Porsche celebrates 50 years of style with special 911 Targa

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January 20, 2022

This has been a busy week for Porsche news. Firstly – and most excitingly – there’s a new 911: the Edition 50Y Porsche Design.

Based on the Targa GTS and limited to 750 cars worldwide, it celebrates 50 years of Stuttgart’s design and styling department.

The £144,360 Edition 50Y is inspired by a 911T 2.4 Targa from 1972, when Porsche Design was founded. Engineers spent two years restoring the air-cooled classic in-house, upgrading its chassis and flat-six engine to 190hp ‘S’ spec.

The black and platinum colour scheme mirrors the Chronograph I watch designed by F. A. Porsche – also in 1972.

Brand new retro

For the 911 Edition 50Y, an all-black exterior is combined with retro sill stripes and checked seats – the latter in grippy Sport-Tex fabric.

Power comes from a 480hp twin-turbo six (water-cooled this time), driving the rear wheels via a manual or PDK automatic transmission. Use launch control and it blasts to 62mph in 3.5 seconds.

Inevitably, owners can order a new edition of the classic Chronograph I watch, too.

Taycan things further

Also new this week is the Taycan Sport Turismo, now officially on sale and priced from £76,350.

Essentially, it is an estate version of Porsche’s class-leading EV, but without the lofty suspension and off-road attitude of the existing Cross Turismo. Options range from the 326hp rear-wheel-drive model to the 625hp Turbo S.

Britain is the second largest market worldwide for Taycan sales and it accounted for a third of Porsche GB’s volume in 2021. The practical Sport Turismo looks set to bolster that success – look out for the Motoring Research review in early February.

Platinum jubilee

Finally, we should mention the new Cayenne Platinum Edition, which features unique satin paint and extra equipment.

Starting from £69,230, the petrol or plug-in hybrid SUV comes with 21-inch RS Spyder alloy wheels, sports exhaust tailpipes, eight-way adjustable leather seats, a Bose audio system and a panoramic sunroof.

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Car insurance prices rise 7.6% in three months

By

Richard Aucock

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January 20, 2022

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The cost of fully comprehensive car insurance rose by 7.6 percent in the final three months of 2021, well above the rate of inflation.

It means the average fully-comp car insurance policy is now £443, up from £412 in autumn 2021.

After a major drop at the start of 2021, research by Moneysupermarket shows prices were still down 6.6 percent year-on-year. However, they have started creeping back up over the past three consecutive quarters.

Londoners are still paying the most for car insurance, with an average premium of £616. Those in the North West pay an average of £509, while West Midlands motorists pay £504.

Motorists in the South West pay the least, with the average premium at just £295 – more than £320 less than a typical Londoner pays.

Meanwhile, in terms of age profiles, it’s those aged 21-24 that are faced with the highest premiums, averaging an eye-watering £857.

‘Remain vigilant’

Car insurance prices have been on an upward trajectory since the standout lows seen at the start of 2021, says Moneysupermarkets’s Sara Newell, “with figures for the last quarter showing the most unwelcome jump yet.

“If you’re a driver, it’s really important that you stay vigilant to price rises – particularly against the backdrop of price rises across lots of other household bills and consumer goods.

“If you’re nearing the end of your policy, make sure you shop and around for a new deal to avoid losing out.”

Newell added that, although new rules from the FCA addressing unfair pricing for new and renewing customers are welcome, “it’s important to recognise that these measures alone won’t save you money.

“The only guaranteed way of saving money on your car insurance is to shop around for a new deal. Doing so through Moneysupermarket could save you up to £264.”

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Volkswagen Group doubled electric car sales in 2021

By

John Redfern

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January 19, 2022

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The Volkswagen Group achieved an impressive 95.5 percent increase in global electric vehicle sales during 2021.

Across the multiple brands within the group, a total of 452,900 electric cars were delivered to customers.

It marks a substantial increase on the 231,600 EVs delivered during 2020, despite the ongoing challenges caused by the pandemic and semiconductor chip shortages.

