Motoring Rumours | CAR Magazine

BMW’s G87 M2 rumoured to get more power and xDrive

Ryan De Villiers — Tue, 27 Jun 2023 10:30:56 +0000

It seems as though BMW’s G87 M2 may be endowed with more power and may even adopt the xDrive drivetrain according to the latest rumours that have been circulating in the automotive sphere.

Image: BMW

In a nutshell, here is a list of all the new rumours;

The M2 will get a marginal increase in power (sources claim somewhere around 16 kW).
The M2 will be offered in a wider array of colours.
BMW may outfit their coupe with its xDrive system.

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In the past, we’ve relied on the forewarnings of anonymous internet users on manufacturer forum posts. As of Late, BMW’s forums have been abuzz with whispers and rumours surrounding the entire M family. In the case of the M2, official sources have confirmed that it stands as the final resting place of the firm’s six-speed manual transmission but nothing more than that.

Image: BMW

As it stands, insiders’ claims range from the car’s detuned S58 being brought close to M3 and M4 power levels leading to the hope that the offshoot bearing a Clubsport badge, which we hope to debut sometime in the first half of 2025, would be endowed with a power output north of 500 hp (373 kW). As a quick refresher of the current, soon-to-be road-going model’s specs, power output stands at a hearty 337 kW and 550 N.m, with a six-speed transmission serving as the middle man between the M2’s S58 and its rear wheels to which power is delivered.

Moving on to more rumours about BMW’s G87 M2 hardware, it’s said to be outfitted with the firm’s xDrive system somewhere down its lifecycle. Sources suggest that we may only see an xDrive bearing M2 sometime after the CS model debuts and maybe a year before the current M3 and M4 bow down. No information on its global unveiling, but stay tuned for updates.

This may very be the final bastion of BMW’s petrol-powered M cars as the division continues to ramp up the scale of its hybrid-assisted powertrains.

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Alfa Romeo Giulietta hatchback and sedan imagined in renders

Alex Shahini — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 07:25:50 +0000

Alfa Romeo’s Giulietta nameplate has successfully served the storied Italian automaker on several occasions with the most recent iteration existing until only a few years ago but what if it were to make another comeback? Wonder no more with these imaginative renders.

The most recent Giulietta in Alfa’s lengthy history served as a sole hatchback in the modest lineup. In 2020, after a 10-year run, production of the popular model ceased leaving the Alfa lineup without a compact model to offer entry-level buyers. The Tonale made its debut shortly thereafter to plug this hole, but it joined the ranks of Alfa as an SUV, supplementing the Stelvio. A small, sporty, entry-level model to replace the Giulietta, embodied with the style and prestige of the Italian brand, is still not offered.

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Digital artist Theottle has taken the project on, imagining what a replacement for the storied nameplate would potentially look like. The plot twist here is that it has been rendered as both a hatchback and a compact sedan.

Image: Alfa Romeo

Previously renowned for its dynamism and engagement, particularly in Quadrifoglio Verde spec, these hopeful renders would likely comprise a similar package that would appeal to enthusiasts.

Evidently in the images, the prospective models feature the latest styling of the Tonale, which has been imbued in the most recent iteration of the Giulia already. This includes the distinctive Full-LED adaptive Matrix 3+3 headlights which merge into the iconic Scudetto grille.

Image: Theottle

Towards the rear, the same recipe has been applied with the Giulietta receiving an identical dose of the Tonale light bar and a similar-looking rear diffuser on the sleek hatch.

Image: Theottle

The sedan seems to boast the same proportions as the Giulia, with the roofline and shoulder line visually similar. The diffuser also seems to be inspired by non-Quadrifoglio versions with a single tip on each flank. The alloy wheels are also taken from the current Alfa lineup completing the distinguishable look.

These are purely imaginative since Alfa Romeo has no intentions to reboot the famed nameplate which has served the brand from the early 50s as an affordable yet sporty model. Based on global buying trends, a compact sedan which would rival the likes of Audi’s A3 and the Mercedes-Benz A-Class may not prove financially viable ahead of an electrified future, but there is still certainly an appetite for hatchbacks with young buyers.

With a modest range of 3 models on offer currently, these striking Giulietta models may have been a volume-based product that the firm could use to bolster a lineup in addition to the Tonale.

