Alpina, yang terkenal dengan gabungan kemewahan dan prestasinya yang unik telah memperkenalkan versi GT bagi model B3 dan B4. Langkah ini memenuhi keperluan peminat BMW yang mencari pakej canggih yang memberikan prestasi seperti M.
Peningkatan Kuasa dan Prestasi
Model GT baharu mempunyai peningkatan kuasa yang ketara. Enjin enam sebaris berkembar turbo kini menghasilkan 529hp, peningkatan sebanyak 34hp, dan 729Nm tork. Ini meletakkan sedan Alpina B3 GT dan B3 GT Touring, bersama-sama dengan B4 GT Gran Coupe, setanding dengan model BMW M3 Competition.
Prestasi yang Dipertingkatkan:
Sedan B3 GT: 0 hingga 100km/j dalam 3.4 saat.
B3 GT Touring dan B4 GT Gran Coupe: 0 hingga 100km/j dalam 3.5 saat.
Alpina telah mengaitkan peningkatan kuasa ini kepada pemetaan enjin yang disemak semula. Semua model menampilkan pengagihan kuasa kepada keempat-empat roda melalui transmisi automatik lapan kelajuan ZF.
Reka Bentuk
Secara visual, versi GT mengekalkan rupa yang tersendiri. Ciri-ciri reka bentuk termasuk:
Depan: Canard kecil dan pembahagi hadapan.
Belakang: Diffuser hitam yang direka bentuk semula dan hujung ekzos baharu.
Warna: Biru dan hijau khas Alpina, bersama dengan pelbagai warna BMW Individual.
Lencana: Lencana Alpina pada bahagian luaran dan dalaman, termasuk skrip GT dalam Oro Tecnico.
B3 GT ditawarkan dalam kedua-dua trim sedan dan wagon. Model ini, berdasarkan 3 Series, menggunakan gril yang lebih kecil berbanding M3 untuk memberikan pilihan estetik yang berbeza untuk pembeli. B4 GT, tersedia dalam format Gran Coupe, berkongsi kuasa dan peningkatan prestasi yang sama.
Ketersediaan dan Harga
Model ini akan eksklusif untuk pasaran Eropah, dengan penghantaran bermula pada bulan November. Harga bermula pada:
Sedan B3: 101,700 Euro (RM518,008).
B3 Touring: 102,900 Euro (RM524,098).
B4 GT Gran Coupe: 105,100 Euro (RM535,348).
Versi GT baharu daripada Alpina menawarkan alternatif yang menarik untuk pembeli BMW yang mencari pengalaman pemanduan yang mewah namun berkuasa. Dengan prestasi tahap M dan penggayaan Alpina yang unik, model ini menyediakan pilihan yang canggih dalam segmen kenderaan berprestasi tinggi. Alpina terus menunjukkan keupayaannya untuk menggabungkan prestasi dan kemewahan, memberikan pengalaman pemanduan yang luar biasa kepada pelanggan.
Alpina, the renowned automaker famed for its unique blend of luxury and performance, has unveiled the GT versions of its B3 and B4 models. This move caters to BMW enthusiasts desiring a sophisticated package that delivers M-like performance.
The new GT models boast a significant power boost. The twin-turbocharged inline-six engine now delivers 529hp, an increase of 34hp, and 729Nm of torque. This positions the Alpina B3 GT sedan and B3 GT Touring, along with the B4 GT Gran Coupe, on par with BMW’s M3 Competition models.
Alpina has attributed this power increase to revised engine mapping. The enhanced performance allows the B3 GT sedan to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.4 seconds. The B3 GT Touring and B4 GT Gran Coupe achieve this in 3.5 seconds. All models feature power distribution to all four wheels through a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.
Visually, the GT versions maintain a subtle yet distinctive look. They feature small canards and a front splitter, along with a redesigned black diffuser and new exhaust tips. Alpina’s signature shades of blue and green are available, alongside a broad range of BMW Individual colours. The Alpina badging is prominent on both the exterior and interior, including the GT script in Oro Tecnico.
