RATED Brilliantly Capable on and Off Road 10-PAGE REVIEW Every Fact, Figure Tested to Extremes Full Off-Road Specs
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MALAYSIA SINGAPORE autocarmalaysia.com | May 2020 Greatest 4WD heroes face off DEFENDERTHE VERDICT IS IN DRIVEN RATED Brilliantly capable on and off road 10-PAGE REVIEW Every fact, figure Tested to extremes Full off-road specs
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‘LIKE’ US ON FACEBOOK THIS MONTH Don’t miss Autocar Malaysia Malaysia Singapore Singapore every month. ‘Like’ our May 2020 Facebook page and be the first to find out when we upload the latest edition. NEWS COMMENT Ford Mustang Hybrid, 4WD for next-gen muscle car 14 Audi A3 saloon Sporty new four-door here in July 16 Aston’s hybrid V6 Valhalla first, then it replaces V8s 18 AND THE LOCKDOWN Taking stock Virus deals new blow to Aston’s value 20 VW ID Buzz Electric microbus to reinvent the MPV 22 CONTINUES Mercedes’ battery bonanza Bold new battery tech 24 Rise of touchscreens Just how safe are they in cars? 26 THE EAGERLY REE speedwagon? Start-up’s radical EV platform 28 ANTICIPATED Land Ferrari’s expansion Two more new models imminent 30 Covid-19 response How car makers are helping out 32 Rover Defender got a full NEW V8 JAGUAR GROWLS AT PORSCHE 911 70 workout in Namibia and TESTED this month, we share the outcome of Land Rover Defender Tough three-day off-road test 4 three days under tough conditions. Porsche 911 Turbo S Greater pace and driving thrills 34 The 10-page review starts overleaf. Audi E-tron Sportback Rakish EV guns for I-Pace 40 Audi A3 Sportback Big gains for all-new five-door 44 Only the boring get bored, so it’s Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 More rounded than ever 48 been said. Sometimes, it’s not a lack Ford Kuga Key family SUV arrives as plug-in hybrid 52 of imagination but a brain freeze. Porsche Taycan Turbo Mighty EV rated on UK roads 56 BMW M8 Competition 616bhp coupé on UK roads 58 This month, we feature 50 ideas for Lamborghini Huracán Evo RWD Entry level is best 59 petrolheads to 60 Audi A8 L 60 TFSIe Petrol-electric suits this limo FIRST DRIVE: MERCEDES-BENZ’S GLA keep themselves Volkswagen T-Roc Cabriolet Sole VW drop-top rated 61 48 Ford Puma 1.0T 125 MHEV Titanium ROAD TEST 62 occupied over the ongoing FEATURES Stay At Home. Jaguar F-Type R vs Porsche 911 £100k shootout 70 There’s not Mini vs e-208 vs Zoe Electric supermini shootout 78 going to be a BMW i8 We mourn the passing of a glorious failure 88 second-gen Quattro-phenia Five of Audi’s best fast 4WD heroes 92 Audi TT Mk1 vs Audi TT Mk3 Fond swansong for TT 100 BMW i8. Lambo legend’s EV Balboni drives us in Drako GTE 104 Speaking as 106 How to drift like a pro Expert teaches a road tester a great fan of the car, why? All is Steering feel Does it matter new cars have less of it? 108 GENERATION GAME: AUDI TT MK1 vs TT MK3 100 Rear-guard action 10 rear-wheel-steer pioneers 110 revealed on page 88. Supercar superstar The man with hundreds of them 112 Want to learn a new skill during 116 ❝ Autocar at war How we kept publishing during WW2 DUE TO THIS the MCO? Learn how to drift like a Isolation for petrolheads 50 fun ways to stay sane 120 PANDEMIC, IT WILL pro, within the safety of these pages. Other must-reads include 40 BE BUILT MORE years of Quattro, Tom Hartley
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PEFC.indd 1 16/06/2011 14:18 FIRST DRIVES NEW CARS TESTED AND RATED LAND ROVER DEFENDER 110 S
4 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 LANDTESTED 22.2.20, NAMIBIA ON SALE MAYROVER PRICE £49,880 (£66,000 AS TESTED) DEFENDER 110 S Does the new Defender have the off-road prowess to justify its name – and how does it drive? Cue three tough days in Namibia
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 5 Our knobbly-tyred, air-suspended cars rode the rare stretches of Tarmac with a forgiving gait
don’t know if it’s bold or reckless had probably faltered by the 1980s not an SUV? Search Jeep Wrangler, to launch a Land Rover in and the Land Rover hasn’t been a Mercedes G-Class and Toyota LINE MANAGEMENT Namibia. Not because of the ubiquitous, everyman’s vehicle for Land Cruiser and you’ll find their barrenness, what with it being most of this century. makers all file them under ‘SUV’, but In 2017, I drove from London to the second least densely populated And so, as with the modern Mini, Bräutigam has stripped out the term Slovakia to see a piece of flat country on earth, having a land mass the Fiat 500 and the new Beetle, the in Defender literature. Land Rover ground on which 4000 people were three and a half times the UK’s but reinvention comes. Not an easy task. would like you to think this is the constructing a 300,000m2 factory only 2.5 million inhabitants. Not “All of our marketing blah-blah about real deal, a Land Rover like no other. that would have an output of because the terrain is challenging reinventing an icon is true, I think,” “Land Rover is a three-legged stool 150,000 cars a year. The Discovery and so vast that there’s a national says Felix Bräutigam, Jaguar Land again,” he says. was slated for production there at park the size of Belgium. Rover’s chief commercial officer, Is it like the old one? If you the time, with Land Rover – which No, it’s because the default car of who has joined us for the drive and, imagine Land Rover development hadn’t announced this Defender choice is a Toyota. having worked at Porsche (and with had continued in, say, Porsche 911 then – staying schtum about what It’s not that you don’t see Land a 911 GT3 RS 4.0 and the last-ever or Honda Civic style, with regular else would come, but it wasn’t Rovers. Walk around the capital, manual Jaguar F-Type in his garage), updates and model cycles and some hard to work out. Windhoek, and you’ll find Range I think you’d like him a lot. technology step during each one, is Today, the Defender and Rovers as you will everywhere money “The 60-second elevator pitch this where you’d end up? Discovery, based on similar lives, but out in the wilds – and for the Defender is ‘capability’,” I don’t think so: the new Defender, architecture, roll back to back Namibia is second only to Mongolia he says. “This is not a sport utility one of the most capable vehicles on down the same Nitra production when it comes to wilds – the Hilux is vehicle. It’s a 4x4.” earth though it may be, is pitched line. Outline plans and permission king. Namibia is a country where four Interesting distinction, and not where the previous Defender left off, does exist to double the factory’s in 10 brand-new cars are Toyotas, one I often make. What else is a 4x4, as a premium want-vehicle, not as ◊ size and output, although with where it used to be a much higher where the world is at the minute, percentage than that, and where who knows when that’s likely. the Hilux’s capability and longevity Replaying that drive today, mean that, in the places you’d really consisting of mile after mile of want to test a Defender, the cars motorway, the Discovery would that aren’t Hiluxes are other beaten- probably remain the choice. But up Japanese pick-ups. There are a the Defender’s gentle demeanour, few old series Land Rovers going better infotainment and, I suspect, on adventures, but the working or easier manoeuvrability in town adventuring truck market is one, you would run it close. have to conclude, the Defender left some time ago. What does it want to be now? Well, this is it, the new Defender, the most difficult vehicle to replace since Volkswagen tried to reinvent the Beetle. The old car had a separate chassis because that’s how you did things in 1948 and, although updated Wading limit is a very generous 900mm so this poses no problem during its life, true modernisation 6 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 FIRST DRIVES
❝ At the start of the drive, I’m told: ‘We won’t see Tarmac for another three days’ ❞ TESTER’S NOTE Coil-sprung cars will run the same ride height as air spring ❝ cars on the standard What’s striking is how easy setting – slightly reducing max ground clearance and wade the Defender tries to make all depth accordingly. MP of this crawling and wading ❞
Five-door 110s and three-door 90s will make a splash when the first Defenders arrive in May
∆ the need-vehicle that is how reassuringly familiar side-opening Attached to the bonded and last hurrah of a pre-Greta era,” says the original series Land Rover tailgate and three- and five-door riveted shell are steel subframes Bräutigam. “This is a justifiable car.” began its life. variants badged 90 and 110, sits a front and rear, with independent For now, though, we’re driving the A 911 has always been a sports car, derivative of Jaguar Land Rover’s big suspension all round – wishbones most powerful diesel and petrol. the Civic always a family runabout. aluminium D7 architecture. at the front, integral link at the back. All engines drive through a ZF But I think the Defender has Don’t think that means it’s overtly No, it doesn’t have a separate steel eight-speed automatic gearbox. changed. That’s not necessarily a bad based on something else: the chassis any more and nor is there a There’s no manual option and I doubt thing. It’s just a thing. platform has a suffix for different solid axle to be seen, as you’ll still there will be. There’s an electronically We can discuss its looks – I will models, so a Jaguar XE is a D7a and find front and rear on a Wrangler and controlled centre and rear differential as we go on – but the trouble with a Range Rover is a D7u and even a beneath the back of a Land Cruiser, and the Defender gets Land Rover’s assessing design is not that you Jaguar I-Pace is D7e. But it means G-Class and every pick-up. But Terrain Response system, so it is not and I think differently, but that there are shared modules and crash Land Rover claims a 29kNm/ a car with which you can choose to as familiarity sets in, even our structures and, notably, commonality deg torsional stiffness, a 900kg lock the differentials as you can in respective views change. I already in the expensive bit between the front maximum payload and a towing limit a Wrangler or G-Glass. But it does feel differently from how I did axle and the dashboard. of 3500kg (3700kg in the US). have a low-ratio transfer case and, when I saw this car last year, for But the new Defender’s aluminium Engine options are 2.0-litre diesels remember, despite each wheel’s better and worse. shell, in all of the body-in-white and with 197bhp or 237bhp, a 2.0 petrol independence and the unitary body, The hardware, then, is where not just the outer panels, is