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Set to hit the market in the fourth quarter of 2023 and boasting an impressive annual production volume of around 300 000 units, the T-Cross has established itself as one of the most successful vehicles in Volkswagen’s global lineup.

Image: Volkswagen

Related: Volkswagen’s Touareg R eHybrid makes more power than Golf R

One of the standout features of the updated T-Cross is its modernized exterior design, highlighted by the redesigned front and rear sections featuring new integrated LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, and LED taillight clusters. The introduction of the IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, a brand-new Volkswagen development, further enhances the car’s visual appeal. Additionally, Volkswagen has added three fresh colours to the T-Cross model range: Grape Yellow, Clear Blue Metallic, and Kings Red Metallic, offering customers a broader range of customization options.

Image: Volkswagen

Inside the cabin, the new T-Cross is equipped with an upgraded infotainment system and a high-quality interior. The focal point of the interior is the free-standing infotainment display, available in two sizes: 20.3 cm (eight inches) for the standard version and 23.4 cm (9.2 inches) for the top-of-the-range variant. The dash panel and front door trims have also undergone a complete redesign, featuring soft-upholstered surfaces and higher-quality materials, delivering a more refined and luxurious feel. The T-Cross offers a manual air conditioning system as standard, with an optional upgrade to the Air Care Climatronic automatic air conditioner featuring back-lit touch sliders.

Image: Volkswagen

With ample room for up to five occupants, the rear bench seat can be adjusted by 140 mm, ensuring flexible seating arrangements. The luggage compartment provides a claimed capacity of 385 to 455 litres with all seats occupied, which expands to an impressive 1 281 litres when the rear bench seat is folded down. Notably, the front passenger seat can also be folded down in higher specification packages, resulting in a continuous load area that stretches 2 398 mm from the rear to the front.

Image: Volkswagen

Related: Volkswagen’s special edition Golf 8 R 333 sold out in 8 Minutes

The new T-Cross offers an optional Travel Assist system, making it one of the few vehicles in its class to provide advanced longitudinal and lateral vehicle control. The system can automatically control speed, acceleration, and braking within certain limits, taking into account traffic conditions, speed limits, bends, and roundabouts. 

Image: Volkswagen

The base version of the 2024 T-Cross now comes with upgraded features as standard, including LED headlights, LED taillights, a multifunction camera, Dynamic Road Sign Display, the Digital Cockpit, and a new free-standing infotainment display. The Life version takes it a step further with 16-inch alloy wheels and a leather multifunction steering wheel, while the Style and R-Line specification packages cater to those seeking more elegance or sporty accents, respectively.

Browse over 26 000 new or used cars here with CARmag. 

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Image: Ford

Ford’s decision to cull the Fiesta was necessary rather than a want, given the uptake of electrification and the collaboration with Volkswagen, signed in 2019.

According to Martin Saunder, general manager of Ford’s Model E electrification division in Europe, it was a business decision to convert the Cologne facility into the Blue Oval’s first high-volume EV (electric vehicle) production facility.

“We decided to build our first high-volume electric vehicle here in Cologne,” Sander revealed to AutoCar. “There comes the point where we need the space for construction, because we are turning the Fiesta plant into a fully battery-electric plant. This is why we had to make a decision that we have to stop Fiesta production.”

The Fiesta was discontinued from Ford South Africa’s portfolio in March 2022, and the Figo’s removal soon followed it.

SA and the Fiesta

Though the Fiesta first saw the light in 1976, it wasn’t until the fourth generation (global debut: 1995) that South Africans would get their first taste of the hatchback. The car arrived on local soil a few years later and won the 1998 South African Car of the Year competition.

In 2010, and now its fifth generation, Ford launched the spicy Fiesta ST, complete with a naturally aspirated 2,0-litre petrol engine, developing 110 kW and 190 N.m. A short-throw five-speed manual gearbox channelled power to the front wheels, ensuring plenty of thrills.

Though it never won the SA COTY title again, the Fiesta remained a local favourite. In the following generations, the car became roomier and more technologically advanced, and the safety features were at the forefront of its segment.

