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Drifting was once confined to 70’s film cop chases when it was used to portray the worst driver starting to lose control and taking a slower line than the hero. Today it is a very different story with controlled slides being engineered into an art form, one that a certain Mr Block has made a career from. BMW has shot a video of ace drivers putting the BMW M235i through its paces… Sideways. Named the BMW Driftmob, they are very good.
Starring in likely the most impressive piece of synchronised driving you will witness today. The BMW Driftmob take over a roundabout and preform a choreographed routine that not only includes prolonged slides, but also some manoeuvres that come within inches of each other. These five M235i’s burn rubber like there is no tomorrow and then simply vanish into the city. Fantastic driving from each of these highly talented drivers.
We know that the BMW M235i is a very capable car with its 3.0 litre straight six engine producing 321BHP. See our review here. With a 0-62MPH of just 5 seconds and a top speed electronically limited to 155MPH, it walks the walk and talks the talk.
Check out the BMW Driftmob video.
There is no getting away from what a success the Porsche Cayenne has been. The sporty SUV defines its class with sales backing up its promise of performance and luxury. Although the first generation car split opinion visually, the second incarnation ticked the box for the majority and has even ushered in a baby SUV for Porsche, the Macan. The 2015 Porsche Cayenne gets a bit more than a nip and tuck.
For the Cayenne’s mid-life refresh we see some external changes including larger air intakes, new front bumper, a re-sculpting of the wings and a bonnet featuring more pregnant charter lines. All of the existing engines have been tinkered with primarily to increase efficiency. The addition of a new stop/start system and a coasting mode aids the cause.
By far the biggest news is the introduction of a new variant named the 2015 Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid. Powered by a petrol engine and an electric motor, this SUV will average 83.1MPG. That is not only impressive because of the cars class, but also as it will do 0-62MPH in 5.9 seconds and go onto a top speed of 151MPH. The E-Hybrid can travel on pure electric mode for up to 22 miles and reach speeds of 78MPH.
The 2015 Porsche Cayenne will hit showrooms in October.
When one slice is not enough, you eat the whole cake. Why buy one pizza when you can buy two? If you are of this mindset you might be looking at the Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Coupe and thinking “whilst it is all well and good, more is still more.” Welcome to the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG Coupe. The ultimate luxury coupe from the German brand.
Not content with winning the World Cup, the Germans have now unleashed the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG. Armed with muscular bulges and intakes big enough to swallow small children, the S65 is the range topper at £183,065. It is powered by 6.0 litre V12 engine that produces 621BHP and 738lb ft of torque. 0-62MPH takes a mere 4.1 seconds whilst its top speed is electronically limited to 155MPH. Mercedes new “magic body control” system also features ensuring that occupants can enjoy the lavish interior without being shaken like a martini on bad roads. AMG sport seats dominate the cabin which is beautifully detailed with aluminium. Despite possessing all of this performance potential the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG Coupe is said to be capable of returning 23.7MPG.
The Volkswagen Passat, which over the past 41 years has racked up over 23 million sales worldwide, is about to enter its eighth generation as VW have unveiled an all-new model in saloon and estate guise at their design HQ in Potsdam.
The latest Passat has been reinvigorated in every department, with a fresh design, advanced technologies and a new stable of powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid. With a decidedly more premium package, VW not only have their sights set on more traditional mid-sized family rivals such as the Ford Mondeo and the Toyota Avensis, but also aim to muscle in on the party reserved for more top-end competitors in the shape of the Audi A4 and the Mercedes C-Class.
The saloon and Estate models unveiled at VW’s design centre in Potsdam certainly give a few indications of just how the latest Passat will boast a touch more class than its predecessors.
The first point to note is the lower and wider stance of the new Passat, a clear deviation from its curvier precursor. The bonnet has been flattened out and the front and rear windscreens more steeply angled to create the noticeably sleeker profile. A new grille design debuts on the front fascia with the four chrome bars now squashed closer together, the lowermost of which extends into the considerably wider and leaner headlights. The same effect has been applied to the rear lights, set just above a prominent crease spanning the width of the rear section. This lends the saloon version a look slightly reminiscent of the more executive Phaeton.