unique with 296bhp and a 3.0 V6 with it’s not an SUV. Well, we’ll see. objectivity lies. Underneath the to this car. It sits higher than on any 396bhp. A plug-in hybrid is coming Later, base models will have coil body, with its bluff back end, other Land Rover, too. soon: “We didn’t want to make a springs as standard, but early cars – 8 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 FIRST DRIVES TUSK TRUST (AND RED CROSS) PART OF TEST TEAM The Tusk Trust runs 50 projects to “view wildlife as an asset rather across 20 African countries trying than a threat”, to combat the annual to conserve wildlife. It’s called Tusk £15 billion illegal wildlife trade. And but the charity goes further than to maintain habitat, which is under just trying to save things with horns. great pressure from the human It’s looking out for “anything under population explosion. threat”, says founder and CEO I’m telling you this not simply Charlie Mayhew. That includes the because Land Rover supports Tusk poor pangolin – hunted for medicine “not just with cars, but with money”, and as a delicacy and thought by but also because Land Rover has some to be the transmitter of the had Defenders out with Tusk and coronavirus to humans. You’d have organisations like the Red Cross thought its hard scales would have during testing. Not only out of the made it obvious it didn’t want to be goodness of their hearts, but “they consumed, but there you are. People. are one of our target groups”, says Anyway, Tusk’s work revolves Jaguar Land Rover’s Felix Bräutigam, around getting local communities “because it’s good business”.
we’ve driven two 110 variants, with 90s coming later – will run on air springs, one of a raft of technologies that serves to improve the Defender’s off-road capability. We’ll test that a lot here. “Once through these traffic lights,” I’m told at the start of the drive, “we won’t see Tarmac again for three days.” I’ve done enough off-roading to know that this can be quite tiresome, that after three straight days of driving off road, a stretch of smooth asphalt is like a hit of warm sun at the end of winter. The Defender sets a good first impression on cushioning the blow. There are trad Defender cues – a big slab of dashboard with a grab handle Side-hinged tailgate is a nod to the original Defender, as are some of our test car’s accessories at either end, with the instruments ◊ MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 9 HOW THE DEFENDER’S OFF-ROAD STATS COMPARE ❝ When listing the most capable doesn’t, it’s feasible you won’t mind factory-fresh off-roaders, there are bashing the underside of them as The reason for the knobbly a few standouts – the Ford Ranger much as you will the Defender’s. Raptor and Jeep Wrangler the two But in terms of raw numbers, tyres and the extra kit is the most notables, in my experience. especially approach and departure The numbers suggest how capable numbers, the Defender – at least, on terrain. Namibia has it all the Defender will be against them – air springs, in maximum height – has although because they have separate nothing to fear. A full back-to-back steel chassis and the Defender test will follow later in the year. ❞ LAND ROVER DEFENDER
40.0º 38.0º 28.0º
Wade depth: 900mm Ground clearance: 291mm
JEEP WRANGLER
30.7º 35.4º 20.0º Wade depth: 760mm Ground clearance: 242mm
FORD RANGER RAPTOR
27.0º 32.5º 24.0º
Wade depth: 850mm Ground clearance: 283mm Defender tackles terrain like this with an indomitable yet easy-going manner
∆ in their own little binnacle. The system. Touchscreen, yes, but it’s it in similar fashion. If you’re going dynamics, so I’m impressed that the steering wheel is huge, driving good. No, I mean it. For the first time to spend a long time in one of these, Defender feels so sure-footed. position high, seats large (that’s in a Land Rover, it’s genuinely quick, in abnormal road conditions, you’ll The reason for the tyres and the new) and visibility good (that’s not clear and confident. want a car that’s ergonomically easy kit, of course, is the terrain. Namibia new). You can see where the car ends, You can have two or two-and-a-bit to rub along with. You can make a has all of it. In places, it’s rocky, where its sides are, and the door seats in the front, with a middle jump case on a car’s various ultimate off- with oodles of small loose stones or mirrors are big, too. As well they seat you’d use to get a lift home from road credentials (and see the hard big solid ones, but all able to snag might be: while the old Defender was the pub but for no longer than that. numbers, above left) but reducing a tyre sidewall. And at times, it’s as narrow as a Ford Fiesta and as There are three seats in the rear with fatigue counts. sandy, dune-like or more solid or long as a Ford Focus, this new model massive head and leg room – the top The ride feels easy, too, on big in a riverbed, which when we drive is 2105mm wide across its mirrors window is a nice touch but no more empty roads where it lopes along through is flooded with sufficient and 5018mm long, including the than a distant porthole – and you with plenty of breath in its lungs. water to make for a tough wading test, spare wheel – a luxury car footprint can spec two seats in the spacious The steering doesn’t tell you much or with thick mud beneath. Bar slippery with Land Rover’s longest wheelbase, boot (although not with the jump self-centre greatly but it’s accurate grass, which will be the standard UK at 3022mm. The 90 is half a metre seat). The boot, at 916 litres to 2233 and stability is good. test, Namibia has got everything. shorter in both wheelbase and length. litres with the second row folded, A few caveats: we’re largely on What I do like about the Defender’s Interior materials feel good, albeit is cavernous, and although you’d rough roads – a brief stretch on design is how it interacts with its this is a higher-spec car. There are probably get a wider access hatch if asphalt suggests the Defender is an surroundings. The drag coefficient is some exposed structural elements the tailgate lifted, rather than swung engaging road drive too. The steering a reasonable Cd 0.38 but there’s still and Torx-head bolts to enhance the sideways, remember it’s a Defender. gains weight and response as forces been the chance to leave little shelves adventurous feel; although that’s The control weights are not build, the ride’s composed, pliant, around the lights that attract and better achieved by the amount of traditional Defender. They’re light, but with tight body control and well- trap dirt and dust; an old Defender storage space and charge outlets the positive, progressive and, as we contained roll. And we’re on knobbly does the same and it’s something Defender brings you, which, as you’ll mooch out into the countryside, it tyres rather than more road-biased that would be annoying on a BMW know if a lot of you are travelling feels easy and laid back. I think that’s ones. Also, there’s a roof rack and 3 Series but works nicely here. for a long time, is what really matters. important in a car that claims to be ladder and a bunch of kit on top of How well the Defender’s
PETER LIDDIARD And there’s a new infotainment so capable; a Land Cruiser manages the car, which probably doesn’t help appearance will otherwise mature ◊ 10 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 FIRST DRIVES
Launch line-up runs to 197bhp and 237bhp 2.0 diesels and 296bhp 2.0 and 396bhp 3.0 petrols. Low-ratio gearing is standard
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 11 ∆ I don’t know, but following one today, it’s novel and largely avoids caricature. In essence, Land Rover admits it gives Discovery 4 owners a car to move on to, but in design terms, there are also shades of first- generation Freelander about its stance when you see it moving. The Defender is equal to whatever terrain we put its way. It’s hard to say how much better or worse than the key rivals it is (even when we do conduct back-to-back testing in the UK, we’ll find muddy ground can change as we drive over it, making exact replication hard). But the raw numbers are strong, particularly with the suspension on its highest setting. And with the gearbox in low ratio, both the diesel but more so the petrol have decent urge. The diesel can get a little bogged as you try to keep momentum along soft riverbeds (it is a 2248kg car) and, with no separate chassis, there are no slide rails at the back, but the rear overhang is short, the floor flat, and the front bumper and skid plate the lowest part of the car – so if you clear objects with those, it should clear all the way along. What’s striking, though, and unusual, is how easy the Defender tries to make all of this crawling and wading. In a Wrangler, it feels like off-roading is how you challenge yourself, as you choose to lock the differentials and disconnect the anti-roll bars via cabin switches. Wranglers are incredibly capable, and I love them for it, partly because they make off-roading feel like a hobby. The Defender tries not to make it a chore. As standard on the models you can spec at the moment is the Terrain Response system that manipulates suspension, differentials, brakes, traction control and more on the go. It also has 360deg cameras, including a through-bonnet one showing the front wheels, and even Launch models have a standard-fit wade sensor, should you need to use it a wade sensor that tells you when you’re approaching its 900mm depth limit – in case water approaching perhaps? It’s an argument I’ve the windows doesn’t let you know. considered before but a BMW X1 That means you have to get out of overlaps an X2, which does an X3 the car less, fiddle with buttons less, and so on through 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8, so poke a stick into a stream less, and does this matter? Over three days of stay comfortable and at the right musing, I never quite square myself temperature more. Tick a couple of with the price, either, once optioned, boxes and fit the right towbar and but the car’s certainly no less it’ll even tell you how much weight impressive – and no more fatiguing – is on the towball and run a trailer even after hundreds of tough miles. tail-light check without you having I keep wondering which car to leave your seat. I’d rather be in as terrain changes And, yes, are there ever boxes underfoot. Sometimes a Wrangler to tick. Prices for five-door (three-door, with a Mopar lift kit, for Defenders start at £45,000 but, in rock crawling), sometimes a Ford the specification you see here, the Ranger Raptor (fast on sand), and if I 2.0-litre diesel comes in at around lived in Namibia, I suspect I’d have a £65,000 and this P400 petrol more Toyota. But whatever the terrain, the like £87,000. Bräutigam admits that Defender would never be out of my early-ordered cars are a “rich mix”. top two or three choices, and proper Although a commercial Defender road, where it’s extremely amenable, will start from around £35,000, it’s returns as just another surface, not also possible to spend £100,000 on a as a relief. Admittedly, there’s a price, heavily optioned five-door. but be in no doubt: this is one of the Which leaves the car where, most capable vehicles in the world. exactly? Doing some things and MATT PRIOR Namibian expedition necessitated the provision of extra kit, carried on the roof costing similar to other Land Rovers, @matty_prior 12 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 FIRST DRIVES VAN VERSIONS NEXT BUT PROBABLY NOT PICK-UPS So far, then, two lengths – 90 and but commercial vehicles nonetheless. 