Global News Archives

Project Rambo: Aston Martin’s Secret Off-Road SUV Project

An unconfirmed report has surfaced, suggesting that Aston Martin is in the process of developing a new rugged off-road SUV with supercar-like performance. According to the report, this high-powered four-wheel-drive vehicle is drawing inspiration from iconic models such as the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon, Land Rover Defender, and the Lamborghini LM002—a boxy off-roader introduced in 1986 and equipped with a 5.2-litre V12 engine from the Lamborghini Countach which was in the movie series Rambo, played by actor Sylvester Stallone. Therefore, internally, the project is reportedly called ‘Project Rambo.’

The source within Aston Martin indicates that while no final decision has been made, the company is currently assessing various design proposals. It is anticipated that this off-road SUV would share its platform with the DBX, Aston Martin’s first SUV, which has rapidly become the brand’s top seller. However, the new vehicle would feature enhanced off-road capabilities.

The DBX, which serves as the potential foundation for this new model, is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine delivering 697hp and 900Nm of torque, and it uses a nine-speed automatic transmission to drive all four wheels. The new off-road SUV would likely leverage this powerful setup while incorporating additional features to tackle rugged terrains, aligning with the performance standards set by Aston Martin’s supercars.

90 Years of Jaguar: Special Edition F-PACE Showcases Legacy and Future

Jaguar is celebrating its 90th anniversary with a special edition of the F-PACE luxury performance SUV, showcasing the brand’s legacy of design, performance, and innovation as it moves towards an all-electric future. This new version of the F-PACE is distinguished by a unique ’90 Anniversary’ badge and incorporates exterior details from the R-Dynamic trim. It features special body paints, tinted glass, and diamond alloy wheels in sizes ranging from 19 to 21 inches.

Inside, the F-PACE includes sports seats with contrast stitching, an ebony-trimmed roof, and aluminium inserts, along with advanced technology such as 3D surround-view cameras.

The available engines include 163PS and 204PS mild hybrid diesels, as well as a 404PS plug-in hybrid. However, the 400PS mild hybrid petrol and the supercharged V8 with 575PS and 700Nm of torque from the SVR variant are not included in this edition.

This special edition marks the end of the current F-PACE lineup as Jaguar prepares for its transformation into a fully electrified brand by 2025. The first step in this transformation will be the debut of a new GT model, based on a dedicated platform, which is expected to be unveiled as a concept later this year.

This anniversary edition not only celebrates Jaguar’s past achievements but also signifies its commitment to a sustainable, electrified future while maintaining the luxury and performance that define the brand.

Fourth-Generation Bentley Continental GT Features the Ultra Performance Hybrid Powertrain

Originally launched in 2002, the Continental GT played a pivotal role in Bentley’s resurgence, dramatically increasing sales and redefining the brand for the modern era. Inspired by the 1952 R Type Continental, the Continental GT adopted key design elements like the power line, the haunch, and the sloping roofline. This design ethos contributed significantly to its popularity and sales success.

The impact of the Continental GT on Bentley’s fortunes was immediate and profound. Annual sales soared from about 1,000 cars to over 10,000 within four years. The second generation, unveiled in 2010, introduced a W12 engine, followed by a 4.0-litre V8 option in 2012. The third generation, launched in 2018, was built on a new platform with a new engine, suspension, electrical architecture, and updated interior and exterior designs, setting a new benchmark in the luxury GT segment.

(more…)

Alfa Romeo Super Sport: A Limited-Run Send Off to the Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio

Alfa Romeo is bidding farewell to the Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio models with a special edition send off featuring a unique red carbon weave interior. Named the “Super Sport” edition, these limited-run models pay homage to Alfa Romeo’s victory at the 1928 Mille Miglia with the 6C 1500 Super Sport. In a departure from tradition, the iconic Quadrifoglio logo features a black triangle instead of the usual white background for the first time in its 101-year history.

Both cars come adorned in an elegant Nero Vulcano metallic paint, although they are also available in a three-layer Rosso Etna finish. The Giulia and Stelvio Super Sport editions additionally offer the option of Bianco Alfa for the sedan variant. Opting for the sports sedan allows buyers to select a carbon fibre roof, while the Giulia Quadrifoglio is equipped with 19-inch wheels and the Stelvio rides on larger 21-inch alloys. Both models feature black brake calipers and an Akrapovic exhaust system with carbon fiber finishers. Carbon fibre elements extend to the mirrors and the Giulia’s front splitter.