Though the overall size of the new Passat is actually marginally smaller than the outgoing model, the interior is in fact now more spacious than before. VW say that leg-room, head-room and luggage space have all been increased and what is notable from the images supplied is the superior quality of the interior materials and styling, befitting with the new Passat’s more up-market ambitions. For example, the Active Info Display, mounted on a 12.3-inch TFT screen, provides an optional and premium alternative to the traditional instrument cluster.
On the technology front, the 2015 model will boast latest generation park-assist, effectively allowing the Passat to park itself in to perpendicular spaces, as well as a very practical world-first trailer assist system, which helps eliminate the faffing that often comes with reversing in to a tight space with a trailer attached.
For the first time ever, the Passat goes green, with the option of a plug-in hybrid offered as part of the engine range. Battery power alone will get you 31 miles, whilst the maximum combined range stands at closer to 600. On the flip side, Volkswagen’s new four-cylinder, 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel is far more performance-wired, delivering 237bhp and a healthy 370 lb/ft of torque. This engine will be available with a new seven-speed gearbox and all-wheel drive as standard.
The next port of call for the all-new Passat will be the 2014 Paris Motor Show in October. There, Volkswagen will reveal further details on UK spec and pricing before deliveries begin early in 2015.
Great ingredients can often lead to delicious results. The correct combination of desirable attributes have produced such glories as the banana daiquiri, beautiful three piece suits and cake. When it comes to cars we all have our preferences, but those of an enthusiast’s persuasion adore keen handling, ample power and handsome looks. Having the roof down on a sunny day is the cherry on top. BMW claim to have produced an intoxicating elixir of all one could ask for in the form of the BMW 435i M Sport Convertible. The question is, have BMW created pancakes and maple syrup or a slightly repulsive mixture of grapes and ketchup.
If the cars design is anything to go buy, then the forecast is good. Its low and wide stance is purposeful and commanding. Angled headlights and snarling kidney grills make this a lean mean machine that is also detailed buy muscular lines to reinforce its sporting nature. With the metal folding roof stowed it is a stunner! With it in place, however, the profile is slight compromised. Don’t get me wrong, in hard-top configuration this car is far from ugly, but the BMW 435i M Sport Convertible looks at its best on a sunny day.
The cabin is your typical BMW blend of German understated luxury. A prominent three spoke M Sport steering wheel takes pride of place at the driver’s chest. The large widescreen display houses infotainment with its proportions being particularly useful when reading the satellite navigation. A full colour head-up display is an option well worth going for as it clarity and brilliantly ergonomic function makes for a more “eyes on road” driving experience. In the front there are two large rib reinforcing seats whilst in the rear, a bench offers just enough space for two adults providing those sat ahead are not King Kong. Obviously with a car of this nature boot space will be compromised when the roof is tucked away, but unlike its 3 Series predecessor, the 4 Series Convertible has the ability to move the roof out of the way in order fit luggage more easily.
This 435i is powered by a turbocharged 3.0 litre petrol engine producing 306HP and a tarmac tearing 400NM of torque. Clearly not just a pretty face, the BMW 435i M Sport Convertible will do 0-62MPH in just 5.6 seconds and go onto an electronically limited top speed of 155MPH. Heading out in this 435i, I took the liberty of lowering the roof which completes its transformation in 20 seconds and can be done at speeds up to 8MPH. The drive at usual speeds is one of tranquility and comfort. This cars 6 speed manual transmission is as smooth as honey, as is the power delivery from the engine. Steering is light and precise making this car a prime candidate for those who intend on making a long-term investment. However, the 4 Series is meant to be a more focused and sporting model to the 3. So where is that loving spoonful of brute force that we expected? Click the car into Sport or Sport+ and you will light the fuse to an enthralling driving experience. Exhaust valves open, steering gains weight and the throttle response sharpens providing you with the tools necessary to put a grin on your face. Heel and toe down a gear and hold tight as all of those ponies are channeled to the rear wheels. The high levels of torque sucks you back into your seat as the horizon becomes a damn sight closer. Point the car in the vicinity of an apex and the direction change is immediate. It feels alert and alive. Above 3,000rpm the power delivery is relentless and at 4,000rpm the engine note is sonorous. The hills are alive with the sound of horse power as you enjoy the dynamic and involving drive this BMW 435i M Sport Convertible brings to the table. There isn’t a hint of chassis flex and the 435i rides well in all environments. With the roof up, peace and quiet returns to the cabin for the journey home.