110 – of the Defender have been We think there will be a 130 version ❝ confirmed and commercial versions with some extra length behind the The new Defender is will be available on each. The rear rear wheels, but while previous seats will be removed and the side Defenders came as pick-up or as equal to whatever terrain windows blanked, and the carpets chassis cab, too, having no separate removed and replaced with a chassis doesn’t make that so hard-wearing floor. straightforward. Bear in mind, too, we put its way Payload for both is 900kg, with that pick-ups need a payload of more 90 prices set to start at £35,000 – than 1000kg to qualify for tax breaks ❞ making them fairly premium vans, and that might be hard to achieve.
LAND ROVER DEFENDER 110 S One of the world’s most capable vehicles, at a price AAAAB Price £49,880 (base, £66,000 as tested) Engine 4 cyls, 1999cc, turbocharged, diesel Power 237bhp at 4000rpm Torque 317lb ft at 1400rpm Gearbox 8-spd automatic Kerb weight 2248kg Top speed 117mph 0-62mph 9.1sec Economy 31.7mpg CO2, tax band 234g/km, 37% RIVALS Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, Namibian expedition necessitated the provision of extra kit, carried on the roof Perceived quality of our (higher-spec) car’s cabin trim was high, the design practical and the infotainment system good Toyota Land Cruiser
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 13 NEWS GOT A STORY? Email our news editor [email protected]
New Mustang to go four- wheel drive with hybrid V8 Electrified V8 will spearhead the 2022 arrival of the next-generation Ford Mustang
ord’s muscle car icon, and the next Mustang is in the Mustang’s history. stepped up to the role of Ford Ford is hoping to appease its the Mustang, will enter its thought to be one of those. The next-generation CEO and decided instead to loyal following of enthusiasts next generation in 2022 – The firm is hoping for the Mustang, codenamed S650, prioritise getting a Mustang- by retaining the V8 option, but F and Autocar understands new model to build on the will follow that template by inspired EV, the Mach-E, to this time it will be mated to a it will be brought into a new era success of the current, S550- making a return to mainland market as its long-awaited first fuel-saving hybrid system. with its first hybrid powertrain. generation car, which has been Europe in left-hand drive and mass-production electric car. A US patent filed by Ford An electrified variant of the on sale since 2015 and was the the UK in right-hand drive, Now that the Mach-E in 2017, when the original Mustang will join the electric first Mustang to be marketed Autocar understands. has been developed and its plan was in place, refers Mustang Mach-E, which is due and sold globally. This meant The new Mustang would launch is around the corner, to technical drawings of a to be delivered to customers the first-ever right-hand-drive have arrived far sooner were attention has turned back “twin-motor drive system for from this autumn, as Ford’s Mustang sales were finally it not for a reversal of product to the standard coupé and hybrid vehicle”. These show electrification roll-out gathers made possible. Ford has plans. In 2017, Ford announced convertible Mustang models, an eight-cylinder engine in a momentum. Ford plans to shifted 55,000 examples of it would bring a hybrid Mustang which are still expected vee formation sending power launch 18 mild-hybrid and the current car across Europe to market in 2020. But that to dominate sales of the to the rear wheels – a classic full-hybrid models by 2022, – more than ever before same year, Jim Hackett nameplate for some time yet. Mustang trait. But the filing
14 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 Current Mustang’s basic character will be retained
❝ It remains to be seen if Ford will also offer a non-hybrid V8 option and a turbo four-cylinder engine ❞
also details battery assistance the car’s rear wheels lose is used in the recently launched automatic versions of the four- a clear indication of its shape. in the form of two electric traction. The system could Ford Explorer Hybrid in the US. pot Ecoboost Mustang in the It’s likely that a convertible motors “mounted directly to offer torque vectoring, too. A likely factor in the decision UK due to their low efficiency. version will again appear, opposing sides of the engine”. In more eco-minded modes, to go hybrid is Ford’s intention It’s also unlikely that a despite some makers moving This means such a model that same set-up would allow to base the next Mustang on traditional V8 without some away from that market, would have four-wheel drive, the engine to be shut off in the same CD6 platform as the form of electrification would because the drop-top still with electric-only power situations with low power Explorer SUV and its sibling, continue in Europe, given the makes up a significant heading to the front axle demand and high battery the Lincoln Aviator. In 2018, need to meet stringent fleet proportion of Mustang sales. and, in performance driving, charge, boosting efficiency. the company announced it average emissions targets. Inside, expect the Mustang stepping into play when A similar powertrain concept was streamlining its platform As for the new Mustang’s to be more driver-focused line-up with five highly modular design, we’re expecting it than the tech-heavy and Mach-E is tipped to underpinnings, including one to stray not too far from the space-maximised Mach-E. give style pointers to cover all rear-wheel-drive/ formula so well loved by its The infotainment and to the new Mustang four-wheel-drive unibody- customer base. The muscle driver assistance systems construction cars (such as car’s shape has gently evolved on that car are expected the new Explorer and next over the decades and, given to be moderated for their Mustang, among others). the Mach-E takes inspiration introduction in the Mustang. However, it remains to be from today’s Mustang and will The four-seat layout seen whether Ford will offer be on sale alongside the new should continue largely as alongside the hybrid a cheaper, car, it should be recognisable, it is today, with engineering non-hybrid V8 option and a albeit with a more modernist developments ensuring the turbocharged four-cylinder approach to the detailing. hybrid system has a minimal engine, as are available today. However, we’ve yet to see any effect on interior space. Ford recently dropped disguised test mules to give us LAWRENCE ALLAN
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 15 New A3 saloon is longer, wider and taller than today’s The standout❝ engine is a 148bhp 1.5-litre TFSI petrol unit with 48V mild-hybrid technology ❞
Audi tees up sporty A3 saloon New four-door has a more coupé-like look and is ‘more precise’ than its predecessor
he new Audi A3 saloon creating an extra 2cm of head The car receives digital achieves a Cd value of 0.25, technology, first announced adopts the same room in the front and more daytime-running lights, made 0.04 better than previously. in the A3 Sportback. Available technologies as the elbow room, while boot space up of 15 LEDs, for the first time. A controllable cooling-air inlet only when paired with Audi’s T recently revealed remains unchanged, at 425 Certain trim derivatives have with two electrically actuated S tronic seven-speed A3 Sportback, with mild- litres. The car sits on the same an individual light signature to louvre modules behind the dual-clutch transmission, hybrid powertrains, refined updated MQB platform as the set them apart. grille regulates the flow of air it can recover 16bhp during suspension and a heavily new Volkswagen Golf. The Aerodynamics are better according to the situation. deceleration, supports the revised interior. platform is claimed to be lighter than the outgoing model’s The standout engine is a engine with up to 37lb ft of Stylistically, the second- yet also more rigid than the thanks to a higher rear end 148bhp 1.5-litre TFSI petrol torque at low speeds and generation A3 saloon is one it replaces. and large diffuser. The car unit with 48V mild-hybrid can coast with its engine only a subtle update of its off for up to 40 seconds. It predecessor but it is intended promises a 10% improvement to have a more coupé-like in fuel consumption and CO2 appearance. emissions as low as 107g/km. Although the saloon There are two other accounts for only a fifth of powertrain choices at launch: overall A3 sales in the UK, the the same 35 TFSI engine bodystyle is popular in other with 148bhp but mated to a markets, such as China, as six-speed manual transmission proven by the recent flurry and a 2.0-litre TDI diesel also of new introductions in the delivering 148bhp and paired segment, including the BMW with a seven-speed S tronic 2 Series Gran Coupé and dual-clutch automatic. Mercedes-Benz A-Class saloon. Later, a 114bhp 2.0-litre TDI The booted A3 is longer, Higher rear end helps to improve the new A3 saloon’s drag coefficient, which is now as low as 0.25Cd diesel will arrive alongside a wider and taller than before, 108bhp 1.0-litre 30 TFSI three- STAY OF EXECUTION FOR MULSANNE CAR FIRMS RE-OPEN EUROPEAN PLANTS The end for the Mulsanne has been delayed due A number of car makers – including Hyundai, Audi, to the pandemic. The 30 examples of the run-out Renault, Daimler and Suzuki – have slowly begun 6.75 Edition by Mulliner will be hand-built by to restart car or engine production across Europe. Bentley’s bespoke arm when production resumes Volkswagen has also re-opened its Zwickau plant, and are expected to be completed by late summer. where the ID 3 is being built, and a site in Slovakia.