However, the standout feature of these special editions lies within the cabin, where Alfa Romeo has introduced red carbon fibre accents on the dashboard, centre console, and door cards. This unique material creates a striking 3D effect that complements the red stitching on the seats. The headrests reveal the limited production numbers, with 275 examples of the Giulia and 175 units of the Stelvio slated for production globally.

In terms of pricing, the Giulia Super Sport starts at RM412,611 in the US, including destination charges, while the Stelvio Super Sport is priced at RM448,098.

New Kia EV6: Bigger Battery and Upgraded Tech

The Kia EV6 has received a comprehensive update that aligns its styling with its newer siblings while enhancing its range and technological features. This facelift introduces adaptive LED headlights inspired by the larger Kia EV9, as well as the upcoming EV3 and EV5 models. The front grilles have been expanded to give the car a more aggressive look, and the rear end now features a gloss black panel split into three distinct segments with sharper edges, adding a sportier touch.

Inside the vehicle, although the overall layout remains familiar, the EV6 now boasts a different steering wheel and an updated frame for the dual screens. Kia has added a fingerprint authentication system, a 12.0-inch head-up display, and a digital rearview mirror. One notable change is the removal of the glossy piano black finish along the centre console, which had been a point of contention for some users.

Beyond these visible changes, the EV6 has been upgraded with second-row side airbags and thicker B-pillars to enhance body rigidity. The electric motors have been made quieter, and the ride comfort has been improved through tweaks to the shock absorbers. Additional sound insulation material around the rear motor further reduces noise levels. Over-the-air updates now extend beyond just the navigation system, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay have become standard features.

In terms of performance, Kia has replaced the old 77.4-kilowatt-hour battery with a larger 84.0-kilowatt-hour pack. This new battery can charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 18 minutes at 350 kilowatts. The rear-wheel-drive EV6 Long Range variant now offers an increased range of 494km. The EV6 Long Range all-wheel-drive in Malaysia that was launched back in 2022 has a range of 506km based on the WLTP standard.

Mercedes Halts Development of New Platforms for Luxury EVs

Mercedes-Benz has made the decision to halt the development of a next-generation platform for mid- and full-size electric vehicles as part of its efforts to reduce spending in the EV segment amidst a slowdown in sales.

Initially announced in 2021, the MB.EA platform was a key component of Mercedes’ strategy to transition exclusively to EVs by 2030. However, slower-than-expected EV sales prompted the automaker to reevaluate its plans, leading to the decision to discontinue the development of the next-generation platform.

(more…)

2025 BYD Shark Set to Hit Australian Showrooms By End of the Year

The BYD Shark has been officially unveiled, marking its arrival in Australia by the end of this year. This introduction also signifies the debut of the first plug-in hybrid pickup truck in Australian showrooms.

Promising a fuel consumption rate of 7.5 litres per 100km in hybrid mode and an electric driving range of up to 100km, the Shark boasts more power and quicker acceleration with a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 5.7 seconds in hybrid mode.

The Shark, larger than a Ford Ranger or Toyota Hilux but smaller than a Ford F-150, utilises ladder-frame underpinnings akin to its counterparts, with a braked towing capacity of 2500kg. Distinguishing itself, it incorporates passenger vehicle-like independent rear suspension alongside independent front suspension, which could enhance off-road performance but potentially reduce performance when laden.

Equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine and two electric motors, the Shark generates a combined power output of more than 430hp. It boasts a plug-in battery pack that delivers up to 100km of electric driving range or fuel consumption of 7.5L/100km in hybrid mode, offering a total driving range of 840km (NEDC).

Notably, the Shark features “the world’s first longitudinal electric hybrid system,” driving all four wheels with electric motors, while the petrol engine directly powers the front wheels. The hybrid system prioritises electric motor propulsion for up to 80 per cent of total journeys.

With a claimed recharge time of 20 minutes from 30 to 80 per cent, the battery pack supports vehicle-to-load technology, enabling the Shark to power external electrical devices while camping.

Measuring 5457mm long, 1971mm wide, and 1925mm tall, with a wheelbase of 3260mm, the Shark offers a payload of up to 835kg and a braked towing capacity of 2500kg. Its 1450-litre tray volume and high-strength steel construction underscore its practicality and durability.

Interior features include a rotating 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite navigation, and a 10.25-inch instrument display. Advanced safety features include autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.

With its advanced technology, robust construction, and comprehensive features, the 2025 BYD Shark ute is poised to make a significant impact in Australian showrooms upon its arrival later this year.

420 units of Omoda 5 Affected in Indonesia, Recall not Only for Malaysia

Chery Sales Indonesia (CSI) has issued a recall for the Omoda 5 model in Indonesia due to concerns regarding the rear axle component. Similar to the issue here in Malaysia.

