Opinion: Did Max Verstappen give us peak GT3 racing at the N24?

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May 18, 2026

Max Verstappen was denied victory in the 2026 Nürburgring 24 Hours, but his appearance has brought new fans to event

Max Verstappen did not manage to win the Nurburgring 24 Hours at his first attempt, but it was certainly not down to lack of effort or ability.

The no.3 Verstappen Racing Mercedes-Benz suffered an ABS sensor issue, which resulted in damage to the driveshaft with teammate Dani Juncadella behind the wheel.

It came while the Verstappen team was leading the race, having seen an epic stint from the four-time Formula 1 world champion during the night, battling the sister no.80 Mercedes-AMG of Winward Racing.

The Winward Racing car went on to win the Nurburgring 24 Hours, with Verstappen, Juncadella, Jules Gounon and Lucas Auer eventually classified in 37th position overall, some 21 laps down.

Even before the race ended, Max had already vowed to return to the Nurburgring. He can also take credit for making the 2026 edition of the 24-hour race a sell-out event, with more than 350,000 motorsport fans in attendance.

Bringing new fans to the ‘Ring

Max Verstappen 2026 Nurburgring 24 Hours Opinion

Verstappen’s impact on the Nurburgring 24 Hours is hard to ignore. In the UK, Sky Sports F1 aired the race throughout the evening and into the morning.

The channel also showed the NLS2 qualifying race earlier this year, helpfully coinciding with the unexpected break in the Formula 1 calendar due to the war in Iran.

With Max attracting a host of new fans to the Nurburgring 24 Hours, whether in person or watching on TV, we have perhaps reached a golden age for GT3-specification sports car racing.

Now into its 20th season, the FIA’s Group GT3 regulations have placed a focus on (relative) accessibility and affordability, along with using Balance of Performance (BoP) to ensure competitiveness.

This is what helped attract Verstappen to the Nurburgring 24 Hours, following his disillusionment with the latest Formula 1 regulations.

A unique motorsport challenge

It’s important to note that the Nurburgring 24 Hours is about far more than attention-grabbing GT3 racers in the top SP9 class, though. This year, the multi-category field featured a total of 160 cars on-track.

In part, this is what makes the Nurburgring 24 Hours an even greater challenge for the front runners, as they fight for outright victory and work their way through other cars involved in their own battles.

Such is the diversity of the 24 Hours, the fan-favourite Dacia Logan can compete in the same event as a flame-spitting Mercedes-AMG GT, and see the chairman of Toyota racing in a GR Yaris.

Meanwhile, BMW created a bespoke M3 Touring racer to compete in the SPX class, which also included the wonderful HWA Evo.R restomod.

It makes the Nurburgring a unique endurance race in itself, while forming part of the Intercontinental GT Challenge for the world’s top GT3 racers.

Strength in numbers

Such has been the success of Group GT3 regulations, it’s possible to watch some form of sports car racing almost every weekend.

Rule changes have meant GT3 cars can compete at the Le Mans 24 Hours. The Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) has also ditched touring cars for GT3-specification sports cars.

This is in addition to multiple GT World Challenge events in Europe, North America, Asia and Australia, along with an endless list of domestic competitions that allow GT3-spec cars to race.

Manufacturers including Ford, Ferrari, Chevrolet, Lamborghini, Aston Martin and more all currently offer GT3-specification sports cars. It demonstrates how significant the formula has become, especially when the race cars can closely resemble road-going models.

So, returning to our headline question: no, Max Verstappen alone did not deliver us peak GT3 racing at the Nurburgring. The event itself is already one of the most exciting and diverse motorsport competitions in the world, well beyond the top SP9 class.

However, Verstappen’s participation has undoubtedly brought the Nurburgring 24 Hours to a wider audience, and also highlighted why so many fans, teams and championship organisers are drawn to Group GT3 racing.