The BMW 435i M Sport Convertible is an extremely likeable car and one we would wholeheartedly recommend to those in the market for a powerful sporting convertible. In a world of automatic transmissions it was also very refreshing to swap cogs with three pedals, once again becoming the organic part of the machine. Our test car would set you back £45,470 with its equipment, which is a lot of money however you look at it. Yet as a complete package, that just like apple pie and custard, it is a mouth watering proposition.
“You can’t have everything” my mother would say to be when I was a child, and she was right. You can’t buy an ice cream on a sunny day and not expect it to melt, you can’t eat huge slices of cake and not get fat, and you certainly can’t travel on Virgin Galactic’s new space plane without first paying them £200,000. Life is about give and take with compromise just being something that you have to accept. “No” says BMW, “you shall go to the ball…” The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe 428i M Sport indeed lets you have your cake and eat it.
Previously you had a choice; either buy a BMW 3 Series for its practicality or order a 4 Series coupe for its athletic profile. For many the 3 Series was the default option because cramming a family into your dream coupe, often results in scathing expressions from your wife as you place a suitcase on top of your chosen child.
This new model joining the 4 Series range retains the more sporting stance of the coupe whilst offering those all important rear doors. There is no denying this machines handsome looks, especially in our test cars Estoril Blue. The M Sport package adds a smart set of 19 inch alloy wheels as well as more aggressive bodywork. Larger air intakes and a darkened grill gives the car sexily sinister demeanor. Designers have done a good job keeping the Gran Coupe’s proportions similar to that of the coupe with the roof only being 23mm taller.
The interior is one of premium design and elevates itself above that of its sister cars. Leather surrounds occupants, cocooning them in high quality materials. Aluminum details the cabin contrasting the black interior and adds a real sense of class. Two supportive rib hugging seats occupy the front where you will also find a brilliantly simplistic M Sport steering wheel. All too often steering wheels today are coated in a million buttons, this three spoke incarnation implies that this car is more about the driving experience than the toys inside. Although the rear seats three, a high transmission tunnel and raised middle seat lends this car to being more of a 4+1 than a permanent 5 seat vehicle. However, the two outer seats are more than capable of seating adults even with the Gran Coupes rapidly sloping roofline.
Bring the 245hp turbo charged engine into play, in combination with a sumptuously smooth 8 speed ZF gearbox and you will find the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe 428i M Sport to be a highly refined drive. The suspension removes road imperfections well whilst minimizing body roll. Steering inputs are met with a quick response and turbo lag upon stabs of the throttle is virtually nonexistent. Hit sport mode and this car comes to life in a manner that reminds you why this is not simply a 3 Series in a posh frock. The steering weights up, suspensions stiffens and throttle usage is met with intensive acceleration. In this state of high alert the 4 Series Gran Coupe is an utter joy to drive. In true BMW fashion, the car feels like a surgeon’s scalpel on twisty roads. A very accurate front end meet with good levels of grip and encourages further spirited driving. Its engine pulls strongly emitting a pleasing harmony provided by a choir of six cylinders. The enjoyment grows when using the paddle shifters to drop down the gears before diving into a pending corner. This cars balance of chassis dynamics is highly commendable. My only real complaint is that whilst in sport mode, the ride is a bit too firm for our battered British B-roads. It is not wildly uncomfortable, but thudding into potholes and fidgeting over consecutive bumps becomes irritating. Head out onto the motorway and the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe 428i M Sport becomes a tranquil long distance cruiser. It really is a car that just eats up the miles whilst you relax in an environment of technology sourcing from a widescreen infotainment display.
