerodynamics, mechanical improvements, and increased regenerative braking extend the the driving range to 450 kiometres. The second model is the Sportback 50 it has a smaller 72 kWh battery, a net output of 320 horsepower, and a driving range of 340 kilometres. Sharper fastback look aside, the only real difference is the cargo capacity it drops by 45 litres to 615. The rest, from the cabin layout to the suspension, is carried over from the SUV.Why does it matter?Perhaps the highlight of the Sportback is its optional digital matrix LED lighting, with a 1.2-million-pixel chip. The chip itself isnt new, as its been used in overhead projectors, but the e-tron Sportback is the first automotive application. In theory, and if/when legislation permits, the chip has the capability to play a black-and-white movie on the road ahead using just the headlights!CHECK OUT ALL OUR LATEST AUTO SHOW COVERAGEAs each of the pixels can be controlled individually when an oncoming car is detected, the pixels of light that would normally blind that driver are shut down. The pixels are also used to put virtual lines on the road ahead of the car. These represent the width of the Sportback, which makes it is easier to judge placement within the lane and how space there is should the lane narrow.The party trick is the driver can pick one of five pre-programmed light patterns when the car is first unlocked. The demo saw a twirling logo light up the wall ahead of the car in a dancing light display. Gimmicky? Yes, but it is also a very interesting extension it has much more visual punch than projecting the name of the car on the ground! When is it coming?The 2020 Audi e-tron Sportback will hit Canadian roads in middle of next year.Should you buy it?The e-tron Sportback adds a sharper-looking alternative to the e-tron SUV. While the new 50 model is an interesting take on things, its the topline 55 thats going to be the seller. The good news is that the price increase will be small estimated to be around $3,000 when compared to the current
Origin: Audi bolsters its EV lineup with the 2020 e-tron Sportback
With 804 hp and no roof or windshield, the Elva has Big McLaren Energy
McLaren Automotive has released a two-seat roadster fitted with a turbo V8, an interesting new Active Air Management System — and not a single window. The McLaren Elva gets its name from the bygone sports and racing car manufacturer of the same name from the U.K., which McLaren collaborated with in the 1960s to produce a customer version of the M1A. The new Elva builds on its vintage predecessor’s open-top configuration with an ultra-modern design fitting of McLaren’s current lineup. Most notable is the car’s lack of glass of any kind (save for on the control screens) or a roof. That, along with ample use of carbon fibre throughout the shell, monocoque, bodywork, interior and more. Power is generated by a twin-turbo V8 from the same family as that in the Senna and Senna GTR. In the Elva, it’s rated at 804 horsepower and 590 lb-ft. of torque, which will compel the roadster from zero to 100 km/h in under three seconds. Zero to 200 km/h comes in just 6.7 seconds, beating the Senna’s time by 0.1 of a second. Aesthetically, the Elva has Big McLaren Energy, with rolling, muscular lines and no windscreen, roof, or windows of any kind cluttering up the top end. In place of the windshield, McLaren’s new Active Air Management system deploys automatically at anything greater than “urban speeds” to move air “through the nose of the Elva to come out of the front clamshell at high velocity ahead of the occupants before being directed up over the cockpit to create a relative ‘bubble’ of calm.”An actual physical windscreen is available as an option. McLaren plans to make just 399 of the open-top roadsters, with pricing at US$1.69 million for the base
Origin: With 804 hp and no roof or windshield, the Elva has Big McLaren Energy
Aston Martin teams up with an icon to build its first-ever motorcycle
The Aston Martin and Brough Superior AMB 001Aston Martin When Aston Martin recently announced it was building a motorcycle in conjunction with Brough Superior, most car enthusiasts were probably wondering why the storied automaker was stooping to build a motorcycle.In fact, if anyone is slumming in this new relationship, it is Brough, once the pinnacle of two-wheeled exclusivity and favourite of the most famous motorcyclist of all time.Brough Superior was the brainchild of George Brough, who between 1919 and 1940 crafted some 3,000 some of the most exquisite and exclusive motorcycles the world had ever seen. Most were custom-built, and though the engines were outsourced usually from J.A. Prestwich but later also Matchless almost everything else was hand-hewn in house.Indeed, legend has it that, after H. D. Teague of The Motor Cycle labelled Brough the Rolls-Royce of motorcycles, the famed automaker sent over a representative to tell George to cease and desist advertising as such.Luckily, Brough and his crew were in the process of final assembly for an impending motor show and the Rolls representative was so impressed the techs were supposedly wearing white gloves whilst assembling bikes that he reported back that Broughs motorcycles really did deserve the appellation.What has made the Brough name an enduring legend, however, is