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Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid and Panamera GTS: Performance and Luxury Redefined

Porsche has introduced two new top-tier models in the Panamera lineup: the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid and the Panamera GTS. Each model caters to different aspects of driving pleasure, from the purist, agility-focused GTS to the high-performance, luxurious Turbo S E-Hybrid.

Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid

Engine and Performance:
- 4.0-liter biturbo V8 engine combined with an electric motor.
- Total system output: 782PS and 1,000Nm of torque.
- Acceleration: 0-100km/h in 2.9 seconds, top speed: 325km/h.
- Fuel efficiency: Combined fuel consumption of 1.4-1.6 l/100 km, with electric consumption of 27.4-29.3 kWh/100 km.
- Enhanced hybrid powertrain with a 25.9 kWh battery, providing an electric range of up to 88km (WLTP EAER City).
- Fast charging capability: 11 kW on-board AC charger charges the battery from 0 to 100% in about 2 hours and 39 minutes.

Design and Features:
- Exterior: Distinctive rear bumper, chrome-plated tailpipes, standard Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) with yellow brake callipers.
- Exclusive Turbonite colour available for airblades, rear bumper strip, and 21-inch wheels.
- Interior: Turbonite accents, contrast stitching, suede-like Race-Tex upholstery, and a Bose sound system.
- Advanced suspension: Porsche Active Ride suspension with innovative functions like overcompensation of pitching and rolling motions, optimising traction and driving stability.
Record Performance:
- Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time: 7:24.172 minutes, setting a record for the fastest hybrid luxury saloon.

Porsche Panamera GTS

Engine and Performance:
- 4.0-liter biturbo V8 engine.
- Power output: 500PS with a top speed of 302km/h.
- Acceleration: 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds.
- Sports exhaust system for a powerful, emotional sound.
- Fuel efficiency: Combined fuel consumption of 12.0-12.7 l/100km.

Design and Features:
- Exterior: Sporty design with black GTS logos, dark-tinted HD matrix LED headlights, tail lights, and red brake callipers.
- Interior: Extensive use of Race-Tex material, 18-way adjustable adaptive sports seats, and GTS-specific interior packages in Carmine Red or Slate Grey Neo.
- Standard Sport package: Includes satin-matt Black body trim elements and 21-inch Turbo S centre-lock wheels in Anthracite Grey.

Driving Dynamics:
- Chassis tuning for high performance, with a lower body and reinforced anti-roll bars.
- Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and electronically controlled PTV Plus differential lock.
- Enhanced driving experience with greater body stability and reduced pitching and rolling.

Common Features and Innovations:

Third-Generation Panamera Enhancements:
- Porsche Driver Experience control concept, high-resolution HD matrix LED lights.
- Extended connectivity functions, including deeper Apple CarPlay integration and video streaming on the optional Passenger Display.
- Option for parking the car from outside using a smartphone app.

Market-Specific Variants:
- Executive variant of the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid with a long wheelbase includes four-zone automatic climate control and a large centre console.

Deliveries of both models in Germany are set to begin in September 2024, marking a new chapter in the Panamera’s legacy of combining luxury, performance, and advanced technology.

Mini Cooper S 5-Door: Enhanced Space and Comfort

The Mini Cooper S 5-door model offers a blend of practicality and performance with its increased dimensions and sporty features. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes this model stand out.

Expanded Dimensions for Better Comfort

Length and Wheelbase: The 5-door model is 172mm longer than the traditional 3-door Mini and features a 72mm longer wheelbase.
Compact and Agile: Despite its increased size, the car maintains a compact profile with short overhangs and a small turning circle of 11.4 meters, making it ideal for city driving.
Enhanced Visual Appeal: Larger tyre diameter (625 mm) not only improves aesthetics but also enhances driving dynamics and comfort.
Versatile Luggage Space: With 60:40 folding rear seats, the luggage capacity can expand from 275 litres to 925 litres, providing ample space without compromising on the Mini’s compact footprint.

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Porsche Expands Electric Macan Lineup with Rear-Wheel Drive and 4S Trims

Porsche has expanded its electric Macan lineup by introducing the rear-wheel-drive and 4S trims, adding to the previously unveiled Macan 4 and Turbo models. This move broadens the options available to buyers looking for varied performance and features in the electric SUV market.

