Ultra-tough and powerful Land Rover Defender Octa V8 revealed

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March 30, 2024

Land Rover has released the first details of a flagship, high-performance and highly capable version of the Defender 4×4.

Called the Octa, the ultimate Defender will be powered by a twin-turbocharged V8 with mild-hybrid technology.

It will be the first vehicle in the Land Rover range to wear the new Octa badge, intended for use on the toughest off-roaders.

Plenty of V8 power

Land Rover promises the Octa will be the ‘most capable and luxurious model in the line-up’, while also being the most powerful version of the Defender yet.

The mention of a twin-turbo V8 suggests the Octa will use a version of the existing 4.4-litre engine. Fitted to the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models, this BMW-supplied unit has the potential to offer more than 600hp.

Such a heady output would surpass the thunderous 525hp 5.0-litre supercharged V8 used in the fastest Defender currently on sale.

Land Rover will also equip the Defender Octa with its 6D Dynamic suspension, already fitted to the Range Rover Sport. This is intended to control pitch and roll on the road, while still retaining the Defender’s famous off-road prowess.

Real tough mudder

The Octa name is apparently inspired by the octahedron shape of a diamond. As the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth, Land Rover feels it is the right name for this toughest Defender.

A new Octa badge will be used inside and outside the range-topping model, featuring a gloss black diamond within a machined and sandblasted titanium disc.

Land Rover is still testing the Octa, in environments from the snow and ice of Sweden to the deserts of Dubai. A trip to the Nürburgring circuit in Germany is also on the cards, to ensure the Octa performs on a track.

Land Rover will reveal more details of the Octa later in 2024, along with prices. Expect it to cost substantially more than the £108,885 charged for the existing Defender V8.

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Kia EV9 is World Car of the Year 2024

By

Richard Aucock

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March 27, 2024

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The Kia EV9 has been named World Car of the Year 2024 in a glittering prize-giving ceremony at the New York International Auto Show.

The electric Kia EV9 has already been named UK Car of the Year – now it seems more than 100 jurors from across the globe agree with the UK decision.

The Kia EV9 triumphed over two other finalists, the Volvo EX30 and BYD Seal.

The bold Kia EV9 is a seven-seat electric SUV and the new range-topping model in the Kia line-up. The top spec version has a range of nearly 350 miles, while distinctive design outside and in ensures it stands out.

“This is fantastic recognition for such an important vehicle in our ever-evolving line-up,” said Kia UK president and CEO Paul Philpott.

“It’s made all the more important due to recognition from such esteemed journalists from the UK and around the world.

“I’m very proud of the Kia team for bringing such a sensational vehicle to market. We are fast becoming a true leader in electric vehicles.”

It was a double success for the Kia EV9 too, as it also scooped World Electric Vehicle of the Year 2024.

World Car Awards 2024

It was a diverse mix of winners in the other World Car Awards 2024 categories, with Toyota opening proceedings by winning World Car Design of the Year 2024.

In a fillip for the Japanese brand, the latest Toyota Prius beat the Ferrari Purosangue, which was shortlisted along with the Ford Bronco.

Volvo didn’t go home empty-handed, as the EX30 was named World Urban Vehicle of the Year 2024.

Meanwhile the new BMW 5 Series and i5 scooped World Luxury Car of the Year 2024 – beating two Mercedes-Benz in the process.

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N was named World Performance Car of the Year 2024… beating two BMWs, the M2 and XM. It means an electric car wins the enthusiast-focused performance category, too.

World Car Awards is the largest automotive awards initiate in the world, with an audited reach of over 300 million people.

This year is the 20^th year of World Car Awards; the inaugural winner back in 2004 was the Audi A6.

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Salon Privé London to host three days of champagne and supercars

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Salon Privé London to host three days of champagne and supercars

By

John Redfern

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March 26, 2024

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This year’s Salon Privé London event will showcase some of the greatest supercars across three days of themed celebrations.

Hosted at the Royal Hospital in Chelsea, the open-air show brings together modern and classic vehicles, culminating with a ‘Concours de Vente’ display – where all the cars are for sale.

Now in its third year, the 2024 edition of Salon Privé London will take place between 18 and 20 April.

Celebrating the Porsche 911 Turbo

Salon Privé London 2024 opens with ‘Porsche Day’ on Thursday 18 April. This will honour 50 years of the Porsche 911 Turbo, with 50 examples of the German icon brightening up the lawn at the Royal Hospital.