the devotion of its most famous client, T.E. Lawrence. You know him better as Lawrence of Arabia, and his love of motorcycles A skittish motor-bike with a touch of blood in it is better than all the riding animals on earth and Broughs in general he owned eight, and gave them all names knew no bounds.He famously died on an SS100 he was trying to avoid two young boys who had wandered into the road and his passing so traumatized his attending physician, Hugh Cairns, that he went on to create the research that paved the way for mandatory helmet use. More recently, Brough was resurrected by long-timer enthusiast Mark Upham in conjunction with Thierry Henriette of Boxer Design, who craft the double-overhead-cam 990-cc 88-degree V-twin on which the AMB 001 is based.In Aston Martin guise, said big-twin is turbocharged for an output of 180 horsepower stock modern Broughs are good for about 120 hp and is mated to a chassis constructed of aluminum, titanium and carbon fibre.According to Aston Martins chief creative officer, Marek Reichman, in addition to applying the skills we have developed for cars such as the groundbreaking Aston Martin Valkyrie, we have also been able to bring our special expertise in the traditional craft techniques to this project.The result is a motorcycle with a double-wishbone front suspension still something of a rarity in the biking world and a completely carbon-fibre body which helps keep the AMB 001s overall weight down to 180 kilograms.Only 100 examples of the 001 will be made available to the public, at a price of 108,000 Euros about $157,200 Canadian and delivery will begin at the end of
Origin: Aston Martin teams up with an icon to build its first-ever motorcycle
Limited-edition BMW M2 CS sends generation out with a bang
The current-generation BMW 2 Series is due soon for replacement, so the German automaker is sending it out with a bang in the form of the M2 CS.The M2 CS is powered by the same turbocharged S55 straight-six as usual, pumping out 444 horsepower and 406 lb.-ft. of torque, sent to the rear wheels only via either a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic; or six-speed manual transmission.The automatic drops the zero-to-96-km/h time by 0.2 seconds, but buying that will tell BMW you dont care about manual transmissions, so please just skip it for the stick and deal with a 4.0-second to-96-km/h time.An Active M differential and Adaptive M suspension is now available for the M2 and features three modes: Comfort, Sport and Sport+. M Carbon Ceramic Brakes are also optional, and a dual-branch exhaust system with electronically-controlled exhaust valves comes standard.To make the car lighter, carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) elements have been added all around. The front splitter, roof, rear spoiler, M twin-stalk exterior mirrors, rear diffuser and hood have all been replaced with CFRP versions. Even the centre console is CFRP and now weighs 2.7 kilograms less than the previous part. With the introduction of the Mini-based BMW 2 Series sedan (or “Gran Coupe,” ugh) it seemed like the last bastion of rear-wheel-drive performance at BMW was coming to an end. Not to worry, though, BMW has said its sports cars and performance variants will remain rear-wheel-drive to meet consumer demands, and when the next generation is revealed, it will be available in RWD or AWD.Only 2,200 M2 CS models will be built, and we wont know pricing and availability for Canada until closer to the cars launch date here in April
Origin: Limited-edition BMW M2 CS sends generation out with a bang
Toyota teases hot GR Yaris Prototype with rally heritage
The image shows the rear of the machine, with styling that’s familiar from the existing Yaris, but with the addition of far wider rear wheel arches to fit the car’s likely high performance brief. In a further nod to the car’s likely performance intent it sports the camouflage livery used by most recent hot Toyota models of recent years, including the recently revived Supra. At the launch of the revamped Yaris recently, Toyota’s executive vice-president, Matt Harrison, told Autocar that a performance version of the model would likely be launched to strengthen the link between Toyota’s road cars and its Gazoo Racing motorsport arm. Toyota has applied various levels of branding under the Gazoo Racing theme in order to develop a model structure for its high-performance models. These include the hardcore limited-run GRMN versions that are positioned above models that carry the GR badge, which represents an ‘authentic sports model’. The firm also offers a GR Sport trim level that offers a more aggressive look while retaining an unchanged mechanical package. Toyota secured the 2018 World Rally Championship manufacturers’ title with the Yaris WRC, with Ott Tanak claiming this year’s driver’s
Origin: Toyota teases hot GR Yaris Prototype with rally heritage
New Jaguar F-Type: 2020 restyling shown with less disguise