16 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 NEWS Polestar opens door on future POLESTAR HAS RELEASED we will bring with those future from the wine industry is new images of its Precept cars. Precept showcases our employed for seat bolsters electric saloon concept, which future, not a fancy dream or and headrests. CEO Thomas Ingenlath has something out of a sci-fi movie.” The Precept also features called a showcase for the Polestar is keen to highlight advanced autonomous brand’s future. the use of sustainable material functions via a roof-mounted The concept was first in the Precept. The vegan lidar pod and marks the debut unveiled in February, just interior builds on that of the of a 15in infotainment screen before the cancelled Geneva Polestar 2 with “high levels that uses the latest Android OS motor show. Ingenlath has of recycled content”. Light, and Google Assistant features. stressed that this model has strong flax-based real relevance to the brand’s natural composites Infotainment touchscreen is joined by a digital instrument display forthcoming products, strongly developed by Bcomp hinting that there’s production reduce typical plastic intent for a Tesla Model S rival usage by 80%. inspired by the Precept within Recycled plastic the next few years. bottles are used for He said: “Precept shows you the headlining, the where we will be heading – our carpets use nylon design direction, our ambitions from reclaimed about sustainability and the fishing nets and great digital user experience recycled cork
Concept previews a possible Tesla Model S rival
A3 saloon will hit the UK in July with two petrols and one diesel cylinder petrol. The 30 TFSI controller that reacts to engine will be available as a 48V circular finger movements. mild hybrid in dual-clutch guise. There is a 10.25in digital Two plug-in hybrid variants will instrument display and a 10.1in go on sale further down the line. infotainment touchscreen is Audi claims the new saloon angled slightly towards the has been tuned to be sporty driver, while a new climate and “a touch more precise” control unit below it replaces than the first-generation rotary dials with buttons. Renault pulls back from China saloon. This is largely The infotainment system, attributed to a new, centralised the third-generation MMI NON-ELECTRIC RENAULT brand-related activities” withdrawal, the company dynamic handling system that Navigation Plus, promises passenger cars will no longer will be halted across China, claims “further development ensures optimal interaction computer power 10 times be sold in China after the although electric Renaults for Renault-brand passenger between all components. better than that of its brand withdraws from its joint and small commercial cars will be detailed later”. Alongside the standard set-up, predecessor. Features include venture with the Dongfeng vehicles will continue to be The decision was there is a sport suspension up to six user profiles, a Motor Group. sold through other joint- reportedly taken before the option and a suspension with wi-fi hotspot, online traffic A press release has venture operations. coronavirus took hold, but adaptive dampers, which information and improved confirmed that all “Renault Despite the market it’s likely that the shutdown promises a breadth between natural voice control. For and market stagnation highly comfortable roll motion example, ask “Where’s the accelerated plans for Renault and agile handling. nearest Italian restaurant?” to abandon the loss-making The most dramatic and the sat-nav system will joint venture. Dongfeng difference for Audi aficionados show those nearby. As well as Renault Automotive will be the A3 saloon’s interior. Apple CarPlay and Android Company (DRAC) built just As first seen in the Sportback, Auto, Amazon’s Alexa voice 18,607 cars in 2019, despite Audi has decreased the number assistant will become available having the capacity to make of physical controls and ditched soon after launch. 110,000 a year. its familiar rotary controller in First deliveries are expected The decision is also said to the centre console. For those in July, but pricing has yet to “more efficiently leverage” models with a dual-clutch ’box, be announced. In Germany, the Renault’s relationship with there is a new shifter sitting in new model starts from €27,700 Nissan. Donfeng will arrange a black gloss surround. Also in (approximately £24,200) for Kadjar’s days in China are up as Renault ends Dongfeng tie-up positions within the wider the minimalist centre console the three-cylinder 30 TFSI. group for joint-venture staff. is a round, sensory volume RACHEL BURGESS CADILLAC SALOONS TURN HARDCORE ZAGATO ASTONS NOW TO BE BUILT IN UK Cadillac will take on the super-saloon elite with Zagato’s ultra-exclusive versions of the Aston faster and more track-focused Blackwing versions Martin V12 Vantage will now be built in the UK, of the CT4-V and CT5-V hot saloons. The CT5-V by R-Reforged in Warwick. Just 38 examples of Blackwing is believed to put out 650bhp from a the hand-built coupé and speedster Vantage V12 supercharged V8. Neither car will be sold in the UK. Zagato Heritage Twins will be made.
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 17 Hybrid V6 will first be used in 2022 Valhalla, then in 2023 Vanquish Aston sets out its power plans All-new hybridised V6 will replace AMG V8; Ford V12 production will be brought to UK
ston Martin’s hybridised to existing transmissions. the hybrid system and the 1800 V12-powered cars last but we’re selling to a worldwide V6 (News, 25 March) Just as important, it will electric motor to fill in on year, and repatriating the market where there’s a variety will rapidly be deployed make at least as much power torque, so you can compensate powerplant to the UK shows a of views on future technology A across most of the as the AMG engine in these for the cylinder size with continued commitment to it. and how it will be deployed.” marque’s range once it has applications.“As you move on, the electrical assistance. “You can see in the longer We also asked Palmer about made its debut in the Valhalla you normally expect a power “As long as it feels like a V8 term that it won’t last,” Palmer Aston Martin’s withdrawal supercar, Autocar has learned. increase, not a decrease,” and sounds majestic, I think it’s admitted, “but certainly from the planned hypercar The all-new powerplant, due Palmer said. “You’re supposed a perfectly sensible way to go over the next few years, we class in the World Endurance to enter production in 2022, to do that even with a smaller and a lot more sensible than can continue to produce V12 Championship after previously will replace the Mercedes-AMG power unit, so there’s no way a [four-cylinder] would be.” engines, and we can make indicating that it would join. 4.0-litre V8 that’s used in the our customers are going to The V6 will be made in the them more CO2-friendly.” “They changed the rules, Vantage, the lower reaches of expect to step backwards.” UK by an as-yet-unspecified While the UK government’s nothing more, nothing less,” the DB11 range and the soon- Aston Martin confirmed the supplier. Autocar has been told planned ban on the sale of all he explained. “They allowed in to-be-launched DBX SUV. new engine would be its most that it definitely won’t involve new petrol and diesel-fuelled IMSA vehicles. It was nothing “Mercedes have made no powerful yet when used in the Ford’s soon-to-close engine cars – including hybrids – by to do with the state of the secret of where their engine Valhalla but that it would also plant in Bridgend, despite its 2035 will create big challenges, company, nothing to do with technology is moving to, and be detuned and reconfigured proximity to the new Aston Palmer echoed McLaren boss internal politics, nothing to do obviously we don’t foresee to suit a variety of needs. Martin factory in St Athan. Mike Flewitt by confirming his with anything other than that four-cylinder engines in our The British company has a We have also learned from company won’t stop developing [Le Mans organiser] the ACO Astons,” CEO Andy Palmer long history of making straight insiders that Aston Martin is part-combustion cars for other destroyed the business case. told Autocar. “So we’ve got to sixes but has never done a V6 planning to move production markets if demand is still there. “We were led to believe make our own journey.” before. However, Palmer insists of its twin-turbocharged “The key point is that we we were going to be racing With integrated electrical it will be possible to make sure 5.2-litre V12 engine to the UK make cars for the world, and hypercar against hypercar, assistance, the Aston Martin it delivers a brand-appropriate (it’s currently made at a Ford the world hasn’t said there but we didn’t anticipate there V6 should effectively be a experience. “The key is sound,” factory in Cologne, Germany), isn’t a future for hybrids or would be a lower-cost way modular replacement for he said. “Tuning the pipes to with the plan being to add plug-in hybrids,” said Palmer. of racing a year later. The the AMG V8, with Palmer make it sound like an Aston. an electrical element. “If we were only selling to whole case just fell to pieces.” confirming that it can be mated “Obviously we can use Aston Martin sold nearly the UK it would be different, MIKE DUFF
HOTTEST A3 SALOON SPY SHOT TESTS WITH 394BHP AUDI RS3 Audi’s next-generation RS3 has been snapped testing in saloon form. The Mercedes- AMG CLA 45 S rival will take its 394bhp turbocharged 2.5-litre five-cylinder petrol engine from the new RS Q3 SUV. It’s expected to enter Aston is committed to extending the life of its strong-selling V12 production in early 2021.
