Bowler Motors, an off-road performance vehicle specialist in the UK, has developed a Land Rover Defender rallycar that will compete in its own championship in 2022. Known as The Bowler Defender Challenge, it will consist of seven events in the UK, the first of which is scheduled to be in March.
There are 12 entries available for the one-make series, with each team competing in identical Bowler-prepared Defenders. For those with limited experience or none, the company can offer training and support to gain the necessary licence before moving directly to the series. The Challenge has been an ideal platform on which to gain motorsport know-how before joining other Bowlers and competing in rally-raid events across the globe.
For 2022 and beyond, the Challenge will continue to focus on delivering a fun environment that fosters the development of driving and competition skills yet retains the involving, engaging feel of a real motorsport family.
Defender 90 model used
Bowler will prepare the rallycars using the Defender 90 with a 300 ps Ingenium 2-litre turbocharged petrol engine. Each vehicle will be completely stripped back to install a full FIA-standard roll cage. The front and rear subframes are modified and given additional bracing for a new bespoke performance suspension set-up. Designed in collaboration with Fox, it increases the ride height by 25 mm. In place of the standard wheels are Bowler rally-spec 18-inch wheels.
Bowler’s engineers will add a suite of electronic components, from fire protection and electrical cut-offs to additional lighting and vehicle control systems – all integrated with the existing electrical architecture. Competition racing seats are also installed and the gear selector is repositioned for the optimal racing position. Additionally, Bowler-developed column-mounted paddle shifts will provide quicker shifting action.
Strengthened structure
During the conversion, the engineers subtly modify and stiffen the already rigid Defender bodyshell to cope with the extreme conditions of off-road competition. The standard doors are trimmed to remove the sill covering section, which allows the fitment of full-length, side-to-side underbody protection panels. A modified front end increases airflow to the cooling system and houses additional race-level lighting
Packages for the 2022 Challenge will start at £99,500 (about RM574,500) which the vehicle. Options include training, series logistics and vehicle support and customers can also choose from a range of accessories developed as part of this programme .
“The development of the new Bowler Defender Challenge rallycar perfectly illustrates the mutual benefits of Bowler joining Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations. Our technical support married to Bowler’s legendary rally expertise has turned the extraordinarily capable Defender into a purposeful competition machine,” said Michael van der Sande, Managing Director of Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations which has owned the Bowler business since 2019.
Incidentally, for those who are interested in getting a new Defender, we hear that Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia will make the model available in the near future. To register your interest, visit www.landrover.com.my.
Latest Land Rover Defender, soon to be available in Malaysia.
The term ‘dual-purpose’ vehicle started appearing in the late 1970s when 4×4 vehicles got more ‘civilized’ and people began to use them like passenger cars. Then came ‘SUVs’ in the 1990s, followed by ‘crossovers’ in the following decade. Now comes another type of dual-purpose vehicle for those who find a conventional stationwagon less than suitable off-road, but an SUV or crossover is too tall and bulky.
It’s the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class All-Terrain with extra ground clearance than a regular C-Class stationwagon. It’s not a new idea though as Volvo did the same thing with its stationwagon many years ago to create Cross-Country versions that could be used in rougher conditions.
More ‘off-roader’ look
The off-road C-Class is differentiated by a distinctive radiator grille, different bumpers, a simulated chrome guard plate at the front and rear and the wheelarch linings in matt dark grey. At the rear, there is a multi-section bumper with a chrome-plated load sill guard.
As the All-Terrain version has an AVANTGARDE exterior, the waistline trim, side window surrounds and roof railings are finished in polished aluminium. The trim on the B-pillars and the bars on the rear side windows are in high-gloss black. The Night Package is also available, changing many items to high-gloss black.
Compared to the regular C-Class stationwagon, the All-Terrain has marginally increased dimensions – 4 mm longer and 21 mm wider, the latter due to the exaggerated wheelarch linings. Of significance is the increased ground clearance of around 40 mm, which has also increased the car’s height to 1,494 mm. The standard tyres are 225/55 on 7.5J x 17 wheels, and customers can also opt to fit 18-inch or 19-inch wheels with wider tyres.