The B3 GT is offered in both sedan and wagon trims. These models, based on the 3 Series, sport the smaller grille compared to the M3, providing a different aesthetic choice for buyers. The B4 GT, available in Gran Coupe format, shares the same power and performance enhancements.
These models will be exclusive to the European market, with deliveries starting in November. Pricing begins at 101,700 Euros (RMRM518,008) for the B3 sedan, 102,900 Euros (RM524,098) for the B3 Touring, and 105,100 Euros (RM535,348) for the B4 GT Gran Coupe.
The new GT versions from Alpina offer a compelling alternative for BMW buyers seeking a luxurious yet powerful driving experience. With M-level performance and unique Alpina styling, these models provide a sophisticated option in the high-performance vehicle segment.
Genesis has announced its debut in Sony Interactive Entertainment’s Gran Turismo 7 (GT7) sim racing videogame series as an official manufacturer partner of the Gran Turismo World Series, an online global motorsport championship. GT7 is developed by Polyphony Digital Inc. and was recently released on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 consoles.
The luxury brand of the Hyundai Motor Group will make available to championship competitors the Genesis X GR3 and G70 GR4 concept vehicles, as well as the G70 Sport Sedan for the Manufacturer’s Cup.
“Genesis is pleased to be presenting the dynamic G70 sport sedan and our ambitious GR3 and GR4 concepts in Gran Turismo 7,” said SangYup Lee, Executive Vice-President and Head of Genesis Global Design Centre. “This platform allows fans of racing to get behind the wheel and discover the bold designs and performance ambitions of Genesis as we continue to explore the brand’s entry into motorsport.”
The X GR3 and G70 GR4 are concept vehicles which were shown last year when Genesis revealed the vehicle design process at an ultra-modern experiential installation called ‘The Performance of Design’ during Monterey Car Week. The two concept vehicles were part of a trio of models developed in collaboration with the creators of the Gran Turismo videogame series.
The X GR3 is based on the Genesis X Concept shown last year and reinterpreted in the Gr.3 racing specification. It is powered by a 3.3-litre V6 twin-turbo engine with 555 ps.
The G70 GR4 Gran Turismo, is a California-built 420 ps racing car derived from the Genesis coupe. It is a completely reimagined G70 sport sedan for competition with a GT-inspired racing package. Building on the existing G70 model to create a bold, yet elegant, high-performance racing car, it showcases the motorsport intent of the brand.
Other concepts under study are the GR1 Alpha_DB, GR1 Bravo_GB, and GR1 Charlie_ET, all of which are potential designs for a future Vision Gran Turismo Concept that will be an elite racing car.
Hyundai’s luxury brand, Genesis, is aiming to develop a performance side to its image, just like the three Japanese luxury brands (Lexus, Infiniti and Acura). It is already finalizing a range of GT models that will appear in showrooms in the next couple of years.
This weekend, during the Monterey Car Week in California, Genesis is showing its design process at an ultramodern experiential installation called ‘The Performance of Design‘. At this event, the brand will unveil 3 concept models developed in collaboration with the creators of the PlayStation Gran Turismo videogame series.
G7o for competition
One of the models that will convey its motorsport intent are the G70 GR4 Gran Turismo, a California-built racing car, during an exclusive event. This is derived from the G70 sedan but completely reimagined for competition with an all-new GT-inspired racing package.
“The G70 GR4 GT builds on the existing G70 model to create a bold, yet elegant, high-performance racing vehicle,” said SangYup Lee, Senior Vice-President and Head of Global Genesis Design. “We are pleased to be presenting this vehicle and others as we explore the brand’s entry into motorsport.”