18 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 MHEV sixes replace diesel V8 at Land Rover NEWS
LAND ROVER WILL introduce on the HSE, HSE Dynamic 345bhp (badged D350) will be CO2. These figures are notably new mild-hybrid diesel engines and Autobiography Dynamic available on higher-end trim improved over the V8 diesel. to the Range Rover and Range versions of the Range Rover levels, such as HST. This will The same pair of engines will CONFIDENTIAL Rover Sport in the coming Sport. The electrical system effectively replace the 334bhp be added to the Range Rover, months, effectively spelling will give a moderate efficiency 4.4-litre diesel V8, which is with the D350’s 0-62mph time the end for the V8 diesel boost and aid smooth stop- built by Ford in Mexico and increasing to 7.1sec and its CO2 engine, Autocar has learned. start driving, thanks to an based on a 10-year-old design. emissions rising to 225g/km. After introducing its first integrated starter-generator. Oddly, information about Again, the D350 will only be mild-hybrid systems in four- A more potent version of the new unit has already been available on pricier trims. cylinder engines for the new the same engine putting out published by automotive data We can also expect either LAND ROVER SAYS a pick- Discovery Sport and Range suppliers, despite Land Rover one or both of these engines up version of the Defender is Rover Evoque last year, Land having not yet announced it. to emerge at Land Rover’s “technically possible” on its Rover will add the technology The data reveals the D350 sister brand, Jaguar, with the D7x platform but that such a to two new six-cylinder diesel unit puts out 516lb ft of torque, upcoming facelifts of the XF model isn’t on its radar. The units. The firm hasn’t officially giving the Range Rover Sport and F-Pace. These cars were commercial pick-up truck confirmed details, however. a 0-62mph time of 6.5sec and expected to be unveiled by now market is very different to It’s understood that a a top speed of 140mph. It also but have possibly been pushed where the latest Defender 296bhp 3.0-litre MHEV unit, officially records 35.3mpg back due to the pandemic. is pitched and, unless such badged D300, will be offered XF is set to go mild-hybrid too while emitting 210g/km of LAWRENCE ALLAN a vehicle were produced in much larger quantities and at lower prices than Land Rover plans, it could prove a distraction from the new Defender’s market.
KIA WILL REDUCE sales of its Stinger fastback to 500 this year, down by half from 2019. Due to its 3.3-litre petrol V6 (now the sole engine offered), this is necessary to negate the EU’s strict new emissions rules. Kia UK boss Paul Philpott said: “The Stinger will be an absolute halo model for us.”
New engines are similarly powerful yet more efficient
VOLVO’S OFFER TO GIVE away a year’s worth of free electricity to drivers of its Morgan will carefully modernise its styling plug-in hybrids is designed to show people how to get MORGAN IS OPEN to Morgan will follow these that distance [with the the process of designing a the best out of electrified reinventing its design strict guidelines as it creates present],” Wells affirmed. car like the recently revealed cars, according to Olivier language, according to its newer-looking cars, which “We’re trying to do so in a all-new Plus Four starts by Loedel, the firm’s business styling boss. The British Autocar understands is a way that we don’t generate carefully studying the era to manager of electrification. marque’s roadsters have process already under way. a pastiche but maintain that which it’s a tribute. Simply “We’re trying to encourage always featured a 1940s look, “Instead of moving so authenticity and function.” copying and pasting an customers to drive more on but Jonathan Wells said that drastically from the 1940s Although he stopped existing design wouldn’t cut it. electric power,” Loedel said. needn’t be the case forever. and the 1950s to the 2020s short of revealing precisely “We try to imagine what “We can demonstrate they “We have always believed and the 2030s, we’re sort of what the company has in the these designers were can do a daily commute on that Morgan’s design library migrating into the 1960s and pipeline or when it will expand inspired by,” Wells said. “For pure electric, for example.” is incredibly flexible and in the 1970s and maintaining its range, Wells told us that example, the understanding no way constrained by the of aerodynamics in the OPEL AND VAUXHALL are nostalgic influences we deploy Plus Four still 1950s was very different now consistently profitable in our cars,” he told Autocar. has its aesthetic than the understanding of after three years of PSA He cited the Aero range and roots in the ’40s aerodynamics today and, as ownership, following “20 the stillborn electric EV3 as a result, that was influencing years of burning ¤1 billion a examples. Both stretched the the shape of those cars. year” under GM, according boundaries of Morgan’s visual “We also try to understand to PSA Europe boss Maxime identity but didn’t look amiss the manufacturing techniques Picat. The 6.5% margins in its line-up because they still at the time and the cultural now enjoyed by Opel beat kept a high degree of purity. influences, which could be those of most mainstream “Every part of a Morgan anything from interior design brands and some premium should communicate its to fashion, and try to replicate ones, Picat added, “showing function and be there for that. We find it really exciting.” what happens when you a reason,” Wells said. RONAN GLON give people autonomy and empower them”. MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 19 Aston not out of the woods yet Despite a big cash injection from Lawrence Stroll, Aston Martin faces a tough future
t’s an old political cliché According to its accounts, the DBX crossover, the line-up to just £8.43 on 24 May before stuttering back up to £6.30 on that a week is a long time the number of ‘wholesale’ cars included two new mid-engined firming up to over £10 by July. 6 December. in politics. On the stock sold for 2018 was 6441, up from supercars – the Vanquish and But a trading update and That was the recent peak for markets, however, just a 5098 in 2017. The company Valhalla – as well as an electric profit warning from the firm the company, and one to which few hours can turn a company’s sold 1785 V12-engined cars SUV and electric saloon from on 23 July put an end to any it is unlikely to return for quite prospects upside down – as and 4471 V8s. Sales in the Lagonda in 2021 and 2022. hopes of a recovery. Aston some time. At the beginning Aston Martin has just proven. US jumped 38% and Aston’s On top of that ambitious revealed it had experienced of this year, Aston released Ironically, as recently as revenue hit £1.1 billion, up 25%. schedule, in addition to 155 a 25% drop in sales between its preliminary figure for the 23 January, it was reported Excluding the ‘specials’ built examples of the battery- April and June last year, with whole of 2019. Sales in the UK that analysts at Citigroup by the company, the average powered Rapide E, Aston was falls of 22% in the UK and 28% fell from 1798 to 1429 and in rated Aston as a ‘high-risk, selling price for its cars was promising the DB4 GT Zagato across Europe and the Middle Europe from 1489 to 1074. high-return’ bet based on the £141,000. That’s high, but continuation model, the DB5 East. Shares plummeted by Revenue went down 9%. potential of the DBX, targeting perhaps not high enough Goldfinger continuation 26% in a single day. The rumour in the analyst a future share price of £6. considering Aston’s incoming and two versions of the On 31 July, Aston announced world – one later confirmed by Since Aston Martin Lagonda investment plans. Valkyrie hypercar. that it had lost £78m in the CEO Andy Palmer – was that plc was floated on the stock One surprise hiding in the Clearly, this programme – as first half of 2019, in contrast Vantage sales had failed to hit market in October 2018, its accounts was that the cost of well as the costs of setting up to a £21m profit in the same the mark, which might explain launch share price of £19 has placing the company on the the St Athan factory for DBX period in 2018. By 5 August, the recent redesign. Even a been in decline, dropping to stock market was £136 million, production – was ambitious the share price had cratered rise in sales in the US couldn’t £11.56 on 14 December 2018. helping to push annual profits in the extreme, especially for to just £4.54, then £3.99 prevent Aston’s finances taking It had taken less than two down to just £68m. such a small company. by 31 October. However, a beating. That ambitious months for the shares to lose On future product launches, The share price continued some confidence returned new model programme was around 40% of their value, the investor presentation was its overall descent during the to investors towards the end biting, with the company’s although many analysts felt the especially bullish. As well as first half of last year, dropping of the year, with the price debt leaping from £560m to initial launch price of the shares £876m. Serious alarm bells was over-enthusiastic. ❝ rang and the company’s cash By 18 January last year, Stroll’s investment pushed shares position became incredibly things had picked up a little precarious, making the planned before continuing their roll-out of crucial models such downward journey. This was up to £4.98 on the day but it has as the DBX difficult. perhaps a little surprising, been downhill all the way since then Then came a rescue, of sorts, because Aston was reporting Stroll is now Aston chairman on 31 January, when billionaire a generally successful 2018. ❞ Lawrence Stroll bought a
HOW ASTON MARTIN’S SHARE PRICE HAS PLUMMETED
£20 Vantage did not sell as 3 Oct 2018 Stock market launch well as expected, hence a recent redesign Share price Share
9 Nov 2018 Post-float peak of £16.00
£15 Shares drop to £14.11 26 Oct 2018
£9.90 peak ahead of profit warning £10 28 Feb 2019 Aston 19 Jul 2019 reveals £68m loss for 2018
