Gordon Murray S1 LM sold for $20.6 million at Las Vegas auction

By

-

November 24, 2025

A winning bid of $20.63 million (£15.77 million) secured chassis #1 of the 1990’s inspired supercar

The first example of the new Gordon Murray Special Vehicles S1 LM hypercar has achieved a record sale price in Las Vegas.

Auctioned as part of the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend, chassis no.1 from the five-car run sold for $20,630,000 (£15,773,000).

Excluding charity sales, this makes the S1 LM the most expensive new car to ever be sold at auction.

The record price seems fitting for a car known as the ‘Special One’ – and makes it more valuable than the McLaren F1 LM it pays tribute to.

S1 LM breaks auction record

Revealed earlier this year at Monterey Car Week, the S1 LM is the first product from the bespoke Gordon Murray Special Vehicles division.

Using the Gordon Murray T.50 supercar as its starting point, the S1 LM has styling influenced by the legendary McLaren F1. Climb inside and you’ll discover an F1-style central seating position, too.

A naturally aspirated 4.3-litre V12 engine delivers 720hp at a heady 12,100rpm, and is connected to a six-speed manual gearbox.

Notably, all five cars from the planned production run were bought by a single car collector, who has not been named.

‘A pure expression of driving perfection’

The winning bidder in Las Vegas has not only secured the final example of the S1 LM; they will also spend time with Professor Gordon Murray CBE to shape every detail of their vehicle.

Driving sessions alongside four-time IndyCar champion and three-time Indy 500 winner Dario Franchitti will be included, too.

The lucky buyer will also receive a unique 500-page book that details the S1 LM’s creation. This includes original sketches and notes from Gordon Murray’s own design notebook.

Following the sale, Gordon Murray said: “This world record auction result is a defining moment for our entire team and for the automotive world.

“The S1 LM represents everything I have learned in six decades of design – a pure expression of driving perfection, engineering art and a true return to beauty. To see it achieve this scale of appreciation is truly humbling.”

ALSO READ:

Gordon Murray Automotive: the supercar stars of Goodwood Festival of Speed

We spend a day with London’s exclusive supercar club

Best supercars to buy in 2025

All-new Kia Telluride revealed at 2025 LA Auto Show

By

Richard Aucock

-

November 20, 2025

0

An all-new Kia Telluride has been revealed at the 2025 LA Auto Show, with bold new styling and an available hybrid powertrain capable of up to 35mpg for the US-designed and built vehicle.

The second-generation of Kia’s popular three-row flagship SUV, the new Telluride offers even more space inside, plus next-gen infotainment tech including YouTube, Disney+ and Netflix streaming.

There is also a rugged Kia Telluride X-Pro version with longer-travel suspension, an electronic limited-slip differential, all-terrain tyres, 9.1 inches of ground clearance and multiple drive modes.

“With the launch of the second-generation Telluride, our design and product planning team had an incredible challenge: develop an all-new SUV that was its own, unique product, while encapsulating many of the elements that made the original Telluride a historic success,” said SeungKyu (Sean) Yoon, president and CEO of Kia North America and Kia America.

“The 2027 Telluride is a capable and sophisticated SUV that embodies our approach to bringing innovative, consumer-focused products to market.”

The new Kia Telluride follows on from the hugely successful 2019 original, which made global headlines when it scooped the 2020 World Car of the Year Award – Kia’s first overall success in the number one automotive awards program.

Bigger and bolder

A striking new design gives the Telluride a cleaner, more modern and premium appearance. Its bold lines are shaped with luxury car-like attention to detail. There’s also a new take on the Telluride’s distinctive vertical headlamps, which frame a high-gloss grille.

It doesn’t just look smoother, either – the wind tunnel confirms this, with a drag coefficient improved from 0.33 to 0.30.

Kia Telluride X-Line and X-Pro versions also have blacked-out wheelarches, side mirrors, rear pillars and other trim.

The interior follows trends seen in other modern Kias, with a freestanding digital display and wood-based textures. Indirect ambient LED lighting is also available, as are front ‘relaxation’ seats with leg rests, dual wireless phone chargers, and smartphone or smart watch vehicle access.