New Base Model: Rear-Wheel Drive

The new base model of the Macan EV eliminates the front motor, resulting in a weight reduction of 110kg compared to the Macan 4. This model uses a rear-mounted electric motor delivering 335hp, which can increase to 355hp with launch control. Despite having 47hp less than the Macan 4, it offers an instant torque of 562Nm, although this is 86Nm less than its all-wheel-drive counterpart. This configuration allows the rear-wheel-drive Macan EV to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 5.4 seconds, just half a second slower than the Macan 4, and reach a top speed of 218km/h.

Macan 4S: Enhanced Performance

The Macan 4S bridges the gap between the Macan 4 and the Turbo model. It features the same front motor as the Macan 4 but includes a more powerful rear motor, boosting its output to 442hp, or 509hp with overboost. This represents an increase of 107hp over the Macan 4. The torque also rises to 783Nm with launch control, which is 134Nm more than the Macan 4. The Macan 4S achieves 0 to 100km/h in just 3.9 seconds and has a top speed of 238km/h.

Shared Features and Specifications

Both new trims share a 95-kWh battery, capable of charging from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 21 minutes with a 270 kW charger. Standard features include air suspension and electronic damping control, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride.

Design and Off-Road Capabilities

The electric Macan offers a new Slate Grey Neo colour and 20-inch wheels. Additionally, it includes an off-road design package that improves the approach angle to 17.5 degrees and increases ground clearance to 7.6 inches, which can be further raised to 8.8 inches with the air suspension in its highest setting. The off-road package also features a redesigned front bumper, side skirts, diffuser, and roof railings, available in Vesuvius Grey or body colour.

Availability in Malaysia

Porsche Malaysia recently showcased the all-new Macan EV and Macan Turbo at the Porsche World Roadshow, where it is now available for booking. Whether or not we will receive these new variants is an answer that only time can tell.

Porsche Macan EV RWD

Porsche Macan EV 4S

Porsche Macan EV 4

Porsche Macan Turbo

BMW Group Receives the Car Connectivity Consortium Digital Key Certificate

The BMW Group has become the first automotive manufacturer to receive the CCC Digital Key certificate from the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC), marking a significant milestone in digital vehicle access. This certification is based on the highest security and interoperability standards set by the CCC, confirming that the BMW Digital Key meets these rigorous requirements.

Leading the Way in Digital Key Technology

The Car Connectivity Consortium is a cross-industry organisation dedicated to advancing vehicle connectivity with intelligent mobile devices. Since joining the consortium in 2017, the BMW Group has played a leading role in developing and establishing cross-industry technologies and safety standards. The CCC’s membership includes numerous automotive manufacturers, major smartphone manufacturers, tier-one automotive suppliers, semiconductor manufacturers, and security product providers.

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Audi Unveils New A5 Family: The Next Chapter in Mid-Size Excellence

Audi is set to open a new chapter in its successful history in the mid-size segment with the introduction of the new A5 family. Launching 30 years after the first Audi A4, this latest generation captivates with its premium proportions and a sharpened design language. Both body styles, Sedan and Avant, perfectly embody Audi’s sporty design philosophy. A new interior design language creates a generous feeling of space and places the displays on a digital stage, enhancing interaction with the vehicle. Efficient, partially electrified combustion engines and thrilling S models round off the range.

Restructured Naming and Model Lineup

In line with its expanded model range, AUDI AG has restructured its vehicle naming since 2024. Even numbers now denote electrically powered models, while odd numbers signify vehicles with combustion engines. Consequently, the long-standing bestseller Audi A4 will now be called the Audi A5 and will be produced in Neckarsulm. It will be available in four new variants: A5 Sedan, S5 Sedan, A5 Avant, and S5 Avant. These models are the first to launch on the new Premium Platform Combustion (PPC).

Audi’s Commitment to Efficient Combustion Engines

Audi CEO Gernot Döllner emphasised the company’s dual approach: “In tandem with the expansion of our all-electric portfolio, we are launching a new generation of models with efficient combustion engines. The Audi A5 family, with its athletic design, completely new interior, and future-proof electronics architecture, will be the first. The advanced MHEV plus technology enables partially electric driving and therefore even more efficient driving.”

Dynamic and Muscular Exterior Design

The redesigned A5 family features powerful, clean lines with a long wheelbase, large wheels, and a low, sporty body that embodies progressive dynamism and premium standards. The Sedan’s sporty greenhouse stretches to the rear in a coupé-like manner, ending at a striking spoiler lip on the short tailgate. The Avant features a dynamic, taut roofline merging into a seamlessly integrated roof spoiler, emphasising its sporty and flat rear window.

