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Leclerc vs Verstappen: The battle for Formula 1 Car News

What makes this battle so fascinating are the pilots. Verstappen has completely transformed and re-optimized his driving style for this new generation of cars, right from the start of testing adopting a super fluid, almost Alain Prost style, radically different from what he used before.

Indeed, while last year’s Red Bull had a strong front end and lively spin on corner entry (ideal for Verstappen but limiting for the majority of riders who lost confidence due to the unstable rear ), these new cars struggle to load in the front. slower corners in particular. It’s not helped by the more understeer balance of the new low-profile tires.

It’s a feature that suits his team-mate Pérez, who, aided by Verstappen’s racking up one more retirement, is less than 15 points in the standings but still within tenths of Verstappen’s ultimate pace.

Leclerc has a car that allows him to express his brilliance in qualifying. Spain is a classic example because, with a setup designed to protect the front on race day, it had a breakage-prone car from the rear. After a spin on his first lap in Q3, he clinched pole position on second – such is his confidence and ability to deal with such instability.

As for team-mate Carlos Sainz, what he calls lightness from the back means he hasn’t been on Leclerc’s level.

The battle between Leclerc and Verstappen has been a bogus war so far and all smiles, but it remains a powder keg waiting to erupt. And in Monaco, where Ferrari unsuccessfully protested the two Red Bull drivers believing they had illegally crossed the yellow line marking the pit exit, we saw the first hint of a needlestick between the teams.

If Ferrari and Red Bull stay on a similar level (and there’s every chance they will as the vagaries of circuit characteristics and conditions tip it one way or the other), this battle is sure. to explode on the track.

Mercedes remain absent from the fight but with a tantalizing hint that they could emerge as a confounder up front even though they have potentially already lost too much ground to be a threat in the Drivers’ or Constructors’ Championship.

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Source: www.autocar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2022-05-31 11:36:36

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New 2022 Peugeot 408 confirmed for June unveiling Car News

Peugeot has confirmed that a new model called Peugeot 408 will be unveiled on June 22, which is expected to fall between the Peugeot 308 sedan and the Peugeot 3008 SUV.

The French automaker said the model “combines characteristic SUV codes with a dynamic fastback silhouette”.

Previously thought to be called the Peugeot 4008 and a coupe-SUV sibling to the 3008, the 408 name announced today suggests it will be more focused on fastback sedan design while remaining premium.

Along with confirming the 408 name, Peugeot released an image of the front of the car, which shows an evolution of Peugeot’s current grille. The horizontal lines are body color and thicken as the grille extends towards the side of the car.

Commenting on the model, Peugeot said: “In terms of design and engineering, the search for high efficiency and the desire to offer new experiences have been at the heart of the development of the new Peugeot 408. Aimed at those for car is a pleasure, the 408 brings a unique look to the Peugeot family.

The 408 nomenclature is already used in China for an extended wheelbase version of the 308. Peugeot has confirmed that the model will remain on sale and “a differentiator will be used in China to avoid confusion”, details of which will be confirmed at the reveal. . of the model.

The new model will share the underpinnings of the 308 and 3008, meaning it will offer the same array of combustion and electrified powertrains.

Autocar has already spotted the car being tested on public roads, giving clues as to how it has been designed with influence from traditional coupes, sedans and SUVs – in the same vein as the new Citroën C5X, with which it shares Stellantis’ EMP2 architecture.

This platform can accommodate both pure-combustion and plug-in hybrid powertrains – the latter being tested in these spy photos, as evidenced by the camouflaged charging port on the rear – and the model is expected to be offered with the same drivetrains as the EMP2-based 308: two plug-in hybrids, a 1.5-litre diesel and a 1.2-litre petrol in two states of tuning.

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Source: www.autocar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2022-05-31 11:41:17

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Contest: Are you the most passionate BMW M owner in the UK? Car News

Have you been a lifelong BMW M fan? Do you own a BMW M car with a great story about why it’s your dream car?

Would you like to share this story with your fellow Autocar users and enjoy an incredible behind-the-scenes VIP experience at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, including the ultra-rare opportunity to have a passenger ride the iconic Hillclimb course?

We’re looking for the UK’s most passionate BMW M owners to star in an upcoming video celebrating BMW M’s 50th anniversary. Fest at Caffeine & Machine on the evening of Tuesday June 21, before heading to the Goodwood Festival Of Speed ​​on Friday June 24.