The 4 Series Gran Coupe 428i M Sport is my pick of the range thus far as it embodies the very best of BMW handling characteristics with the practicality that you so desire. At £42,850 our test car with all of its equipment would be quite the investment, however, its ability to blend both style and sustenance mustn’t be underrated.
BMW took the decision to separate the 3 Series models a while ago now. Whilst saloon variants remained under the legendary nameplate, both the coupe and convertible went their separate ways creating the 4 Series. This has enabled BMW to differentiate these cars producing a more handling focused package in the 4 Series line-up. Today the new 4 Series family has gained a third member in the form of the Gran Coupe. “Hang fire just one second! Aren’t saloon models now strictly placed within the 3 Series department?” I hear you cry. Indeed they are, however, the Gran Coupe as the name suggests is not technically a saloon. The four-door coupe segment has grown dramatically over the past few years with Audi and Mercedes-Benz all wanting a piece of the action. According to BMW, further ammunition for this cars business case lies in the fact that their 6 Series Gran Coupe outsells its coupe and convertible siblings by quite a margin. With 28,000 predicted sales over a 7 year period, this BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe 420d xDrive is expected to be one of the most popular specifications.
Looking seductively sleek from nose to tail, our test car was equipped the M Sport package giving it an even leaner profile. The strong bodylines that detail this sloping coupe enriches the car with taught muscular features. Proportionally the Gran Coupe retains similar dimensions to the coupe, only being 23mm taller. The thinking behind the car is that some customers want the sharp looks that a 4 Series coupe offers, but still require the practicality of a four-door. Here is proof that style needn’t be compromised by the requirements of family life.
Inside the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe 420d xDrive is just as special as the outside. The highly detailed wrap-around interior separates itself from that of the 3 Series with many sculpted shapes. Quality leather flows from the seats seamlessly to nearly every surface complimenting the aluminium detailing of the M Sport package. A large widescreen display sits as the centrepiece of the console primed with the latest iDrive software which, after a bit of sifting through, can be concluded as a big improvement over the old system. Touch input, where you can draw letters onto the surface of the traditional knob, enables you to quickly navigate your vast phonebook with ease. Rear seating offers a supportive bench that hosts three. Head and leg room are good for the outermost passengers considering the low roofline, however, if you are sat in the middle a large transmission tunnel will leave you no option other than to adopt an undignified straddle position. The traditional dark rear quarters of a coupe have been banished thanks to large windows allowing natural light to penetrate into the cabin. Another key attribute of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe is its 480 litre boot which is identical in capacity to the new 3 Series. An automatic hatchback further increases day-to-day usability at no extra cost regardless of trim level.
The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe 420d xDrive is endowed with a 2.0 litre turbocharged diesel engine and all wheel drive. In this guise, not only does the xDrive setup offer that added sense of security during challenging weather, but also BMW claims that it will achieve 57.6MPG. In motion the torque from the turbo diesel, in tandem with having four wheels sending power to the ground, creates a strong surge of acceleration. The power is split between the two axels, but as much as 100% can be sent to the rear when such a situation demands it. These alterations are made in 0.1 seconds. Thanks to this dexterity the Gran Coupe feels nimble even with the added weight of all wheel drive. In comfort mode the ride is compliant but still retains that sporting edge of other 4 Series. The steering is light but precise. Switching things up to sport and then sport+ brings forth increased throttle response and greater weight to the steering. In this state the difference between a 3 Series saloon and the Gran Coupe is clear. The car feels alert and delivers a dynamic and very enjoyable experience that keen drivers will relish, even with the kids in the back. Whilst sport mode is no doubt where this BMW belongs, the firming of the suspension makes our often bumpy roads a bit grating over prolonged periods. Unfortunately in this model there is no way to tailor a specific suspension set-up of comfort to the desirable control sensitivity of sport. Overall the 420d xDrive feels surefooted and as with other BMWs specified with it, the 8 speed ZF gearbox has to be the smoothest of any automatic on sale today. Clicking though the gears via the paddle shifters showed it not only to be quick, but so subtle it is hard to notice the change.
