After a remarkable 16-year reign, Abarth has confirmed the end of production for its iconic petrol-powered Abarth 500, officially marking the conclusion of the popular 595 model. This shift paves the way for the brand’s transition to electric powertrains, as it readies the all-new Abarth 600e for launch later this year.
The ICE-powered Abarth 500 has been a mainstay in the small hot hatch segment, recognised as one of the last models still powered by traditional internal combustion engines (ICE). Its retirement follows similar departures from the market, including the Hyundai i20 N and Ford Fiesta ST, signalling the industry’s broader pivot towards electrification.
Although production has ceased, dealers will continue offering new Abarth 500 models until the end of 2024. Abarth representatives confirmed that the remaining stock is expected to meet demand through the year. The decision to halt production comes just months after the limited release of the Abarth 695 75 Anniversario edition, of which only 1,368 units were produced, serving as a farewell tribute to the brand’s petrol heritage.
With the departure of the petrol-powered Abarth 500, enthusiasts are left with the electric Abarth 500e, which offers a less powerful but more environmentally conscious driving experience. This comes at a time when Abarth’s parent company, Fiat, is reevaluating its electric-only strategy. Slower-than-anticipated sales of the 500e have prompted Fiat to reintroduce an ICE hybrid version next year.
Meanwhile, the last-generation hybrid Fiat 500, sold alongside the 500e, will also be discontinued. Unlike the Abarth 500, however, Fiat plans to release a direct replacement for the hybrid 500, continuing its legacy in the small car market.
With the electric revolution taking hold, the end of the Abarth 500 marks the close of a chapter in automotive history. Enthusiasts and collectors alike will undoubtedly look back fondly on the legacy of one of the most beloved small performance cars of the modern era.
After breaking records as the fastest compact car around the Nürburgring, the refreshed Audi RS3 is set to hit the streets. Although it’s a mid-cycle facelift rather than a full redesign, the five-cylinder RS3 remains a potent contender in the compact performance segment with its fresh look and enhanced features.
Design Updates Inspired by Racing Legends
Audi’s exterior revisions give the RS3 a bolder presence. Up front, a redesigned single-frame grille showcases a diamond pattern that continues across the updated air intakes. The aggressive stance is enhanced by three new openings above the front splitter, drawing inspiration from the iconic 1987 Quattro S1 Pikes Peak.
The car’s rear has also been refreshed with new taillight graphics and an updated bumper featuring side vertical reflectors and a central reflector embedded within the diffuser. To complement the look, Audi introduces two new colours—metallic Ascari Blue and Progressive Red—while offering the RS3 in Daytona Gray with a matte finish for the first time. The 19-inch standard wheels come in matte black, with optional two-tone alloys available for those seeking a more adventurous style.
Sportier Interior with High-Performance Options
Inside, the changes are even more striking. The RS3 now offers optional carbon bucket seats, combining luxurious Nappa leather bolsters with microfibre centres and a matte carbon back. For less track-oriented buyers, the traditional Nappa leather sports seats remain available.
The Mustang car world has been abuzz in recent months as Ford seeks to reimagine the future of the Mustang while pushing further into the electric vehicle market. With Chevrolet’s Camaro reportedly eyeing an electric four-door version, the Ford Mustang stands alone as the last of the traditional American pony cars, and Ford seems eager to explore new frontiers for its iconic model.
In recent dealer meetings in Las Vegas, Ford revealed potential new Mustang concepts, including a family-oriented four-door version dubbed the “Mach 4” and a rugged, off-road variant tentatively called the “Baja.” The Mach 4, displayed as a rendering, hints at Ford’s desire to broaden the Mustang’s appeal, while the off-road model, shown in a photo, could offer Mustang enthusiasts a fresh take on performance.
Jim Farley, Ford’s CEO, has previously stated that any new Mustang variant must maintain the performance and attitude of the original. These dealer presentations suggest that the Mustang lineup could expand in unprecedented ways, catering to a more diverse range of consumers. However, it remains unclear which model is closer to production, though the photo of the “Baja” version suggests it may be further along in development.