The new Kia Telluride is now bigger all round. At 199.2 inches overall, it is 2.3 inches longer than before, which creates more legroom in both the second and third rows. Indeed, second-row space is now class-leading.

As before, there are both seven-seat and eight-seat versions of the Telluride. Kia has improved access to the third row – and delivered more cargo space behind the seats, too.

Captain’s chairs are a new option for the second row. With both heating and ventilation, they are claimed to offer “first-class” comfort.

Turbo and hybrid power

The standard Kia Telluride has a more powerful turbocharged engine producing 274 hp and 311 lb ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard, with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. An optional tow hitch allows it to haul up to 5,000 pounds.

The new Telluride Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter turbo powertrain with a 1.65-kWh lithium-ion battery and electric motors. Total output of 329 hp is combined with 339 lb ft of torque. A clever six-speed automatic transmission should help it deliver up to 35mpg.

Kia has introduced a clever ‘Stay Mode’ for the Telluride Hybrid. This allows the hybrid battery to power the climate control, cabin lighting, stereo and other systems for around 20 minutes without activating the combustion engine.

There’s also a brace of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), along with 10 airbags – including a front center airbag.

The new Kia Telluride will go on sale in the U.S. in Q1 of 2026. It will be made at Kia’s Georgia plant. Details of prices, specific availability, spec levels and EPA-rated fuel economy will follow later.

Annual sales of the original Telluride have doubled since its 2019 introduction, to around 120,000 vehicles a year – and despite its imminent replacement, 2025 is expected to be another record year for Telluride volumes.

ALSO READ:

Kia PV5 sets new world record for electric vans

Meet the Rolls-Royce inspired by vintage video games

British sports car brand TVR to make a comeback (again)

Rally-inspired Fiat to be recreated as a Hot Wheels model

By

John Redfern

-

November 20, 2025

0

Paweł Czarnecki’s Fiat 126B features a 200hp mid-mounted turbocharged engine, plus bespoke bodywork

A unique modified Fiat 126B has been named the winner of the 2025 Hot Wheels Legends Tour.

Created by Paweł Czarnecki from Poland, the diminutive Fiat has been transformed into a tribute to icons of Group B rallying.

Czarnecki’s vision, combined with more than 2,500 hours of hard graft, saw the Fiat beat thousands of other cars from around the world to be crowned the new Hot Wheels champion.

Now, the 126B will be added to the ‘Hot Wheels Garage of Legends’, and transformed into a 1:64-scale die-cast model to be sold worldwide.

Demonstrating true ‘garage spirit’

Despite its tiny dimensions, Czarnecki’s 126 is big on design details, including the addition of a mid-mounted 1.4-litre engine from a Fiat Uno Turbo. A larger turbocharger, taken from a Nissan 200SX, results in a 200hp output.

The Fiat’s bodywork was widened by 47cm (18.5 inches). It features a huge rear wing, along with a bonnet that flips forward. More than 800 hours were spent on 3D printing custom parts for the 126.

Bespoke coilover suspension allows for the perfect stance, riding on period-correct HTN Motorsport three-piece alloy wheels.

Larger brakes taken from a Fiat Uno, a full roll cage and a motorsport-style interior were the finishing touches for Czarnecki’s miniature rally hero.

A global celebration of creativity

This year, the Hot Wheels Legends Tour visited 16 different countries. Contenders for the overall title first had to win local and regional finals.

Three cars then progressed to the Global Grand Final, where they had to impress judges such as broadcaster and famous car enthusiast, Jay Leno.

“From its roots in the US to stops across 16 countries, the Hot Wheels Legends Tour has grown into a truly global celebration of creativity and the automotive community,” said Ted Wu, head of vehicles and building sets at Mattel.

“Car enthusiasts in Poland have shown incredible support for the Tour over the years and Paweł Czarnecki’s custom Fiat exemplifies the talent and imagination that fans from Poland — and around the world — bring to the Hot Wheels Legends Tour.”

Paweł Czarnecki’s Fiat 126 joins past winners of the Hot Wheels Legends Tour, including the UK’s overall winner from 2021: the Volvo P1800 ‘Gasser’.