24 May 2019 £8.43 low point 31 Jan 2020 £4.98 peak after Stroll investment £5
24 Jan 2020 £4.21. Price dips 15 Aug 2019 £4.45 dip after before Stroll investment accounts released for Jan-June 2018 10 Mar 2020 £1.97. First time below the £2 mark 16 Mar 2020 Hits all-time low of £1.20 0 2019 2020 Timeline
20 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 NEWS UNDER ALL THE GEARS, LOTS OF IDEAS: THE THE SKIN JESSE CROSSE FUTURE OF TRANSMISSION TECH
Stroll’s investment will help to put DBX into showrooms this year
16.7% stake in the company for order to tide Aston Martin over. £182m, which was to be added Stroll’s new offer was, to a £318m rights issue to give perhaps, based on the market the company a £500m boost, price of £4.02 recorded on 30 get the DBX in showrooms January, and his investment and get the development pushed the shares up to £4.98. programme for the new mid- From there, though, it has been engined cars well under way. downhill all the way, as the Stroll’s plan, which made world reacted to the spread him chairman, confirmed of Covid-19. the Valkyrie for this year, After dipping as low as £1.20 cancelled the Rapide E and during one day of trading, Pure- pushed the relaunch of Aston’s share price has electric and Lagonda back to 2025. ricocheted around under the electrified power And then the coronavirus £2 mark as day-traders took units are steadily struck. Stroll took advantage advantage of mini bounces. A GOOD ENGINE can make a car but a simple, with, in most taking over, but the of a well-placed clause in the But the value of Stroll’s bad gearbox can ruin it. Those almost cases, a single-speed gearbox is here original contract to renegotiate holding has already been unfathomable concoctions of gears, reduction gear to step to stay. his offer, valuing the shares at halved. And with global car bearings, shaft seals and complex down the speed of the electric £2.25 rather than the original sales almost halting during mechanisms almost always make the motor from around 12,000rpm to a more £4 and taking a 25% stake. He March and revenue drying up, difference between a great drive and a modest road wheel speed. Smaller, high- also added an additional £25m Aston’s situation now, once mediocre one. speed electric motors (over 20,000rpm), to the original plan to give again, looks critical. The gearbox has been underestimated, which produce less torque but save weight £55.5m in working capital in HILTON HOLLOWAY then, playing second fiddle to the engine; and space, are paired with a two-speed always the bridesmaid, never the bride. automatic gearbox. But even simple single- But electrification has given automatic speed ’boxes have more to them than meets gearbox designers a golden opportunity the eye. Just to confuse things, Volkswagen’s to have a greater influence on the way a car ID 3 uses a two-stage single-speed gearbox. performs by integrating a hybrid electric The motor revs need to be reduced by motor-generator inside the gearbox casing times 10 at the wheels, and to do that with instead of attached to the engine. just two gears would mean the diameter Transmission giant ZF Friedrichshafen of one of them would be too big to fit in the has been steadily building a portfolio of space available. Instead, the gearbox has hybridised automatic transmissions for two pairs of gears, the first reducing the years, giving car makers a kind of modular revs from the motor by one stage and the toolkit of gearboxes to choose from. They second pair finishing the job. This is about work in the same way as their conventional as complicated as it gets for a single-speed counterparts, except for the addition of an reduction gearbox, and although they Lagonda’s relaunch as a luxury EV marque is delayed until 2025 electric motor in place of a torque converter. may be complex electronically, it’s a neat The external package is pretty much illustration of how mechanically simple the same too, so they’re an easy fit. There’s pure-electric drive systems are – and no variable-transmission effect and the how some of the most familiar and basic SHARE PRICE FALLS, 18.2.20-18.3.20 drivability feels the same as a conventional components will always have a role to play. car, but the powertrain can harvest energy through regenerative braking or boost torque to the driveline from the electric LIFE IN THE OLD DOG motor-generator like any other hybrid. ZF’s hybridised transmission range Sequential motorsport gearboxes like starts with a 20bhp 48V mild hybrid. This is this older Ricardo design are ‘dog’ ’boxes Renault down 53% Nissan down 24% followed by 54bhp and 121bhp full-hybrid, without synchromesh, built for lightning- high-voltage versions and, at the top of the fast clutchless shifting. Gears are selected pile, a 134bhp full-hybrid version producing either via an electronic system and 295lb ft that can be used in both rear-wheel- paddles or directly with a drive and four-wheel-drive configurations. stick. Drivers can ‘flat shift’ The full-hybrid versions can decouple if the gearbox is linked FCA down 50% Ford down 46% themselves from engines for driving in to the engine ECU, which electric-only mode and incorporate electric kills torque for pumps to keep the internal hydraulic a split second mechanisms working when the engine is to unload the shut down for coasting or stop-start. More gears so that down-to-earth aspects of the gearboxes, ratios can be Volkswagen Group down 49% Toyota down 16% such as torsional vibration dampers, can swapped in be tailored to suit an individual engine. milliseconds. Gearboxes for pure EVs are much more MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 21 ID Buzz to be a new-age Touran Volkswagen predicts its upcoming retro-look EV will revive flagging interest in MPVs
VW’S TWO BIG CHALLENGES
Catching up with Tesla on software and making people want to buy EVs will be Volkswagen’s two biggest challenges over the next five years. “We must move this company to [be] a more software-driven one,” said ID Buzz will arrive in R&D boss Frank Welsch. 2022 and is tipped to “Having good cars isn’t have a 372-mile range enough. Online, we have to achieve upgradability, cloud management, data he electric ID Buzz with 75,427 last year. generation with the ID family, design now. This is why the management and much ‘Microbus’, due in 2022, Name-checking the model including the ID Buzz, which we ID Buzz is quite emotional more. Competitors such will indirectly replace the as one of his two favourite to are developing now. These are in design.” as Tesla are better at that, T Touran and reinvigorate develop alongside the Golf GTI, the real successors of Touran. The ID Buzz, often described as they started earlier. the MPV segment through Welsch said: “Some people “The Buzz has a lot of as a spiritual successor to We’ll be on a par within ‘emotional’ design, according would say the Touran is a boring space. It’s great-looking. the Microbus of 1950, sits on a couple of years.” to Volkswagen’s board member car, but it has great efficiency, The production version is Volkswagen’s electric-only He also said EVs must for R&D, Frank Welsch. great value for money [and is] even better than the concept. MEB architecture and is be desired for being more Although the Mk7 Golf- great for family.” It’s the best of the Touran.” expected to have a 372-mile suited to an owner’s needs, based Touran is still on sale, He added: “Now we have Describing the ID Buzz as a range. Rear-wheel-drive and not just for green reasons. the larger Sharan will be axed other concepts [in place of new-generation MPV, Welsch four-wheel-drive versions will “I hope I can make later this year and production MPVs], such as the Tiguan said: “MPVs are not over, be offered, delivering 268bhp people understand that of its Seat Alhambra sibling has Allspace seven-seat SUV. And although demand is going down and 369bhp respectively. EVs are the future,” he just ceased (p6). It’s expected we have prepared for the next a little bit. They need better RACHEL BURGESS said. “Buying them to help that the Touran won’t survive the environment can’t be beyond the next couple of Ageing Sharan will be axed European sales of the Touran the reason. They have to years as Volkswagen focuses at the end of this year hit their peak back in 2004 buy them because they’re on SUV demand and its huge better for their needs. If investment in electric vehicles. you compare the ID 3 with MPV ownership peaked the Golf, for customers in in the noughties but has urban areas the ID 3 is a since waned considerably as better concept: cheaper consumers have favoured SUV total cost of ownership, styling. In the Touran’s peak more room, quieter and year in Europe, 2004, 191,414 better acceleration.” examples were sold, compared Volkswagen has enough SUVs now, says R&D chief THERE’S LITTLE ROOM left in We must have a portfolio that include the Arteon, Touran Volkswagen’s line-up for more is efficient as a volume player. and Passat, but Welsch didn’t Electric ID 4 SUV SUVs, according to the firm’s If we have too many models detail which models will go. will be joined by R&D boss, Frank Welsch. and sell 30,000 or 40,000 With the launch of new a coupé version VW has 14 SUVs in its range units a year, we can’t make models, in particular in its ID globally, up from two just money. We will focus on the family, and the axing of others, a few years ago. Although cars that can be successful.” Welsch predicted the number Welsch wouldn’t go so far as SUVs confirmed for launch of cars offered will be similar. to confirm there would be no are in the electric ID family “I don’t think we’ll have more, he said the brand has and include standard and more cars than we have today. ample numbers for its need: coupé variants of the ID 4. For SUVs, we are represented “I don’t think [the growth in Welsch added that VW in every segment,” he said. SUVs] is over, but we have would cull models on its enough. We do not need 10 MQB platform “step by step”. more. We have to take care. Models on that architecture