However, the overall number of vehicles delivered by the Volkswagen Group fell by 4.5 percent last year, down to 8.82 million.

Skoda Enyaq iV Czech’s out

In terms of increased EV sales, Skoda stood out as the clear VW Group winner. In 2020, the Czech brand sold 15,200 electric vehicles around the world.

This rose to 49,100 Skoda EVs in 2021: a substantial 222.9 percent jump. A full production year for the Enyaq iV electric SUV accounted for the increase.

Volkswagen-badged electric cars almost doubled in sales, too. A total of 263,200 in 2021 compares with 133,900 the year before – a 95.5 percent rise.

Audi also enjoyed EV success. The brand’s expanded range of E-tron models saw deliveries up by 57.5 percent, from 52,000 to 81,900 cars.

Taycan control of the market

Yet it was Porsche that posted the second-largest increase in electric vehicle deliveries. Despite the relatively high list price of the Taycan EV, Porsche more than doubled the number sold last year.

Including the Sport Turismo estate, a total of 41,300 Taycans found new homes. Compared with 2020, that represents a 106.3 percent improvement.

Sales of electric Volkswagen Group vehicles made big gains in all major markets. China saw sales leap by 319.5 percent, with the United States recording a 200.2 percent rise.

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Morgan celebrates Le Mans victory with limited-run Plus Four LM62

By

John Redfern

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January 19, 2022

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British sports car maker Morgan is continuing to celebrate its motorsport history with a new special edition.

A limited-run version of the Plus Four, the LM62, commemorates Morgan’s class win at Le Mans six decades ago.

Numerous special parts are fitted to the Plus Four LM62. Production will be limited to 62 cars, priced from £78,995.

Spirit of 1962

The LM62 pays tribute to the Morgan Plus 4 SuperSports – known by its registration: ‘TOK 258’ – that took victory in the 2.0-litre class at Le Mans in 1962.

Both colour options for the LM62 have been directly influenced by Morgan racers from the 1960s. The successful TOK 258 was painted dark green, whereas many Morgan racers were finished in red at the time.

Morgan Jet Green or Morgan Tertre Rouge paint finishes will both be combined with a Heritage White hard-top. It marks the first time Morgan has built a Plus Four with a hard-top as standard.

An LM62 graphics pack includes racing roundels, along with an LM62 rear badge, silver-painted wire wheels, a Le Mans-style fuel filler cap and a domed rear panel.

Numbered inside and out

Inside, the LM62 gains a numbered plaque, displaying which of the 62 cars it is.

Laser-engraved leather door pulls and headrests embroidered with the specially designed LM62 graphic are also fitted. Completing the interior are heated black leather seats and a tawny wood dashboard.

Potential buyers can place their orders for the Plus Four LM62 now. It will be offered in both right- and left-hand drive, with a choice of manual or automatic transmissions. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine remains unchanged.

Morgan motorsport history

The LM62 is the latest Morgan to take inspiration from the world of motorsport. The radical Plus Four CX-T was announced during 2021, paying homage to off-road rally vehicles.

Last year also saw Morgan release its most powerful road car ever. The V8-powered Plus 8 GTR was directly inspired by Morgan’s GT racing efforts during the 1990s.

Steve Morris, chairman and CEO of Morgan Motor Company, said: “The 1962 Le Mans class-winning Morgan Plus 4 holds a special place in the hearts of Morgan enthusiasts, employees and owners around the world.

“It marked one of Morgan’s greatest motorsport achievements, the car covering more than 2,200 miles at an average running speed of almost 94mph, and triumphing – like David vs. Goliath – over our bigger and better-funded rivals of the time.”

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18 January is the most dangerous day of the year to drive

By

John Redfern

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January 18, 2022

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If yesterday’s ‘Blue Monday’ – apparently the most depressing day of the year – wasn’t enough to worry about, today brings new challenges for motorists.

Detailed analysis of data spanning a decade has found 18 January is one of the most dangerous days for drivers.

The data, compiled by Admiral Motor Insurance, shows 33 percent more claims are made on this day compared with the average across the year.