Intelligent DIGITAL LIGHT
The C-Class has LED High Performance headlamps as standard and the DIGITAL LIGHT system from the new S-Class can be chosen as an option. For the All-Terrain, it includes a special off-road light. When driving on light terrain, wide illumination ensures that the driver can see obstacles sooner, even when cornering. As soon as the off-road driving mode is activated, the off-road light switches on and remains active up to 50 km/h.
DIGITAL LIGHT has a light module with three extremely powerful LEDs in each headlamp, whose light is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle. This allows almost unlimited possibilities for a high-resolution light distribution that adapts to road conditions.
However, the deciding factor is not only the technology in the headlamp, but rather the digital intelligence behind it. An onboard camera and sensor systems detect other road users, with the data being evaluated by powerful computers in milliseconds. Depending on the conditions (including references to maps), the headlamps will have adjustments made to the light distribution.
Two electrified engine choices
Petrol or diesel engines are available. The 4-cylinder petrol engine has an integrated second-generation starter-generator (ISG) is used and can use electrical energy to briefly increased output by up to 20 bhp. The 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine is part of a mild hybrid drive system. It too has an integrated second-generation starter-generator and uses a 48V electrical system. Electrification allows the use of an electric refrigerant compressor for the air conditioning system.
As would be expected, the All-Terrain has standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive that will provide more traction and driving stability when going on rough or slippery surfaces. Up to 45% of engine power flows to the front axle, and up to 55% to the rear axle, the ratio varying according to the grip of the wheels. Together with the 4MATIC drive system is a 9-speed automatic transmission.
Besides the usual modes in the DYNAMIC SELECT system that offers pre-determined driving programmes, there are two more modes for use when driving in off-road conditions. OFFROAD is programmed for easy terrain such as dirt roads, gravel or sand; OFFROAD+ with DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) is recommended for somewhat rougher and steeper terrain. DYNAMIC SELECT adapts the characteristics of the engine, transmission, steering, ESP and 4MATIC, with the modes selectable even when on the move.
The new front-axle drive allows higher torque levels to be transferred with an ideal axle load distribution for driving dynamics. Moreover, this has a significant weight advantage compared to the corresponding component in the preceding series – a contribution to CO2 reduction. The engineers were also able to reduce the friction losses in the new transfer case and a closed oil circuit is used with no additional cooling measures needed.
The suspension is basically the same as the regular C-Class, but the 4-link front suspension has slightly larger steering knuckles for addition robustness. A multi-link suspension mounted on a rear axle carrier is installed at the rear. The suspension has a passive damping system with the damping effect constantly adapting to the road surface, depending on the amplitude. Ride comfort can be improved by reducing the damping effect, and when the shocks are more severe, the full damping action ensures more stability.
Same interior as regular C-Class
The interior of the All-Terrain is similar to that of a regular C-Class stationwagon, with the occupants benefiting from the moderately increased exterior dimensions of the new model generation. Compared to the predecessor, the elbow width has been increased by 22 mm for the driver and front passenger and by 15 mm for the rear passengers. There is 11 mm more headroom in the rear, plus increased kneeroom of up to 35 mm.
In terms of digitality and quality, the latest C-Class interior now has highlights such as the display and operating concept adopted from the new S-Class, with a sporty interpretation. Compared to the previous C-Class generation, the latest one has a Driving Assistance Package with additional and advanced functions. These reduce driver workload in day-to-day situations, for more comfortable and safe driving.
The C-Class All-Terrain will have its official global debut at the International Motor Show in Munich, Germany next month, with the first cars reaching showrooms later this year.
Great Wall Motors (GWM), which has been a leader among SUV makers in China, has created a new sub-brand called TANK. The name originally began as a model name under the company’s WEY brand but at the end of last year, GWM decided that TANK would be a standalone brand. The first product is the TANK 300, a conventional looking SUV with a 2-litre turbocharged petrol engine. With an output of 227 bhp and 3 differential locks in the drivetrain, it seems like a serious off-roader.
At the Chengdu Motor Show 2021 in China this month, GWM will display a second SUV which is currently referred to as TANK ‘X’. Designed by Andrew Collinson, formerly with Land Rover, General Motors, Mercedes-Benz and some other carmakers, the new SUV is to be a more premium product.
It will have a ‘hardcore look’ and as the sketches show, there is a hexagonal grille, which will have chrome highlights. The side view shows a muscular form not unlike other large SUVs in the market today.