Among the rarest Porsches on display will be one of only 11 964 Turbo S Leichtbau (Lightweight) models. Finished in Grand Prix White with a Flamenco Red interior, the car has just 260 miles recorded on its odometer.

On Friday 19 April, the ‘McLaren Masters’ collection will showcase the supercars of McLaren Automotive, including the 675LT and new plug-in hybrid Artura.

Completing the three-day event will be ‘Supercar Saturday’, with 50 vehicles from the SCC private members’ supercar club making an appearance.

Supercar spectacular

Supercars confirmed for the family-focused Saturday include a Koenigsegg CCR, Porsche 918 Spyder and a Ferrari F12 tdf. Salon Privé London is also playing host to upmarket motorcycles, boats and helicopters, covering all your luxury transport needs…

“This year, we have an unbelievable trio of special themed days to really bring Salon Privé London alive,” said director David Bagley. “We will be the first event in the world to celebrate 50 years of the famous Porsche 911 Turbo, and I’m delighted that an ultra-rare right-hand-drive Lightweight will be one of the stars of the show.

“On Friday, it will be all things McLaren, including the fantastic Elva, while Saturday will see SCC members deliver our family-focused day, a sensational supercar spectacle. Every one of our themed days for 2024 is certain to be special.”

Tickets for Salon Privé London are available to buy now, along with hospitality packages.

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New Volkswagen ID.Buzz GTX gets 340hp and all-wheel drive

By

John Redfern

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March 25, 2024

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Volkswagen has added several sportier models to its electric ID range in recent weeks, but the ID. Buzz MPV seems the unlikeliest candidate for the GTX treatment.

Revealed at the annual media conference for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, the ID. Buzz GTX is described as the ‘most powerful series-production Bulli of all time’.

A 340hp output and 4Motion all-wheel drive are intended to make the retro-styled ID.Buzz more enjoyable to drive. Volkswagen says the performance upgrades will boost practicality, too.

Maximum lifestyle

A pair of electric motors provide the ID. Buzz GTX with its all-wheel drive layout. A combined total of 340hp means 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds, plus a top speed limited to 99mph.

Going faster probably wasn’t the biggest priority for ID. Buzz customers. However, being able to tow trailers weighing up to 1,800kg in the short-wheelbase model will certainly make a difference to many owners.

Volkswagen says the ID. Buzz GTX can tow boats, bikes or boat trailers. The standard-wheelbase GTX will be launched with a 79kWh battery, while the long-wheelbase version has an 86kWh power pack.

Sportier styling

There is no official range figure for the ID. Buzz GTX yet, or details on how quickly towing an 1,800kg trailer will drain the battery. However, when connected to the fastest compatible charging device, replenishing the battery from 10-80 percent will take 26 minutes.

Exterior changes to the GTX include a redesigned front bumper with integrated daytime running lights, plus some trademark Volkswagen honeycomb trim. Cherry Red is an exclusive colour for the GTX, and can be combined with a two-tone finish.

On the inside, the now familiar Volkswagen GTX theme continues. The electric seats are finished in ArtVelours upholstery with red stitching and piping. The headlining of the ID. Buzz is black, with buyers of the long-wheelbase version able to add a panoramic sunroof.

Volkswagen has increased the size of the infotainment touchscreen to 12.9 inches, also adding a new processor for a more responsive display. ChatGPT is included to aid the ‘IDA’ voice assistant with answering any questions.

Buzzing with options

The short-wheelbase version of the ID. Buzz GTX comes with five seats as standard, or you can go for a six-seat version with two rows of two rear seats.

At launch, the long-wheelbase GTX also comes in five- or six-seat configurations, but a seven-seater model will join the range in the future.

Volkswagen has yet to announce prices for the ID. Buzz GTX, but plans to release more information when it begins accepting orders for the electric MPV this summer.

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Godzilla fights on: Nissan GT-R Skyline and Takumi editions revealed

By

John Redfern

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March 21, 2024

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Two new special editions of the Nissan GT-R have been announced, both of them paying homage to the history of this storied Japanese supercar.

Bolstering the current 2024 model range, the GT-R T-Spec Takumi and Skyline Editions major on exclusive paint colours and interior finishes.

There is a catch for UK enthusiasts, though. Only buyers in North America will be able to purchase one of these limited-production models.