The Chinese Chamber of Commerce to the EU (CCCEU) voiced strong opposition to the European Commission’s proposed import duties of up to 36% on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), calling the move unfair and likely to escalate trade tensions between China and the European Union.
In a statement released earlier today, the CCCEU expressed “strong dissatisfaction” with the European Commission’s “protectionist approach,” accusing the bloc of undermining free trade principles. According to the group, such measures would ultimately damage the European electric vehicle industry’s competitiveness by stifling global collaboration.
“The European Commission’s unjustifiable use of trade tools to obstruct free competition in the electric vehicle market will weaken the resilience of the European EV sector,” the CCCEU stated. They warned that the protectionist stance could lead to strained relations between the EU and China, casting a shadow over future cooperation on green initiatives and global development.
Rimac Automobili is taking a bold step into uncharted territory by developing a track-only hypercar with a unique, centralised seating position, as confirmed by CEO Mate Rimac in a recent interview with Motor1. This upcoming car represents a significant shift for the Croatian automaker, which has previously focused on two-seater electric hypercars designed for road use.
Rimac Nevera
According to Mate Rimac, the new track car will push the boundaries of performance, aiming to be faster than any race car on most tracks, including those used for Formula 1 and Le Mans. Unlike Rimac’s existing models, such as the Nevera, this car will feature a closed-canopy cockpit built on an entirely new platform, separate from the Nevera’s architecture.
The CEO hinted that the car might be unveiled later this year, with track events scheduled for next year. Despite its track-only design, the car won’t adhere to any existing racing regulations like those governing Formula 1 or Le Mans Prototype (LMP) cars. While safety will be a priority, Rimac emphasised that the vehicle will be designed without constraints, allowing for unprecedented performance capabilities.
Shinji Aoyama, Honda’s Global Executive Vice President, has revealed that the company is planning to produce a sporty electric vehicle in the coming years, potentially reviving the legendary NSX nameplate. Speaking at a media roundtable during Monterey Car Week, Aoyama hinted at the possibility of this new electric sports car being launched between 2027 and 2028.
“We are going to introduce the sports model in 2027 or 2028,” Aoyama stated. “We may not call it NSX. It’s kind of an NSX type of vehicle,” according to a report.
Mercedes-AMG is marking a significant milestone in motorsport history this year by celebrating 130 years of racing excellence under the iconic three-pointed star. The celebration pays tribute to the first-ever automotive competition, held on July 22, 1894, from Paris to Rouen, where a Daimler-licensed engine claimed victory.
To commemorate this anniversary, Mercedes-AMG introduced the highly exclusive GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport, which debuted at the Automotive Week in Pebble Beach, California. This limited-edition car, created under the theme “Racing Legend Remastered,” bridges two legendary eras of motorsport by blending cutting-edge racing technology with the timeless design of 1950s racing cars. With a potent engine, this non-homologated model is the most powerful GT3 vehicle ever produced in Affalterbach, and it stands as the final GT3 version to feature a naturally aspirated engine. Only 13 units of this collector’s item will be available worldwide.
Performance and Aerodynamics: Advanced Features
The Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport goes beyond the standard homologation requirements, allowing the iconic 6.3-litre V8 naturally aspirated engine to be further refined. Without the constraints of an air restrictor and equipped with a specialised exhaust system, the engine now produces an impressive 680hp. The car’s aerodynamics have also been enhanced, resulting in a 15% increase in downforce compared to the base GT3 model. This improvement comes from a redesigned front splitter, new air outlets in the front wings, modified side skirts, an upgraded underfloor, and a re-engineered rear diffuser.
A wider rear wing, combined with the innovative Drag Reduction System (DRS) inspired by Formula 1® and DTM Class 1, allows the car to achieve top speeds exceeding 315km/h. This system adjusts the main rear wing element to reduce drag at the touch of a button, with active front-floor elements ensuring the aero balance is maintained. The braking system, featuring carbon brake discs, further contributes to weight reduction and performance, making the Edition 130Y Motorsport model lighter and more agile than its homologated counterparts.