TANK ‘X’ is built on GWM’s global intelligent professional off-road platform. It will be the manufacturer’s first SUV to be equipped with the 3.0GDIT+9AT powertrain. This engine is said to have advanced technologies such as dual-injection system and Miller cycle, with a thermal efficiency of 38.5% and maximum power output of 354 bhp/ 500 Nm. Its 9-speed automatic transmission was developed by GWM and is said to have a fast shift speed, smoothness, high transmission efficiency and also light weight.
The TANK brand joins four existing brands – HAVAL, Ora, GWM PickUp and WEY. In the first half of 2021, GWM’s total sales volume was 618,211 vehicles, a year-on-year growth of 56.5%, of which nearly 10% were sold outside China.
GWM TANK 300
GWM has been growing its presence in many regions and this year, it has stepped up its activities in Thailand with the aim of penetrating the ASEAN market. As an indication of the importance it places on the Thai market, GWM used the Bangkok International Motor Show this year as the venue for the world premiere of the HAVAL H6 Hybrid SUV.
GWM’s factory in Thailand was acquired from General Motors last year and will produce vehicles for the region.
Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has launched its Hyundai Grand Starex Smart Lease Programme to offer corporations and businesses an attractive leasing programme with significant savings. The programme, which is in partnership with Sime Darby Rent A Car, is also available for individuals.
Customers who sign up for the Hyundai Grand Starex Smart Lease programme – which can be from 3 to 5 years – will enjoy the ownership experience of a new vehicle without having to worry about a loan application, and costs related to long-term maintenance, roadtax and insurance. There is also no need to consider the resale value or have the headache of disposing a vehicle.
Less outlay than a downpayment
Customers will only need to pay the agreed fixed monthly payment, a 2-month deposit and a booking fee of RM500 upon signing of the Hyundai Smart Lease Agreement. The deposit fee is lower compared to a downpayment and there is flexibility at the end of term. When the lease agreement expires, customers can opt to renew the lease programme with a new unit.
“We have tailored the programme to fit the business vehicle needs of companies. The Smart Lease programme will provide greater flexibility without the hassle and burden of hefty up-front payments and other costs,” said Low Yuan Lung, Managing Director of HSDM. He added that the cost-savings are approximately RM17,000 for a 5-year ownership term.
Customers who use the programme can choose from all four variants of the MPV – Standard Corporate, Executive Plus without bodykit, Executive Plus with bodykit, and Executive Prime. The Grand Starex can accommodate up to 11 persons and is powered by a 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine with a 5-speed automatic transmission.
The monthly payment for the Standard Corporate variant is RM2,800 for a 5-year leasing programme with mileage capped at 15,000 kms per annum. This includes a car replacement benefit of 3 days. Customers can choose to extend the mileage cap up to 30,000 kms per annum or 40,000 kms per annum with a monthly repayment of RM3,250 and RM3,550, respectively.
Showing gratitude to frontliners
Meanwhile, HSDM has a special programme to express gratitude to the healthcare workers and frontliners dealing with public health emergencies – such as fire fighters and uniformed law enforcement officers – as well as public school teachers.
Known as the Hyundai Frontliners Appreciation Programme, it is an initiative by HSDM to show its appreciation and support to frontliners who have worked tirelessly to serve the people. The programme comes with grocery vouchers, and other goodies worth RM7,900 in total. Additionally, a special rebate will make owning a new Hyundai model more affordable.
Vaccination does not make you immune to COVID-19 infection. You can still get infected without showing symptoms but can spread the coronavirus. Do not stop taking protective measures such as wearing a facemask, washing hands frequently and social distancing.
Over at Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM), opening of all its authorised Nissan showrooms will take place progressively from tomorrow (Friday, August 20). With the exception of a few outlets, all showrooms (branches and dealers) in Perlis, Penang, Perak, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Terengganu, Kelantan, Sabah, Sarawak, Labuan will open from tomorrow. Those that do not will do so by August 23. However, in Kedah, Melaka and Johor, the showrooms will still remain closed until further notice.