ALSO READ:

Hot Wheels models now cover the full 2025 Formula 1 grid

Fiat has transformed the 500 into a boat – and you could buy one

New Fiat Grande Panda – and Italy’s greatest cars

Cayenne EV revealed: Porsche’s bestseller goes electric

By

John Redfern

-

November 19, 2025

1

Prices for the Porsche Cayenne Electric will start at £83,200, with the Turbo Electric requiring £130,900

Porsche has fully revealed the first Cayenne Electric. Two versions of the luxury SUV will be offered at launch, with the new Cayenne Turbo becoming the most powerful road-going Porsche ever sold.

With a mighty 1,156hp and 1,106lb ft of torque when using launch control, the Cayenne Turbo Electric can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 2.5 seconds.

The German marque also promises ‘Formula E levels’ of brake recuperation, aiding a battery range of up to 398 miles – depending on the model chosen.

Hypercar power and performance

Larger than its combustion-engined counterpart, Porsche has given the Cayenne Electric its own unique look. The result is a drag coefficient of 0.25, making it one of the most aerodynamic SUVs on sale.

Active aerodynamics have also been used throughout, offering a blend between downforce and efficiency as needed.

Both versions of the Cayenne Electric come with all-wheel drive as standard. The base model produces 408hp in normal driving, or 442hp when launch control is activated. This results in a 0-62mph time of 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 143mph.

The Cayenne Turbo Electric has 857hp in ‘normal’ mode, with an extra shot of 176hp available for 10 seconds using its ‘push-to-pass’ function. The flagship model can reach 163mph flat-out.

Expect the inevitable record-breaking Nurburgring lap time to follow in due course…

Wireless charging is available

Powering all Cayenne Electric models is a 113kWh battery with 800-volt technology. This can rapid-charge at speeds of up to 400kW, allowing the Cayenne to go from 10 to 80 percent battery capacity in less than 16 minutes.

The Cayenne Electric also becomes the first Porsche to offer optional wireless inductive charging.

Using a floor-mounted 11kW charging plate, drivers simply need to park the Cayenne Electric above the plate (see photo above) to replenish its battery pack.

Fully charged, the Cayenne Electric has a tested range of 398 miles. The more powerful Cayenne Turbo is not far behind, with 387 miles.

Acres of digital real estate

Porsche promises the Cayenne Electric will be the most customisable version of its SUV to date. Customers can pick from 13 standard paint colours, five alloy wheel designs and 12 different interior combinations.

Thanks to Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, the extended Paint to Sample exterior colour range, along with the bespoke Sonderwunsch programme, is available for even greater personalisation.

Inside, Porsche has fitted the Cayenne Electric with the largest digital display in the company’s history. A curved OLED ‘Flow Display’ is combined with a 14.25-inch digital instrument panel, plus the option of a 14.9-inch touchscreen for the front-seat passenger.

There is also a new head-up display with augmented reality, which creates an 87-inch infographic 10 metres in front of the vehicle.

Orders open for 2026 Cayenne Electric

Earlier this year, Porsche announced a ‘realignment of its product strategy’ that will delay the release of further electric vehicles.

Speaking at the launch of the Cayenne Electric, Matthias Becker, member of the board for sales and marketing, said Porsche will ensure that customers “will in future have the choice between fully electric and combustion-engine powertrains”.

Available to order now, UK prices for the Porsche Cayenne Electric start at £83,200. Opting for the Turbo elevates the cost of entry to £130,900.

ALSO READ:

Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid 2025 review

Porsche Taycan GTS Sport Turismo 2025 review

Best luxury SUVs to buy in 2025

Millennials worried about EV chargers reducing their house prices

By

John Redfern

-

November 19, 2025

0

A survey of UK motorists found that younger drivers place importance on the aesthetics of a home charging device

Having an ugly electric vehicle charger at home is a concern for many of Britain’s younger drivers.

New research reveals that more than half (56 percent) of those aged between 25 and 35 worry that a visually unappealing EV charger could devalue their property.

Some 70 percent of Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) and Gen-Zers (born between 1997 and 2012) say the look of a home charging device is important to them.

