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Audi enthusiasts are in for a treat as the brand teases the highly anticipated new Audi S3, accompanied by camouflaged photos showcasing both the Sportback and Saloon variants. Powered by a robust 2.0-litre TFSI petrol engine, the S3 promises nothing short of an exhilarating driving experience, boasting 328hp and 420Nm of torque at your command.

Thanks to recent enhancements, the 2.0-litre TFSI four-cylinder engine receives a notable boost, delivering an additional 23hp and 20Nm of torque. This ensures abundant power for dynamic drives, with robust pulling force and spirited acceleration available across a wide RPM range from 2,100 to 5,500rpm. Accelerating from 0-100km/h takes a mere 4.7 seconds, with the top speed gracefully capped at 249km/h.

Adding to the excitement, the turbocharger receives a pre-boost, ensuring rapid and smooth power delivery. Whether cruising or gently accelerating, the turbocharger maintains a steady spin, guaranteeing a consistent stream of power. Moreover, with the throttle valve remaining open during high-performance moments, drivers can anticipate enhanced engine responsiveness.

The extended duration of the throttle valve’s openness translates to accelerated torque delivery, resulting in an even livelier engine response, particularly noticeable in dynamic mode or with the new dynamic plus profile engaged.

Equipped with a torque splitter, the Audi S3 promises enhanced agility and stability, complemented by larger brakes and performance tyres to elevate handling prowess. Furthermore, a sportier transmission featuring Audi’s seven-speed S tronic transmission adds to the driving thrill, promising seamless gear shifts and heightened performance on every journey.

More information will be available when the Audi S3 makes its official debut.

Honda enthusiasts have been granted a tantalising glimpse into the future with a short video teaser of the upcoming CR-V FCEV, scheduled for its debut in 2024. While still shrouded in camouflage, this hydrogen-powered rendition of the beloved SUV hints at enhanced functionality thanks to the integration of a battery pack.

Upon its anticipated arrival later this year, the Honda CR-V FCEV is poised to make history as North America’s first production vehicle to combine a battery pack with a hydrogen fuel cell powertrain. This innovative fusion equips the SUV with the flexibility to be charged akin to a conventional EV when access to a hydrogen pump is scarce.

This groundbreaking feature alleviates the CR-V FCEV’s dependence on the limited hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, while its bi-directional charging capability empowers owners to harness stored battery power for various electronic devices, as showcased with a coffee maker in the teaser video.

Although specifics such as battery capacity and hydrogen tank size remain undisclosed, driving range details are eagerly anticipated. Nonetheless, the new powertrain, developed in collaboration with General Motors, promises significant cost savings compared to the Honda Clarity Fuel Cell, while boasting double the durability.

Visually, the fuel-cell EV flaunts a redesigned front end, characterised by a sleeker grille and enlarged bumper intakes, setting it apart from its gasoline-powered counterpart, the CR-V. Notable alterations include the addition of a charging port on the front fender and distinct clear taillight clusters.

Production of the Honda CR-V FCEV is slated to take place at the Marysville plant in Ohio, with distribution plans encompassing not only North America but also the Japanese market. As anticipation mounts, enthusiasts eagerly await further revelations about this pioneering SUV poised to redefine automotive innovation.

Aston Martin, renowned for its iconic Vantage model, unveils an updated iteration of its revered two-door GT car after 74 years of craftsmanship. The latest generation, introduced in 2018, undergoes a substantial update, focusing on significant mechanical enhancements alongside aesthetic refinements. Beyond surface-level changes, Aston Martin aims to deliver a refreshed appearance coupled with elevated performance that resonates with enthusiasts.

At the heart of the new Vantage lies a Mercedes-sourced 4.0-litre V8 engine, now tuned to deliver an impressive 656hp, marking a substantial increase of 153hp from its predecessor. This power surge is not merely the result of heightened boost pressure but stems from meticulous adjustments, including new camshafts, enlarged turbos, and a modified compression ratio. Furthermore, three additional heat exchangers and an enlarged oil cooler manage coolant and charge air temperatures more effectively, ensuring optimal engine performance.

The powertrain is mated to the trusted 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, transmitting power to the rear wheels via an electronic limited-slip differential. With a shortened final drive ratio of 3.083:1, the new Vantage achieves swifter acceleration while maintaining an impressive top speed of 325km/h and a blistering 0-100km/h sprint time of just 3.4 seconds.

Structural enhancements bolster the Vantage’s rigidity, with a revised underbody and repositioned front cross-member contributing to increased torsional stiffness. Additionally, a lighter and stiffer strut brace enhances chassis stiffness, complemented by improved rigidity at the rear. These modifications pave the way for the new Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers to optimise handling and ride quality.

Software refinements further enhance performance and driver engagement, with Aston Martin fine-tuning traction management modes, launch control system, and electronic power steering. The result is a dynamic driving experience on twisty roads, complemented by a high-performance braking system featuring front 400mm steel rotors with six-piston callipers and rear 360mm rotors with four-piston callipers. Carbon ceramic brakes are available as an option, shedding unsprung weight for improved agility and handling.