Power delivery is managed through a sequential six-speed racing transmission with modified gear ratios, while the transaxle transmission is mounted on the rear axle for enhanced stability. Fully adjustable 4-way motorsport shock absorbers and advanced safety features, including a carbon fibre safety cell, five-point harness, steel roll cage, and a comprehensive fire extinguishing system, round out the vehicle’s high-performance package.
Track Record: Setting New Standards
After two years of meticulous development and rigorous testing, Mercedes-AMG Performance Driver Jules Gounon showcased the exceptional capabilities of the GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport at the Mount Panorama Circuit in Australia on February 17, 2024. Driving a prototype, Gounon shattered the GT car lap record by an impressive 2.074 seconds, clocking in at 1 minute and 56.605 seconds on the 6.213km circuit.
Design: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
Drawing inspiration from the legendary 1952 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL W 194 racing sports car, the GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport features a design that honours the past while embracing the future. The special edition boasts a unique silver paint finish reminiscent of the iconic Silver Arrows, with blue rhombuses on the front wings and a colour-accented radiator grille harkening back to historic racing victories.
The car is equipped with lightweight 18-inch magnesium rims and extensively incorporates carbon fiber elements, blending classic design cues with modern racing technology. Inside, the connection between tradition and innovation continues, with the interior drawing aesthetic inspiration from the 1955 Mercedes-Benz SLR 300 models. This is evident in the blue checkered seat upholstery and brown leather headrests and door loops, while advanced technologies like the Bosch DDU 10 cockpit display enhance driver control and experience.
Exclusivity: A Complete Package for Collectors
Each of the 13 GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport models comes with an extensive and bespoke delivery package. This includes a specially designed vehicle cover, a full set of personalised racing gear co-created with Mercedes-AMG’s official partner PUMA, and a custom helmet from BELL. Additionally, buyers receive a stylish bag matching the car’s seat cover design and a 1:8 scale model of the GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport. To certify the vehicle’s authenticity, an exclusive, personalized certificate is included, further cementing its status as a prized collector’s item.
The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series, the sportiest model in the Maybach brand’s history, introduces a refined blend of luxury and performance. This open-top two-seater debuts with two curated design concepts: the Red Ambience, featuring an obsidian black metallic and Manufaktur garnet red metallic finish, and the White Ambience, with obsidian black metallic contrasting against Manufaktur opalite white magno.
The exterior and interior of the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 are meticulously crafted with the Maybach pattern as a cohesive design element. The car’s interior is adorned with sustainably tanned, crystal white Manufaktur Exclusive Nappa leather and gleaming silver chrome trim.
This luxurious ambience is complemented by the illuminated brand-specific chrome-finished radiator grille and Maybach lettering, along with a distinctive bonnet featuring a chromed fin.
The car’s performance is powered by a 4.0-litre biturbo engine delivering 585hp, paired with a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission and fully variable 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. Enhanced driving and acoustic comfort are ensured through noise-optimised exhaust systems, extensive insulation, and a comfort-oriented suspension setup.
In conjunction with the launch, Maybach Icons of Luxury will offer an exclusive collection inspired by the vehicle’s materials and colours. This collection, available in boutiques and online, includes a leather jacket, sneakers, a scarf, a tote bag, and a dog bag, all designed to complement the opulent style of the Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series.
The market rollout of this luxurious model begins in Europe in the spring of 2025, with other markets to follow.
BMW is expanding its lineup with the introduction of the new BMW M5 Touring, a car that promises to deliver a blend of high performance and everyday practicality, making it a standout in the high-performance wagon segment.