By contrast, only 15 percent believe the aesthetics of a wallbox charger do not matter.

EV chargers help to sell houses

Premium EV home charger manufacturer Andersen was responsible for the survey of 1,010 UK motorists.

Across all age groups, exactly half of survey respondents thought the design of a home wallbox would make a difference.

Older drivers were less likely to be concerned about the looks of a home charger, with only 39 percent of those aged over 65 saying it was important.

A 79 percent majority of those aged between 25 and 34 said they would be more likely to buy a home that already has a charging wallbox fitted.

Need for ‘aesthetics and technology’

However, an unappealing home charging device could dissuade younger buyers, potentially impacting a property’s value.

Andersen highlights that it offers more than 200 different colour combinations across its range of charging wallboxes. These include metal and wooden finishes, with hidden cables included.

“As EV adoption accelerates, it’s clear that the next generation of homeowners care deeply about design and kerb appeal,” said David Martell, CEO of Andersen.

“Millennial and Gen-Z motorists don’t just want a charger that performs well, they want one that enhances the appearance and value of their home. That’s why the industry must raise its game, focusing on aesthetics as much as technology.”

ALSO READ:

Will fully charging your electric car damage its battery?

Best electric cars to buy in 2025

Your EV questions answered on Motoring Electric

Meet the Rolls-Royce inspired by vintage video games

By

John Redfern

-

November 19, 2025

0

A bespoke commission, the Rolls-Royce Black Badge Ghost Gamer has been made for an arcade-loving enthusiast

Rolls-Royce has revealed a one-off Ghost inspired by classic video games. Commissioned by a customer with a passion for retro arcade action, the Black Badge Ghost Gamer was customised by the British marque’s Bespoke Design division.

“Over the course of a month, we immersed ourselves in the 8-bit aesthetic that defined late 70s and early 80s gaming – from the games themselves and archive imagery of arcade halls, to original promotional and cabinet artwork”, said Joshua McCandless, a designer at Rolls-Royce.

Now complete, the Black Badge Ghost Gamer should strike a chord with anyone who has ever played Space Invaders or Pac-Man.

Aliens are included

The Black Badge Ghost Gamer has a two-tone exterior finish, with its main body in Salamanca Blue and upper body in deep-shimmer Crystal over Diamond Black.

The combination of colours is said to pay homage to the ‘neon-lit aesthetic’ of classic arcade consoles.

A ‘cheeky alien’ graphic made up of 89 individual ‘pixels’ sits atop the exterior coachline, rendered in simple 8-bit graphics. Both the Spirit of Ecstasy bonnet mascot and front grille are illuminated.

The Ghost Gamer rides on 22-inch Black Badge forged alloy wheels, with gloss black brake calipers visible behind.

Ready, player one?

Inside, the Ghost Gamer features a combination of Casden Tan and black leather. ‘Player 1’ and ‘Player 2’ are embroidered into the front seats, with (you guessed it) ‘Player 3’ and ‘Player 4’ in the back.

Between the rear seats is a bespoke artwork for the ‘Waterfall’ panel, showing hand-painted flying saucers on a starscape background.

The crowning glory, though, is the ‘Pixel Blaster’ Starlight Headliner. A formation of 80 bitmapped spaceships is illuminated above the occupants’ heads using fibre optics. These can simulate pulsing laser fire, just like in a classic arcade game.

Other gaming ‘Easter eggs’ include 8-bit inspired illuminated sill covers, plus a metal ‘cheeky alien’ inlay on the fold-down picnic tables.

ALSO READ:

Rolls-Royce Phantom Centenary celebrates 100 years of luxury

Rolls-Royce Ghost Black Badge Series II 2025 review

Best luxury cars to buy in 2025

Mitsubishi cars make a surprise return to the UK

By

John Redfern

-

November 18, 2025

0

Mitsubishi cars will soon be on sale again, four years after the Japanese marque stopped selling cars in the UK.

International Motors, which became responsible for Mitsubishi when it switched to being aftersales-only, will be the importer and distributor for new vehicles.

It has announced its plans to introduce new Mitsubishi vehicles to the UK from summer 2026.