Inside, the Vantage cockpit is sleek and elegant, with clean lines and a spacious feel. The seats are comfortable and supportive, designed for an enjoyable driving experience. Standard features include a 11-speaker audio system, while audiophiles can opt for the upgraded Bowers & Wilkins system with 15 speakers and 1,170W of power.

The Vantage also comes with Aston Martin’s latest infotainment system, which includes a 10.25-inch touchscreen with online connectivity. Navigation is enhanced with real-time traffic updates and dynamic routing, making journeys smoother and more efficient. The system also supports wireless Apple CarPlay for seamless smartphone integration.

Owners can interact with their Vantage through the Aston Martin app, which offers features like vehicle monitoring, location tracking, and community engagement. The app is free for the first three years and enhances the ownership experience.

Despite the extensive enhancements, the essence of the Vantage remains unchanged – a timeless two-door GT car offering a captivating driving experience. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in Q2 2024, with pricing details expected to be announced concurrently, enticing Aston Martin enthusiasts eager to experience the all-new Vantage firsthand.

Proterial, a Japanese metal materials maker formerly known as Hitachi Metals, has unveiled a breakthrough in electric vehicle (EV) motor technology. The company has developed a new alloy that it claims can significantly reduce power consumption by up to 5%, leading to the potential for smaller and faster motors.

The innovative amorphous alloy, processed into material for EV motor cores, boasts an impressive energy loss reduction of over 90% compared to the non-oriented electrical steel sheet commonly used in motors today.

With plans to commence mass production as early as 2025, Proterial has overcome various challenges in developing the alloy. The material is approximately five times stronger than traditional electrical steel sheets, which has posed durability issues for the tools used in its processing. Additionally, the alloy’s thinner composition has presented complexities in handling.

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Despite the discontinuation of the BMW i3 in 2022, the electric vehicle (EV) continues to enjoy popularity in the secondhand market. However, a recent revelation has shed light on the potentially daunting costs lurking behind the allure of these eco-friendly cars. One i3 owner was left reeling after receiving a jaw-dropping quote of $71,208 (RM339,163) for a new battery pack for their 2015 i3 REx. This amount not only exceeded the car’s initial value but also surpassed that of a brand-new BMW i5 eDrive40.

While EV battery replacements are known to come with hefty price tags, this particular figure appears especially exorbitant, even by BMW standards. Similar estimates for battery replacements have typically hovered around the $16,000 (RM76,208) mark, making the quoted amount all the more shocking.

BMW i3 EV 2022

Following the posting of this astronomical quote on Reddit, other i3 owners shared their eye-watering estimates, with one individual facing a bill of $30,000 (RM142,890). The inconsistency in quotes for the same job has raised eyebrows within the EV community.

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The automotive world bids farewell to an icon as the Audi R8, one of the most revered mid-engined supercars renowned for its high-revving, naturally-aspirated engine, prepares to roll off the production line for the final time. Initially slated for discontinuation by the close of 2023, recent developments confirm that production is still underway at Audi’s Böllinger Höfe factory, albeit with a definitive end in sight by the end of March.

Liza Kellner, spokesperson for Audi TT and R8, affirmed, “The last Audi R8 will leave the production line at the end of the first quarter of 2024, marking the end of an era for this iconic sports car at the Audi Böllinger Höfe site in Neckarsulm.” Kellner emphasised that Audi’s strategic focus on electrification, exemplified by the ongoing production of the all-electric Audi e-tron GT at the same facility, has led to the decision to retire the R8.

2021 Audi R8 V10 RWD

Explaining the shift in the discontinuation timeline, Kellner noted, “The statement regarding the R8’s discontinuation by the end of 2023 was made in 2019. Consequently, the adjustment of the actual end date by a few weeks is not unexpected.”

The Audi R8’s swan song comes in the form of the GT RWD, the final iteration introduced in most markets in late 2022. Limited to a production run of just 333 units worldwide, this model features a potent 5.2-litre naturally-aspirated V10 engine, churning out 612hp and 565Nm of torque, delivering exhilarating performance to the rear wheels. Additionally, Audi unveiled the R8 Coupe Japan Final Edition, a limited-run variant restricted to a mere eight units, further underscoring the R8’s iconic status.

As enthusiasts rush to secure their allocations of the Audi R8 before it fades into automotive history, the enduring appeal of this legendary supercar is evident. Last year witnessed Audi selling 631 new R8s across the United States, more than double the figures from 2022, reflecting the unwavering passion and admiration for the R8 among automotive enthusiasts worldwide.

The Ministry of Transport is facing mounting pressure to address the issue of express bus operators raising fares during the Chinese New Year holiday, with calls for stringent action against those found guilty of price gouging.