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First look at Volkswagen ID. Polo GTI electric hot hatch

By

John Redfern

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May 18, 2026

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Unveiled ahead of the 2026 Nürburgring 24 Hours race, the electric GTI is the most powerful production Polo made to date

Volkswagen has pulled the wraps off the new ID. Polo GTI – its first electric model to wear the famous GTI badge.

Previously teased in concept form, Volkswagen revealed the ID. Polo GTI at the 2026 Nurburgring 24 Hours race in Germany.

It arrives 50 years after the GTI badge was first applied to a hot Volkswagen. The company says its new EV recaptures the spirit of the original Mk1 Golf GTI.

With 226hp, it becomes the most powerful road-going Polo to date, with 19hp more than the outgoing petrol-fuelled GTI.

Benefiting from the practical and user-friendly interior of the regular ID. Polo, the new GTI will take aim at electric hot hatches such as the Alpine A290.

Channeling the GTI spirit

Like the regular Volkswagen ID. Polo, the GTI is front-wheel drive, furthering the connection to the legendary Mk1 Golf GTI.

An electronically controlled limited-slip differential will help manage the 226hp and 214lb ft of torque. Deploying full power should see the ID. Polo GTI accelerate from 0-62mph in 6.8 seconds, with a top speed limited to 109mph.

The 0-62mph time is 0.3 seconds slower than the old petrol Polo GTI, with the new electric hot hatch version’s heavier 1,540kg kerb weight undoubtedly the main culprit.

Limiting the top speed could aid range from the ID. Polo GTI’s 52kWh battery pack. Volkswagen quotes an official, WLTP-tested figure of 263 miles on a full battery.

Charging speeds of up to 105kW on public DC devices are similar to other EV superminis, and could see a 10 to 80 percent top-up take 24 minutes.

Retro details inside and out

Volkswagen has equipped the ID. Polo GTI with adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control as standard, along with bespoke tuning for its steering. A new button on the steering wheel enables a special GTI driving mode.

The two-spoke wheel itself features red stitching, along with a marker at the 12 o’clock position. More red stitching is used on the door cards, with red trim added to the dashboard.

No modern Volkswagen GTI would be complete without sports seats, which are trimmed in an ‘interpretation’ of the classic tartan check upholstery. A red GTI emblem is integrated into the headrests, too.

A 10.25-inch digital instrument panel gains bespoke GTI readouts, and is combined with a 12.9-inch central touchscreen. Volkswagen has also included a ‘retro graphics’ mode, creating a display that resembles the dashboard of a Mk1 Golf.

German-market orders from the autumn

On the outside, Volkswagen has added a chunky front splitter and honeycomb mesh for the air intake. Naturally, a red go-faster stripe also stretches between the LED headlights.

A set of 19-inch alloy wheels and deeper sills incorporating GTI badges provide a sporty side profile. A roof spoiler can be found at the rear, along with a diffuser and darkened LED tail lights.

Volkswagen will begin taking orders from German customers this autumn, with prices due to start from €39,000 – equivalent to £34,000.

Full UK prices and specifications for the ID. Polo GTI, along with predicted delivery dates, will be confirmed in due course.

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Extreme, DTM-inspired HWA Evo R revealed at the Nurburgring

By

John Redfern

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May 16, 2026

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The HWA Evo.R race car will be in action this weekend, competing in the 2026 ADAC Ravenol Nürburgring 24 Hours

The HWA Evo, a restomod based on the iconic Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evo II, was already one of the most extreme and exciting cars on sale. But the company’s new Evo R goes a lot further.

Developed initially as a ‘road-legal, track-ready supercar‘, the HWA Evo transformed the classic Mercedes 190E into a thoroughly modern super saloon.

In turn, this spawned the HWA Evo.R racing car, two examples of which will be in action this weekend, competing alongside Max Verstappen in the gruelling 2026 ADAC Ravenol Nurburgring 24 Hours.

Now, ahead of the motorsport version’s debut this weekend, HWA has announced a limited-production Evo R, intended as the ultimate track-only restomod.