Sharon Townsend, head of Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, said: “We’re delighted to be introducing exciting new Mitsubishi vehicles to our loyal UK customers.

“Over the past few years, we’ve continued to see enthusiasm for the brand, which has strongly influenced this decision. By building on our trusted aftersales network and dedicated retailer partners, we are committed to providing an exceptional ownership experience.”

Evolutionary progression

No specific information has been released by International Motors on which Mitsubishi vehicles will come to the UK in 2026.

However, it does say the models will be ‘drawn from Mitsubishi Motors’ global lineup’, and celebrate ‘advancements in innovation and four-wheel-drive technologies’.

Before any British enthusiasts get excited at the thought of the Lancer Evolution making a return, the road-going rally car hasn’t been part of the Mitsubishi range since 2016. Sorry.

Nor are UK motorists likely to be offered one of the brand’s diminutive kei city cars, such as the award-winning eK and Delica models.

‘A deep emotional connection’

Instead, the smart money is on the latest, fourth-generation Mitsubishi Outlander SUV. This shares a platform with the current Nissan X-Trail, and has the option of a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The Triton pickup truck, previously sold here under the L200 badge, could be another contender. However, International Motors is also the UK distributor for Isuzu, so is unlikely to want too much competition for the popular D-Max pickup.

Frank Krol, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Europe, said: “Our upcoming models represent the very best of Mitsubishi Motors’ core technologies in performance, four-wheel drive and much more. We look forward to a successful introduction in the UK – a market where our brand continues to have a deep emotional connection with loyal customers.”

ALSO READ:

British battery tech could slash EV charging times to 10 minutes

New Omoda 7 family SUV to cost from under £30,000

The best new cars to buy in 2025

New 666hp Supersports is the lightest Bentley for 85 years

By

John Redfern

-

November 17, 2025

0

The wraps are off the Bentley Continental GT Supersports: the British marque’s new 666hp performance flagship.

The rear-wheel-drive Supersports has been subjected to an extreme weight-loss programme. This included removing the rear seats, along with the plug-in hybrid hardware from its twin-turbocharged V8 engine.

The result is the lightest road-going Bentley for 85 years, with a kerb weight of less than 2,000kg.

In a world of electrification and ever-heavier cars, Bentley has bucked the trend. The fourth model in its history to wear the Supersports badge is a bit of an old-school hot rod – and what’s not to like about that?

Bentley gets bold

The 4.0-litre V8 gains larger turbochargers and a new crankshaft, resulting in a devilish 666hp and 590lb ft of torque. Using an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, the Supersports can sprint to 62mph in 3.7 seconds. Top speed is 192mph.

However, Bentley engineers were more focused on how the Supersports feels to drive than on outright pace. Apart from racing versions, no Continental GT in the model’s 20-year history has been rear-driven.

A new carbon fibre aero kit, including a fixed rear wing, generates more than 300kg in downforce. Carbon-ceramic brakes, a set of 22-inch forged Manthey alloy wheels and an Akrapovic titanium exhaust are also part of the package.

With sticky Pirelli Trofeo RS rubber fitted, the Supersports delivers 30 percent faster cornering speeds than the regular Continental GT. Provided you don’t use all that torque to shred the tyres first, that is…

On sale in March 2026

Inside, the Supersports has two lightweight bucket seats, although they still feature 11-way electric adjustment. The rear chairs have been replaced by a carbon fibre tub trimmed in plush leather.

Carbon fibre and Dinamica (man-made suede) are also used extensively throughout the cabin. Bentley’s bespoke Mulliner division can customise the interior and exterior of the Supersports to each buyer’s personal taste.

Production of the Continental GT Supersports will be capped at 500 examples, and orders open in March 2026. The first completed cars should leave the factory in Crewe, Cheshire, later next year.

Pricing for the Continental GT Supersports hasn’t been confirmed. However, budget on at least £300,000 to own one of the most extreme and exclusive Bentleys ever made.