Whilst this diesel engine might not be the quietest on the market, it is very capable and has proven to be a good companion for the rest of this package. The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe 420d xDrive is a very likable machine both in urban environments and whilst cruising at higher speeds. Although sceptical of this cars purpose in the BMW range at first, I am now convinced that it more than justifies itself.
Mercedes-Benz current range deserves all of the compliments it is being paid. From the little A-Class right up to the SLS AMG, these luxury German automobiles are proving very hard to fault and are doing a good job of making BMW sweat a bit. It is that time of year again when various models get a nip and tuck and today it is the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS and CLS Shooting Brake that are in the spotlight.
For this year the CLS gets small refresh that includes some external tweaks. New LED headlights and more butch front bumper, featuring larger intakes, join with the latest incarnation of the Mercedes-Benz grill. This “family face” has been making its way across to all models for nearly a year. Inside the cabin remains relatively untouched but now possesses an 8 inch monitor for infotainment. Changes to the steering wheel roundoff the cabin. A new engine joins the range in the form of the 2.1 litre turbocharged CLS220 BlueTec which produces 168BHP and 295lb ft of torque. The CLS63 AMG gets a power bump to 549BHP.
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS and CLS Shooting Brake will make their debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed and go on sale this September.
Schumacher has become the byword for fast. A legend in his own lifetime, Michael Schumacher is a 7 times Formula One world champion. This not only makes him handy behind the wheel, but also the the most successful F1 driver in the history of the sport. The retired racing ace suffered a horrific skiing accident in the French Alps on 29th December 2013 which resulted in a medically induced coma being required after brain surgery. Fears for Michael’s longterm health grew from there and after nearly 6 months unconscious, hope began to waver. Today we are so thrilled to bring you good news. He is back! Michael Schumacher out of coma.
Michael Schumacher is conscious and is being moved to Lausanne University hospital in Switzerland where his rehabilitation will continue. He is now out of danger! That said, his current condition and cognitive functioning have not been disclosed. We do know that he has been communicating with his family which is fantastic news. His agent has also said that this next stage of his recovery will take place away from the public eye which I’m sure we can all understand. “Schumacher out of Coma” reads many headlines today.
This is very all very good to hear after such a long time of uncertainty. Schumacher’s family also want to thank well-wishers for all of their support.
Keep at it Michael!
Well… that is it for another year as the legendary Le Mans 24 hour race ticked its final few seconds away. The big boys in LMP1 that promised quite the battle did not disappoint, and the rest of the field put on a fantastic show as well. Porsche VS Audi VS Toyota was obviously the headline act and with the four rings hungry for their 13th victory at Le Mans, tensions were high. In a tale almost as complex as the final chicane Audi win Le Mans 24 Hour 2014.
Audi did not bring the fastest LMP1 car out of the bunch with the Toyota and Porsche 919 Hybrid showing some amazing race pace with its unique energy recovery system. At the beginning the number 8 Toyota TS040 which had won the first two rounds of WEC took the lead from its sister car. However, after heavy rain, an accident in car 8 involving a slower GT car and also the number 3 Audi set them back. The Toyota lost 8 laps whilst repairs went on, but a stunning drive from Anthony Davidson, Nicolas Lapierre and Sebastien Buemi resulted in them finishing 3rd overall. Mark Webber in his new Porsche held the lead at times. During the night the then leading Toyota retired with electrical problems. The second Porsche 919 dropped out at 1PM on Sunday with a gearbox failure. Webber’s Porsche which was leading in the closing hours hit problems and began to slow. Audi, whilst not the fastest, were ready to recapture the lead and so the race ended with two Audi’s crossing the line first.
It was the number 2 Audi R18 Quattro that took the flag reminding everyone that “to finish first, first to have to finish.” Class victories for the Jota Nissan, Ferrari, and Aston Martin followed.
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