In the statement, Chery emphasised its commitment to ensuring the safety of its customers and providing the best service possible. The decision to recall the Omoda 5 was made following an in-depth investigation conducted by Chery International, which identified issues with the rear axle shell component from a specific vendor.

(more…)

Toyota’s North Carolina EV Battery Plant to Begin Production Next Year

Toyota is gearing up to produce electric vehicle (EV) batteries at its new factory in North Carolina, USA, with plans to commence production in the first quarter of next year. The facility, which received increased investment totalling $13.9 billion last year, is making significant progress since its groundbreaking in late 2022.

According to reports, Sean Suggs, President of Toyota Battery Manufacturing at the North Carolina complex, revealed that trial activities are currently underway in the first building of the factory. With approximately 300 team members on-site daily and around 500 more at the headquarters location in Greensboro, the plant is set to employ a total of 5,100 people upon completion in 2028.

(more…)

PHEV for AMG Doesn’t Do It, Mercedes Goes to V8

The upcoming Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 is set to receive a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine, boasting an output of up to 585bhp, according to senior officials at the division’s Mercedes-Benz parent company.

This decision marks a departure from the initial plan to equip the new coupe and cabriolet with a 670bhp plug-in hybrid drivetrain, which mirrors the latest C63 and GLC 63 models. The shift in strategy is attributed to sluggish sales of the saloon, estate, and SUV variants, which feature the E-Performance PHEV drivetrain combining a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a rear-axle mounted electric motor.

Despite its impressive performance figures, the E-Performance PHEV drivetrain hasn’t resonated with traditional AMG buyers, resulting in lower sales compared to their V8 predecessors across global markets. As a result, the most potent versions of the new CLE will be powered by the latest version of AMG’s M177 V8 engine, incorporating mild-hybrid technology.

These V8-powered models will occupy a position above the CLE 53 Coupe and Cabriolet, which utilise a turbocharged 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine producing 442bhp. Mercedes-AMG aims to position the CLE as a direct competitor to the BMW M4, which offers up to 542bhp from a twin-turbo 3.0-litre straight-six engine in its most powerful configuration.

The decision to opt for V8 power for the CLE is not only influenced by the lukewarm reception to the PHEV C63 and GLC 63 models but also stems from feedback received from the global dealer network. Dealers expressed concerns that introducing a four-cylinder CLE 63 variant above the six-cylinder CLE 53 could lead to customer confusion.

Piston.my

Global News

Project Rambo: Aston Martin’s Secret Off-Road SUV Project

90 Years of Jaguar: Special Edition F-PACE Showcases Legacy and Future

Fourth-Generation Bentley Continental GT Features the Ultra Performance Hybrid Powertrain

Alfa Romeo Super Sport: A Limited-Run Send Off to the Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio

New Kia EV6: Bigger Battery and Upgraded Tech

Mercedes Halts Development of New Platforms for Luxury EVs

2025 BYD Shark Set to Hit Australian Showrooms By End of the Year

420 units of Omoda 5 Affected in Indonesia, Recall not Only for Malaysia

Toyota’s North Carolina EV Battery Plant to Begin Production Next Year

PHEV for AMG Doesn’t Do It, Mercedes Goes to V8

Volkswagen Group Facing Potential Factory Closures Amid Cost-Cutting Efforts

Novitec Unveils Spectacular Widebody N-LARGO Ferrari 296 GTB

BYD Xia MPV Revealed – 1.5-litre Turbo with a Hybrid System

BYD Expands European Presence with Acquisition of German Distributor Hedin Electric Mobility

Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed Prototypes in the Final Stages of Testing

The Zeekr 7X – An Electric SUV That Does 0-100km/h in 3.8 Seconds

BMW X3 Now with a Sportier Design and Enhanced Customisation Options

Thailand’s Car Sales Hit by Economic Slowdown and Household Debt

Third-Generation Audi Q5 Teased Before September 2 Debut

smart Officially Introduces the #5 SUV in Australia – Over 740km of Driving Range

Archive

Isuzu D-Max Breaks Record with 2,000km Fuel Efficiency Feat

Manthey Unveils High-Performance Kit for Porsche 911 GT3 RS

2025 Porsche 911 GT3 Retains the 4.0-Litre Flat-Six Engine and Has a Shorter Final Drive Gear Ratio

Drive Home an MG EV with Up to 20 Months of Free Instalments

Jaguar Land Rover Pumps in £500 Million for Electric Vehicle Factory

Follow us on Facebook

Follow us on YouTube

The Piston Show