But it was in 2017 that Ford really turned it up. The automaker launched a special edition Fiesta ST 200, with only 160 units for the local market. And what a treat! The Fiesta ST200’s 1,6-litre turbocharged petrol engine produced 149 kW (200 hp) and 240 N.m, sent to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission.

Image: Ford

The CAR team summarised the ST200’s driving experience: “It’s still outrageous fun pointing Ford’s hottest Fiesta at a twisty road – even if the driving position is a touch too lofty – with the three-mode traction-control system effectively allowing the driver to determine the limit and the clever torque vectoring control helping to serve up heaps of front-end grip. In short, the fleet-of-foot Fiesta ST200 is an eminently difficult car to fluster, even at speed over bumpy surfaces.”

Related: Ford Fiesta range gets updated with bolder design and new powertrain

The Fiesta ST200 would be the last new Ford ST model in South Africa.

In 2018, South Africa received the then-new generation of Ford’s popular hatchback, but it was clear that change was in the air. Though other markets, like the UK, received updated and refreshed models, Ford SA did not, and the agreed-upon stock had to run its course, leading to the eventual removal in March of last year.

What’s next for Ford – globally and locally?

Ford is geared for an electric future. The American automotive giant already has several EVs in its portfolio, including the Mustang Mach E and F-150 Lightning, and plans to expand on that, thanks to the agreement with Volkswagen. Ford will produce its vehicles based on VW’s MEB platform – in other words, electric vehicles – at the Cologne plant, which includes three new EVs that it plans to sell in Europe from 2024 onwards.

The post Remember the date: Last day of Ford Fiesta production set appeared first on CAR Magazine.

Image: Kia

Let’s take a closer look at the new Kia Picanto, available in both baseline and GT-Line trims.

One glance at the top-of-the-line model is all it takes to notice the striking difference from its predecessor. The front end boasts vertically stacked headlights that meet in the middle, thanks to an LED bar positioned on the upper section of the iconic “tiger nose” grille. Moving to the rear, the taillights are now connected through a sleek light bar running across the tailgate, adding a touch of modernity.

Image: Kia

The GT-Line variant sports additional features, such as air intakes on the front bumper, though it remains uncertain whether they serve a functional purpose. On the other hand, the baseline model presents a more seamless front bumper design. Despite its compact size, the GT-Line surprises with its aggressive stance, thanks to a prominent rear diffuser. Wheel sizes range from 14 inches in the base models to 15 or 16 inches in the higher-end variants. For those looking for an extra touch of luxury, a small sunroof option is available.

Image: Kia

Under the metal, the 2024 Picanto offers a choice between two powertrains, both are naturally aspirated petrol units, available in 1.0-litre and 1.2-litre capacities. These engines are mated to a five-speed manual gearbox with an optional automated manual transmission. Although power and performance figures are yet to be disclosed.

In case you missed it: Leaked images showcase eye-catching 2023 Kia Picanto GT Line

Moving inside the cabin, the new Picanto impresses with a range of advanced technologies. The standard equipment includes an 8.0-inch floating touchscreen navigation system and a 4.2-inch digital display in the driver’s instrument cluster. The infotainment system supports Bluetooth multi-connection, allowing users to pair up to two mobile devices simultaneously. One device can be used for hands-free phone calls and media, while the other is solely dedicated to media use.

Image: Kia

Furthermore, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are integrated into the system, ensuring seamless smartphone connectivity. The GT-Line trim adds a sporty touch with a flat-bottomed steering wheel and the luxurious perk of a heated steering wheel.

With its enhanced design and advanced technology, the 2024 Kia Picanto sets a new standard for compact hatchbacks.

Looking for your next Kia? Brows our listings page.

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Image: Dacia

The Dakar Rally, known for its challenging terrain and extreme conditions, attracts participants from all over the world. For the development of their entries, Dacia will utilize their in-house technical expertise and collaborate with Prodrive, a prominent British motorsport and engineering group with a strong reputation in the industry.

Related: Ford’s Dakar Ranger T1+ may ditch 3,5-litre V6 for Dakar

The driver lineup  for Dacia’s team will feature Sébastien Loeb, a nine-time French rally world champion, and Cristina Gutierrez Herrero, an accomplished Spanish rally driver who has previously completed the Dakar Rally in the car category.