ALSO READ:

Bentley Flying Spur Speed 2025 review

Bentley Batur 2023 review

Best supercars to buy in 2025

Just 6% of UK drivers attempt to fix their own car

By

John Redfern

-

November 17, 2025

0

Younger drivers are most likely to be hands-on when it comes to tackling car problems instead of using a mechanic

With colder weather on the way, new research revealeds which motorists are most likely to seek help with mechanical issues.

More than half (56 percent) of drivers would turn to someone else, including a mechanic, to tackle issues with their car.

Just six percent of those surveyed said they would be willing to fix something themselves. And 22 percent said it would depend on the particular automotive problem.

The study found differences between different demographic groups, and across regions of the UK, in terms of which drivers are most likely to rely on others for car repairs.

Time to call a mechanic

Aftermarket warranty provider Warrantywise undertook the new research, putting its questions to 2,000 UK drivers.

It discovered that almost two thirds (65 percent) of women drivers normally get someone else to repair their vehicle. More than three quarters (77 percent) admitted they would not feel comfortable changing a tyre.

Drivers aged between 45 and 54 are the most dependent on others for repairs, at 63 percent. Just three percent of those over 65 would fix a car themselves.

In comparison, younger drivers aged from 18 to 24 are the most likely to get hands-on, with 15 percent saying they do their own maintenance – more than twice the national average.

Winter takes its toll

Across the UK, drivers in Northern Ireland are most willing to fix their own cars, with 27 percent saying they would attempt a repair.

In the South East of England, 64 percent of respondents said they would rely on others for vehicle repairs.

Antony Diggins, managing director at Warrantywise, said: “Winter is the hardest season for cars – cold starts, dead batteries, and slippery conditions all take their toll. But with modern vehicles packed full of sensors, computers and hybrid components, even a small issue can require specialist tools or software to diagnose.

“Our research shows that most UK drivers – especially older motorists and female drivers – simply don’t feel equipped to handle these repairs themselves. That’s why having a reliable warranty plan and roadside support is more important than ever in the colder months.”

ALSO READ:

New Omoda 7 family SUV to cost from under £30,000

Majority of UK drivers now say safety tech has helped avoid collisions

Buying a used car: 10 things to check

British sports car brand TVR to make a comeback (again)

By

John Redfern

-

November 14, 2025

0

Originally revealed at the 2017 Goodwood Revival, the reborn TVR Griffith could finally be set to become a reality

Just when it seemed that TVR was gone for good, the famous British sports car manufacturer looks set for a dramatic comeback.

TVR Automotive has agreed a ‘strategic framework for merger’ with Charge Holdings. The deal will include production of the new Griffith.

Originally announced at the 2017 Goodwood Revival, the reborn TVR Griffith was expected to go on sale in 2018.

However, the sports car project, and the latest iteration of the TVR company itself, have been beset by difficulties over the past eight years.

New TVR Griffith could return

Created with input from Gordon Murray Design, and powered by a Cosworth-developed 5.0-litre V8 engine, the TVR Griffith was predicted to have a top speed of 200mph.

A price of £90,000 was mooted for the Griffith Launch Edition, which had motorsport-inspired features such as adjustable coilover suspension and bespoke Avon ZZ5 tyres.

Investment from the Welsh Government included major plans for TVR to build cars in Ebbw Vale, although the company later abandoned this idea.

Production of the new Griffith was further delayed by the coronavirus pandemic, with the most recent news being the opening of a new ‘brand centre’ at Thruxton race circuit.

Electric TVRs on the horizon?

Paul Abercrombie, CEO of Charge Holdings, stated: “Charge Holdings’ mission is to bring together iconic performance brands and world-class manufacturing expertise.

“This strategic merger with TVR is set to unite heritage with innovation, creating a new leader in the low-volume luxury automotive sector. More details will be announced in early 2026.”

Charge Holdings includes the Charge Cars brand, which previously demonstrated an electric version of the classic Ford Mustang, known as the ‘67, at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Given the experience of Charge Holdings, the merger between the two companies could lead to ‘expanding into electrified platforms in the future’. Yes, even TVR could end up building an EV.

ALSO READ:

Bespoke engine for reborn Ford Escort Mk1 RS revs to 10,000rpm

Lamborghini Temerario 2025 review

Best sports cars to buy in 2025