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Rumours suggest 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser to be Prado inspired

Ryan De Villiers — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 06:34:12 +0000

Speculation around the highly anticipated return of the Toyota Land Cruiser has once again stirred up excitement among enthusiasts with the latest rumours suggesting it will be Prado inspired.

Image: Toyota

Information about the next Land Cruiser is few and far between, Toyota remains tight-lipped about the status of the next in line to wear the illustrious nameplate. Not too long ago, we reported on rumours that suggested the next-generation off-roader would ditch its V8 in favour of a four-cylinder power plant.

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Following recent hints of the iconic SUV’s comeback to the US market, enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for this venerated nameplate, which has been absent from American shores since 2021. According to the latest rumours, the upcoming Land Cruiser could draw inspiration from the current road-going Prado, injecting fresh appeal into the legendary vehicle.

Image: Toyota

Enthusiasts will be pleased to know that if the Land Cruiser does make its return to the US market, it is speculated to be priced at around $80,000 (approximately R1,4 million).

Here are some of the rumoured features that we can expect from the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser:

Engine: The new Land Cruiser is anticipated to be equipped with the Land Cruiser 300’s turbocharged V6 engine, delivering an estimated output of around 298 kW and 555 N.m.
Transmission: Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the new Land Cruiser is expected to offer smooth and efficient gear shifts.
Suspension: Improving on the previous model, the new Land Cruiser is likely to showcase a sophisticated suspension system, enhancing both on-road comfort and off-road performance.
Interior: Embracing a modern and luxurious design, the new Land Cruiser is rumoured to feature premium materials, an advanced infotainment system, and exceptionally comfortable seats.
Safety Features: The new Land Cruiser is expected to come equipped with a comprehensive set of safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+. This advanced safety suite encompasses automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control, among other functionalities.

If these rumours prove accurate, the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser will undoubtedly pose a formidable contender in the segment, including the recently unveiled Lexus GX.

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This could be what a facelifted Volkswagen Golf could look like

Alex Shahini — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 06:00:58 +0000

Volkswagen’s Golf is sold exclusively in South Africa as the GTI or even more ludicrous R-badged derivative but the German firm has recently been spied testing its standard facelifted model. These renders peel away the camo to reveal what it may look like.

Image: Kolesa.ru

Despite only being on offer in South Africa in the current aesthetic configuration since the end of 2021, the famed Wolfsburg hot hatch is already testing its new facelift. Teaser images seem to show a standard Golf, which is one of Europe’s best-selling cars from 2007. On the continent, the current eighth generation didn’t manage to muster the same success, falling to fifth place, trailing behind the Peugeot 208, Dacia Sandero, VW T-Roc, and the Fiat/Abarth 500.

To boost sales, VW has announced plans for a facelift of the Golf in 2024, coinciding with an update for the mechanically similar Skoda Octavia which is also sold in Europe. This refresh could potentially be the last revision for the conventionally powered Golf, as the upcoming ninth-generation will be exclusively offered as an electric vehicle. An unofficial rendering gives a preview of the mid-cycle update, inspired by a partially camouflaged prototype recently spotted.

Image: Kolesa.ru

Based on the limited information provided by VW, the 2024 Golf will feature redesigned headlights and a modified bumper with vertical slats. It’s worth noting that the test vehicle was an eHybrid variant, while the digital rendering portrays a non-plug-in hybrid model, omitting the charging port on the driver’s side. The five-door hatch depicted in the R-Line specification showcases subtle changes to the taillights.

Following the typical approach of German automakers, the exterior changes are expected to be conservative. VW tends to prioritize subtle modifications during a product’s lifecycle, unlike Hyundai and Kia, which often implement more substantial revisions. While the rendered image primarily focuses on the exterior, we do know that updates to the cabin are also planned.

Image: Kolesa.ru

Based on previous prototypes, the Golf facelift will feature a larger touchscreen display. Speculation suggests it could be the same 15-inch unit found in the ID.7, as the observed screen inside a test vehicle was larger than the 12-inch display in the ID.3 facelift. In response to consumer criticism, VW has committed to a “quality offensive” by eliminating touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel.

Considering the implementation of Euro 7 regulations in July 2025, it is likely that the Golf facelift will feature cleaner, less-polluting engines too. These stricter emissions standards will also necessitate changes to brakes and tires, as part of a broader set of laws aimed at reducing the environmental impact of vehicles. VW has expressed concerns about the potential price increase for internal combustion engine cars under Euro 7, to the extent that the Polo model might be discontinued.