Only 15 examples of this thinly disguised competition car will be built, making it even rarer than the planned 100 units of the ‘regular’ £730,000 HWA Evo.

HWA Evo R is built to competition spec

The differences between the HWA Evo.R racer and the new Evo R track-day machine are about as minimal as the extra dot that designates the competition car.

A HWA-developed turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 is shared between the two vehicles. The new Evo R develops 560hp and 494lb ft of torque, thanks to a Bosch Motorsport ECU.

Connected to the V6 is a six-speed sequential gearbox, providing the full motorsport experience. There is also a modified racing exhaust, AP Racing competition-spec brakes and six-way adjustable suspension

Although the standard HWA Evo already features bold carbon fibre bodywork, the Evo R gains an even more dramatic aero kit, with the rear spoiler made even taller.

A full FIA-specification roll cage is fitted, along with polycarbonate windows, removable rear doors, a set of Ronal lightweight alloy wheels and integrated air jacks.

HWA hits the track this weekend

On the inside, the Evo R’s motorsport origins are clear, with a carbon fibre racing seat fitted as standard, plus an adjustable pedal box.

On the options list is a passenger seat, a drink system, air conditioning and a lighting package designed for 24-hour racing use.

The latter is possibly a clue to the type of customers HWA is aiming at, as is the optional ‘Langstreckenpaket’ endurance racing kit. Owners will also receive complete factory support, with access to technicians and spare parts.

Regardless of whether Evo R customers choose to risk their ultra-rare restomod in a race, they will receive invitations to exclusive track events throughout their ownership.

The HWA Evo.R will be on-track this weekend, contesting the SP-X class at the Nurburgring 24 Hours. The race will also feature the new BMW M3 Touring 24H.

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Celebrity cars heading to Supercar Fest auction this weekend

By

John Redfern

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May 15, 2026

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A 2022 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS, owned by the late Chris Rea, is one of the highlights of the 2026 Supercar Fest auction

This weekend sees an array of cars up for auction with famous former owners, as part of the Supercar Fest 2026 sale.

Managed by Iconic Auctioneers, the sale is one of the highlights of Supercar Fest, which takes place at Sywell Autodrome in Northamptonshire.

The auction catalogue is packed with rare supercars and exquisite classics, including a number of vehicles that have connections to celebrities and VIPs.

Alongside the auction, Supercar Fest will feature numerous performance cars on display, plus high-speed action on the Sywell Autodrome runway.

Before the bidding starts, join us for a look at some of the celebrity specials up for auction this weekend.

Chris Rea – 2022 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS

The late Chris Rea was a true petrolhead, with his love of Ferraris inspiring some of his greatest songs. It also led him to write and produce the 1996 film La Passione, along with creating the soundtrack.

This Slate Grey Neo Porsche 911 Carrera GTS is offered directly from the family of the Middlesbrough-born musician. With only 1,258 miles recorded on its odometer, the 473hp turbocharged flat-six has only seen light use since it was purchased by Rea in 2023.

On the inside, the seats are upholstered in a combination of black leather and Alcantara. There are also red seatbelts, a glass sunroof and a Bose sound system.

A desirable 911 in its own right, the links to a famous singer-songwriter lift the 911’s pre-auction estimate to between £80,000 and £100,000.

Chris Rea – 1972 Fiat 500 EV

Along with a stable of supercars, Chris Rea also owned some intriguing classics, such as this 1972 Fiat 500 with battery-electric power.

Originally purchased by Rea in 2005, it underwent an EV conversion by Retro Electric in 2023. This added a Netgain AC-20 brushless motor and Tesla-sourced battery modules – said to give a range of up to 75 miles.

The Dark Silver bodywork contrasts with a red vinyl interior, with nothing to give away the electric power underneath.

Said to have been favoured for daily use by Rea, the Fiat 500 EV could sell for between £10,000 and £14,000.