The front end is dominated by a wide and significantly flatter Singleframe grille with a three-dimensional honeycomb structure, flanked by slim, precisely drawn headlights. The hood is flush with the front end, and powerful blisters over the wheels recall the Audi Urquattro, a core element of Audi’s design DNA.

Advanced Lighting Technology

The A5 family introduces new digital daytime running lights with LED technology and second-generation digital OLED rear lights. These lights, featuring around 60 segments per OLED panel, enhance car-to-x communication and road safety. Dynamic lighting effects during unlocking and departure reflect Audi’s light DNA, with active digital light signatures conveying a new sense of liveliness.

Innovative Interior Design

The interior of the new Audi A5 focuses on four key features:

Human-Centric Design: Geared towards user needs.
Digital Stage: Clear view displays for the driver and front passenger.
Material Driven Design: Ensures a generous sense of space and comfort.
Visual Clarity: Offers a clear, easy-to-use layout.

Additionally, the optional dynamic interaction light supports the car’s interaction with occupants. The new MMI panoramic display and head-up display enhance the user experience, integrating seamlessly into the digital ecosystem and offering a personalised connectivity experience.

Cutting-Edge Hybrid Technology

The A5 family features the advanced MHEV plus system based on a 48-volt on-board electrical system, supporting the combustion engine, reducing CO2 emissions, and increasing performance. The powertrain generator (PTG) enables partially electric driving, contributing to reduced fuel consumption. The PTG can add up to 24PS of electric power and recuperate energy up to 25kW during deceleration, allowing for purely electric maneuvering and parking.

Engine Options and Performance

At launch, the A5 family offers a range of efficient engines:

Entry-Level Engine: 2.0 TFSI with 150PS or 204PS, featuring a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry (VTG) for consistent torque.
2.0 TDI Engine: 204PS, with MHEV plus technology, offering high torque and smooth operation.
S5: 3.0-litre V6 TFSI engine with 367PS, VTG, and MHEV plus technology, reducing CO2 emissions and enhancing agility.

Enhanced Driving Dynamics

Audi has refined the A5’s suspension and steering for precise, effortless, and neutral handling. The optional adaptive dampers provide a significant differentiation between comfort and sportiness. The progressive steering in the new A5 is considerably more precise.

Market Launch and Pricing

The new Audi A5 family will be launched in Germany and other European countries in November, with orders starting in Germany from July 2024. The Audi A5 Sedan TFSI will be offered at an entry price of EUR 45,200 (RM230,302), including standard features such as navigation, an electrically powered rear hatch, and a telephone tray with inductive charging.

Porsche Panamera Sets New Record at Nurburgring Nordschleife

The new Porsche Panamera made a significant impact shortly before its official launch, setting a new record at the Nurburgring Nordschleife. With Porsche test driver Lars Kern at the helm, a pre-series version of the high-performance touring saloon completed the legendary course 5.64 seconds faster than its predecessor.

Last Friday, Kern achieved a new best time of 7:24.17 minutes for luxury-class cars with combustion engines and hybrids. This marks yet another milestone for the Panamera series, with Kern previously setting records on the Nordschleife in 2016 and 2020, most recently in the Panamera Turbo S with a time of 7:29.81 minutes.

According to Kern, the transverse dynamic capabilities of a car are particularly important on the Nordschleife. The new Panamera has made significant gains in this area. In technically demanding corner sequences, such as between the ‘Hohe Acht’ and ‘Brünnchen’ sections of the track, it responds with noticeably greater agility.

Enhanced Performance and Agility

The new Panamera’s lap time, over five seconds quicker than the previous model, showcases the consistent advancements made in the four-door sports car. Its electrically supported eight-cylinder combustion engine plays a pivotal role in its impressive performance. However, the improved lap time is not solely due to the powertrain.

Kern explained that the powertrain, aerodynamics, chassis, and new ultra-high-performance tyres from Michelin all contributed to this best time. The new Porsche Active Ride chassis has made a particularly big contribution. The car stays parallel to the road at all times. Its cornering and body stability are on a whole new level. As a driver, this gives a good feeling and further underlines that the development doesn’t just offer maximum day-to-day driving comfort, but also makes a real difference on the Nurburgring Nordschleife. No other Porsche offers such a wide spectrum between comfort and sportiness. The new Panamera combines the positive properties of an exclusive touring saloon with the handling of a sports car.