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A rebirth of the legendary Stout may be Toyota’s “Baby Hilux”

Ryan De Villiers — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 06:05:28 +0000

After a roundtable with Toyota in Johannesburg a few weeks ago, the automotive giant alluded to creating a “Baby Hilux” of sorts. Now, rumours suggest that Toyota is planning on reviving its mid-size 1,5-ton Toyota Stout.

Image: Kleber Silva

The Toyota Stout made its debut in the 60s as the first pickup truck/bakkie in America for the Japanese automaker and is considered a pioneering model that paved the way for subsequent bakkies. The model was in production from 1954 to 1989, spanning three generations and one facelift. It started with the RK23 pick-up, followed by the RK45 in 1960, and the final model, the RK110, which offered single and double cab configurations. The Stout is slightly smaller than the current Toyota Hilux, with dimensions of 4 674 mm in length, 1 690 mm in width, 1 710 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2 800 mm. Powering the third-generation Stout was a water-cooled, inline four-cylinder engine with a power output of 95 kW @ 5 000 r/min.

Image: Toyota

Recent speculation suggests that Toyota has a bakkie in the works, which is more compact than the current Hilux and could be a revival of the iconic founding model. According to these speculations, the revived Stout might be based on Toyota’s current TNGA-K platform, shared with the Tundra, Tacoma, and Highlander. It is expected to have a smaller size than the Hilux and feature an engine already utilized in TNGA-K-based models, offering petrol and diesel options paired with a six-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission. This correlates with information our Digital Editor, Alex Shahini received after a roundtable with senior Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) members. Read more about it below.

Earlier this year, Toyota unveiled the Toyota Mobility Concept (TMC), aiming to expand its mobility offerings. Rumours and speculation suggest that Toyota is on the verge of introducing a compact bakkie based on a ladder-frame platform, potentially related to the revived Stout. This model is anticipated to have a price tag undercutting that of the Hilux.

Do you think the next bakkie offering from Toyota could indeed be a revival of the Stout? Rendered images courtesy of a project undertaken by Kleber Silva.

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A hybrid Ranger could be in the works for Ford

Ryan De Villiers — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 02:59:40 +0000

A recent rumour has sparked considerable interest regarding the possibility of a hybrid Ranger model being added to Australia’s Ranger lineup in 2024. However, Ford’s position on this matter seems to differ, raising doubts about the validity of these claims.

Image: Ford

The discussion surrounding a hybrid-assisted Ranger began over three years ago, and recent reports have reignited the speculation. According to emerging information, Ford is said to be preparing to introduce a hybrid variant of its popular Ranger model in the Australian market.

If these rumours hold, the hybrid Ranger would join the existing range of Ranger models in Australian dealerships within the next year. It is believed that this hybrid iteration will make its debut as part of the Ranger’s MY23 updates. Nevertheless, it is crucial to note that Ford Australia and Ford South Africa have not officially confirmed any of these claims.

While specific details about the hybrid Ranger’s powertrain have not been disclosed, sources suggest that it will utilize one of Ford’s four-cylinder engines currently employed in US-spec Rangers.

In particular, there are indications of a 2,3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, similar to the one used in the Australian variant of VW’s new Amarok. This engine, which powers the Australian-spec double-cab Amarok, delivers an impressive output of 222 kW and 452 N.m of torque, surpassing the torque produced by the single-turbo Ranger available in the local market.

Image: Ford

Adding to the intrigue, speculation has emerged suggesting that the production of this hypothetical hybrid Ranger might take place at Ford’s prestigious Silverton production plant in South Africa.

While the idea of a hybrid Ranger joining Australia’s Ranger lineup in 2024 has generated significant buzz, it is important to note that Ford has not confirmed its existence.

Until official statements are made or more substantial information becomes available, it is prudent to treat these reports as speculation. We will continue to monitor the story and provide updates as they develop.

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Land Cruiser 70 Series could lose V8 in favour of four-cylinder

Ryan De Villiers — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 02:59:29 +0000

The V8 and V6-powered Land Cruiser 70 series, which has been well-regarded for years, might be approaching its end. Here is all we know on the rumour of a four-cylinder version of the illustrious bakkie.