Tony Iommi – 2009 Ferrari F430 Spider

The Iconic Auctioneers Supercar Fest sale includes one of the final examples of the Ferrari F430 Spider, which is linked to a member of rock band Black Sabbath.

Being painted in dark Nero Daytona seemingly made it suitable for guitarist Tony Iommi, with the gold alloy wheels and yellow calipers for the ceramic brakes providing some contrast.

As one of the final 10 F430 Spiders to leave the line, this car comes with front and rear parking sensors, a NavTrak tracker and extended carbon fibre trim inside. Heated seats trimmed in Sabia leather are included as well.

The mid-mounted 483hp 4.3-litre V8 is the star attraction, of course, and helps see the F430 Spider achieve a pre-sale estimate of between £60,000 and £70,000.

Will Young ‒ 1996 Volkswagen Golf GTI

Compared to many celebrity car stories, pop singer Will Young keeping his incredibly standard-looking Volkswagen Mk3 Golf GTI for two decades seems quite surprising.

Despite his success in both music and acting following Pop Idol, Young seemingly favoured this modest, Dragon Green GTI, powered by the more sedate eight-valve version of the 2.0-litre engine. Proving that his GTI was not kept locked away in a garage, Young was even caught using a mobile phone at its wheel in 2025.

With only 46,000 miles on the odometer, the GTI looks remarkably well preserved, having somehow escaped being modified during the Max Power era of the 1990s.

Although an estimate of £8,000 to £12,000 is high for a Mk3 Golf GTI, there will be few others in such original condition – and with a celebrity backstory to boot.

Chris Evans – 2004 Land Rover Discovery

Broadcaster and DJ Chris Evans has an extensive car collection, featuring everything from a LaFerrari to the original vehicle from the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang movie. He owns an ex-James Hunt Hesketh 308 F1 car, too.

Despite such an illustrious array of options, the former Top Gear presenter preferred a diesel-powered Land Rover Discovery for family duties. This ES-specification model, painted in Epsom Green with a Lightstone leather interior, is equipped with the TD5 engine and a four-speed automatic gearbox.

The Discovery comes in seven-seat guise, and features a Harman Kardon sound system, satellite navigation, heated front seats and wood veneer interior trim. A guide price of £15,000 to £18,000 has been given for the Disco.

Marilyn Monroe – 1950 Mercedes-Benz 170 S

What car would a Hollywood icon like the late Marilyn Monroe use when travelling around Europe in the 1950s? Long before the days of being handed the keys to a Renault Clio or Dacia Sandero hire car, this Mercedes-Benz 170 S was Monroe’s personal transport in early 1956.

Imported through the port of Piraeus in February that year, the Monroe connection is supported by signed insurance paperwork. Documents confirming the car’s history have been notarised and certified by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, adding to its provenance. The current owner also uncovered matching luggage with an ‘MM’ insignia, along with a bespoke dashboard plaque.

Treated to a complete restoration, the Mercedes is now said to be of ‘museum quality’, and comes with a very healthy history file.

Given its connection to one of the most recognisable stars of the silver screen, the Mercedes has a pre-auction estimate of between £120,000 and £160,000.

Sam Branson – 2022 Man TGE 180 4×4

The son of Sir Richard Branson, Sam Branson is a British filmmaker, adventurer, philanthropist and entrepreneur. Offered directly from his ownership is this heavily customised Man TGE panel van, which has been transformed into an off-road-ready camper known as ‘The Adventurer’.

The modifications are extensive, with highlights including a king-size bed, a roof-mounted tent box, and a kitchen with a gas hob, microwave and toaster. Solar panels on the roof help provide power, plus there is even a portable projector for watching films.

Upgraded suspension, chunkier tyres and the Man’s 4×4 system mean it can tackle journeys off the beaten track.

Around £150,000 was spent on the purchase and conversion of the original van, meaning a guide price of £50,000 to £60,000 represents a significant saving.