Dacia’s race car entry for the Dakar Rally will be powered by synthetic test fuel supplied by Aramco, a global leader in the energy and chemicals sector. Aramco’s synthetic fuel solutions are produced by combining renewable hydrogen with captured CO2, resulting in a lower-carbon fuel compatible with existing engines.

Before the official participation in the 2025 season, Dacia’s prototypes will undergo testing, including their involvement in the Rallye du Maroc in 2024. This testing phase will allow the team to refine their vehicles and explore innovative solutions that align with Dacia’s focus on durability and energy efficiency.

Image: Dacia

Related: Local NWM rally team partners with M-Sport and Ford Performance for Dakar

Dacia’s entry into the World Rally-Raid Championship and the Dakar Rally represents a significant milestone for the brand. The collaboration with Prodrive, the selection of experienced drivers, and the use of synthetic test fuel provided by Aramco demonstrate Dacia’s commitment to competing in the rally-raid circuit and exploring sustainable mobility solutions. Dacia aims to test and showcase their capabilities in demanding conditions while also highlighting the potential of synthetic fuels in reducing carbon emissions.

As the anticipation builds for the 2025 season, motorsport enthusiasts will be eagerly awaiting Dacia’s debut in the World Rally-Raid Championship and their performance in the challenging Dakar Rally.

Browse over 26 000 new and used cars here with CARmag. 

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Image: Toyota

The June sales results show a positive trend, as aggregate domestic sales revealed a notable upswing, with an increase of 5 758 vehicles or 14% compared with the figures from June 2022, when 41 052 vehicles were sold. Going through the Naamsa numbers, one brand remains head and shoulders above all others. 

Top 10 best-selling brands:

• Toyota – 13 016
• Volkswagen – 5 578
• Suzuki Auto – 4 335
• Hyundai Auto – 2 645
• Ford – 2 514
• Nissan – 2 380
• Isuzu Motors – 2 365
• Renault – 1 836
• Haval Motors – 1 749
• Kia SA – 1 507

Toyota’s position at the top is clear, with a significant margin that separates it from its competitors. Not only did Toyota emerge victorious as the best-selling brand overall for June, but it also maintained its reign as the undisputed champion of passenger brands. 

Related: Toyota tops bakkie sales for June 2023

Top 10 passenger brands: 

• Toyota – 7 076
• Volkswagen – 5 059
• Suzuki Auto – 4 062
• Hyundai – 2 362 
• Renault – 1 808
• Chery Auto SA – 1 402
• Kia SA – 1 398
• BMW – 1 246
• Haval – 1 220
• Nissan – 855

Looking to buy a new or used Toyota? Find it here. 

The post Top 10 best-selling brands for the month of June 2023 appeared first on CAR Magazine.

Image: Mitsubishi

One glance at the Triton Savana, and you’ll notice its striking colours, complemented by its imposing off-road wheels. Drawing inspiration from the renowned Triton AT35, crafted by Arctic Trucks, this Mitsubishi creation exudes ruggedness and adventure.

Looking for a new or used Mitsubishi? Find it here with CARmag.

The Savana is equipped with an array of accessories designed to enhance its off-road prowess. A robust steel roof basket sits atop the truck, providing ample space for carrying extra gear. Traction boards have also been included to provide additional grip on loose surfaces, ensuring you stay in control even in the most challenging conditions. For added convenience, a storage box has been integrated into the bed, offering practical storage solutions for your expedition essentials.

Image: Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi has gone the extra mile to protect the Savana’s exterior, applying a spray-on protectant not only to the bed but also to the lower half of the front bumper and the fender flares. Additionally, the package includes a pair of rock sliders, safeguarding the vehicle’s undercarriage, and a snorkel, allowing you to confidently tackle water crossings.

In case you missed it: Sixth-generation Mitsubishi Triton slated for a reveal on July 26th

Off-road enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the Triton Savana comes fitted with all-terrain tyres as standard. These capable tyres are wrapped around glossy black steel rims, adding a touch of rugged elegance to the truck’s appearance. Furthermore, Mitsubishi offers exclusive paint choices for the Savana, including dark green, light brown, and yellow, allowing you to personalize your off-road companion to suit your style.