Image: Toyota

Reports claim that the next iteration of the Land Cruiser 70 series will potentially be equipped with the same four-cylinder engine found in Toyota’s Prado. These bold claims stem from information gathered by Best Car Web, a Japanese automotive news outlet that reported on the possibility of the engine swap earlier this year. It is also rumoured that the Land Cruiser 70 series loses the V8 configuration in favour of the Prado’s power plant, it could inherit the Prado’s six-speed automatic transmission too.

The Land Cruiser has gained popularity in markets like Tanzania, and especially in Australia. CarExpert reached out to Toyota Australia to inquire about the possibility of a four-cylinder powered Land Cruiser and received the following response from a Toyota Australia spokesperson: “While we cannot comment on our model plans, we can confirm that we will continue to offer a V8 engine with the 70 Series in the coming years.”

Image: Toyota

Toyota South Africa has yet to confirm or deny the possibility of downsizing the Land Cruiser’s power plant. Riaan Esterhuysen, TSAM Public Relations Manager, stated, “The engine change mentioned is still being studied for suitability and applicability to our local market, and we are unable to confirm the product direction at this time.”

If the Prado’s four-cylinder engine is adopted, it would slightly surpass the performance figures of the current V8-powered model. The Prado’s 2,8-litre diesel four-cylinder, internally known as the 1GD, produces 150 kW, just one kilowatt less than the V8’s 151 kW. However, the main advantage of switching to the 1GD would be the significant increase in torque. The Land Cruiser’s torque would rise from 430 N.m in the V8 configuration to 500 N.m in the hypothetical four-cylinder setup.

REVIEW: WHY THE NEXT-GEN EVEREST WILDTRAK IS A WONDERFUL ADDITION FROM FORD

Image: Toyota

We will continue to monitor this topic and provide updates as they become available.

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Kia’s ladder-frame double-cab bakkie likely to be unveiled in Q2 2024

Ryan De Villiers — Tue, 30 May 2023 10:00:11 +0000

A Kia bakkie to rival the likes of the revered and well-established Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger? The South Korean automaker is preparing a double-cab which may be unveiled as early as 2024!

Image: Autospy

Kia is gearing up to make a significant impact in the Australian automotive market with its highly anticipated double-cab pickup truck. Set to arrive at dealerships in the Land Down Under around 2025, this new addition to Kia’s lineup aims to rival established titans in the industry from the likes of Toyota, Ford and Isuzu.

We’ve been following the development of Kia’s double-cab bakkie for some time. To learn what is known about Kia’s Ranger rivalling double-cab, click here.

Australian dealerships have reportedly been earmarked as the first recipients of Kia’s double-cab pickup truck. Consequently, a global unveiling is likely to occur sometime in the middle of 2024, setting the stage for its anticipated arrival in Australian showrooms by 2025.

Recent spy shots revealed a camo-clad test mule of Kia’s pickup, codenamed “TK.” Though broadly concealed, some design elements are discernible. Notably, and accompanied by a mesh grille, the headlight design bears a resemblance to the Kia Mohave. We’ve also noticed a wheel arch missing an accompanying component, likely a subtle fender flare anticipated to be present in the production model.

Image: Autospy

Asked for comment, General Manager for Marketing, Christo Valentyn, had this to say: “”Kia South Africa is continuously evaluating the feasibility of new and future models that are or may be available to the South African market. We are not in a position to comment on the potential production and/or introduction of a bakkie at this point in time.”

Official information pertaining to Kia’s double-cab pickup truck is scarce at this stage. Rumours do suggest, however, that the vehicle will be built on the same ladder frame skeleton as the Japan-only Kia Mohave model. Sources further indicate that the “TK” will likely be powered by a 3,0-litre turbodiesel V6 engine, similar to the one in the Mohave. This engine configuration would provide the double-cab pickup truck with power outputs comparable with the Ford Ranger V6 Wildtrak and Toyota’s 2.8GD Legend RS Hilux.

Image: KDesign AG

It is expected that the Kia double-cab pickup truck will offer a braked towing capacity of 3 500 kg, with a payload rating of approximately 1 000 kg, making it a direct competitor to the aforementioned models. Intriguingly, alongside the diesel variant, Kia is reportedly working on an all-electric double-cab pickup truck that will be sold separately from the “TK” model.

Not prepared to wait until 2025 for a Kia bakkie? Browse here with CARmag!