Technical Enhancements

To ensure driver safety, the Panamera driven by Kern was equipped with a racing seat and the mandatory safety cage, though it otherwise corresponded to the series version. The Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, with dimensions 275/35 ZR 21 at the front and 325/30 ZR 21 at the rear, were specially developed for the Panamera. The optional Carbon Aerokit further optimised performance by eliminating lift on the front axle. Combined with the Gurney flap on the adaptive 4-way rear spoiler, this configuration generated downforce, enhancing the aerodynamic balance.

The new Panamera’s record-setting performance underscores Porsche’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering, blending luxurious comfort with cutting-edge sports car dynamics.

Mercedes-AMG Unveils New GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ at Goodwood Festival of Speed

Mercedes-AMG has expanded its GT family with the introduction of the new GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+, revealed around the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Designed for car enthusiasts seeking exceptional driving dynamics, this new model offers a sportier driving experience with enhanced power, improved aerodynamics, and better cooling systems, making it a formidable performer on the race track.

Key Features and Improvements:

Enhanced Performance:
- Powerful Engine: The AMG GT 63 PRO is powered by a 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine delivering 612hp, 27 hp more than the AMG GT 63. The maximum torque increased by 50Nm to 850Nm, allowing for more powerful acceleration.
- Acceleration and Speed: It can sprint from 0 to 200 km/h in just 10.9 seconds, 0.5 seconds faster than the AMG GT 63, with a top speed of 317km/h.

Advanced Cooling System:
- Expanded Cooler Package: The high-temperature and low-temperature cooling circuits have been reinforced. Two radiators are positioned in the left and right front wheel arches to enhance cooling performance.
- Active Cooling: The top-mounted radiators of the differentials and the transfer case of the all-wheel drive system are now actively cooled using electrically operated water pumps, ensuring the drivetrain remains cool under increased load.

Aerodynamic Enhancements:
- Aerodynamic Tuning: The redesigned front apron includes additional air deflectors made of visible carbon fibre and an active aerodynamic profile in the underbody. The aerodynamic lift on the front axle is reduced by over 30 kilograms, improving steering precision.
- Rear Wing and Underbody Fins: The fixed rear wing and additional air deflectors on the underbody, similar to those on the Mercedes-AMG ONE, increase downforce on the rear axle by around 15kg.

Improved Braking and Wheels:
- Ceramic Brake System: The AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system includes 420-millimetre brake discs on the front axle, the largest standard ceramic brake discs available from Mercedes-AMG. This system reduces weight and provides greater durability and resistance to fading.
- Forged Wheels and Cup Tyres: Lightweight 21-inch forged wheels in cross-spoke design are painted in Himalaya grey matt. Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tyres are standard, with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R Cup tyres available at no extra charge.

Interior and Exterior Design:
- Motorsport-Inspired Design: The AMG Exterior Carbon Fibre package includes a front splitter, trim strips in the side sills, a diffuser, and a rear wing in high-quality carbon fibre. Black-painted brake callipers, AMG Performance seats with high lateral support, and an AMG Performance steering wheel in Nappa leather/MICROCUT microfibre complete the motorsport feel.

Everyday Usability:

The new AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ offers the same advantages as other AMG GT family members, with improved everyday usability, a generous feeling of space, and good all-round visibility. It is optionally available with 2+2 seats, making it practical for daily use.

The new Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ combines advanced technology, improved performance, and sophisticated design to provide an exceptional driving experience. With its enhanced cooling systems, aerodynamic improvements, and powerful engine, it is well-suited for both the racetrack and everyday driving.

2025 Subaru BRZ Introduces Dedicated Sport Mode and Other Enhancements

The 2025 Subaru BRZ has been updated with a dedicated Sport mode, filling the previously blank button on the centre console found in pre-2025 models. This new feature is available exclusively for BRZ models equipped with a manual gearbox.

Sport Mode Features:

Improved Throttle Response: Activating Sport mode enhances throttle response for better acceleration.
Active Sound Control: Engine noise is artificially amplified through the cabin in Sport mode. While some may appreciate the added engine noise, others might prefer this feature to be optional.

Enhanced Handling and Comfort:

Retuned Shock Absorbers and Power Steering: Both the BRZ and the equivalent 2025 Toyota GR86 have received adjustments to their shock absorbers and power steering. Subaru claims these changes improve handling precision and ride comfort.
Automatic Transmission Adjustments: For the automatic BRZ, the rpm limit range has been increased to help reduce the risk of over-revving during manual gear changes.