Jaguar is in the process of testing an updated F-Type due for reveal next year, and new shots give us the closest look yet at the external and internal changes for the new model. The photographs, taken near Jaguar Land Rover’s Gaydon technical HQ, show two prototypes are shedding camouflage as testing ramps up. We can now see the restyled front end more clearly, with a new clamshell bonnet, slim, angular LED headlights mounted lower down the nose and a more prominent grille. A look at the rear shows it retains the same vertical bootlid, but with new wraparound tail-lights and a reshaped bumper. A quick glimpse at the cabin doesn’t reveal much, but it looks like the infotainment has moved on a generation, while the rotary dial climate display remains. It’s expected that much of the more advanced technology and infotainment features from the I-Pace and the 2019 XE will make its way into the F-Type. That means new digital dials, a larger and more feature-laden touchscreen, and substantial upgrades to the materials. Jaguar Land Rover is now phasing out its long-running supercharged V6 in favour of a new turbocharged and hybridised straight six, and the F-Type will benefit from this more efficient powertrain. The turbocharged four-cylinder and supercharged V8 engines should be carried over to the new car with limited changes, however. Indeed, this prototype registers as a 5.0-litre V8, putting paid to rumours JLR would bring in a BMW-sourced 4.4-litre unit. What remains unclear is whether the new F-Type will retain a manual gearbox option. The current V6 is still offered with one in the UK, although it has reportedly been removed from sale in the US. Regardless, manuals account for a tiny fraction of overall F-Type sales. Jaguar’s priorities for 2019 are the roll-out of the new XE and the launch of a similarly updated XF and F-Pace. However, we could see the revised F-Type early on in 2020, with an on-sale date not soon after
Origin: New Jaguar F-Type: 2020 restyling shown with less disguise
Ford gets into aftermarket off-road parts with ARB kit for Ranger
Ford Performance and ARB 4×4 Accessories are teaming up to develop components for Ford off-road enthusiasts. The all-new winch-capable front bumper for Ford Ranger is the first component from the collaboration, bringing even greater capability to the adventure-ready Ranger.Ford Most pickup truck owners have modified their whip in some manner. Be it a simple tonneau cover or an extensive lift kit, there is no shortage of aftermarket gear to buy for ones 44.Ford is seeking to cash in on the long-running trend, teaming up with ARB 44 Accessories to develop kit for the midsize Ranger. Kicking off the collaboration is the stout front bumper you see here, one capable of accepting a winch and other off-road goodies.Designed specifically for Ranger, the all-new front bumper complements the trucks rugged lines despite turning up at the corners like a villains evil smile. It is finished in a powder coat and is built from welded sheet steel up to 3/16ths of an inch thick. Attaching to the truck using existing chassis mounting points, it continues to incorporate the full suite of Ford CoPilot360 driving aids and safety nannies.That latter point is a big deal, given that the Blue Oval has spent untold gazillions developing and marketing those features. According to Ford, its the only aftermarket steel bumper available for Ranger that meets regulatory crash test standards and can be installed on any North American Ranger configuration (the new ones, at least it probably wont fit Uncle Alvins rusty 2009 XLT).The trend of OEMs partnering with an aftermarket company is rapidly gaining steam. Chevy is currently playing house with AEV to build the Colorado ZR2 Bison, another midsize truck with acres of off-road cred. Jeep and Ram have also introduced expansive (and expensive) catalogs of rugged kit for the Wrangler, Gladiator and their line of pickup trucks.Its the latter point that impacts the company bottom line, as the cost of these accessories can often be worked into the vehicles selling price. Rather than pay $1,495 for the bumper, a dealer would be more than glad to tack $20 a month onto your payment. This also has the effect of raising the trucks average transaction price, an investor-pleasing metric.Aftermarket gear is a huge business, estimated to be a multi-billion dollar industry with plenty of room for growth. Next week, the worlds leading aftermarket companies will descend on Las Vegas for the SEMA Show, an annual soire in which hundreds of vendors show and display their wares. By teaming up with an OEM, companies like ARB and AEV are getting ahead of the game and assuring themselves a piece of a pie that is, with the likes of Jeep and Ford selling their own gear, being sliced into increasingly slim pieces. View this post on Instagram Feeding the long faced animal that isn’t mine and other jobs. Even made a beetle bank. A post shared by Jeremy Clarkson (@jeremyclarkson1) on Oct 27, 2019 at 6:33am PDTOf course, little of this would be necessary if Ford would simply grow a pair and import the tremendous Ranger Raptor to our market. While the Blue Oval is quick to point out the diesel engine fitted to these trucks in other markets wont play in Peoria, one cannot logically assert the company which literally invented the assembly line cant figure out how to fit a set of Fox dampers and a wider track onto a North American Ranger.Hey, by all appearances, Jeremy Clarkson has one. Endorsements dont get much heartier than
Origin: Ford gets into aftermarket off-road parts with ARB kit for Ranger
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