Peace-of-mind experience for customers
“ETCM adhere to strict standard operating procedures (SOP) ensuring the safety of its employees and a peace-of-mind experience for customers at all times. Only vaccinated employees including post-vaccine incubation period are allowed to resume work in Nissan showrooms. All employees will be wearing face mask, undergo frequent body temperature check, and regular disinfecting will be carried out at the showrooms including display and test drive vehicles, the company said in a statement today.
Customers are also advised to comply with SOPs when entering the premises; ensure full vaccination including post-vaccine incubation period, provide proof of digital certificate on MySejahtera, have a body temperature below 37.5°C and wear a face mask. Other SOPs set by the Government remain active.
Customers requiring more information can visit www.nissan.com.my or call the Nissan Customer Care Centre hotline at 1800-88-3838.
After over two months of closure, the local auto industry is relieved that operations at all its facilities, including assembly plants, can resume. As the summary of new vehicle sales showed, the Total Industry Volume for the months of June and July were at rock bottom, and for August, there remain only two weeks in the month to do business.
Nevertheless, it is good news that showrooms can open again, and customers can visit them to make purchases. Besides serving customers, the showrooms will also be rushing to register and deliver new vehicles to customers, while plants will also be trying to meet the backlog of orders.
“Resuming our business activities, especially at Toyota and Lexus retail outlets, will enable a return to some form of normalcy so we can move forward and do our part to help in the economic recovery of the country,” said Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor.
Strict adherence to SOPs
He said that the company understands the seriousness of preventing the spread of COVID-19 and will follow all the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), conditions and guidelines provided by the Health Ministry and the National Security Council. These will be implemented throughout the company and will be strictly followed to ensure the safety of the public as well as its employees.
“In fact, after the MCO last year, we already implemented many of the SOPs at our showrooms and service centres, and these have been maintained even until now. These include temperature scanning of everyone, registration with MySejahtera, use of hand sanitisers and facemasks, and regular sanitisation of premises,” he said.
“Vehicle owners visiting service centres are also requested to make appointments in advance. As far as possible, contactless payments are encouraged and social distancing is to be observed at all times. We assure our customers that we have made sure that our premises have a safe environment for them to visit,” Mr. Ravindran added.
Specified capacities for factories
On the resumption of manufacturing activities, Mr. Ravindran said the two assembly plants and related factories in the UMW Toyota Motor group will be able to operate at specified capacities, depending on the percentage of workers who are already vaccinated, with full capacity permitted if more than 80% are vaccinated. “The company has been carrying out a vaccination programme and all our employees have already been vaccinated or will be vaccinated very soon,” he said.
“Now that the restrictions are lifted, we have more certainty as there are many important plans in the pipeline. For example, we have been preparing for the local assembly of Toyota Hybrid Electric Vehicles and while the past 2 months have disrupted planning, we will now proceed as quickly as possible to make up for the time lost,” said Akio Takeyama, Deputy Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor.
In the past year, Genesis, Hyundai’s premium brand, has been busy expanding its range, especially with its entry into the European market this year. Soon, the range will be joined by the new GV60, the brand’s first electric vehicle based on the Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated EV platform (E-GMP).
Numbering system of Genesis range
The ‘G’ in GV60 represents ‘Genesis’, while the ‘V’ represents the vehicle’s versatility. The number ‘60’ is the lowest in the Genesis line-up and comes as the brand evolves its model-numbering scheme to fit the design identity of ‘Athletic Elegance.’ Applying a different approach from convention (where smaller numbers refer to smaller size), lower numbers will emphasize athleticism under the scheme, with elegance represented by higher numbers.
Hyundai Motor Group E-GMP for EVs
Sleek, coupe-like design
The exterior design highlights a high-performance image along with a dynamic and smooth appearance, with the front featuring a design optimized exclusively for an electric vehicle. Below the line of flanking Two-Line Quad Lamps is a more athletic Crest Grille. While there is no internal combustion engine to cool, the grille is still used to allow air to blow towards the high-voltage battery pack in the underbody for cooling.
The GV60 will also see a new wing emblem applied to the grille, with the thickness of the emblem reduced by nearly 80% from previous models. It has the same unique Guilloche pattern often seen in luxury watches, a blend of the brand’s analogue sensitivities with high-tech innovations.
In addition, Genesis designers have opted for a ‘Clamshell Hood’ for the first time, a single panel which combines the bonnet and fenders, creating a sleek impression by removing lines between the parts.