NV Subbarow, Senior Education Officer of the Consumers Association of Penang (CAP), has urged the ministry to take decisive measures, including suspending the licenses of express bus services, in response to reports of exorbitant fare hikes. One such incident involved a couple who were charged over RM800 for a round trip from Gopeng, Perak to Johor Bahru (JB).

Subbarow highlighted that the passengers had to bear fares inflated by 270 per cent to 344 per cent above the usual rate of RM70 per passenger for a one-way trip.

Expressing disappointment and concern, Subbarow emphasised that passengers had purchased tickets online a month before Chinese New Year, only to be faced with significantly higher prices during their journey.

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While BMW’s M division may have taken a divergent path with the XM as its flagship offering, a sleek sports car named the BMW I16 was once in the pipeline. Unveiled on social media by BMW’s design chief, Domagoj Dukec, the I16 was positioned as the successor to the i8. However, despite its promising design and potential, the project met an unfortunate end, likely influenced by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dukec shared a series of sketches and photorealistic renderings of the I16, showcasing a design that blended the proportions of the BMW i8 with more refined styling cues from the 2019 BMW Vision M Next concept. The result was a visually appealing sports car that captured the essence of the classic BMW M1.

Featuring aggressive headlights, a sculpted kidney grille, and butterfly doors reminiscent of the i8, the I16 also incorporated modern touches like high-mounted side inlets in place of flying buttresses. At the rear, slim taillights, M1-inspired BMW emblems, and a triple rear windshield evoked a sense of performance and heritage.

Despite its cancellation, Dukec revealed that the I16’s development was completed in less than 12 months, leveraging the carbon monocoque chassis of the BMW i8 for its mid-engined layout and shared hardpoints. While details on the powertrain were scarce, reports suggested a plug-in hybrid setup with around 600hp and an EV-only range exceeding 100km.

Unfortunately, the I16 project came to an abrupt halt, with BMW opting to discontinue the i8 without a successor. Dukec hinted at the pandemic’s impact on the decision, noting that “the world changed in 2020,” leading to the project’s cancellation. Despite this setback, Dukec remains hopeful for the future, suggesting that there’s always a new project waiting around the corner.

Rowan Atkinson, renowned actor and comedian, finds himself embroiled in controversy following accusations that his commentary on electric vehicles (EVs) has contributed to sluggish sales in the UK. The allegations surfaced during a meeting of the UK’s House of Lords, where the environment and climate change committee discussed obstacles to the government’s plan to phase out petrol and diesel cars by 2035.

According to reports, the committee singled out Atkinson, citing a piece he authored in The Guardian in June 2023 as a significant factor in the downturn of EV sales. The think tank Green Alliance, presenting its findings during the session, labelled Atkinson’s article as detrimental to the cause and claimed it had been thoroughly debunked.

“Unfortunately, fact checks never reach the same breadth of audience as the original false claim, emphasising the need to ensure high editorial standards around the net-zero transition,” remarked the Green Alliance during the parliamentary session.

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Hyundai enthusiasts have reason to rejoice as the 2024 Elantra N receives a comprehensive array of updates aimed at elevating its driving experience. With an enticing starting price of $34,850 (RM166,356), including destination, the latest iteration of the beloved affordable sports sedan promises to deliver even more bang for the buck.

Priced just $835 (RM3,982) higher than its predecessor, the 2024 Elantra N finds itself comfortably positioned within the fiercely competitive affordable performance segment. While slightly edging out rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI and the Subaru WRX in terms of cost, it remains a compelling option against contenders like the Toyota GR Corolla and the Honda Civic Type R.

Building upon its reputation for offering exceptional value, the Elantra N now comes packed with an array of upgrades that justify the modest price increase.

The most noticeable changes can be found at the front, where a refreshed bumper design and new headlights lend the sedan a more refined appearance. Not merely cosmetic, these updates enhance airflow to the radiator and braking system, ensuring improved cooling efficiency and consistent braking performance. Hyundai has also implemented thermal protection for the brake lines to prevent fluid overheating—a thoughtful addition for spirited driving enthusiasts.

Under the skin, the Elantra N benefits from mechanical enhancements aimed at enhancing handling and driving dynamics. A revised steering system with improved tolerances and a new universal joint enhances precision and feedback, while updated motor mounts work to reduce vibrations. Additionally, urethane bushings at the rear suspension mounting points contribute to a smoother ride.

Perhaps the most significant improvement comes in the form of standard 19-inch forged alloy wheels, shedding 14kg of unsprung mass compared to the previous model. Wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S summer tires, these wheels offer increased grip and responsiveness, particularly in high-speed cornering scenarios.

Powering the 2024 Elantra N is the familiar 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine, delivering a robust 276hp and 391Nm of torque. Paired with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, enthusiasts can opt for an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic for an additional $1500 (RM7,153).

With Hyundai dealers already receiving shipments of the 2024 Elantra N, prospective buyers are encouraged to act swiftly to secure their desired model. With its blend of performance, value, and enhanced driving dynamics, the Elantra N continues to uphold its reputation as a standout choice in the affordable sport sedan segment.

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