Image: Mitsubishi

While the Triton Savana impresses with its striking design and accessories, no major mechanical upgrades have been introduced. Under the hood, it retains the reliable 2,4-litre MIVEC turbodiesel engine, delivering a respectable 133 kW of power and 430 Nm of torque. Power is transmitted through a six-speed automatic transmission, powering all four wheels to conquer any terrain with confidence.

With its purpose-built features and attention to detail, this special edition model promises an exhilarating and adventurous driving experience. Don’t expect to see it on local roads though since this has been done exclusively by Mitsubishi in Brazil.

Find your next bakkie with CARmag, browse now. 

The post Triton Savana Sets New Benchmark, Surpassing the Strada appeared first on CAR Magazine.

Image: Toyota

The month of June 2023 proved to be a major increase of vehicle exports and new vehicle sales when compared to the same time in 2022. Exports rose by 4,7% while new vehicle sales increased by 4,8%. Toyota claimed the top step of both the passenger brand segment and light commercial vehicle segments. Here is how they fared along with other bestsellers locally.

The upbeat new vehicle market performance was encouraging given the multiplicity of negative considerations which still outweighs positive ones during the month of June 2023. Aggregate domestic new vehicle sales in June, at 46,810 units reflected an increase of 5,758 units, or 14,0%, from the 41,052 vehicles sold in June 2022. Export sales recorded a decline of 3,920 units, or 12,6%, to 27,296 units in June 2023 compared to the 31,216 vehicles exported in June 2022. – The Automotive Business Council

Looking to buy a new or used Toyota? Find it here. 

Top 5 light commercial vehicle brands for June 2023

1. Toyota – 5 655
2. Ford – 2 214
3. Isuzu – 1 953
4. Nissan – 1 525
5. Mahindra – 696

While the light commercial vehicle segment is primarily made up of bakkies, panel vans and minibus taxis also contribute to the monthly sales figures of each automaker. So let’s have a look at who holds the crown for best-selling bakkie in the month.

Top 5 selling bakkies for June 2023

1. Toyota Hilux – 3 792
2. Ford Ranger – 2 099
3. Isuzu D-Max – 1 953
4. Nissan NP200 – 1 108
5. Mahindra Scorpio Pik-Up – 662

Toyota and Ford both manufacture and export their utilitarian models to foreign markets, here is how many of each bakkie found homes abroad.

Top 4 exported bakkies for June 2023

1. Toyota Hilux – 3 957
2. Ford Ranger – 2 373
3. Isuzu D-Max – 427
4. Nissan Navara – 364

Find your next bakkie with CARmag, browse now. 

The post Toyota tops bakkie sales for June 2023 appeared first on CAR Magazine.

Image: Opel

Earlier this week in Rüsselsheim, the German automaker debuted new interpretation of its iconic emblem, the ‘Blitz’, which will feature on production vehicles as early as 2024.

Looking for your next Opel? Browse here with CARmag. 

It will continue to form a central element of the Opel Compass, one of the main features of the Rüsselsheim-based carmaker’s exciting and critically acclaimed design philosophy, while simultaneously continuing to sit proudly at the centre of the Opel Vizor brand face. Moving into an era of electromobility, the lightning bolt – or ‘Blitz’ in German – which is closely associated with electricity is the most symbolic way of demonstrating this transition. 

Related: Opel debuts 2024 Corsa facelift with ICE and EV powertrains

“Our ‘Blitz’ is more relevant than ever before. It not only symbolises our commitment to the democratization of innovation and mobility but also conveys our commitment to becoming a fully electric brand in Europe by 2028. This year, we will already have 15 electrified models in our portfolio and can proudly say that Opel is electric,” said Opel CEO Florian Huettl.

The German carmaker will gradually roll out the new ‘Blitz’ across its product portfolio in the coming years with the first production vehicle set to sport the new look in 2024.

Image: Opel

Before then, Huettl announced that the new emblem will feature prominently this year already. “The IAA Mobility is one of the biggest motor shows in the world and therefore the perfect location to proudly introduce a large, international audience to our new ‘Blitz’. Furthermore, we also have a surprise planned. Visitors of our presence in Munich will be thrilled,” he said.