In the bleak midwinter

Admiral analysed insurance claim data covering the period from 2012 to the end of 2021. Claims for fire, theft, malicious damage and windscreen damage were excluded from the numbers crunched.

The top 10 days with the greatest volume of insurance accident claims were all found in winter months. Spanning November to February, the most dangerous dates identified by Admiral are:

18 January
5 December
4 December
16 January
28 February
1 December
18 December
1 February
30 November
14 December

Lorna Connelly, head of claims at Admiral, said: “More of us travel by car in the colder months, so combine that with wetter weather and icier road conditions and driving becomes more risky in the winter.”

‘Poor weather and stressed drivers’

Connelly added: “Our claims analysis from the last 10 years found more road accidents happen on 18 January than on any other date, with around 33 percent more claims on this day compared with the average day throughout the year. Poor weather combined with busier roads and stressed drivers, as we return from the Christmas break, could all be contributing factors.

“While November and December are overall the most treacherous months, with the most accidents, January 18is overall the date of the year we see the highest number of accident claims.”

Tips from Admiral for reducing the risk of a winter collision include leaving plenty of time for your journey, along with mapping out the best route to take in advance.

We also have our own winter driving guide, with tips to keep you safe on the road.

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New Toyota GRMN Yaris is already 2022’s hottest hatch

By

John Redfern

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January 17, 2022

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The Toyota GR Yaris has already gained cult status for transferring rally car thrills to the road.

From winning the 2021 UK Car of the Year Award, to generating an endless waiting list, the homologation special’s impact has been huge.

Despite the GR Yaris being quite a hardcore proposition, however, Toyota has found ways to make it more extreme. Meet the limited-edition GRMN Yaris.

Toyota previously used the GRMN name name in 2018, applied to a limited-run performance version of the previous Yaris.

Be in it to win it

First, a disclaimer. Toyota will only sell 500 examples of the GRMN Yaris, and only to Japanese customers. Even they will have to enter a lottery to be in with a chance of owning one.

The three-cylinder engine’s power output unchanged, at the standard 268hp found in Japanese-market cars. However, torque has increased by 20lb ft to a total of 288lb ft.

The six-speed manual gearbox is upgraded, with shorter ratios used for the first four gears. A new clutch is also fitted, with the all-wheel-drive system gaining mechanical limited-slip differentials both front and rear.

Toyota has also managed to trim 20kg in weight from the diminutive Yaris. An extra 545 spot welds are added, with more structural adhesive used.

Track day or rally stage?

Other changes include the addition of a carbon fibre bonnet, suspension lowered by 10mm and a 10mm wider track.

As with the ‘regular’ GR Yaris, those lucky enough to bag a GRMN can pick from two options packages. The Circuit Pack is limited to just 50 examples, with the option to specify a bespoke Matte Steel exterior finish.

Circuit Pack cars gain a set of 18-inch BBS wheels, Bilstein suspension dampers and a special bodykit with a huge carbon fibre rear spoiler.

The Rally Package adds parts developed from the All Japan Rally series. Underbody protection, a Gazoo Racing suspension setup and a hefty roll cage are included.

Brace yourself

Room for the extra rear scaffolding comes from the GRMN Yaris being a strict two-seater. All versions get a pair of deep Recaro buckets, which are fitted with side airbags.

Ditching the rear bench seat contributes to the weight-saving exercise. It also places the GRMN Yaris in a special class of two-seat hot hatches, such as the Renault Megane R26.R.

Prices for the GRMN Yaris are not cheap, with the base car starting at the equivalent of £46,900. The reservation lottery is open now, with deliveries to customers expected later this year.

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Jenson Button’s 1970 Ford Bronco is up for auction

By

John Redfern

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January 14, 2022

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A Ford Bronco belonging to racing driver Jenson Button is listed for auction on the Collecting Cars website.

It seems not even the 2009 Formula 1 World Champion has been able to escape the lure of ‘Bronco Fever’.