The side view shows a smooth and dynamic profile of a high-performance coupe. The silhouette is simple yet sharp, running from the bonnet to the rear spoiler. The spoiler accents the coupe-shaped roof. A chrome line flowing from the windscreen to the top of the Day Light Opening (DLO) window extends to a C pillar-garnish design that embodies the image of ‘electric’, adding a distinctive characteristic to the model.
Shoulder volume is emphasized in the rear fender to create a low and wide profile and further accentuate the image of high-performance by combining it with technical functions such as various sensors, taillights, and rear turn signals at the bottom.
Digital rearview mirrors
The GV60 will not have conventional door mirrors using reflective surfaces. Instead, they will capture the rearward views on either side using a camera and display images on a monitor. The door handles remain flush when not needed, improving aerodynamics, and automatically pop up when the driver approaches the car.
The Crystal Sphere
The interior takes on Genesis’ design ethos of the ‘Beauty of White Space’ to create a spacious and comfortable interior. At the same time, it has embodied differentiated images with its floating architecture and unique details. The most noticeable feature is the Crystal Sphere, a sphere-shaped Shift-By-Wire (SBW) that intuitively informs drivers when the car is ready to drive.
The Crystal Sphere is one of the most compelling design elements of the GV60. When the car’s powertrain is turned off, the Crystal Sphere becomes mood lights, adding to the aesthetic of the driving experience. When readying to drive, it rotates and the SBW display appears, creating an indoor atmosphere of futuristic mobility. The Crystal Sphere can this also provide emotional connection with driver while indicating driving status.
The ‘floating’ console, where the Crystal Sphere is located, works with other design features such as the slim cockpit and flat floor to provide passengers with a maximum level of openness. The ‘crash pad’ in the cabin is designed in a wide and slim shape to augment the pleasant interior, emphasizing a high-tech atmosphere with a wide-screen integrated indicator for audio, video, navigation, telecommunication.
Genesis has not given details of the electric powertrain although it is likely to be shared with recent new EV models like the Hyundai Ioniq5 and Kia EV6. The launch date is also unknown but the Korean market is likely to get it this year, and shipments to other markets will start in 2022.
Lamborghini Marzal: the car with the most glass surface area
Developed with the intention to create a 4-seater grand tourer, the Marzal, designed by Marcello Gandini for Carrozzeria Bertone, became a worldwide icon of style and design. Among the features that made the Marzal’s design special were the interior, entirely upholstered in silver-coloured leather and the hexagon, the central theme of its entire design which was repeated in as many details as possible. It was echoed in the shape of the dashboard, the rear window and in the console cut-out.
But the most striking feature of all was the extensive glass surface that covered 4.5 square metres in total, from the gull-wing doors to the roof. Though the Marzal was a fully operational showcar, it could claim having the largest glass surface in history.
Lamborghini Miura: designed by the youngest team in Lamborghini’s history
From the very beginning of his entrepreneurial history, Ferruccio Lamborghini wanted to give ample space to brilliant and capable young people, and the Miura project was a prime example of this. With the aim of challenging the competition of that era and getting his company off the ground, he made use of talented collaborators selected from universities and from among the youngest professionals in the automotive world.
In 1966, with an average age of just 29, the youngest in the history of the brand, designer Marcello Gandini and test driver Bob Wallace, both 28, along with chief engineer Gian Paolo Dallara and assistant engineer Paolo Stanzani, both 30, brought the Miura to life, an extraordinary car that was destined to become a legend.
Lamborghini LM002: the first Super SUV
Starting as a project aimed at developing a high-performance off-road vehicle for military use, the LM002 was first unveiled at the Brussels Motor Show in 1986. At the time of its launch, the LM002 was a completely different car from any other available in the market. It had performance similar to those of Lamborghini’s super sportscars, thanks to a 5167 cc engine delivering 450 bhp.
With a body made of aluminium and fibreglass, all-wheel drive, a 2-speed transfer-case with central locking differential, it could also be used off-road on rough terrain. It was undoubtedly the first Super SUV in history, with today’s Urus being the direct descendant. 300 units were produced between 1986 and 1992.