22 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 NEWS Cheaper sports EV UNDER HOW BRITAIN MADE THE WORLD’S THE SKIN to follow Apex AP-O JESSE CROSSE MOST POWER-DENSE EV MOTOR APEX, THE FIRM behind the differently sized models. recently revealed £150,000 The AP-0 promises a WLTP electric AP-0, will create a range of 320 miles and the range of models over the next ability to charge up to 80% decade, going beyond sports of battery capacity in less cars and adding more practical than 15 minutes, so expect four-seaters to its line-up. any future electric models to While the firm is run by Hong at least match these figures. Kong-based brothers Jason Yeung said: “For now, and Gary Leung, its design, our focus is the AP-0. But engineering and manufacturing after that, we’re aiming to base is in the UK. The AP-0 will have a factory in China be produced at a not-yet-built where we would build a site in Woking, Surrey, that will smaller sports EV. You can’t be capable of producing 500 find a reasonably priced vehicles annually from 2022. sports EV at the moment.” Following that, Jason Yeung His brother Gary Yeung said Apex plans to open a plant added: “We’re not trying to in China, which is likely to build have a product similar to Tesla its next model: a smaller, more or other car makers. We’re affordable electric sports car. trying to make something Yeung said this model different. At the AP-0’s price will cost less than £100,000 level, we have a good-handling 3D-printing allows an intricate cooling Equipmake and that, although built in car but also one that’s safe channel to be created inside the motor and Hieta have China, it will be designed and on road and eco-friendly.” used 3D-printing to engineered in the UK, using the Alongside a growing sports IT’S NO SECRET that less is more when it the expensive magnetic create the coolest same EV platform as the AP-0. car range, the Yeung brothers comes to engineering cars, especially where material is needed and EV motor on The carbonfibre tub around revealed that another arm of weight is concerned. But this concept also efficiency is increased. the planet. which the AP-0 is built uses the business will work on four- plays an important part in getting rid of The new additive modular spaceframes that seat models, with the aim of lingering unwanted heat in powerplants. manufacturing techniques have allow it to accommodate the first arriving before 2030. The new Ampere motor-generator from raised Equipmake’s spoke motor design to British firm Equipmake is a small and light the next level, hence the impressive power- AP-0 will be built package that makes very high power. Its low to-weight ratio of 295bhp at 30,000rpm from in Surrey, cheaper weight, low-inertia components, less mass just 10kg. Equipmake claims this makes it Apex cars in China in which unwanted heat can be stored and the most power-dense motor in the world. superior liquid cooling all contribute to a The power of motors is usually quoted in power-to-weight ratio more than four times two ways. Continuous is what it can produce greater than that of existing EV motor tech. all day without overheating, while peak is The Ampere is made using additive the most that it can manage for short bursts. manufacturing, which is the industrial term Because its internal cooling is so effective, for 3D-printing using metal powder rather the Ampere can run closer to its limits for than, say, a plastic you might use in a home much longer than conventional motors. 3D-printer. Making parts by adding only Transferring technology from the track the material needed rather than starting to the road is a much-vaunted, if sometimes with a casting or chunk of metal and then tenuous, concept used by manufacturers to machining bits off it has unique advantages. justify the huge expenditure. Equipmake Typical EV motors are classified as was the supplier of the high-speed flywheel low-speed and deliver high torque from concept used by Williams in Formula 1, so Audi eyes Green Hell standstill. Small high-speed motors rely in this case, the lessons learned from race on their high revs to deliver their power, engineering do actually have a good chance but getting the heat out of small, powerful of finding their way into mainstream cars. with celebratory R8 packages quickly enough can be a problem. The use of additive manufacturing AUDI IS PLANNING a This suggests a track-focused techniques developed by specialist Hieta YOUR CAR MAY BE PRINTED hardcore version of the R8 version of the all-wheel-drive made it possible to design smaller, thin- dubbed the Green Hell. It supercar is being developed walled heat exchangers for use inside the Mainstream car manufacturers are also now last month filed a trademark as a run-out special, quite Ampere with a greater surface area through using additive manufacturing. Pretty much claim for the name, which possibly with the production which to conduct heat to the liquid coolant. every metal that can be welded, including references the Nürburgring. car lap record in mind. Elements of the motor usually made from tool steel, aluminium and titanium, can be multiple parts conjoined are formed in one 3D-printed. Below is a conventional Audi Green Hell could far lighter piece, and these weight savings engine mount on the left compared with a outgun 602bhp reduce inertia and allow much higher revs. 3D-printed alternative on the right. R8 Performance The Ampere is an internal permanent magnet spoke motor, which means that its magnets are embedded into the rotor like the spokes of a wheel. The usual approach is to laminate magnets to the rotor and use a retaining sleeve to stop them flying off, but all of that adds weight. Spoke design maximises the effect of the magnetic flux and enables the coolant to get closer to the magnets than is possible in conventional motors. Cooler magnets are more powerful than hot magnets, so less of MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 23 Mercedes assault on batteries Firm is researching multiple technologies to improve range and sustainability of EVs
adical environmentally through composting. Early the use of controversial Hintennach estimates that said this technology “opens a friendly organic batteries testing shows they also offer materials such as cobalt range could still be boosted by lot of doors and windows”, he are a “very promising both a high energy density and and lithium. All of the firm’s up to 25% – while evaluating a cautioned that “it’s not a magic R technology” being quick-charging capability. current electric vehicles number of future technologies solution”. He added: “Solid evaluated by Mercedes-Benz Andreas Hintennach, senior use lithium ion batteries. that it aims to introduce within state adds lots of positive for future use in road cars. manager of battery research Mercedes is working the next five-15 years. aspects. It’s not a miracle but This idea was previewed on at Mercedes, said: “It’s a to improve the efficiency That includes solid-state would be a huge step forward.” the future-gazing Mercedes very promising technology. of lithium ion batteries – batteries, but while Hintennach Hintennach said that a major Vision AVTR concept car that I’ve already seen it working current problem with solid- was unveiled earlier this year. in laboratories, where the state batteries is long charging Although that was designed results look really good, but times, making them unsuitable as a preview of what the we don’t see that it’s close for road cars. Mercedes is Mercedes S-Class could look to being used in production aiming to introduce them into like in the 22nd century, the technology for now. It’s production in an eCitaro bus in battery technology under its around 15-20 years away.” the second half of this decade. skin is far closer to reality. Mercedes has set itself Other technologies under Organic batteries are made a goal of becoming entirely investigation include lithium- from graphene-based organic- carbon-neutral by 2039. To metal anodes, lithium-sulphur cell chemistry with a water- this end, it’s researching a batteries and lithium-oxygen based electrolyte. That means number of technologies to batteries. Hintennach said they don’t use any rare or toxic reduce the environmental that all offer different benefits materials or metals, making impact of battery production – and drawbacks in terms of them entirely recyclable particularly by cutting down Mercedes aims to introduce solid-state batteries in its electric bus efficiency, density and weight. Synthetic fuel not seen as viable option by Mercedes
THE USE OF synthetic fuels synthetic fuels as a credible and customer behaviour, but “If there were more clean is looking at a CO2-neutral in cars isn’t viable in the mid- alternative to petrol and diesel this will be our main road.” energies available, then the synthetic fuel to power its V8. term, according to Mercedes as well as newer and cleaner Explaining his reservations first customers would probably Audi got as far as producing research and development alternatives, Schäfer said concerning synthetic fuels, be in the aviation industry. its own synthetic petrol and boss Markus Schäfer, who said Mercedes won’t go that way. Schäfer said: “If you have an Far, far later – I don’t see diesel for testing in 2018, the firm is focusing investment “We have made a clear abundance of energy, the this in the next 10 years – while Volkswagen’s technical on electrifying its cars. decision that our way will be best use is to put it directly will come the car industry.” chief recently said that such While some manufacturers electric first,” he said. “When into a battery. To transform Mazda’s research on the fuels will extend the life of – such as Bentley, Mazda, we develop new platforms, green energy into an e-fuel topic is around recyclable the combustion engine, McLaren and Volkswagen – we think electric first. We is a process where you lose liquid fuels made from despite the VW Group’s huge are seriously researching have to watch regulations a lot of efficiency. microalgae, while McLaren investment in electrification.