Which celebrity car heading to auction would you like to bid on? Let us know in the comments below.

Katherine Legge to attempt epic Indy 500 and NASCAR double

By

John Redfern

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May 14, 2026

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Only five drivers have previously attempted “The Double”, covering 1,100 racing miles across two different competitions

British racing driver Katherine Legge aims to become the first woman to complete the gruelling challenge of “The Double” this Memorial Day weekend.

Backed by long-term supporter E.L.F. Cosmetics, Legge will try to complete both the Indianapolis 500 and the NASCAR Coca-Cola 600 on Sunday 24 May 2026.

Just five drivers in history have attempted one of the greatest endurance tests in motorsport, with only one – Tony Stewart in 2001 – actually finishing the full 1,100 miles of racing.

The challenge is fraught with difficulties, not least having to cover the 400-mile distance between the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indiana and the Charlotte Motor Speedway in North Carolina.

Along with the potential for weather delays, and the need to practice and qualify for both races, there are also the sheer physical demands of driving the longest IndyCar and NASCAR races in their respective series.

One of motorsport’s toughest tests

In order to make “The Double” possible, Legge will first need to complete the 110th running of the Indianapolis 500, which commences at 12:45pm ET.

To officially achieve the first part of one of the biggest tests in motorsport, she has to finish all 250 laps of the 500-mile marquee event.

Rain delays to the start of the Indianapolis 500 can have a major impact on the viability of completing both events. Legge will need to reach North Carolina ahead of the 6:00pm ET start time for the NASCAR Coca-Cola 600.

Both the 2024 and 2025 editions of the Indy 500 suffered delayed start times due to rain, when Kyle Larson attempted to complete “The Double”.

However, a crash in last year’s Indy 500 enabled Larson to leave Indianapolis early, getting him to Charlotte with time to spare. Even so, the two-time Cup Series champion did admit that exhaustion from undertaking the IndyCar race affected his performance in the NASCAR event.

A rare opportunity to make history

Concerns about endurance and exhaustion do not seem to be affecting Katherine Legge thus far.

Following the announcement of her plan to pull “Double Duty”, the Guildford-born driver said: “Very few drivers ever get the opportunity to attempt ‘The Double,’ and I do not take that opportunity lightly”.

“This challenge is about pushing through perceived limits, betting on yourself, taking risks and trying to do something unique. I am so incredibly grateful to E.L.F.. for believing in what this moment represents and for building a community around it.”

Legge will be the only female driver competing in this year’s Indy 500. Her entry comes exactly 50 years after Janet Guthrie became the first woman to attempt qualifying for the race. This year will also mark Katherine’s fifth entry into the Indy 500.

‘Backing women who push boundaries’

For the Indy 500, Legge will drive the No. 11 Chevrolet-powered HMD Motorsports/AJ Foyt Racing car,followed by the No. 78 Live Fast Motorsports Chevrolet in the Coca-Cola 600.

Both cars will feature prominent sponsorship from E.L.F. Cosmetics, now into its fourth year of backing the female driver.

“We believe culture moves forward when more women are given the opportunity to own their stories, break barriers and redefine what is possible,” said Patrick O’Keefe, marketing officer, at E.L.F. Beauty.

“Katherine attempting ‘The Double’ is a reflection of what empowering legendary females looks like in action – backing women who push boundaries and inspire the next generation to dream even bigger. Together, we are building experiences that invite our community into that journey.”

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Max Verstappen ready for Nurburgring 24 Hour race this weekend

By

John Redfern

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May 14, 2026

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With Red Bull backing, Verstappen will share his Mercedes-AMG GT3 with Lucas Auer, Jules Gounon and Dani Juncadella

Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen is gearing up for a new motorsport challenge: competing in this weekend’s Nurburgring 24 Hours race.

It marks Verstappen’s first attempt at a gruelling 24-hour endurance event, although he has previously entered shorter races at the Nordschleife circuit.

