Following recent sightings of Audi’s new A3 undergoing testing, our spy photographers have caught the hardcore RS3 variant in public for the first time. The range-topping hot hatch is set to take its power from the same five-cylinder, 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine as the latest generation RS Q3 performance SUV. That unit’s 394bhp output will make the RS3 one of the most powerful cars in its segment, save for the 416bhp S variant of the Mercedes-AMG A45. The RS3 is likely to improve upon the larger RS Q3’s 4.5sec 0-62mph time, potentially taking it below four seconds, and could also be capable of beating the SUV’s 174mph top speed, although Audi’s RS models are traditionally electronically limited to 155mph as standard. The prototype in these images wears extensive camouflage, but we can see the RS3 will feature a number of unique design elements aimed at differentiating itself from the standard model, which is due to launch at the beginning of 2020. The performance model’s alloy wheels are considerably larger than any we’ve seen on A3 prototypes, and are wrapped in much lower-profile tyres. The RS3’s performance potential is further hinted at by a set of large ventilated brake discs and a pair of classic RS-style large-bore exhaust pipes. The front end features the latest iteration of Audi’s corporate grille design, with the aggressive lower air intake styling aping that of the new RS6 flagship and facelifted RS4. Notable by its absence is the prominent chrome trim that featured on the sides and rear of the 2020 A3 prototype we saw most recently. It remains unclear as to whether this design element will make production for any A3 variant, but Audi’s exterior design boss Andreas Mindt has already promised ‘big-time’ exterior design changes for the model. Audi is yet to confirm a launch date for the RS3, but it can be expected to follow some way behind the A3, which will break cover at March’s Geneva motor show. Audi Sport’s line of RS performance models is as varied as it has ever been, with performance variants of the TT, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, Q3 and Q3 Sportback currently on offer. The range will soon be headed up by a new RS Q8 flagship, which is set to pack around 670bhp from the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid’s electrified
Origin: New 2020 Audi RS3 to take fight to AMG with 394bhp
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Mitsubishi keeps the EV ball rolling with the funky Mi-Tech concept
Mitsubishi Mi-Tech conceptHandout / Mitsubishi What is it?Mitsubishi is capitalizing on its unexpected leadership in the plug-in SUV segment. For now the Mi-Tech is a concept, but Mitsubishi has something of a history of making bold or at least unexpected moves.Why does it matter?Mitsubishi, having already sold 200,000 Outlander PHEVs worldwide, finds itself not only the most popular plug-in SUV in Canada, but the whole world. Not one to look such a gift horse in the mouth, Mitsu is looking for ways to expand on its zero-emissions leadership, hence the Mi-Tech concept revealed here at the Tokyo Motor Show.Check out all of our latest auto show coverageRadically different, the Mi-Tech is a convertible crossover concept unique in offering no less than four electric motors. Yes, a separate electric motor at each wheel, which means as you may have already guessed the resultant Quad Motor 4WD System system is able to control each wheel independently. Like the Outlander PHEV, the Mi-Tech has a range extending fossil fuelled engine. But, it a complete departure its a concept, after all the Mi-Techs range extender isnt an internal combustion engine. Instead, in the most radical departure yet for a hybrid vehicle, the Mi-Techs range is extended by a gas turbine engine.The reasons for the way-rad powertrain, says Mitsubishi, are many. For one, gas turbines are small and compact. More importantly, they put out an amazing amount of power given their small size. They also and this is of no small import, given the hoped-for global impact of a plug-in SUV can run on multiple fuels; besides gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and alcohol are all turbine-friendly. When is it coming?Exactly like this? Never. Its a concept. As far-fetched as a convertible crossover may seem, however, one shouldnt discount Mitsubishis willingness to innovate where others fear to tread. If anyone can make a turbine-powered hybrid commercially viable, its Mitsubishi.Should you buy it?Mitsubishi firmly believes that a plug-in hybrid powertrain is ideal for mid-sized vehicles that travel frequently over long distances. We agree. As for the turbine, its been tried numerous times over the years most notably by Chrysler, but in all those cases, it was the primary powerplant. Turbines have terrible transient response i.e. they respond poorly to throttle inputs but they are very efficient at steady speeds, exactly what a PHEV needs as a range-extender in a plug-in hybrid. This concept is not as crazy as it might seam. Lets hope Mitsubishi pursues
Origin: Mitsubishi keeps the EV ball rolling with the funky Mi-Tech concept
Electric London black cab launches with 187-mile range