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Prius could be next brainchild of Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division

Ryan De Villiers — Mon, 29 May 2023 09:48:57 +0000

Anticipation mounts as Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division prepares to unveil a new GR-badged concept car at this year’s 24 Hour of Le Mans. While speculation runs rampant, one intriguing possibility emerges: the next concept car could very well be a race-ready Prius, blending performance and sustainability.

Image: Toyota

Toyota’s presence at the 24 Hour of Le Mans event will feature several exhibitions showcased in the Manufacturer’s Village and ACO fan zone. Among these exhibitions, one stands out—a concept car that Toyota plans to leverage the introduction of groundbreaking technological innovations, furthering the company’s commitment to carbon-neutral aspirations. It’s a bold conjecture, but there are compelling reasons to believe that this concept car might indeed be a Prius, donning the exhilarating mantle of Gazoo Racing.

Analyzing the teaser image with enhanced exposure settings, intriguing details emerge. The car exhibits the same tow hook design and placement as the current road-going Prius, while the grille appears strikingly similar, echoing the distinctive headlight array segmentation seen in the aforementioned four-door hybrid.

In addition, Toyota Gazoo Racing has revealed that this concept car will be equipped with cutting-edge vehicle technologies developed through rigorous motorsports challenges. Notably, the ongoing participation of a liquid hydrogen-powered Corolla concept car in the Fuji 24 Hours endurance race—the GR Corolla H2 Concept—places it at the forefront of Toyota’s alternative powertrain motorsports endeavours. Serving as an embodiment of the brand’s Beyond Zero campaign, this Corolla concept may offer valuable insights into the underlying foundation of Gazoo Racing’s forthcoming concept car.

Image: Toyota

While we approach this speculation with caution, it is worth noting that the most performance-focused iteration of the Prius already boasts an impressive power output of 164 kW, achieving a standstill sprint to 100 km/h in a mere 6,7 seconds. This variant derives its motivation from a potent 2,0-litre Plug-in Hybrid power plant, featuring a high-capacity drive battery and a high-output drive motor—a powertrain that could potentially find its way into Gazoo Racing’s next concept car.

With the 24 Hours of Le Mans scheduled to commence on June 10th, only time will reveal the truth. Until then, the automotive world is invited to indulge in speculation and eagerly await the unveiling of Toyota Gazoo Racing’s latest masterpiece.

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BMW could have a 2024 M4 CS model in the works

Ryan De Villiers — Wed, 24 May 2023 05:04:47 +0000

Enthusiasts and automotive sleuths have sparked discussions and speculation about the potential production of a CS version for the G82 M4 in 2024.

Image: BMW

It’s important to note that, as of the publication of this article, BMW has not officially confirmed the development of a CS variant. However, a thread on Bimmerpost, known for leaking reliable information in the past, included a list outlining purported plans for various BMW models, including the G82 M4.

The list mentioned a higher-strung CS-badged M4 model, supposedly scheduled for production in the third quarter of next year and expected to continue until the second quarter of 2025.

Furthermore, it outlined the model’s lifecycle, indicating that it would undergo a Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) in the first quarter of the following year and conclude in 2028.

If the speculation is accurate, the rumoured M4 CS would likely be comparable to the recently unveiled BMW M3 CS. According to the forum thread, notable differentiating features would include the omission of two doors from the M3’s four-doors and a redesigned headlight array. In terms of performance, an increase in power from 375 kW to approximately 400 kW is highly likely.

Additionally, there may be several weight-saving efforts implemented, although they might not be as extreme as the reduction tactics seen in the M4 CSL. Nevertheless, the CS version is expected to be noticeably lighter than the standard M4.

Image: BMW

Previous iterations of Competition Sport models from BMW, such as the M4 CS and the current M3 CS, featured several model-exclusive components, including a different roof, bonnet, rear spoiler, and even redesigned shift paddles. It is likely that the speculated M4 CS would follow a similar path, incorporating unique design elements and performance enhancements.

Adding to the intrigue, BMW M CEO Frank van Meel hinted at the possibility of introducing a CS-badged M4 in the new generational lineup during the previous year. This statement, coupled with the leaked information, has fueled further anticipation among BMW enthusiasts.

Image: BMW

While it’s important to note that these details are based on speculation and unconfirmed sources, the discussions surrounding the potential hardcore version for the G82 M4 in 2024 have generated excitement within the automotive community. As with any speculation, it’s advisable to await official announcements from BMW to confirm these developments.

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