Lamborghini Countach: the first car with ‘scissor doors’
‘Scissor doors’, so called because of the way they opened upwards at an angle, were a unique feature in futuristic cars, usually design concepts. The first car with such doors was the Lamborghini Countach designed by Gandini. In 1971, it was the first production car equipped with vertically opening doors of this type, still today a distinctive feature of the most powerful Lamborghini models.
This feature was not just to wow the public as there was a useful function. The driver could lean out to see the area behind the car when reversing, solving the problem of poor rear visibility as well as that of parking in tight spaces, where a long door could not otherwise be opened.
Lamborghini Miura: lowest production roadcar at 105.5 cm in height
In the 1960s, low height and sinuous, aerodynamic forms were the most important aspects in the minds of designers developing a sportscar. At just 105.5 cm in height, the Miura was the lowest mass-produced car ever, a record that is part of Lamborghini’s DNA and still a styling feature in its cars today.
The original Datsun 240Z was one of the first Japanese models to show that Japan could also make sportscars and not just econocars. It certainly added another side to the Datsun brand (Nissan was not used as a brand name then) and drew enthusiasts to it. 50 years later, the seventh generation has now been revealed and retains the authenticity of a pure sportscar like the original.
The all-new Nissan Z – no more numbers that relate to engine size – was presented to the world online from New York, the same city where the 240Z made its world debut in October 1969. “When we introduced the Z in 1969, the Z was a revolution. Since then, for more than 50 years, Nissan has brought style, speed, reliability and so much more to millions of enthusiasts around the world,” said Ashwani Gupta, Representative Executive Officer and COO of Nissan.
Design shows lineage
As with the previous six generations, the new Z retains the same long-nose/short rear deck profile that was inspired by the classic British sportscars and also housed an in-line six. With the design theme for the exterior being ‘tradition with modern technology’, the designers looked to past generations to develop the fresh, sleek exterior design with an appearance that communicates respect to its lineage. “Ultimately, we created a Z that travels between the decades while being completely modern,” said Alfonso Albaisa, Global Head of Design at Nissan.
1971 Datsun 240Z
While maintaining the silhouette that pays homage to the first generation, the designers utilized the latest technologies to streamline the design, and incorporated LED lighting to give dimension without unnecessary elements. The LED headlights have two half-circles that take their inspiration from the Japan market-only 240ZG of the 1970s. Incidentally, for the original 240Z sold in America, the plastic covers for the headlights were not permitted due to regulations at that time.
The link to the original Z is most striking when viewing the new Z from the side. The roofline flows from the nose to the squared-off rear to create the distinctive familiar profile , whose rear edge was slightly lower than the front fender height giving the Z its unique posture. The signature transition from the rear quarter glass to the low-slung position of the rear tail adds to the effect.
The door handles are a flush-mounted design, and the rear hatch design is ultra-thin, yet with increased rigidity over the previous 370Z design. In the rear, the blister fenders smoothly direct flow air past the horizontal rear panel. The rear combination lamps incorporate modern technology into the design reminiscent of the Z32 300ZX (sold between 1990 and 1996), including new 3D signature LED taillights. The Z Performance grade also comes with a rear spoiler.
Only one engine choice
The early Z cars had straight six engines but V6 engines were used from 1984 when the 300ZX was launched, and the model has continued to use such engines to this day. The new Z gets the latest version of the V6 twin turbo engine (VR30DDT) but now with a 3-litre displacement instead of the 3.7 litres of the generation it replaces. There is, however, a significant boost in power output over the previous engine as this one produced up to 405 ps at 6,400 rpm and 475 Nm of torque from 1,600 to 5,600 rpm.
To increase output and to deliver sharp response, small-diameter turbochargers are used, as well as a turbo speed sensor to ensure the capabilities of the turbos are fully utilized (maximum spooling speed). The twin turbos balance power output and response time, while the use of an electronic variable valve timing (e-VVT) intake valve system ensures optimum response, constantly adjusting the intake valve timing to achieve excellent response and fuel efficiency in a variety of driving scenes.
6-speed manual or 9-speed automatic
Many of those who bought a 280ZX, introduced in the late 1970s, probably got it with a 5-speed manual transmission. For those who were lazy to shift, Nissan offered a 3-speed automatic transmission (yes… 3 speeds!). Transmission technologies have advanced over 4 decades and with the new Z, the driver gets a standard, 6-speed manual transmission. The close-ratio transmission includes an EXEDY high-performance clutch. In a first for a rear-wheel drive Nissan vehicle, Z Performance versions equipped with a manual transmission include an advanced launch assist control system that helps deliver smooth acceleration from a stopped position. There is also a carbonfibre composite driveshaft, with SynchroRev Match added to Performance versions.