A pure electric black cab has been launched, rivalling the plug-in hybrid LEVC TX and offering up to 187 miles of range. The Dynamo Taxi, produced by new cab maker Dynamo, is the first fully electric taxi since the 1897 Bersey Taxi. The vehicle is based on the Nissan e-NV200 Evalia MPV, which Dynamo buys from the maker and modifies. Dynamo has added wheelchair accessibility and re-kitted the model’s interior to meet strict London taxi regulations. Other changes include incorporating contactless payment into the Evalia’s infotainment system. There is also an enlarged glass roof and heated seats, while Dynamo claims the seating has been overhauled to better cater for passengers. The cab has the same drivetrain as the standard Nissan e-NV200, producing a range of up to 187 miles. Recharging the Dynamo from empty to 80% takes between 40 and 60 minutes on a 46kW fast charge. The reworked Nissan also benefits from a significantly tighter turning circle to help drivers navigate London’s streets. Dynamo aims to produce at least 500 taxis next year, with a minimum of 1500 targeted for 2021. Although the taxi was launched in London, Dynamo hopes they will be adopted across the UK. Dynamo CEO Brendan O’Toole said: “The UK’s new-car market is experiencing an electric revolution, with record numbers of fully electric vehicle registrations taking place each year. Electric vehicle technology is now a viable alternative to petrol and diesel vehicles, and it’s imperative the UK’s taxi market changes with the times. “The Dynamo Taxi is the UK’s first Transport for London-approved fully electric taxi and is designed with both drivers and passengers in mind. With a low starting price, and a reliable vehicle architecture in the Nissan e-NV200, we are offering a truly unique solution to the tens of thousands of taxi drivers in London and cities across the UK.” The taxi costs £55,495 outright. This figure is reduced to £47,955 for buyers eligible for a £7500 government plug-in car
Origin: Electric London black cab launches with 187-mile range
Lexus could expand line-up with smaller cars
Lexus could expand its line-up and make smaller cars in the future because of market changes sparked by the growing popularity of SUVs. Speaking at the Tokyo motor show, the firm’s executive vice-president, Koji Saro, said there was evidence that well-executed smaller cars could be sold for higher prices, because of shifts in how customers perceive value. In particular, SUVs are more profitable than same-sized hatchbacks because they are perceived to be bigger due to their raised ride height. “Smaller doesn’t always mean cheaper now, so trends are changing,” said Sato. “I can’t say clearly that it is something we will do, but we are looking at all vehicle opportunities.” Such an SUV would sit below the recently launched Lexus UX crossover, with a likely starting price well below £30,000. However, Sato hinted that part of the appeal of creating smaller cars was that buyers are increasingly willing to raise the transaction price by buying options. “What customers want is individuality,” he said. Sato also vowed that Lexus would keep making distinctive cars, including convertibles and F-branded models powered by high-performance, non-electrified engines. “We must cater for people who enjoy their driving,” he
Origin: Lexus could expand line-up with smaller cars
Man proposes to girlfriend with turbocharger for her truck
A young man recently proposed to his girlfriend in an interesting way: with a special message written on the compressor wheel of a turbocharger.The pickup-lover and his girlfriend are apparently building a Ford truck together with a 7.3-litre Powerstroke diesel engine. When she mentioned she wanted a big shiny turbo for the build, her boyfriend got an idea.He sent a message to KC Turbos asking for them to write a special message on the KC300x series turbocharger (worth about $1,190). KC Turbos was happy to oblige the young lovebird, and wrote the message Will you marry me? on the compressor wheel of the turbocharger. Were guessing she said yes after all, who could say no to a honking great big turbocharger?Its hard to see, but there is actually an engagement ring on top of the turbocharger on the compressor wheel in the close-up shot.KC turbos shared the love story in a Facebook post with the hashtag #EveryKissBeginsWithKC, a play-on-words referencing the Kay Jewelers slogan.This is a great story of true love. That, or a really elaborate way to buy an expensive turbocharger for the dudes truck. Either way were glad that somebodys
Origin: Man proposes to girlfriend with turbocharger for her truck
Audi A6 55 TFSIe quattro plug-in hybrid arrives with 362bhp
The new Audi A6 plug-in hybrid has gone on sale in Germany as Audi progresses with the electrification of its line-up. The A6 55 TFSIe quattro, first revealed at the Geneva motor show earlier this year, takes its power from a 249bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, with a 141bhp electric motor integrated into the gearbox for a combined output of 362bhp. This powertrain also features in plug-in hybrid versions of the Q5 and A7 Sportback. Power is sent to all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, with maximum torque output rated at 369lb ft. The saloon will accelerate from 0-62mph in 5.6sec and on to a top speed of 155mph. A less powerful variant, the 50 TFSIe, is set to arrive later, offering 295bhp and 332lb ft. The 55 TFSIe can run on electricity alone at speeds of up to 84mph for 33 miles on the WLTP combined cycle, with Audi claiming “customers can do most of their daily driving electrically”. Three driving modes feature, allowing drivers to easily switch between electric, hybrid and petrol power as desired. Audi claims a charging time from empty of around 2.5 hours from a 7.4kW charger, while the firm’s MyAudi smartphone app offers drivers sat-nav instructions based around public charger locations. The app can also be used to control air conditioning and heater settings before entering the car. The 55 TFSIe is equipped with Audi’s sporty S line exterior package, black trim elements and privacy glass as standard. Inside, it gets sport seats, four-zone climate control and Audi’s Virtual Cockpit screen. UK pricing and specification details are yet to be confirmed, but prices start from €68,850 (£59,128) in