4 other concepts
Besides the G70 GR4 GT, there will be the GR3 and 3 potential designs for a future Vision Gran Turismo Concept, an elite racing vehicle. The three design studies are:
GR1 Alpha_DB – an experimental concept that embraces ‘Athletic Elegance’, separating the brand’s iconic two lines to form one seamless design and testing the limits of aerodynamics and speed.
GR1 Bravo_GB – a sophisticated mobile sculpture, proving that function and beauty can work as one.
GR1 Charlie_ET: a design embracing the technical precision of ‘Athletic Elegance’, capturing the tension, athleticism and performance of Genesis products.
Immersive experience with AR and VR
Visitors to the facility will be able to ‘experience’ these new designs with the use of augmented and virtual reality technologies that will create an immersive environment.
Although Genesis was originally a Hyundai flagship model name, the company decided to spin it off as a stand-alone brand name for a line of more luxurious models. The name is fairly ‘neutral’ in the same way that Lexus, Infiniti and Acura do not immediately register as Japanese brands.
Since being established in 2015, Genesis has steadily built up its portfolio of products, mainly with the American market in mind. There are obviously other models to come and the design language that they may have has been shown in the Genesis X, an EV GT (Gran Turismo) concept car.
Unveiled on a rooftop in Los Angeles, the presentation depicted the dynamism of California’s car culture and the brand’s pioneering spirit, with the promise of a sustainable future for all. It is the brand’s fifth concept car, following the New York, GV80, Essentia, and Mint concepts.
“The Genesis X Concept embodies the essential elements that Genesis pursues in its designs. Meet the future of Genesis design through this concept car, which embodies our brand’s progressive and audacious spirit” said Jay Chang, Global Head of the Genesis Brand.
In particular, the new concept car is a high-performance GT that maximizes use of the Two Lines design element that Genesis is known for. The Two Lines theme, which is applied throughout the interior and exterior, including electric charging devices, embodies the design language of future Genesis EV models. The name is a combination of ‘Genesis’ and the letter ‘X’, which symbolizes a ‘hidden hero’.
“The Genesis X Concept can be described as the ultimate vision of Athletic Elegance, the inherent design language of Genesis,” said Sang-Yup Lee, Head of Genesis’ Global Design. “The signature Two Lines theme and sustainable luxury will be blueprints for the futuristic designs and state-of-the-art technologies that Genesis seeks to adopt in its future models.”
Inherent dignity and pride
The front of the Genesis X features a low, yet broad silhouette thanks to the combination of the shield-shaped Crest Grille, which represents the brand’s inherent dignity and pride, and the two-lined headlamps, which cut through the wheelarch. The double-layered bumpers also create a strong impression.
The two-lined Quad Lamps symbolize Genesis’ unparalleled technology and design, while a 3-dimensional G-Matrix pattern was applied to the sharp and intricate metal structure of the Crest Grille, the symbol of Genesis, to accentuate the imagery of a futuristic electric car. The internal pattern of the grille has been painted in the same colour as the exterior in order to create a sense of unity.
Simple design with sophisticated image
The styling has a simple, yet sophisticated image by integrating the bonnet and the fender to create a single panel-based Clamshell bonnet, resulting in one clean, sensual and uninterrupted surface. The bottom front air vent intake features a thin and sophisticated mesh form that not only creates a sturdy impression, but also helps cool down the vehicle, facilitates airflow, reduces air resistance, and helps extend mileage.
The side profile follows the traditional GT model design with a long bonnet and short rear, and the two-lined lamps leading to the headlamps and taillights are impressive. In addition, the arching Parabolic Line that runs along the side, and the fender’s maximized volume, create a dynamic and elegant impression.
The rear design, incorporating the shape of a horseshoe, exudes a simple and sleek image, while the voluminous fender creates a sophisticated, yet strong impression. In addition, the taillights, which feature a two-lined design like the headlamps, evoke a sense of unity with the front, and create a sophisticated and sensual image with diffusers that accentuate the Two Lines aesthetic.