The Dutch driver has frequently expressed his unhappiness with the latest Formula 1 regulations, so racing a GT3-specification car is perhaps a welcome escape from the F1 circus.

His eponymous Verstappen Racing team will use a Red Bull-sponsored Mercedes-AMG GT3 for the event, and features a team packed with experienced sports car drivers.

Joining Verstappen for the race around the clock will be Lucas Auer, Jules Gounon and Dani Juncadella, all of whom have forged successful motorsport careers in their own right.

Already breaking records, and rules

2026 Max Verstappen Nurburgring 24 Hours

Verstappen’s interest in the Nurburgring began last year, when he drove an Emil Frey Racing Ferrari 296 GT3 – and used the pseudonym ‘Franz Hermann’ to avoid attention – during a test session.

Incredibly, the F1 star promptly managed to break the Nordschleife lap record for GT3 cars.

As part of his preparation for the Nurburgring 24 Hours, Verstappen took part in the second round of the 2026 Nurburgring Langstrecken Series.

The result was his maiden pole position for a Nurburgring race, and he embarked on a spectacular battle with Audi Sport driver Christopher Haase during his opening stint.

Verstappen, Gounon and Juncadella eventually won the NLS2 race by over a minute. However, they were subsequently disqualified for exceeding the number of tyres permitted for a race weekend.

Nonetheless, it acted as a clear reminder that the four-time F1 champion is not racing at the Nurburgring just for fun, but with a genuine desire to win.

Aiming for outright N24 glory

Ahead of this weekend’s event, Verstappen commented: “Success is winning. That’s why we’re here. I know it’s not going to be easy, but that’s the target for everyone.”

The challenge of racing in darkness will also be a novel experience for the F1 star, who said: “It’s probably going to be the best feeling. “You’re by yourself, pushing in the night. The car is normally fastest in the night, so I’m looking forward to it.”

Mercedes-AMG Team Verstappen driver Dani Juncadella, who has twice reached the overall podium at the Nurburgring 24 Hours, added: “Somehow, this track is always intimidating, no matter what, especially when the conditions change so much. Even on a sunny, dry day, this track is just a bit different. Especially when you’re pushing and going to the limit.”

Such has been the level of interest in Verstappen’s Nurburgring entry, Sky Sports F1 will be airing the race in the UK during Saturday 16 May and Sunday 17 May 2026.

In addition, you can also watch the entire race for free via the ADAC Ravenol Nurburgring 24 Hour YouTube channel.

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New Lamborghini Revuelto NA63 is a tribute to North America

By

John Redfern

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May 13, 2026

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Originally launched in 2023, the Lamborghini Revuelto features a hybrid-assisted V-12 engine with 1,015 horsepower

Lamborghini fans in North America will be offered a special-edition supercar, celebrating 63 years of the Italian marque.

With the United States and Canada being the most important markets for Lamborghini, the new Revuelto NA63 will honor decades of customer loyalty and enthusiasm.

Just 63 examples of the Revuelto NA63 will be produced, driving home the fact that 2026 is the 63rd anniversary of Automobili Lamborghini.

That the company was founded in 1963, after Ferruccio Lamborghini decided to challenge Ferrari at its own game, makes the number 63 even more significant.

According to Lamborghini, the Revuelto NA63 ‘celebrates not only a milestone anniversary but also the strength of its connection with North America’.

A 6.5-liter V-12 celebration

First launched in 2023 for the 2024 model year, the Lamborghini Revuelto is the current flagship in the supercar manufacturer’s lineup.

The car is part of a mid-engined V-12 lineage that stretches back 60 years, via the Lamborghini Aventator, Murcielago, Diablo, Countach and Miura.

To move with the times, however, Lamborghini has combined the 6.5-liter V-12 with three electric motors, a 3.8 kWh battery, and a dual-clutch transmission.