With thousands of new and used vehicles on offer, find your next set of wheels with CARmag. 

The post Opel’s new Blitz emblem will feature on production cars from 2024 appeared first on CAR Magazine.

• The Maserati GT2 is a non-road-homologated race car, type-approved for the GT2 class and developed on the super sports car Maserati MC20 as a base model
• It inherits the legacy of the glorious Maserati MC12, featured in the FIA GT championships between 2004 and 2010
• Maserati’s racing history is studded with successes in the highest categories of motorsport. The return to competition in the GT class forms part of Maserati’s strategy to get the Trident back on track
• Maserati has developed a product that stands up to racing challenges and is also ideal for gentleman drivers when it comes to handling, driveability and performance
• The Maserati GT2 is due to debut in the 2023 Fanatec GT2 European Series and has been officially unveiled at the 24 Hours of Spa; it will take to the track in the final stages of the 2023 season and will participate in the 2024 season

The natural evolution of a sensational race car from the past, it now comes with a V6 90° twin turbo heart based on the MC20 Nettuno engine, to become a one-of-a-kind Maserati super sports car.

The Maserati GT2 combines the Trident’s sporting history with the extreme racing attitude that has always marked its racing and road vehicles.

It all began with the Maserati Tipo 26, the first racing vehicle with the Trident emblem on the bonnet, which took first place in its class at the 1926 Targa Florio. Since those days, a history of wins, world titles and world records has followed, establishing the Trident a brand born to race.

The GT2 category is the ideal platform for Maserati’s sporty legacy to meet the desire of racing customer enthusiasts – private teams and gentleman drivers – in a project that forms an integral part of Maserati’s motorsport strategy to get the Trident back on track in closed-wheel competitions.

Based on the Maserati MC20, 100% developed at Maserati, the Maserati GT2 also benefited from the know-how of the Maserati Innovation Lab and the cutting-edge technology of the Maserati dynamic simulator, the most advanced in the world. For its racing car, the Italian manufacturer has also taken advantage of a technical partnership with YCOM, a leading advanced technology company and specialist in the development of motorsport projects.

The Maserati GT2, a jewel of handling, driveability and performance, is homologated for the GT2 class and will be able to compete in any GT championship and/or event where the GT2 class is accepted, for example the 24 Hours of Spa, the Fanatec GT2 European Series and the ADAC 24 Hours of Nürburgring from 2024.

Design

• Exterior

The Maserati GT2 has been shaped at the Centro Stile Maserati. The work of the men and women of the Centro Stile focused on attention to the design of all areas of the car, increasing performance without neglecting the essence of the Maserati MC20.

The front features a new design, maintaining the typical Maserati architecture and adapting to requirements in terms of cooling and aerodynamics; the forms are functional to the vehicle dynamics.

The bonnet area has been redesigned to bear in mind aerodynamic requirements, by including specific ducts to expel hot air.

The number three and the Trident’s reinterpretation are a constant in the style of the Maserati GT2. For example, there are three air vents in the bonnet, another three near the rear window, and nine-spoke wheel rims, forming a Trident in threes.

The widened wheel track required renewed study and design of the front fenders, with the introduction of louvres in the upper area, on the rear fenders; a new air intake was also added in the ACAC area to increase airflow to the radiators.

The upper area and rear window have also been revamped: an air scoop has been incorporated with a specific technical design for air intake, connected to the rear window area and useful to expel heat from the engine.

The spoiler is connected to the car with pylons in the form of structural poles.

In the rear, the upper area is directly derived from the Maserati MC20, whereas the lower area has an exclusive design created according to aerodynamic inputs, to push performance to the max.

• Interior

Although it is a racing car, attention to design was one of the pillars of the project, as a result of the outstanding synergy and collaboration between the Centro Stile Maserati and the Trident’s engineering team. It has therefore been possible to keep intact the lexis previously seen in the Maserati MC20, taking it to the extremes of form for the full benefit of the utmost functionality.

Highly impactful in terms of visuals and aesthetics, the large wing above the cluster also embraces the display added atop the centre console.

The ergonomics and design of an iconic Maserati model, the MC20, are emphasised more boldly and assertively by its racing version, whilst preserving the original unique style.