While the slick, slide-to-open charging door, which features no parting lines, creates a progressive and high-tech image, the Two Lines design element is emphasized through the two-lined lights around the charging port.
Genesis designers maximized the concept car’s sporty sensibility by incorporating two-layered, turbine-type alloy wheels with 5 spokes. The lime accenting on the brake calipers hints at the high-performance character of the Genesis X Concept.
The concept car’s Lençois Blue finish was developed to express the level of sustainable luxury that Genesis pursues. It is inspired by the lagoons of Maranhenses National Park in Brazil, where a lake forms only during the rainy season.
Driver-oriented interior
Inspired by the Beauty of White Space, the Genesis X Concept’s interior features a driver-oriented design with a cockpit that surrounds the driver with all operating systems and displays. Differentiation of space by colouring the driver’s seat scotch brown and the passenger seat an ocean-wave green-blue helps emphasize the concept car’s unique design.
The design of the dashboard creates the sense that it is enveloping passengers and is connected to a floating center console. Again, using the Two Lines design element, the slim and indirect air vents that surround passengers, as well as the side window molding, provide a sense of unity with the exterior design. Interior materials showcase the type of sustainable luxury that the Genesis brand pursues.
In addition, the Free-Form display, which manages various functions such as clusters, navigation and air conditioning system, and the Crystal Sphere Electronic Shift Lever, which integrates driving mode settings, add a high-tech atmosphere to the interior.
The use of upcycled materials adds unique character to the Genesis X’s interior. A weave-patterned fabric made out of leftover pieces of leather from previous manufacturing processes was used for the safety belts, parts of the steering wheel, and the airbag cover, highlighting the concept car’s eco-friendliness.
Genesis made its official entry into China this week with a spectacular Brand Night at Shanghai’s International Cruise Terminal. The company will use an all-new business model for the Chinese market and gradually develop its presence through an omnichannel approach based on direct sales, supported by trusted agents and online sales.
Bentley Motors has revealed details of its new Continental GT Speed which will go on sale in mid-2021 and be the flagship of the Continental GT range. Presented as ‘the most dynamic road car in Bentley’s 101-year history and ultimate performance-focused interpretation of the world’s benchmark luxury Grand Tourer’, the new Continental GT builds on a long tradition of Speed variants, starting with the original in 2007. That first generation itself was inspired by the 3-Litre Speed models of the 1920s.
“The world’s most luxurious Grand Tourer is now truly more capable than ever before, with a new sportier edge which will appeal to performance-focused drivers,” declares Dr. Matthias Rabe, Member of the Board for Engineering at Bentley Motors. “The Speed is the latest chapter in the Continental GT story, helping Bentley customers to create their own extraordinary journeys.”
New chassis technology
The pinnacle performance Continental GT features advanced chassis technology that includes a new Electronic All-Wheel Steering system and an electronic limited slip differential (eLSD) for a level of agility said to be unlike any other Bentley road car. The system is significantly more active on the GT Speed than it is on the Flying Spur, where its primary purpose is a reduction in turning circle and enhanced high-speed stability.
For the Active All-Wheel drive system, the traction control and torque distribution has been recalibrated in all driver modes to provide a noticeable character shift relative to the standard Continental GT. Maintaining Bentley’s philosophy of the vehicle feeling progressive and secure, yet still be dynamic, this approach rewards drivers of all abilities. To achieve this philosophy in BENTLEY and COMFORT mode, overall grip is balanced between the front and rear wheels; in SPORT, this mode has been calibrated with a more rear-biased torque–split in all driving scenarios.
Improved cornering dynamics and the extra grip provided by the new systems allows the driver to exit any corner with an increased level of precision and confidence. In turn, the car is able to extract the maximum performance from the available traction for powerful acceleration with composure from the apex.
Working alongside these systems are the key chassis technologies that deliver body control and ride comfort with no compromise to one another – namely Bentley’s 3-chamber active air suspension with adaptive damping, and Bentley Dynamic Ride – the 48V active anti-roll control system that Bentley pioneered on the Bentayga and third-generation Continental GT.