2024 Nissan GT-R Skyline Edition

Bayside Blue was one of the most iconic paint colours associated with the R34-generation Nissan Skyline GT-R.

Nissan officially retired the colour when R34 production ended in 2007. However, it was revived briefly in 2019, featuring on the Nissan GT-R 50th Anniversary Edition.

Now Bayside Blue is back again for the GT-R Skyline Edition, with Nissan saying the special model ‘references the abundant beauty found in skylines across Japan’. The colour is combined with a new Sora Blue interior finish.

Like other models in the 2024 GT-R lineup, the Skyline Edition features a 565hp version of Nissan’s twin-turbocharged V6 engine, combined with all-wheel drive.

2024 Nissan GT-R T-spec Takumi Edition

The GT-R T-Spec Takumi Edition is a tribute to the eponymous takumi master craftspeople who assemble the 3.8 litre V6 engine by hand.

For this special model, a red-etched plate beneath the bonnet acknowledges the person who built that specific engine, rather like the badges found on Mercedes-AMG vehicles. A gold VIN plate is added for good measure.

Takumi Edition cars come finished in stunning Midnight Purple, with a contrasting Mori Green interior. Carbon-ceramic brakes and a set of 20-inch gold-painted RAYS forged alloy wheels are included as part of the standard T-Spec equipment.

Racing against the clock

Nissan has built more than 40,000 examples of the ‘R35’ GT-R since production commenced in late 2007.

Sales for European markets ended in 2022, following the introduction of new drive-by noise regulations in the EU and UK. The GT-R was also removed from sale from Australia in 2021 due to changing side-impact rules.

Nissan is yet to confirm how long the GT-R has left in other global markets, although rumours suggest the recently announced 2025 model year could be the last for this long-lived legend.

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Prices and specs for new MG3 Hybrid+ confirmed

By

John Redfern

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March 20, 2024

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Following its debut at the recent Geneva Motor Show, MG has announced prices and specifications for the all-new MG3 Hybrid+.

The Chinese brand’s latest supermini is available to order in the UK now. And with the formerly best-selling Ford Fiesta now consigned to the history books, MG aims to make a big impact in the small car sector.

Among the promises for the MG3 Hybrid+ are generous levels of standard equipment and an efficient petrol and electric powertrain.

Tuned for British roads

The previous-generation MG3 developed a reputation for neat handling and strong value for money, but was hampered by its gutless 1.5-litre petrol engine.

As its name suggests, the new MG3 Hybrid+ combines a petrol engine with an electric motor. Working together, they can generate 192hp, allowing the car to accelerate from 0-62mph in 8.0 seconds.

An official fuel consumption figure of 64.2mpg, with CO2 emissions of 100g/km, are major improvements on the outgoing model. A 1.83kWh battery allows for fully electric driving over short distances in urban areas.

The company’s UK development team, based at Longbridge in Birmingham, has tailored the MG3’s suspension setup to better suit British roads.

Strong levels of equipment

Prices for the MG3 Hybrid+ start from £18,495 for the entry-level SE version, which comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, satellite navigation, rear parking sensors and a reversing camera. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity are included for good measure.

Standard safety equipment for the SE model is extensive, with autonomous emergency braking, front-collision warning, lane-departure warning, emergency lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control.

Opting for the range-topping Trophy version lifts the price to £20,495, but adds heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, LED projector headlights and a 360-degree parking camera. Compared to the cloth seats found in the SE, the Trophy also benefits from leather-style upholstery with cloth inserts.

A lengthy seven-year or 80,000-mile warranty comes with all MG3 Hybrid+ models, too.

‘Affordable, practical and fun-to-drive’

MG hopes its new supermini will build on the success enjoyed by the MG4 EV during 2023. The company’s cheapest electric car ended the year as one of the UK’s best-selling EVs – and collected a host of awards.

David Allison, head of product and planning for MG Motor UK, said: “There is still a very strong demand for the affordable, practical and fun-to-drive supermini, and we believe the MG3 Hybrid+ will appeal to many customers.”

MG was recently confirmed as the brand taking centre-stage at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, which will celebrate the marque’s centenary.

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How to make a safe U-turn

By

Motoring Research team

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March 14, 2024

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Last year, a driver was arrested after making an illegal U-turn on the M4. Obviously, such a manoeuvre is madness on a motorway, but a U-turn can also be difficult and dangerous even on regular roads.