At the heart of the new M5 Touring is the M HYBRID drive system, which integrates a 4.4-litre V8 engine with an electric motor. This combination produces an impressive total output, delivering 585hp from the V8 and an additional 197hp from the electric motor. Together, they generate a combined torque of up to 750Nm from the engine and 450Nm from the electric motor. This powertrain allows the M5 Touring to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.6 seconds. The standard top speed is set at 250km/h, but this can be increased to 305km/h with the optional M Driver’s Package. Additionally, the vehicle boasts an electric range of 61–67km, made possible by an 18.6 kWh high-voltage battery.
The exterior of the M5 Touring is both athletic and muscular, featuring a high proportion of surfaces painted in body colour, complemented by a Black solid finish for the roof. The front of the car is marked by large air intakes and a new BMW M kidney grille, while the rear showcases slim lights, vertical reflectors, and a split diffuser, enhancing the vehicle’s dynamic and aggressive look.
Underpinning the car is a sophisticated chassis setup that includes a double-wishbone front axle and a five-link rear axle, both of which have been tuned specifically for this model. The adaptive M suspension and Integral Active Steering contribute to the car’s exceptional handling and ride quality. The M5 Touring also comes standard with M Compound brakes, though M Carbon ceramic brakes are available as an option. The car rides on M light-alloy wheels, measuring 20 inches at the front and 21 inches at the rear, and is fitted with high-performance tires.
Inside, the M5 Touring features an M-specific, driver-focused cockpit, which includes a newly designed M leather steering wheel and M multifunction seats. The cabin is adorned with Merino leather trim and equipped with four-zone automatic climate control and a Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, providing a luxurious and comfortable environment. The vehicle also offers a generous cargo space, with a load capacity ranging from 500 to 1,630 litres, and includes features such as Comfort Access and automatic tailgate operation.
In terms of driving assistance and safety, the M5 Touring is equipped with a range of standard features, including front collision warning, Lane Departure Warning, Evasion Assistant, and Speed Limit Info. For those seeking even more advanced capabilities, options such as Driving Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant Professional are available.
The infotainment and connectivity systems are anchored by the latest BMW iDrive system, which is based on Operating System 8.5. This system offers enhanced touchscreen and voice control capabilities. The M5 Touring also features 5G compatibility, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various personalisation options through the BMW ID and My BMW App.
The BMW M5 Touring is set to make its world premiere at Monterey Car Week in mid-August 2024, with the market launch scheduled for November 2024 following the production start at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. Designed to cater to drivers who demand both a thrilling driving experience and the versatility of a practical and luxurious daily driver, the new BMW M5 Touring is poised to be a significant addition to the BMW lineup.
Italians have long been renowned for their mastery in crafting convertibles, and the new Pininfarina Battista Targamerica is a testament to this legacy. Debuting at Monterey Car Week, this bespoke open-top version of the electric hypercar is a stunning addition to Pininfarina’s illustrious portfolio.
The Targamerica is a one-off creation commissioned by a discerning client who already owns a Battista coupe. While the B95 Speedster was Pininfarina’s first convertible, the Targamerica marks the inaugural open-top version of the Battista. This special edition raises questions about why the Battista wasn’t initially offered as a convertible.
Remarkably, the Targamerica went from concept to reality in just one year, following the client’s commission at last year’s Monterey Car Week. Its striking silver with blue accents pays homage to the Ferrari Testarossa Spider—a unique convertible created in 1986 for Fiat heir Gianni Angelli. Noteworthy features of the Targamerica include a custom rear decklid and distinctive doors, as well as an integrated cigar humidor between the seats, catering to the client’s appreciation for cigars.
The Battista, the flagship model of Automobili Pininfarina—a division of India’s Mahindra based in Germany—is built on the Rimac Nevera’s platform. It boasts a staggering 1,900hp from its four electric motors, making it a formidable contender in the hypercar arena.
The Targamerica will be showcased at The Quail on Friday, with the client set to take delivery afterward. While Automobili Pininfarina has not disclosed plans for additional Battista convertibles, the Targamerica’s debut suggests that this may not be the last of such exclusive models.