Depending on the mode, the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) System allows the driver to experience an even greater level of freedom before the Speed’s safety systems intervene to correct any anomalies. When switched to Dynamic mode, the ESC extends the freedom of the driver, allowing an experienced pilot to set and alter the cornering stance of the car at their discretion.
ESC can also be switched off, allowing a driver-focused experience previously only seen in Bentley’s racing machines. After utilising strong turn-in performance on-track, thanks to the All-Wheel Steering and eLSD, the driver can choose to balance throttle and steering to deliver effortless, progressive yaw angles.
To complement the extra capability of the chassis, a newly-engineered Carbon Ceramic brake system has been introduced as an option on the GT Speed. The carbon ceramic material saves over 33 kgs of weight (all of it un-sprung mass) and produces extremely low levels of brake dust.
659 ps W12 TSI engine
The new GT Speed is equipped with an uprated version of Bentley’s 6-litre W12 TSI engine, delivering 659 ps – a 4% increase (24 ps) over the current W12 model – whilst maintaining a massive 900 Nm of torque. Factory testing shows a top speed capability of 335 km/h) and 0-100 km/h time of 3.6 seconds. The dual-clutch, 8-speed transmission shift is twice as fast in SPORT mode as in the standard W12 model.
During the journey, the Variable Displacement system can shut down half of the engine’s 12 cylinders under certain conditions, with the transitions between the two being imperceptible. Intake and exhaust valves, fuel injection and ignition are all shut down on defined cylinders, with the engine running as a 6-cylinder for improved fuel efficiency.
Unique and luxurious cabin
The 4-person cabin of the new Continental GT Speed showcases Bentley’s expertise in creating the world’s finest automotive interiors. Handcrafted materials blend with unique trim and badging that are only available in the Speed and can be further personalised if desired. Bentley’s Diamond in Diamond quilting is included as standard, and Speed embroidered headrests distinguish the cabin of the most potent Continental.
The interior can be further personalised with a choice of 15 main and 11 secondary hide colours, as well as the use of leather in lieu of Alcantara for the Speed colour split. The centre console can be finished in new dark tint engine turned aluminium, bringing a geometrically perfect machined surface and a beautifully patterned finish. GT.
Like a number of automakers, China’s Dongfeng Motor has a constantly growing range of models and to provide more differentiation, sub-brands are created to cater for specific niches. In July this year, the company launched VOYAH, its new premium brand which is dedicated to EV products.
It aims to introduce a new model each year over the next 3 – 5 years, creating a line-up of at least 9 models in the various bodystyle segments. The first of these is the i-LAND, a sportscar that will go on sale in July 2021.
In collaboration with ItalDesign
The i-LAND prototype was unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show recently and the project is being undertaken with Italdesign. The Italian studio has been given the responsibility to develop the interior and exterior styling as well as the on-board human-machine interface. Additionally, it is also providing engineering development services and the concept construction.
The approach taken by the designers and engineers at Italdesign for the i-LAND is to combine ergonomics and cutting-edge technology with innovative aesthetic solutions, blending form and function.
GT styling
The i-LAND exterior styling follows the Italian tradition of Gran Turismo (GT) cars. For the prototype, there are typical exotic features such as large gull-wing doors with eye-catching front and rear light clusters and a LED-illuminated front grille. Viewed from above, the sculpted form of the bonnet can be seen to be coordinated with the design of the grille.
The front lights, referred to as ‘winged headlights’, provide a characteristic signature for the i-LAND, which makes it recognizable even in the dark. It generates directly from the centre of the grille where the Voyah logo, created by ItalDesign, is embedded.
The rear of the car also has a form inspired by GT models with a classic truncated tail that combines both aesthetic elements with aerodynamic functionality.