As its name suggests, a U-turn involves making a 180-degree turn in the road. In one complete manoeuvre, the car ends up facing in the opposite direction. A U-turn is not to be confused with a three-point turn, which involves reversing.

Although it is legal to make a U-turn in the UK, there are places and situations where the manoeuvre is prohibited. Get it wrong and you risk three points on your driving licence and a fine. Worse, you could endanger the lives of other road users.

When is making a U-turn illegal?

The most obvious indication that U-turns are prohibited is the ‘No U-turn’ sign. This is a red outer circle surrounding a black ‘U’ with a line through it (see images above and below).

However, as this page on the Transport for London website explains, you should also pay attention to signs showing the direction you must take.

A U-turn is also considered illegal if one of the following happens:

You cross a kerb
You cross double white lines in the centre of the road
You are driving on a one-way street

How to make a U-turn

A U-turn should be a last resort, especially in busy urban areas. U-turns are often performed when a driver misses a turn, so they tend to be the result of a rushed decision, with less thought for road safety.

In busier traffic situations, pull up at the side of the road if possible, consider your options, then make an informed choice. If in doubt, turn left or right at the next junction and obey the traffic laws before re-entering the road in the opposite direction.

You should consider the following:

Is it safe and legal to make a U-turn?
Will I endanger or inconvenience other road users?
Is the road wide enough to complete the manoeuvre in one turn?
Do you have clear visibility of the road?

If you must perform a U-turn, be aware that it will take a few seconds to complete, so make sure the oncoming traffic is clear before starting the manoeuvre.

When it’s safe to do so, check your mirrors, indicate right, check your mirrors again (including any blind spots), then make the turn. Cancel the indicator and check the rear-view mirror when the manoeuvre is complete.

Keep an eye open for motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians, as they might not be visible in your mirrors. There’s also a chance they won’t be aware you are making a U-turn.

If you want to U-turn on a road with a designated filter lane on the right-hand side, turn on your indicator and wait for the oncoming traffic to clear. Don’t rush it – make sure you have enough space to complete manoeuvre without stopping or having to reverse.

Pay attention to the traffic lights, too – the filter lane might not work in tandem with the lanes on your left. Above all, take your time and observe the road carefully before making a U-turn.

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New Taycan Turbo GT is Porsche’s most powerful road car ever

By

John Redfern

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March 12, 2024

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Dodge may have staked its claim to producing the world’s first electric muscle car with the new Charger, but Porsche has been busy breaking lap records with the Taycan Turbo GT.

The flagship electric saloon becomes the German company’s most powerful production car to date. And, despite having only just been revealed, the Taycan Turbo GT already boasts two lap records to its name.

Fitted with the optional Weissach Package designed for circuit driving, the Turbo GT made light work of setting hot laps around Laguna Seca and the Nürburging Nordschleife.

The most powerful production Porsche

In everyday driving, the Taycan Turbo GT produces a really-quite-adequate 789hp, but engaging Launch Control increases this total to 1,033hp via an overboost function. Peak output is a faintly ludicrous 1,108hp, accompanied by 988lb ft of torque.

This heady maximum is only available for two seconds, but that’s enough to accelerate the Turbo GT from 0-62mph in a mere 2.3 seconds – or 2.2 seconds with the Weissach Package.

The latter version also offers a 190mph top speed instead of ‘just’ 180mph for the regular Taycan Turbo GT.

Bolstering the Turbo GT’s incredible performance is a weight saving of 75kg versus the Taycan Turbo S. This is achieved through the extensive use of carbon fibre, including lightweight bucket seats. Revisions to the standard carbon-ceramic brakes, which have gold-painted calipers, save 2kg alone.

More aero and less weight

Setting Weissach Package cars apart from the standard Taycan Turbo GT are a new front splitter and fixed rear wing. Combined, they result in a downforce figure of 220kg, aiding on-track performance.

Despite its large rear spoiler, the Weissach Package saves a further 70kg in weight, partly by ditching the Taycan’s rear seats. Porsche also removes the rear speakers for the Bose sound system, and fits the Weissach model with only one charging port.

Despite the Turbo GT’s mighty performance, however, it is still a usable electric car. The official WLTP-tested range is 345 miles, and it can be charged from 10 to 80 percent capacity in 18 minutes using a suitable rapid charger.

Dream it, drive it

Unsurprisingly, given its huge performance and specification, prices for the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT start at a sizeable £186,300. The hardcore Weissach Package is actually a no-cost option, but an inevitable foray into the options list will likely ramp up the price still further.