Origin: Audi A6 55 TFSIe quattro plug-in hybrid arrives with 362bhp
GM reaches tentative deal with UAW that could end month-long national strike
Members of the United Auto Workers (UAW) who are employed at the General Motors Flint Assembly plant in Flint, Michigan, slow down salary employees entering the plant as they strike early on September 16, 2019.Jeff Kowalsky / AFP via Getty General Motors and the United Auto Workers have reached a tentative agreement on a new contract, and the union will decide Thursday whether to continue a more than month-long strike while the deal is voted on by members.The accord, announced by the UAW on Wednesday, may bring an end to the unions first national walkout against the carmaker in a dozen years.The UAWs national council will decide whether to recommend the agreement for a ratification vote, and if the strike will continue in the meantime.A resolution would come none too soon for GM, which analysts estimate has lost about US$2 billion, and its striking workers, who could be forgoing about US$2,000 of profit sharing. The two sides moved closer to a deal over the weekend after a tense week of publicly exchanging barbs and blame for the strike dragging on. With most of the major issues settled, GM CEO Mary Barra and President Mark Reuss joined the talks Tuesday to try to get a final agreement over the line, according to people familiar with the situation who asked not to be identified.One of the most contentious issues that was standing the way of a deal involved the treatment of temporary workers, some of whom have worked at GM for as long as four years. The two sides reached a compromise opening a path to full-time work after three consecutive years of employment, one of the people said. That three-year period could change before an agreement is final, the person cautioned.If the two sides come to an agreement, the local union leaders will decide whether to take it to members for a vote, and if workers will return to work before or after ratification.
Origin: GM reaches tentative deal with UAW that could end month-long national strike
New Aston Martin DBX: interior shown with bespoke luggage set
The new 90-acre factory in Wales, built on a former Ministry of Defence site, has been under development since 2016 and will be the sole production facility for the DBX. The electric models of the revived Lagonda brand will also be built there. Ahead of the machine’s official launch later this year, Aston Martin previously issued images of the DBX sporting a camouflage livery reflecting its new Welsh home. The machine is currently undergoing final testing using pre-production versions. A video published earlier in the year shows the DBX undergoing extreme weather testing in Sweden at Pirelli’s Flurheden proving ground, part of the two brands’ ongoing partnership. Speaking about that test, Aston Martin chief engineer Matt Becker said: “Testing these prototypes in cold climate conditions helps us to assess the car’s early dynamics and, crucially, ensure confidence-inspiring sure-footedness on low-grip surfaces. “This car propels Aston Martin into a new segment and our engineering team are enjoying the challenges of developing a quality luxury SUV experience through this robust testing schedule. Progress is on track and I am confident that we will deliver over and above what our customers would expect from an Aston Martin SUV.” The DBX is the first Aston Martin to go through a new dedicated test programme, to ensure it can produce the kind of dynamic on-road performance on which Aston has always made its name, allied to some credibility off road. Testing is also due to take place in the deserts of the Middle East, on German autobahns and at the Nürburgring. Unlike the concept, the production DBX will feature a more conventional five-door layout rather than the sleeker three-door design that was originally expected. The DBX is one of the most important models in Aston Martin’s history and the next phase of the company’s turnaround plan under boss Andy Palmer. While every Aston produced under Palmer to date as part of his ‘Second Century’ plan has been a replacement for an existing model (DB11, Vantage and DBS Superleggera), the DBX breaks new ground by having no direct predecessor. During its life cycle, the DBX will introduce hybrid technology to Aston and it will also play a key role in trying to attract female buyers to the Aston Martin brand. The DBX is built on an Aston Martin architecture that will be closely related to that set to underpin the Lagonda saloon and Lagonda SUV, which Aston also has in the pipeline. The new Lagondas will be built alongside the DBX in Wales, starting from 2021. However, whereas the Lagonda models will be electrically driven, the DBX will start life with petrol power before getting Mercedes-sourced hybrid technology early in the next decade. Aston Martin’s own V12 and Mercedes-AMG’s V8 engines will both find their way into the DBX, with Mercedes also donating the car’s electrical architecture. The DBX will compete against the likes of the Lamborghini Urus, Bentley