The interior of the Maserati GT2 highlights a true-to-track aptitude, with performance boosted by an array of cutting-edge and superbly organised technical details, including the command console housed in the carbon-fibre central tunnel, the customisable 6.5” full-colour racing dashboard display, and an overall design geared towards maximum driveability.

The second point of note is the driver, positioned in the centre of the cockpit and even of the entire design. The Maserati GT2 is a car that has been defined as “driver-oriented”, where the watchwords are minimalism and lightness. A deliberately “naked” car, with no distractions, to enhance its maximum performance and driveability. Carbon fibre predominates throughout the interior structure.

Every detail and instrument have been designed for the easiest accessibility and to ensure maximum performance, including the characteristic yellow sticker with reflective technology for night vision.

Cockpit

The Maserati GT2 cabin is derived from the MC20 but is fully oriented to track usage.

The simple, driver-oriented design and ideal driving position in the MC20 are pushed to even higher boundaries allowing the driver to focus on the race and keep maximal control of the car with direct visibility and access to the commands.

The butterfly doors of the MC20 offer an additional benefit for the Maserati GT2 in terms of easier access to the seat, as well as bearing in mind the addition of the FIA-homologated roll-cage.

The type-approved seat designed in compliance with the highest racing standards offers perfect head protection and optimal lateral and longitudinal containment, complemented with a 6-point racing safety belt (FIA-homologated).

The layout of the adjustable racing pedal box, steering column and the commands have been designed for the driver to find an optimal driving position on track.

The steering wheel offers multiple functions, using the rotary selector to cycle through the various settings, including ABS, traction control, engine maps, and quick buttons to control the engine start, radio, pit operations, wiper, etc.

A specific cluster displays essential data for a clear and quick view of the car, engine, gearbox, tyres parameters and selected calibration maps, lap time and ideal lap time.

Commands are also available in the re-designed console placed at the driver’s right hand, with buttons for example to adjust brake balance or steering feeling.

The air conditioning system has been re-designed to focus on cooling/heating, with vents directed towards the driver.

An optional rear-view camera display is mounted in an efficient position, for an easy view of events behind the car.

Aerodynamics

The Maserati MC20 has been the ideal starting point for the engineers to define the perfect aerodynamic design of Maserati GT2. The improvements made for specific use on the track have affected many areas in the car:

• The adjustable ride heights have been minimised in comparison with the road-approved MC20
• The splitter has been extended in the front to maximise downforce and allow for precise handling
• A permanent rear wing is mounted on two pylons on the rear frame. The adjustable position of the wing profile provides for many configurations to suit different tracks
• A fully flat floor covers the underbody of the car, generating perfect airflow, not disturbed by the exhaust line
• The rear diffuser is even more aggressive than the MC20’s, to further reduce drag and generate laminated airflow

All these modifications provide the Maserati GT2 with optimal aerodynamic characteristics and a major gain in performance on all track’ configurations, from high-speed straights to demanding curves requiring high downforce.

Cooling has also been developed with particular attention and according to a complete CFD approach:

• Brake cooling with dedicated channels for front and rear brakes
• Engine cooling with one central front main radiator and fan and two lateral coolers (Air Charge Air Coolers – ACAC)
• Gearbox cooling with dedicated air/oil exchanger and separate air intake above the roof
• Finally, the cabin is optimised for driver comfort during testing and racing with a specific NACA-profiled air intake for climate control and cabin cooling

Chassis and suspension

The Maserati GT2 benefits from the same ultra-light carbon-fibre chassis as the road-legal versions of the Maserati MC20 and MC20 Cielo, to guarantee extremely lightweight, uncompromising torsional rigidity and extraordinary handling on the track.

The aluminium front and rear subframe are optimised for track usage and to support the evolution of the components, aimed at the best racing level for vehicle dynamics.

A new suspension geometry has been developed for the Maserati GT2, created initially in the Maserati Innovation Lab simulator with the driver and hardware in the loop, then tested on various tracks. It

enhances the Maserati MC20’s already excellent handling in the most severe racing conditions, with no compromises on performance whatsoever. The double-wishbone layout has been confirmed, with UNIBAL® joints for maximum rigidity.