You can also get an automatic transmission and this also has the launch control system. It’s a 9-speeder with a wide spread of gear ratios. Aluminium paddle shifters are standard, with unique paddle shifters, the same design as found on the GT-R (for Performance versions).
The engineering team tuned the chassis, cooling, suspension and steering to give the driver predictable and responsive handling. This required a multi-prong approach, especially for high-speed driving and cornering. Enhanced body rigidity, an electronic power steering with rack assist and a strong mechanical feel, and wider front tyres help increase maximum cornering g-forces up to 13%. The dampers use a new monotube shock absorber design with a larger diameter than the 370Z, resulting in an approximately 20% reduction in damping force to help minimize impact shock over uneven surfaces, enhance road-following performance and improve handling stability.
The front double-wishbone aluminium suspension features new geometry, including increased caster angle, improving straight line stability. A 2-point front strut tower brace is standard and the rear independent multi-link aluminium suspension has also been reconfigured with new settings.
Needless to say, disc brakes are fitted to all four wheels and all have ventilated rotors. Larger sport brakes with red-painted calipers are standard on Performance versions, while the Z Sport version rides on dark-painted 18-inch aluminium-alloy wheels with Yokohama ADVAN Sport high performance tyres. The Z Performance version has 19-inch RAYS super lightweight forged aluminium alloy wheels wrapped with Bridgestone Potenza S007 tyres.
Modern tech with a vintage touch
Sportscars like the Z have always had cabins designed to fit the occupants like a glove. The new Z will be no exception, and seamlessly blends modern technology with vintage Z touches. The centre stack takes inspiration from other generations before it, with three analogue pod gauges over the middle section to give that classic appearance. There’s an 8-inch touchscreen audio display to function as a command centre with numerous functions and interfacing with smartphones.
Ideal sportscar cabin
The interior design team also sought advice from professional motorsports racers to give the Z an ideal sportscar cabin. This can be seen in the instrumentation, with all vital information found in the 12.3-inch customizable digital meter display and arranged to help the driver grasp it at a glance. One example: the redline shift point is set at the 12 o’clock position.
The meter display is customizable in three modes. NORMAL mode offers a sporty feel with the centre area for navigation, audio and vehicle information. ENHANCED mode positions the tachometer and speedometer at the edges of the display, giving more space in the centre for a larger navigation map and information to be displayed. SPORT mode prioritizes the tachometer in the centre with a shift-up light at the top in the driver’s field of view. This mode also shows a boost gauge or g- meter, depending on what the driver prefers.
The design of the seats utilizes know-how from the GT-R’s development to enhance body support and grip. An expanded use of suede on the seatback suppresses initial lateral shake on the body, creating more comfortable drives, as well as reducing body movement when the vehicle is being cornered with ‘great enthusiasm’.
The early Z cars were pretty bare by today’s standards but then again, drivers probably didn’t care much about convenience features too. For today’s Z, times have changed and a wide range of convenience features comes as standard equipment. These include a Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Start, intelligent cruise control, automatic temperature control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, rearview Monitor, 12V power sockets, USB points (Type-C as well) and front and rear sonar sensors for parking guidance. Active Noise Cancellation and Active Sound Enhancement enhances listening pleasure from the audio system.
Proto Spec special edition
Nissan will offer a special edition which celebrates the distinctive Z Proto introduced in 2020. To be known as the Proto Spec, this will be limited to 240 units in the USA. It will have yellow-coloured brake calipers with the Z logo, bronze-coloured 19-inch RAYS wheels, exclusive shift lever knob (manual transmission only), exclusive Proto Spec leather-covered seats with yellow accents, exclusive Proto Spec suede + cloth door trim with yellow stitching and special Proto Spec interior stitching.
Pricing for the new sportscar is not announced yet but is expected to be around US$40,000 (about RM170,000) and the first units will be delivered to customers during the first quarter of 2022. You can expect that NISMO is already hard at work preparing high-performance versions.