However, Button’s restored and upgraded 1970 Bronco is now ready and waiting for a new owner.

Winning ways

Button’s Formula 1 career saw him enter more than 300 races between 2000 and 2017. His crowning glory came in 2009, driving for the hastily established Brawn GP team. Button took six wins that season, securing himself the F1 Drivers’ World Championship.

Eight more years with McLaren would follow until his retirement in 2017. Since then, Button has appeared as a TV pundit for Sky Sports F1, and also won the 2018 Super GT championship in Japan.

More recently, he has relaunched the Radford coachbuilding company, and worked with Lotus on the development of the new Emira sports car.

Classic looks, extra performance

After a successful career driving Formula 1 cars, a classic SUV might feel a little on the slow side. Having owned this first-generation Bronco for four years, though, it has benefited from a number of important upgrades.

Previously restored, the Dark Blue paintwork hides a Ford 302-cubic inch (4.9-l) V8 engine. Fitech fuel injection, an Edelbrock air filter and an MSD ignition kit with push-button start are all fitted.

A three-speed automatic transmission controls the power, sending it to all four wheels. The Bronco’s suspension has been lifted, with uprated Bilstein shock absorbers.

A set of improved Wilwood brakes are installed on the front axle. These hide behind a set of 17-inch Method alloy wheels, wrapped in 35-inch BFGoodrich rubber.

California Dreamin’

On the inside, the Bronco has seats upholstered in luxurious cream leather. A new wood-rimmed steering wheel is fitted, with the classic SUV using a Borgeson power steering rack.

The side windows of the Bronco are deleted, with a bimini soft-top installed over a half roll cage. This makes it perfect for life in Los Angeles, CA, where Button currently resides.

A Kenwood stereo, complete with a USB connection, is on the dashboard. Upgraded headlights and set of KC driving lamps are also present and correct.

Auction-ready again

With extra performance and a host of notable upgrades, this classic 1970 Bronco is likely to appeal to collectors. Add the fact that it is owned by a championship-winning Formula 1 driver, and interest should be keen.

Last year saw Button sell his Porsche Carrera GT and 1994 Porsche 911 Turbo. He previously sold a McLaren P1 in 2018.

The auction for Jenson Button’s Bronco is live on Collecting Cars now, with bidding open until Thursday 20 January.

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Breakdowns caused by potholes hit three-year high

By

John Redfern

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January 14, 2022

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RAC patrols were called to attend more than 10,000 pothole-related breakdowns in 2021.

It marks the highest annual total seen by the company since 2018, and equates to an astonishing 27 call-outs each day.

The new data, released for National Pothole Day 2022, is intended to highlight the scale of the problems caused by poor quality road surfaces across the UK.

Pothole problems sink further

The 10,123 RAC call-outs attended during 2021 saw potholes causing broken suspension springs, distorted wheels, and damaged shock absorbers.

This made for a 10 percent increase compared to the 9,198 pothole breakdowns the RAC attended during 2020.

In fact, broken roads accounted for 1.5 percent of all incidents dealt with by the breakdown company during 2021.

RAC data did show a slight fall in call-outs towards the end of 2021. However, the 1,688 pothole-related breakdowns still represented 0.9 percent of all RAC breakdowns attended in the final quarter of the year.

Time to turn the tide?

Information used to power the RAC’s own Pothole Index has found that UK drivers are now more at risk of damage from broken tarmac. Compared to data taken since 2006, hitting a pothole is now 1.63 times more likely to result in a car breaking down.

Rotting roads

RAC head of roads policy Nicholas Lyes said: “The rot appears to have well and truly set in when it comes to the country’s roads, with our patrols going out to vast numbers of drivers who, through no fault of their own, are breaking down because of the wear-and-tear caused by potholes.

“This is ridiculous because it is almost entirely avoidable if roads were maintained properly. With drivers contributing so much in terms of tax to the Government, the very least they deserve are roads that are fit for purpose.”

Lyes added: “On National Pothole Day, our message to the Government is clear – it’s time the tide was turned when it comes to potholes and local councils are given the levels of funding they need to get their roads up to a reasonable standard.