The suspension springs, dampers and antiroll bars are all specific to the Maserati GT2 and can be fully adjusted and tuned up for every track environment. The entire chassis set-up was tuned up according to the specific racing tyres (slick and wet).

The steering system benefits from dedicated racing calibration, and the brake system is adapted to severe track usage with specific ventilated discs, callipers and pads, and an optimised cooling system. The specific carbon-fibre ducts have been designed to flow fresh air directly to the wheel hub area. The ABS system is also specific and is calibrated to various settings, offering the driver multiple possibilities to adapt to their driving preferences and to different tracks.

Tyre pressure monitoring is available (as an optional extra), for improved control of on-track conditions and to prevent unexpected loss of pressure.

Engine

The beating heart of the Maserati GT2 is directly derived from the engine in the MC20 super sports car. The Nettuno V6 required only a few updates to reach the targets set for the racing performance of the Maserati GT2. Designed at the Maserati Innovation Lab and engineered at the Engines hub in the historic Viale Ciro Menotti plant, where it will also be produced, the GT2 engine benefits from technological revolution in the MC20 Nettuno engine, the Maserati Twin Combustion system.

The “Made in Modena” engine maintains the 90° V-shaped 6-cylinder twin-turbo layout, with 3.0 litres of displacement and dry sump, capable of delivering 621 hp (depending on BoP*) at 7500 rpm and an outstanding 730 Nm of torque starting from 3000 rpm. The power-to-weight ratio is 207 hp/L. The compression ratio is 11:1; the stroke is 82 mm and the bore 88 mm.

The soul of this engine remains the innovative pre-chamber combustion system with twin spark plugs, a technology developed for Formula 1 and now available on the Maserati GT2. The system is based on three main components: the pre-chamber placed between the central spark and the traditional combustion chamber; the side spark plug, which acts as a support to ensure regular engine combustion when the latter is working in operating points where the use of the pre-chamber is not necessary; and the dual indirect and direct injection system to ensure the perfect mix of fuel and air.

Turbochargers and exhaust manifolds are modified for higher boost pressure and efficiency at peak power and lower back pressure due to the different exhaust system, to guarantee the same level of performance on all tracks all around the world.

A new exhaust line has been designed for racing requirements, along with specific air intakes and cooling layout to maximise the performance of all the systems. The exhaust line features centrally mounted twin tail pipes.

Engine calibration has been revised to offer the driver different maps (which can be selected via a dedicated rotary selector on the steering wheel) oriented to maximum performance and adapted to any racing track. Racing rules also require particular attention to calibrating the pit limiter and special race conditions such as safety car queuing, rolling starts, etc.

The huge power and torque specs of the Nettuno are transmitted to the tyres through a dedicated drivetrain, a 6-speed sequential racing gearbox (actuated with paddle shift), internally forced oil

lubricated and cooled via a dedicated oil/air heat exchanger. A racing clutch, a limited-slip mechanical self-locking differential and specific half-shafts complete the purely rear-wheel driveline.

Maserati GT2 – Technical specifications and features

Vehicle

• Single seater non-road-homologated race car
• Homologated for GT2 class
• Homologation base model: MC20

Dimensions

• Length: 4,840 mm
• Width: 2,030 mm (w/o rear mirrors)
• Wheelbase: 2,700 mm
• Dry weight: depending on BoP*

Chassis

• Ultra-light carbon-fibre central monocoque
• FIA-homologated safety roll-cage (FIA Art. 277)
• FIA-homologated FT3 120-litre fuel tank
• Air jack system (4)

Brakes

• Six-piston (front) and four-piston (rear) aluminum monobloc racing brake callipers
• Racing ventilated steel brake discs: 390 mm (front) and 355 mm (rear)
• Brake-bias remote adjuster
• Optimised brake cooling
• Latest-generation adjustable racing ABS

Engine

• Water-cooled V6 90° twin turbo engine (rear-mounted) based on MC20 Nettuno engine
• Displacement: 2,992 cc
• Bore/Stroke: 88 mm x 82 mm

• Power: depending on BoP* (463-kW/621-hp Nettuno base engine)
• MTC (Maserati Twin Combustion)
• Dry-sump lubrication with oil/water heat exchanger
• Engine control unit (ECU): BOSCH MS 6.4 EVO
• Maserati Corse traction control
• Race exhaust system with twin tailpipes mounted centrally and catalytic converter