Orders are open now, and Porsche hopes to deliver the first batch of completed cars to customers this spring. The Taycan Turbo GT is also available on Porsche’s online configurator, ready for potential customers – or electric dreamers – to create their ideal specification.

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Playmobil creates a safari-ready classic Porsche 911

By

John Redfern

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March 12, 2024

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Off-road versions of the Porsche 911 are increasingly popular, with safari-spec conversions of classic models available from companies such as Kalmar Automotive and Tuthill Porsche.

Even Porsche itself has got in on the act, launching the rugged 911 Dakar last year. Click here to read our review.

For those on a smaller budget, or who don’t have a driving licence yet, Playmobil has an alternative. Joining the growing ranks of officially licensed models is its rather impressive Porsche 911 Carrera 2.7 RS Offroad.

Ready to off-road

Original 911 Carrera 2.7 RS rally cars are rare, and using a desirable road-going version to create a safari-ready machine would be sacrilegious to many Porsche enthusiasts. However, Playmobil has no such concerns.

The company has taken its existing Carrera 2.7 RS model, increased its ride height for better ground clearance and then fitted chunky off-road tyres. Just like with a proper safari conversion.

There is also a substantial front bumper with underbody protection and extra driving lights, plus a roof rack carrying four more large spotlights.

A jerry can and spare wheel are also stored on the roof rack, along with a shovel and a sand ladder if the going gets tough.

An affordable classic Porsche

The roof of the 911 Carrera 2.7 RS is removable to access its detailed interior. The engine cover opens to reveal a replica air-cooled flat-six, complete with its prominent central fan.

Measuring just over 25cm in length, the safari-spec Playmobil Porsche 911 will be aimed at children aged five and older when it reaches the shops later this month.

A price tag of £59.99 certainly makes it more affordable than the $2.5 to $3 million (£1.9 to £2.3 million) estimated for this 911 RS rally car at auction last year.

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Targeting the Taycan: prices announced for electric Lotus Emeya

By

John Redfern

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March 8, 2024

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More details of the forthcoming Lotus Emeya have been announced, including prices for UK customers.

Described as the British company’s first ‘hyper-GT’, the electric saloon is said to offer world-class performance and handling.

Lotus has also released an online configurator for potential buyers to create their perfect specification – and place an order ahead of the Emeya reaching showrooms this summer.

Its pricing and specification will see the Lotus challenge sporting and luxurious EVs such as the Porsche Taycan and BMW i5.

Premium prices and performance

Prices for the Lotus Emeya will start from £94,950. The entry-level model comes with 20-inch alloy wheels, active air suspension, four-zone climate control and a KEF premium audio system.

The standard Emeya has a power output of 603hp, and can accelerate from 0-62mph in 4.15 seconds. A top speed of 155mph cannot match the infamous Lotus Carlton from the 1990s, however.

Priced from £107,450, the mid-range Emeya S adds 21-inch wheels, upgraded brakes with six-piston calipers and privacy glass.

The flagship Emeya R will set you back £129,950, but offers a power output of 905hp. The 0-62mph sprint takes just 2.78 seconds, with top speed increased slightly to 159mph.

Intelligent EV navigation

When it comes to electric range, Lotus says its cell-to-pack layout helps boost battery performance by up to 20 percent.

Choosing either the Emeya or Emeya S means owners can cover between 310 and 379 miles when the car is fully charged. The more powerful Emeya R provides a smaller range of 270 to 301 miles.

Making use of a compatible DC 350kW rapid-charging device, the Emeya can recharge its batteries from 10 to 80 percent in only 18 minutes.

The standard 15.1-inch HD OLED Lotus Hyper OS infotainment system incorporates intelligent EV routing. This can learn individual journeys and patterns, helping to maximise battery range.

“Electric cars do not have to be boring”

Lotus CEO Feng Qingfeng said: “Electric cars do not have to be boring. We are combining our rich sports car heritage with the latest cutting-edge technologies to redefine what it means to drive an electric vehicle.

“Emeya seamlessly blends exceptional ride and handling with world-class luxury, performance, comfort, connectivity and range – bringing drivers the ultimate grand tourer package with the unrivalled driving experience of a true Lotus.”

Lotus launched the Emeya for the Chinese market earlier this year. British and European buyers will have to wait until the third quarter of 2024 to get their hands on finished cars.

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