With both the engine and electric motors working together, the plug-in hybrid Revuelto generates a combined output of 1,015 horsepower, plus 783 lb-ft of torque. The gasoline-burning V-12 contributes up to 825 horsepower at 9,250 rpm.

Using all-wheel drive to boost traction, the Revuelto can accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 2.5 seconds. Top speed is in excess of 217 mph.

Waving the flag for North America

For the Revuelto NA63 special edition, Lamborghini has left the powertrain unaltered, judging it to be impressive enough already.

Instead, the changes are chiefly cosmetic, including bi-color stripes running across the front hood, with matching accents on the front splitter, side skirts, and rear diffuser.

The signature color scheme combines Blu Marinus bodywork with stripes in Rosso Mut and Bianco Monocerus Matt. These are said to evoke the colors of both the United States and Canadian flags.

Three alternative body colors will be available, using the base paint hues of Grigio Serget, Bianco Sideralis, or Grigio Acheso.

Bespoke “63” graphics feature on the exterior of the Revuelto NA63, with a commemorative carbon fiber build plaque inside the car.

The announcement of the Revuelto NA63 follows the 2026 Lamborghini Arena event in Italy, where CEO Stephan Winkelmann pulled the wraps off the limited-run Fenomeno Roadster.

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See the Renault 5 Turbo 3E in action at Goodwood FOS this July

By

John Redfern

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May 13, 2026

0

The 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed will take place across four days, running from Thursday 9th to Sunday 12th July

UK enthusiasts will get their first chance to see the radical Renault 5 Turbo 3E in action at the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Unveiled last year, the electric 5 Turbo 3E is a celebratory throwback to the original mid-engined Renault 5 Turbo of the 1980s – but with enough power to rival a modern supercar.

With a dramatically modified version of the regular Renault 5 E-Tech’s chassis, and extensive use of carbon fibre bodywork, the Turbo 3E will certainly turn heads on the Goodwood hill climb.

The Renault 5 Turbo 3E’s performance is likely to be even more startling, thanks to the pair of in-wheel electric motors mounted on the rear axle.

These generate a combined 555hp, plus an almost unbelievable 3,450lb ft of torque. When placed in a car weighing around 1,450kg, the results should be predictably electrifying…

‘Celebrating the spirit of performance’

According to Renault’s official figures, the 5 Turbo 3E can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 3.5 seconds, with a top speed in excess of 165mph.

An 800-volt electrical architecture is combined with a 70kWh battery pack, giving the Turbo 3E a range of almost 250 miles. Recharging will be rapid, going from 15 to 80 percent in 15 minutes via a 350kW device.

Fabrice Cambolive, CEO of Renault brand, said: “Renault 5 Turbo 3E embodies the boldness and spirit of innovation that have always defined Renault. By reinventing the legendary Renault 5 Turbo for the electric era, we have created something truly unique: a mini-supercar that combines spectacular performance with cutting-edge electric technology.

“Bringing the production-ready Renault 5 Turbo 3E to the Goodwood Festival of Speed for its UK dynamic debut is the perfect way to celebrate this spirit of performance and excitement with enthusiasts.”

Other Renaults to star at Goodwood

Renault 5 Turbo 3E Goodwood Festival of Speed

Reservations for the Renault 5 Turbo 3E are open now. The French marque plans to produce 1,980 examples of its ‘EV supercar’, with prices starting from £140,000.

For those with a smaller budget, there is also a Renault-backed campaign to have a miniature Lego version built.

Starring alongside the Turbo 3E at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2026 will be the recently announced Renault 4 E-Tech ‘Plein Sud’, which features a full-length canvas roof. The new Renault Twingo E-Tech and regular Renault 5 E-Tech will also be on show.

Now a four-day event, this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed will take place from Thursday 9 July until Sunday 12 July 2026.