Design and Pricing:

Daytime Running Lights: The 2025 BRZ features slightly revised daytime running lights.
Pricing: In Japan, the updated BRZ starts at 3,322,000 yen (approximately RM98,244) and goes up to 3,817,000 yen (nearly RM112,883) for the STI Sport trim with the six-speed automatic transmission.

Special Editions and Track-Only Model:

Unlike Toyota, which introduced the Ridge Green Limited variant of the GR86, Subaru has not announced any special edition for the BRZ.
Track-Only BRZ Cup Car Basic: This model comes with steel wheels and a manual transmission, priced at 3,722,400 yen (RM110,085).

Public Debut:

The 2025 Subaru BRZ will make its public debut on July 14 at the Fuji 86/BRZ Style 2024 event held at Fuji Speedway.
Subaru aims to sell about 300 units per month in the Japanese market.

The 2025 Subaru BRZ continues to build on its reputation as an attainable sports car, offering improved driving dynamics and new features to enhance the overall driving experience.

Subaru Reveals “Project Midnight” WRX: A 670hp Monster!

Subaru Motorsports USA today officially revealed “Project Midnight,” the fastest and most powerful WRX ever built, set to make its debut at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed from July 11-14. Inspired by the record-breaking “Airslayer” Gymkhana car, Project Midnight is designed with a singular focus on achieving outright speed, further pushing the boundaries of the WRX platform.

Building on the legacy of Airslayer, which was based on a 2020 Subaru WRX STI and gained fame for its viral stunts in Gymkhana 2020, Project Midnight takes performance to new heights. Airslayer’s notable achievements included a 230-foot jump with active rear wing control, setting records at events like the Mt. Washington Hillclimb and Car & Driver Magazine’s Lightning Lap. However, Airslayer was a versatile performer built for various challenges. Project Midnight, in contrast, is reimagined for pure tarmac speed, piloted by the experienced Subaru Motorsports USA driver Scott Speed, known for his diverse racing background from Formula 1 to rallycross.

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Bugatti W16 Mistral Enters Final Testing Phase

The Bugatti W16 Mistral marks a significant milestone as the first open-top model from the brand since 2015 and the swan song for the legendary W16 engine. This car is now entering its final evaluation phase, underscoring Bugatti’s relentless pursuit of excellence and performance.

An Engineering Marvel

At the core of the Mistral lies the ultimate iteration of the W16 engine, complemented by meticulously refined aerodynamic features and a completely reengineered monocoque. Achieving a top speed exceeding 420km/h while maintaining unparalleled performance, acoustic excellence, and luxury is a feat of engineering precision.

Bugatti’s dedication to the highest standards of performance, safety, and durability has driven an exhaustive testing program for the Mistral. Every aspect of its design has been rigorously evaluated to create Bugatti’s ultimate roadster.

Stringent Safety and Performance Testing

The Mistral has successfully undergone stringent crash tests, ensuring occupant protection in the event of a collision. These tests, essential for homologation in various markets, comply with international safety standards for North America and Europe.

Following aerodynamic evaluations in October and rigorous dynamometer testing of the W16 engine and transmission, Bugatti is now conducting a series of tests to assess the Mistral’s performance under various driving conditions. These tests cover safety, emissions, endurance, and drivability.

Endurance and Durability

The road tests for the Mistral are comprehensive, with Prototype 2 having already covered 32,000 km. These tests span diverse terrains, from high altitudes to sea level, and heavy traffic conditions. Looking ahead, Bugatti plans to add another 5,000 km on the track, pushing the total distance to 40,000 km – a milestone not often reached by modern Bugatti customer cars.

One of the most challenging aspects of the testing process is verifying the Mistral’s top speed. Finding a suitable track to safely reach over 420 km/h presents a logistical challenge. However, Bugatti remains confident in the Mistral’s ability to break records and exceed expectations.

A New Benchmark

“We are planning to run the final high-speed test on one of the few tracks worldwide that allow us to run the test safely. Once we have access to that track, achieving the top speed will no longer be a problem,” said Emilio Scervo, CTO of Bugatti Rimac.

Bugatti’s commitment throughout the Mistral’s development has been to deliver a car that not only meets but exceeds performance standards. The W16 Mistral sets new benchmarks for safety, reliability, and luxury in a hyper sports roadster. With the Mistral nearing the end of its testing journey, production at the Molsheim Atelier is expected to begin later this year.