Drive train/transmission

• 6-speed sequential racing gearbox with paddle shift
• Internal forced oil lubrification with oil/air heat exchanger
• Racing clutch and limited-slip self-locking mechanical differential

Suspension

• Front and rear axle with double wishbones
• Front and rear adjustable anti-roll-bar blades (left & right)
• Electric power steering
• Wheel hubs with centre lock wheel nuts
• Motorsport 2-way adjustable dampers front and rear

Wheel & tyres

• Maserati Corse bespoke forged alloy rims with centre lock system fixation
• Front axle:
• Rims: 12.0J x 18”
• Tyres: 325/660-18
• Rear axle:
• Rims: 13.0J x 18”
• Tyres: 325/705-18

Bodywork

• Centro Stile Maserati design
• Lightweight full-composite bodywork with improved aerodynamics performance
• Adjustable rear wing
• Fully closed carbon-fibre underfloor
• Integrated safety roof hatch (FIA Art. 277)
• Quick-release bodywork removable design concept for optimised component replacement
• Polycarbonate windscreen and side windows
• Front LED headlamps with fixation predisposed for additional headlamps for night racing
• FIA-approved rain lights
• As-build bodywork finishing (unpainted)

Cockpit

• Centro Stile Maserati design
• Fixed racing bucket seat with 4-point mounting
• Adjustable racing pedal box
• Adjustable steering column
• 6-point racing safety harness
• Safety nets (centre and driver’s side)
• Air conditioning system
• Carbon-fibre centre console switch panel with UV reactive labels for illumination at night
• Carbon-fibre multifunction steering wheel with UV reactive labels for illumination at night
• 5” full-colour dashboard display with integrated data acquisition system
• FIA-spec fire extinguisher system

Optional extras (further information and options will be supplied at a later stage)

• Maserati Corse-specific “Blu Infinito” paintwork and livery
• Passenger seat kit
• Rear-view camera system
• Telemetry system (LTE)
• Tyre pressure monitoring system
• Exhaust silencer kit
• Ballast system
• Sensor kit (bespoke installation)

*BoP: Balance of Performance

The post Maserati GT2, a high-performance MASTERPIECE appeared first on CAR Magazine.

Image: Kolesa.ru

The Mitsubishi EVO, a legend in its own right, has left an indelible mark on the sports compact car scene. From the racetrack to the drag strip, this all-wheel drive beast has proven its mettle against every competitor it faced. After the EVO X, fans were left dismayed knowing a replacement was not on the cards. Thanks to some creative insight from Kelsonik, we are granted a glimpse into the future of what the EVO XI could have been.

Building upon the foundation of the final model to wear the badge, the rendering of the EVO XI transcends expectations, melding aggression with elegance in a seamless display of automotive artistry that the model became synonymous with.

Image: Mitsubishi

Every meticulous detail of the artwork has been crafted with passion, showcasing a harmonious fusion of sleek aerodynamics. The front fascia commands attention with its sleek LED headlamps embodied in the firm’s iconic dynamic shied, perfectly complemented by a wide air intake. The iconic dual-vented bonnet pays homage to the original Lancer Evo that contended the World Rally Championships, while the front bumper boasts a sizable front splitter.

Image: Kolesa.ru

Embracing its low-slung stance, the Evo XI features eye-catching side skirts that hug the body, leaving no doubt about its sporting pedigree. Let’s not forget the pièce de résistance—the massive wing perched atop the boot lid, a true hallmark of the Lancer Evo legacy. The widened rear fenders add a touch of aesthetic allure, while the race-ready alloy wheels complete the picture.

Related: Mitsubishi Triton XRT Concept has its camo stripped in render

All of this builds up to what JDM enthusiasts wish could have been after the model retired almost 10 years ago in 2016. Knowing where the automotive world is heading, if there ever is a reboot of the icon it would likely be an EV which would leave many with mixed feelings.

Looking for a new or used car to buy? Browse here with CARmag. 

The post Reimagined Mitsubishi EVO XI serves as a reminder to what could have been appeared first on CAR Magazine.