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New electric Jaguar GT car to be named Type 01

By

John Redfern

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May 13, 2026

0

Jaguar will demonstrate a camouflaged version of the Type 01 at the Formula E Monaco E-Prix this weekend

Jaguar has confirmed the name of its forthcoming luxury GT car. The first electric Jaguar will be called Type 01.

After the controversy that surrounded the British marque’s pivot to full electrification, and the divisive new corporate aesthetic for the Type 00 concept car, the name of the production Jaguar seems reassuringly conventional.

Breaking it down, the ‘Type’ designation is a throwback to previous Jaguar models. It first featured on the C-Type Le Mans racer in 1951.

It was subsequently used on the legendary E-Type sports car, along with two generations of the modern F-Type.

The ‘0’ stands for ‘zero tailpipe emissions’, thanks to a battery-electric powertrain. And the ‘1’ was chosen to represent the first Jaguar model for a new era.

A new name for a new era

Jaguar says the choice of name for its new luxury GT is intended to unite ‘the brand’s history of innovation in design, technology and performance’, in combination with being ‘the most advanced Jaguar ever’.

The Type 01 name will appear on the car’s strikethrough motif, where the bonnet meets the windscreen. We’re told it will use ‘bold linear graphics’.

Rawdon Glover, managing director at Jaguar, said: “We have reimagined Jaguar for a new era, with inspiration from what has gone before. Our engineers have achieved this with a vehicle that looks and drives like no other electric car, yet reflects a unique provenance.

“The Type 01 name is part of that story – for me, the zero also signifies a complete brand reset, and the ‘1’, our first car for a new chapter, a one of a kind.”

New Jaguar due in September 2026

Despite a name that has obvious links to Jaguar’s heritage, how the Type 01 drives will be unlike anything in the marque’s illustrious back catalogue.

Three electric motors will provide the Type 01 with more than 1,000hp, combined with nearly 960lb ft of instant electric torque.

Earlier this year, Motoring Research’s Richard Aucock drove a prototype Type 01, noting: “All that power gives it plenty of authority on the high-speed circuit. At any velocity, it gathers pace without effort, and the suspension has the authority to handle it even at 120mph and beyond.

“Going fast is effortless, yet it doesn’t feel remote or disconnected. There’s a calmness to it all, but a crisp responsiveness as well. It’s engaging without being overwhelming.”

This weekend will see prototype versions of the Type 01, still wearing a camouflage wrap, take to the streets of Monaco ahead of the Formula E race.

Jaguar will reveal the completed Type 01 in September 2026, with customer deliveries expected to begin in early 2027.

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2017 Suzuki Vitara drives a record 436,500 miles in 9 years

By

Richard Aucock

-

May 12, 2026

1

A Bedford man has achieved a record mileage in his 2017 Suzuki Vitara after driving more than 48,000 miles a year for almost a decade.

He has covered a total of 436,500 miles in the 1.6-litre petrol-powered Suzuki SUV.

Averaged over his nine years of ownership, that equates to upwards of 48,000 miles every year.

What’s more, the Suzuki has apparently proven to be “faultless” and is still using its original engine, gearbox and exhaust.

The car is said to be still running “perfectly” and – unlike many high-mileage cars – it doesn’t even have any oil leaks. Only wear and tear components, plus a single driveshaft rubber boot, have been replaced during the past nine years.

Oh, and in case you were wondering, 436,500 miles equates to around 15 sets of new tyres.

A Suzuki daily-driver

Such a high mileage required routine servicing every few months, reports the owner. He racked up the miles by using the Suzuki Vitara daily, including for multiple trips across Europe.

A spokesman for Suzuki said the Vitara’s durability: “reinforces Suzuki’s reputation and the four easy-to-understand product pillars across its range: tech, efficiency, quality and trust”.

The owner has now purchased another Vitara, a 2024 Approved Used hybrid model, from the same dealer: Hilton Suzuki of Bedford.

The aim is to “continue travelling these staggering distances with the brand in the coming years”.

Has your car covered an ultra-high mileage? Let us know your record mileages in the comments!