Once at Goodwood, you’ll have VIP access to the BMW stand, including the chance to view the new BMW M4 CSL and all-new BMW XM Concept alongside a host of iconic BMW M models. Then, the icing on the cake: we’ll put you in the passenger seat of one of BMW M’s iconic models for a thrilling experience on the challenging 1.16-mile Goodwood Hillclimb course.

At every stage of the journey, we’ll film your story – ensuring that you and your BMW M car are the stars of one of our BMW M 50th anniversary celebration videos.

Click here to register your interest in our exclusive VIP experience BMW M Goodwood coach

For a chance to join us on this journey, just click on the link and fill out the form – tell us a bit about yourself, your amazing BMW M car, and why you’re the right kind of passionate fan to help us celebrate BMW The 50th anniversary milestone of Mr.

To be eligible, you will need to own a BMW M car that you can drive to our events, and you will need to be available between June 21-24, 2022. But, as this is a truly unique event – lifetime opportunity , we know you’ll jump at the chance. In exchange, we will cover expenses and accommodation.

Click here to register your interest in our exclusive VIP experience BMW M Goodwood coach

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Source: www.autocar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2022-06-05 14:00:00

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Opinion: AMG One proves Britannia rules this wave of hypercars Car News

Knowing what they now know about the cost and complication of producing 1,000 horsepower hypercars, would Mercedes-AMG or Aston Martin have initially approved of their respective plans? I suspect not.

The cost of bringing the Mercedes-AMG One to market was almost certainly much higher than the investment that went into finishing the Aston Martin Valkyrie. The fact that both cars were heavily delayed (the Aston was due to arrive in 2018, the AMG in 2019) gives an indication of the issues both faced.

In the One’s case, much of that seems to be down to the nigh-impossible task AMG has set itself: to use a modern Formula 1 powertrain in a road car. The combination of company pride and huge engineering spending seems to have finally solved that problem, but the big question is how well the car will suit the everyday world.

Having recently experienced the Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR Pro from the passenger seat, after a ride in a ‘normal’ Valkyrie last year, I’m pretty sure the One’s engine won’t come close steps from the brain fusion theater of the Aston Cosworth-built V12. Or, to put it another way, if so, something will have gone wrong.

The Valkyrie’s no-compromise mission means comfort and refinement are low on its priority list, while AMG has always promised the One will deliver more usability to its super-affluent customers.

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Source: www.autocar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2022-05-31 22:01:24

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New 2022 BMW iX1: 272 miles EV joins third-gen X1 lineup Car News

99 bmw ix1 front quarter

A new electric SUV joins the EV versions of the 4, X3 and 7 series

BMW’s entry-level SUV enters next-gen with petrol, PHEV and electric powertrain options

The new third-generation BMW X1 crossover has been unveiled, following the BMW 4 Series, BMW X3 and BMW 7 Series by getting an electric variant for the first time.

BMW’s crucial rival for the Audi Q3 and Volvo XC40 is its first “compact premium model based on a flexible vehicle architecture featuring an all-electric drive system”. It effectively replaces the decade-old BMW i3 as the entry point into the automaker’s growing family of electric vehicles.

The architecture in question is the FAAR, which underpins the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer MPV and will soon appear in the next-generation Mini Countryman crossover.

In the new iX1 xDrive30 EV, it houses a dual-motor powertrain (one on each axle) producing a combined output of 309 hp and 364 lb-ft, making it good for 0-62 mph in 5.7 seconds – numbers that line it up as a close rival to the all-wheel-drive version of the Kia EV6.

Meanwhile, a 64.7kWh (usable) underfloor battery offers a claimed range of between 257-272 miles and can be charged at rates up to 130kW for a 10-80% recharge time 29 minutes.

The iX1 will soon follow a range of pure ICE X1 models, which should go on sale from October.

Buyers initially have a choice of three- and four-cylinder gasoline engines and two four-cylinder diesel engines. Soon after, another petrol, another diesel and two plug-in hybrids offering an electric-only range of up to 55 miles.

All will be built at BMW’s plant in Regensburg, Germany. Except for the hidden grille and subtle battery-themed styling cues from the iX1, BMW’s smallest SUV follows a familiar path of evolution, not revolution, in terms of design.

Slim LED headlights flank familiar square grilles, while the side profile has been “dynamically stretched” and accommodates thicker wheel arches, flush door handles and an elongated rear spoiler.