3-seater cabin
Sitting on an ESSA (Electric, Smart & Secure Architecture) electric platform developed by the company, the i-LAND has a 3-seat layout. One position at the rear right end is for relaxing or smart working, with the seat next to the driver replaced by an element that can become a table or footrest if necessary.
A series of floating screens provide infotainment services as well as driver assistance. Some aesthetic elements enhance the general feeling of luxury experienced within the i-LAND. Examples are the vanes positioned in the central tunnel, along with the start/stop button, gear selection and the air conditioning switches.
The platform is set on EIC technology and integrates the WindLink 4.0 intelligent network connection, L3 and higher-level intelligent driving and other core configurations. In terms of power and battery runtime, MVP (Multi-choice important power) solutions are said to be provided, according to Voyah.
The Porsche Panamera arrived on the scene in 2009, offering sportscar performance one with the versatility of a touring sedan. It has shaped the brand over the course of the last 10 years as a technology platform for innovations that were transferred to other Porsche models.
Over 250,000 units have been delivered worldwide to date and to celebrate the model’s 10th anniversary, Porsche has prepared a special edition model series. The 2020 Panamera 10 Year Edition models feature upgraded standard equipment and exclusive design highlights. The special edition is available for the Panamera, Panamera 4 and Panamera 4 E-Hybrid versions.
The special standard equipment list includes 21-inch Panamera Sport Design wheels in satin-gloss White Gold Metallic and ‘Panamera10’ logos on the front doors, also in White Gold Metallic. The anniversary logo can also be found in the interior on the front passenger trim panel and on the door entry guards. The interior is black with deviated stitching in White Gold.
Additional standard equipment
The Panamera 10 Year Edition models come as standard with a host of additional comfort and safety features. ParkAssist including Surround View, LED matrix design headlights including PDLS Plus, Lane Change Assist and Lane Keep Assist are part of the extended standard equipment, as are heated 14-way comfort seats with Porsche crest on the headrests, soft-close doors, and a BOSE Surround Sound system.
With standard adaptive 3-chamber air suspension including Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and Power Steering Plus, the Panamera10 models are also ideally equipped for outstanding driving dynamics.
The hybrid version comes with the otherwise optional 7.2-kW on-board charger rather than the 3.6-kW charger that is included in a standard Panamera 4 E-Hybrid model.
The Panamera 10 Year Edition and Panamera 4 10 Year Edition both use a mono-turbo 3.0-litre V6 engine generating 330 ps, while the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid 10 Year Edition has a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 and an electric motor that generate a combined 457 ps.
A Porsche for four
Looking back at the company’s history of over 70 years, the idea of offering a Porsche for four was considered from time to time. However, prototypes such as the Type 530 based on the 356, lengthened variants of the 928 or the 4-door coupe Type 989 did not make it into production.
Type 530 of the 1950sA prototype built in the 1960s on one of the occasions when the engineers thought about a Porsche for four.
At the start of the new century, the decision was made to develop a 4-door hatchback sedan. The requirements included outstanding driving dynamics, generous interior space and a quintessentially Porsche appearance. The first Panamera made its public debut on April 19, 2009 on the 94th floor of the World Financial Centre in Shanghai, and set standards in its class thanks to the wide spread between sportiness and comfort. It was packed with innovations: for the first time, a luxury-class production model was offered with a dual-clutch transmission and start-stop system. The flagship Panamera Turbo also introduced air suspension with adjustable air volume, as well as an adjustable, multi-dimensionally extendable rear spoiler.
In 2011, the Panamera set the stage for a new age of electromobility: as the first parallel full hybrid in the premium sedan segment, the Panamera S Hybrid was the most economical Porsche to date despite a power output of 380 ps. Two years later, the Panamera S E-Hybrid once again led the way in the segment as the world’s first plug-in hybrid.
With the second generation, introduced in 2016, Porsche embraced electric performance . The boost strategy adopted from the 918 Spyder allows sportscar-like performance in combination with high efficiency. The top model is the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid with a system power of 680 ps.