Bentayga, Rolls-Royce Cullinan and upcoming Ferrari SUV. Given the broad appeal and rise in popularity of SUVs, the DBX is expected to quickly become Aston’s best-selling model. Sharp body creases and a pronounced shoulder line help reduce the overall visual bulk of what is the most high-sided Aston yet produced, while a new integrated grille design performs a similar role at the front of the car. It will also be the first all-new Aston Martin model launched after the company’s stock market flotation, after the firm returned to profitability last year. Since then the share price has plummeted, however, so it will be a crucial car to restore faith in the brand for investors. Palmer has underpinned that growth with his so-called ‘Second Century’ plan, which is formed of seven models being launched over seven years at the rate of one per year, each then on sale for a seven-year model cycle with various derivatives and special-edition versions launched within that. Hybrid powertrains to arrive later in DBX’s lifecycle Daimler will provide Aston’s hybrid technology and is also one of two routes for sourcing full-electric drivetrains, according to Palmer, with other external partners also being explored. Aston has sourced an 800V system for its first electric car, the limited-run RapidE due later this year, and Palmer said 800V and access to the latest chemistry is key to any future EV powertrain from the firm. Although hybrid versions of the DBX are a long way off, the car will be launched with a Mercedes-sourced 4.0-litre V8 and Aston’s own 5.2-litre V12 as core engine options. Palmer said that although he lists the DBX’s rivals as the Bentayga, Urus, Cullinan and upcoming Ferrari, each model performs a very different role in the super-luxury SUV segment. “Those minded towards a beauty of execution will move to Aston,” he said. First-time Aston customers are expected to be found in China and North America in particular for the DBX, but Palmer said plenty of
Origin: New Aston Martin DBX: interior shown with bespoke luggage set
Recalled Toyota Supras could be replaced with completely new car
2020 Toyota SupraHandout / Toyota A recent recall filed by BMW reveals the seat-belt guide-loop mounts on seven Toyota Supra coupes yes, the German automaker builds that Japanese sports car could be faulty.Normally, a recall would require the vehicle be brought into a dealership to be fixed, but this time, it might not be so simple.The vehicles will be inspected and if a defective seat belt guide loop mount is found, the vehicle will be replaced, reads the recall.Yes, this time the entire vehicle may apparently have to be replaced, just because of one faulty part. This seems excessive, but when it comes to safety, poor welds on a part like this could cost somebody their life. If the drivers safety belt guide loop mount was not welded to specifications, then in a crash of sufficient severity, the mount could become damaged and may not restrain the driver as designed which would increase the risk of injury to the driver, the recall explains.The reason for the faulty welds is that the supplier used inadequate parts for the welding tool, and because its welded to the frame, its not something that can easily be replaced.Four of the seven vehicles identified as having faulty welds have been fixed, er, replaced already; Toyota will contact the remaining three vehicle owners to have their vehicle inspected for the issue. Toyota says if the faulty welds are present, the vehicle will be replaced free of
Origin: Recalled Toyota Supras could be replaced with completely new car
New Porsche Taycan 4S unveiled with £83,000 price
Porsche has made its new Taycan EV much more attainable with the addition of a new 4S trim underneath the existing Turbo and Turbo S. The new model is available to order now from £83,367 (excluding the £3500 government grant) and is expected to arrive for UK deliveries in January alongside the Turbo and Turbo S. While it doesn’t get the 751bhp of the £138,000 Taycan Turbo S, the 4S still puts out 523bhp during overboost in standard form. It also gets a 79.2kWh battery for a WLTP certified range of 252 miles. However, Porsche also offers a Performance Battery Plus option pack, which raises peak power to 563bhp and increases the battery output to 93.4kWh. While the 0-62mph time is unchanged from the standard 4S at 4.0sec, the range is boosted to 287 miles – the highest figure in the current Taycan line-up. The Performance Battery Plus also gets a faster peak charging rate, at 270kW to the base car’s 225kW. Much of the 4S’s technical make-up is the same as pricier Taycans, with two electric motors across both axles for four-wheel drive and a two-speed transmission for acceleration. However, the rear motor is 80mm shorter than it is in the Turbo and Turbo S, while it also receives smaller brakes, down to 360mm and six pistons on the front and 358mm and four pistons at the rear. Exterior styling changes include smaller 19in wheels, red painted calipers and a revised bodykit including a different front apron, side sills and rear diffuser. Dynamic LED lights remain standard fitment. Part-leather is standard, but Porsche also offers a leather-free cabin with recycled materials. As with other Taycans, it comes with three years of access to Ionity’s rapid chargers and the Porsche Charging Service. Customers also receive a driving experience at the brand’s Silverstone Experience
Origin: New Porsche Taycan 4S unveiled with £83,000 price
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