The changes are more drastic inside, where the X1 has been brought in line with its newer siblings, primarily via the installation of the latest eighth generation of BMW’s iDrive operating system running through an infotainment screen from 10.7 inches and a 10.25 inch digital gauge cluster.

BMW also says the newly developed, raised seats improve comfort over long distances, while refinement is further enhanced by improved acoustics and a host of additional cabin features.

At 4500mm long, 1845mm wide and 1642mm high, the new X1 is slightly larger in all dimensions than its predecessor, also bringing a 22mm longer wheelbase and 31mm wider track for a increased interior space.

Prices start from £35,130 for the X1 Sport Premier and climb to £46,660 for the top-spec M Sport Premier Pro. BMW has yet to confirm pricing for the plug-in hybrid and electric derivatives, however.

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Source: www.autocar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2022-05-31 22:01:24

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The 10 best used off-roaders for 2022 Car News

£8,500 to £30,000: The Land Cruiser is an awesome 4×4. But there aren’t many, and in the ‘modern classic’ era we’re thinking of here, there were two J100-series models: the larger, fatter Colorado and Amazon. Many have been modified, but this is an enthusiast’s car, so don’t let that put you off. It must retain its value. And if the apocalypse comes, this is the place to be.

One we found: 2001 Toyota Land Cruiser Amazon 4.7 VX, 159,000 miles, £10,950

Volkswagen T3 Synchro, 1984-1992

£15,000 to £25,000: For a proper battle bus with outward appeal and go-anywhere credentials, look absolutely no further than this raised, rugged version of VW’s microbus. It’s rare now and expensive, but the variety of body styles – van, camper, microbus and single- and double-cab pickups – make it a true all-around workhorse. It is better to keep the MIG welder on standby, be careful.

One we found: 1987 Volkswagen T3 Syncro 1.6 Turbo Diesel, 189,000 miles, £16,000

Forward Command Land Rover 101, 1972-1978

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Source: www.autocar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2022-06-04 23:01:23

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The 10 best used supercars for 2022 Car News

£50,000 to £95,000: In 10-cylinder convertible form, it’s widely acknowledged to be one of the best driver’s cars Audi has ever built (even if the coupe edges it in stiffness and sharpness). The folding roof provides easy aural access to this throaty, low-maintenance engine, and a satisfying six-speed manual is also offered.

One we found: 2014 Audi R8 V10 Spyder Quattro manual, 26,000 miles, £59,991

Ferrari 360 Modena, 1994-2004

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£55,000 to £95,000: Ferrari hit the supercar by launching the 360 ​​Modena, which is still one of the most tempting modern supercars. There are plenty of them, making it easy to find one in the right color and specification and also keeping the values ​​reasonable.

The 360 ​​M was Ferrari’s first supercar with an aluminum chassis, so it was both lighter and stiffer than the 355. It looked like a car from a new era: it didn’t have the old headlights Ferrari retractables or its bold, strakey bodywork. . It was a bold, sinuous and lucid step forward. But it’s also still old enough that you can buy a manual instead of an “F1” paddle shifter. Aluminum construction makes the 360 ​​more corrosion-resistant than previous Ferraris, but watch out for paint bubbles in the body in any case – and be prepared to pay high maintenance prices. For a typical car, expect annual routine service and maintenance to cost around £2500.

One we found: 1999 Ferrari 360 Modena, 34,000 miles, £61,450

Lamborghini Gallardo, 2003-2013

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Source: www.autocar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2022-06-04 23:01:23

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The new Mercedes-AMG One is a 1049 hp Formula 1 car for the road Car News

The four electric motors include those used on later Mercedes-AMG grand prix cars. A 121 hp engine is housed on a shaft between the turbocharger and the electric compressor, while a 161 hp engine is positioned on the engine, connected to the transmission shaft. The other two engines, developing 161 hp, are integrated into the front axle.

Overall output is 1049 hp, 329 hp more than the previous most powerful AMG road car, the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series. For comparison, the Valkyrie develops 1160 hp and the SF90 Stradale 986 hp.

Mercedes-AMG does not quote a torque figure for the One, as “the complex nature of the transmission does not allow for a representative figure”. It claims, however, that the One can sprint from 0-62 mph in 2.9 seconds, 0-124 mph in 7.0 seconds and 0-186 mph in 15.6 seconds.