“Clearly, promises of one-off pots of cash from the Government to fix the problem haven’t done the trick and we urgently need some fresh thinking.

“Ring-fencing a proportion of existing taxation and earmarking these funds purely for local roads over a long-term period would give councils the financial confidence they need to plan their road maintenance work, and finally break the back on this age-old problem.

“This is something we know would be popular with drivers.”

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Ford takes double win in 2022 NACOTY awards

Ford takes double win in 2022 NACTOY Awards

By

John Redfern

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January 11, 2022

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After months of detailed evaluation and voting, the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year (NACTOY) judges have named their 2022 winners.

Founded in 1994, the NACTOY Awards are the longest-running new vehicle awards not associated with a single outlet.

A group of 50 journalists from magazines, newspapers, websites, and television and radio stations in the U.S. and Canada voted on a field of nine contenders spread across three categories.

American-made Civic impresses

The Honda Civic has picked up the prestigious Car of the Year award, beating the new Volkswagen Golf and all-electric Lucid Air.

The eleventh-generation Civic is sold in both hatchback and sedan form. In 2021, Honda started building the five-door liftback in the United States for the first time.

An improved exterior design, larger interior and new engines all helped the Civic take the top prize.

New Ford Maverick takes truck win

Winning in the all-important truck category was the new Ford Maverick.

Launched last year, the Maverick was marketed as the cheapest new Ford product to buy in North America. Ford has designed its compact truck to appeal to non-traditional pickup buyers.

Capable of towing up to 4,000 lb, the Maverick is offered with multiple engine options. An efficient 2.5-liter hybrid can offer a range of up to 500 miles.

For 2022, the Maverick beat the Hyundai Santa Cruz and radical electric Rivian R1T.

Bronco Fever continues unabated

Finally, taking victory in the utility class was the seemingly unstoppable Ford Bronco.

Proving that the retro-inspired SUV is about more than just nostalgia, the Bronco beat the electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Genesis GV70 to take the winner’s trophy.

Endless customization options, specialist off-road packages and two different body styles all add to the Bronco’s appeal.

Winning the 2022 NACTOY Award for top truck will further endorse Ford’s decision to bring back the Bronco.

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Hennessey Venom F5 deploys full 1,800 horsepower in latest test

By

John Redfern

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January 11, 2022

0

The outrageous Hennessey Venom F5 hypercar is continuing to be pushed to its limits as it undergoes performance evaluation.

New video footage has been shared by the Texas-based company, showing the Venom F5 deploying more than 1,800 horsepower.

It marks the latest step in development of the mid-engined machine, even with all 24 production examples already sold.

Faster and furiouser

Last year, Hennessey undertook high-speed testing of the Venom F5 with ‘only’ 900 horsepower. The latest runs, held at the Johnny Bohmer Proving Grounds in Florida, allowed the hypercar to use maximum power.

The bespoke 6.6-l twin-turbocharged V8 ‘Fury’ engine can produce a peak output of 1,817 horsepower and 1,193 lb-ft of torque.

To make use of full power, the Venom needs to be in special ‘F5 Mode’. Named after the highest category on the Fujita tornado intensity rating scale, F5 winds can reach a peak of 318 mph.

The new round of testing saw the Venom F5 reach more than 250 mph, allowing Hennessey’s engineers to assess high-speed stability.

Aiming for beyond 300 mph

Hennessey’s ultimate test will come later: attempting to hit the flame-spitting Venom F5’s theoretical top speed of 311 mph. This will also take place at the Johnny Bohmer Proving Grounds, using the Kennedy Space Center’s 3.2-mile runway.

Once the initial production run of 24 cars is complete, Hennessey plans to create further enhancements for the Venom F5.

A bespoke track pack is top of the list, potentially adding even more performance to the $2.1 million (£1.54 million) hypercar.

Plans for a radical six-wheel electric hypercar, named Project Deep Space, were also announced by Hennessey at the end of 2021.

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