Transmission is through a new seven-speed automated manual gearbox featuring hydraulic operation, a four-disc clutch and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

There are six riding modes: Race Safe, Race, EV, Individual, Race Plus and Strat 2, the last two reserved for track use.

Race Safe provides on-demand hybrid properties from the powertrain. When racing, the engine is always on and is used to recharge the battery. EV is a purely electric mode.

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Source: www.autocar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2022-05-31 22:01:24

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How Marcus Ericsson joined the racing immortals with Indy 500 victory Car News

THE DARK HORSE EMERGES

Now out of the pack came Ericsson, Ganassi’s pit work propelled him into third place and the Swede then went to work to demote compatriot Felix Rosenqvist and the late Mexican Pato O’Ward, teammates at Arrow McLaren SP , sister team of the F1 team. In those moments, Ericsson found beneath him what every racing driver desires: a fully plugged-in race car powered by a mighty Honda engine that had just its feet on McLaren’s Chevrolets. He stretched and his family’s excitement behind the wall began to turn into celebration.

But wait: it’s the biggest race in the world. Victory does not come so easily.

A SPICE IN THE TAIL

On lap 194, just six from home, Ganassi’s Jimmie Johnson lost control and slammed into the wall hard.

The seven-time NASCAR champion had just created Ericsson’s idea of ​​hell. Determined to finish the event in race conditions, Indy officials did what Michael Masi failed to do in Abu Dhabi last year and raised a red flag.

Victory was almost at hand; Now Ericsson has been down pit road for the longest 10 minutes of his life, his advantage gone and facing the prospect of a frenetic restart with O’Ward, Rosenqvist and another Ganassi hero, 2013 winner Tony Kanaan, breathing down his neck.

Ericsson was furious – but after quieting the words of wise old heads on the pit wall, he refocused and prepared for what would be a two-lap race for glory. O’Ward, 23, is IndyCar’s most exciting young talent and possibly destined for a McLaren F1 seat – possibly sooner rather than later if Daniel Ricciardo doesn’t pull himself together.

But ahead of F1, O’Ward is desperate to win Indy and on the restart he gave it his all. Ericsson slammed down the long straights in his attempt to break the tow, looking for a second destined to crash into the end of the pit wall. O’Ward still came, weaving alongside on the way to Turn 1 – only to back out.

On the outside line, he knew Ericsson, intentionally or not, would have pushed him into the wall. The race was over even before Sage Karam crashed in the final seconds, meaning the race ended on bail anyway. Ericsson walked through the brick yard – the last remnant of Indy’s original track surface laid for the first 500 in 1911 – to start his new life as an Indy winner.

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Source: www.autocar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2022-05-31 23:01:23

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Jaguar unveils a special edition of the limited edition F-Pace SVR Car News

A special new version of the V8-powered Jaguar F-Pace SVR has been unveiled, inspired by the British brand’s racing success.

The 1988 Edition, the first limited edition of Jaguar’s premium SUV, features unique styling details over the standard SVR, including gloss purple paintwork, 22-inch gold forged alloy wheels and exterior and interior details golden.

Other touches include an Edition 1988 logo on the rear of the car, ebony leather upholstery and carbon fiber finishes inside.

Only 394 copies will be made worldwide – the number of laps covered by the Jaguar XJR-9 M to win the 1988 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Priced at £101,550, the 1988 edition holds a £20,000 premium over the SVR it’s based on. It houses the same 542bhp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 petrol engine.

The special edition Alfa Romeo rival Stelvio Quadrifoglio and Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 will be shown at the 24 Hours of Le Mans next weekend and at the Goodwood Festival of Speed ​​at the end of June.

Mark Turner, Commercial Director of Special Vehicles Operations at Jaguar, said: “Since its introduction in 2019, the Jaguar F-Pace SVR has established itself as a characterful and rewarding high-performance car.

“Combining these qualities with a level of SV Bespoke personalization and exclusivity never before offered on the F-Pace makes the 1988 Edition an even more exciting proposition.

“With strictly limited availability, we are confident it will quickly become the most sought after F-Pace SVR to date.”

The 1988 Edition will arrive just a few years before Jaguar becomes an all-electric luxury brand from 2025.

Not much is known about the new Jaguar electric vehicles, but the company has confirmed they will sit on a bespoke platform called Panthera. Their designs will also be radically different from all Jaguar models past and present.

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Source: www.autocar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2022-05-31 23:01:23