24 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 NEWS Vision AVTR concept introduced idea of A B AT T E R Y organic batteries O F F U T U R E Nissan Ariya is close to reality TECHNOLOGY THE NISSAN ARIYA concept on the cutting edge of and realistic for now.” Lithium-metal and silicon previews the long-mooted introducing new segments. We discussed some What is it? ‘Leaf SUV’, which is expected In this case, we wanted to highlights of the Ariya Replaces some carbon to arrive by 2022. Revealed at have an electric crossover with Arroba below. elements in the battery the Tokyo motor show late last which is beautiful, functional RACHEL BURGESS with silicon, helping lower year, the Ariya was described CO2 and costs. Also non- by chief designer Giovanny toxic, but safety is still Arroba as a “realistic vision Nissan has followed its being worked on. Could of our future”. He added: “It’s rivals by spelling its brand boost range by 20-30%. not a blue-sky concept car, so name across the tailgate How far off? everything there is tangible rather than using its logo. Five years. to bring to the market in the The word is integrated into hopefully near future.” the horizontal light blade, Solid state Explaining that Nissan which Arroba described What is it? had pioneered the crossover as “very simple yet very Uses solid electrodes in segment, first with the Qashqai iconic”. Expect to see it on a place of the liquid ones and then with the Juke, Arroba Nissan production car soon. in lithium ion batteries. said: “We’ve always been Safe and versatile but has low energy density and is slow to charge. Could The Ariya’s roomy interior is boost range by 35-40%. thanks to Nissan’s new EVP How far off? platform; for example, it has Five years. allowed the air-con unit to be moved from in the centre Lithium-sulphur console to under the bonnet. What is it? It’s a dramatic step up from A low-cost industrial the Leaf, but Arroba said waste product that is none of it is unattainable for pure, easy to recycle production. While there’s a and more abundant glass panel that leads from than cobalt, but energy When the digital instruments to the density and durability Nissan launched touchscreen, switches and He noted that different are challenges. Could the Leaf in 2010, it used haptic touch-sensitive icons battery types would likely be boost range by 40-50%. blue accents to highlight the remain.“Everything we have used in different vehicles, with How far off? car’s eco credentials. In the Ariya, done is for approachability,” lithium-sulphur, which is lighter 10 years. this has been replaced with copper. said Arroba. than lithium ion, potentially Arroba explained: “This moves into allowing use of smaller packs. Lithium-oxygen the future of how we represent EVs. Researchers elsewhere in the What is it? Copper is a conductor of electricity. industry have claimed lithium- Uses air to react with In the past, we’ve used blue to sulphur could be one of the lithium, working in similar represent EVs, but copper closest to commercialisation. fashion to fuel cells. Has showcases the premium When asked if there’s a risk in strong energy density, EV design here.” pursuing multiple technologies but lifetime and durability simultaneously, Hintennach are issues. Could boost said: “It is challenging, but you range by 50%. need novel ideas. We need to be How far off? very focused on the future. 15 years. “You do risk inefficiency by looking at multiple options, and not all will make it to market, but if you didn’t take risks in R&D by backing multiple horses, then you could end up losing. We’re also keeping the pipeline open for the future.” JAMES ATTWOOD
The Ariya represents a new Arroba admits that the One might expect to see design direction for Nissan 21in wheels are there for rear-view cameras in place overall. Arroba explained: design purposes so are of side mirrors here, as is “The front is a vision of our unlikely to make production. becoming common on the brand identity electrified. “We wanted to have a latest EVs, such as the Audi We have super-thin LED strong proportion and E-tron and Honda E. However, projector headlamps and stance,” he said. However, Arroba remains unconvinced. there’s no traditional grille; the aerodynamic design “We wanted to showcase a instead, we have a shield that could well make it to the final tangible reality that’s coming packages radar and cameras. model. The five-spoke wheels upon us quickly,” he said. We want to represent electric have milled-and-machined “We didn’t want to showcase as beautiful. We don’t want lightweight alloys beneath technology which isn’t fully Mercedes’ €10bn to, through certain shapes or and aerodynamic blades regulated in all regions. I’ve electrification is form, say ‘hey look!’. It’s not shielding the wheels and experienced cars with camera now in full swing meant to walk into a room bolts to allow air to pass by mirrors and the usability isn’t blaring to be different.” without too much disruption. as seamless as with a mirror.”
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 25 Big screens, such as in Tesla’s cars, are regarded as safer
Are touchscreens a good thing? Safety concerns about in-car touchscreens are giving rise to new developments
t’s hard to find a new car safety, according to Matthew to touchscreens. Highways “Safety comes in many infotainment system. “We with a dashboard that Avery, director of research at England boss Jim O’Sullivan forms,” said Google’s Harris spent a lot of time working isn’t dominated by a large leading UK automotive safety has said: “We don’t like them Ramis, who works on the new to ensure the system is built infotainment touchscreen body Thatcham Research. from a safety perspective.” Android-based touchscreen for use while driving, so it – increasingly at the expense “Large infotainment But touchscreens in cars and operating system, a version of doesn’t distract,” said Ramis. of physical buttons and dials. screens are not necessarily smartphones aren’t directly which will be used in all future To ensure that, the new Tesla may still be the most an issue, because they allow comparable, of course. When Volvo and Polestar models. Volvo Android system – which extreme proponent, but the for bigger icons and less considering further limitations “Today, people pull out their will be seen first on the trend is reflected across the crowded displays,” he said. on mobile phone usage while phones and use them while forthcoming XC40 Recharge whole industry. “Small screens with fiddly driving, the Transport Select driving anyway, so when we P8 EV – is a fixed template The growing size of icons are a greater concern.” Committee ruled out banning started thinking about safety, design, with the basic controls touchscreens is linked directly Avery also said the hands-free calls. That was we did so from the perspective required to be in the same to their increasing use in all latency of such systems is despite research suggesting of ensuring they have access to place across all apps, ensuring aspects of society. Melanie crucial: “Screens must be as the risks were largely down to the services they want that are user familiarity. That applies Limmer, the electronics boss responsive to touch as you the cognitive demands they built for in-car use, to ensure even to the ‘third-party’ for the new Audi A3, said the would expect a smartphone to place on a driver “engaging they leave their phones where apps that will be offered on decision to remove some be. Clarity and user interface with someone who is not in they need to be.” Android systems. physical buttons from that car commonality across vehicles their shared environment” Ramis referred to that Another key function offered was because “more and more is also fundamental, allowing rather than the actual approach as “driver distraction by the new Volvo system is people are getting into touch drivers to more instantly operation of the smartphone. optimised”. Effectively, this is voice control, the increasing functions with smartphones”. recognise the icon they For those involved in recognising that people want to use of which could remove the Although many car intend to press.” touchscreen development, use the phone system or music need to use a touchscreen or infotainment screens retain Avery cites the Apple the systems aren’t just styled services on their smartphones any physical controls. Voice physical controls as well, an CarPlay and Android Auto on smartphones: they’re a and finding ways to offer that control has been widely in use increasing number don’t – and smartphone mirroring systems way of supplementing them. as safely as possible via a car’s across car brands for years, the rise of touchscreen-only as key to that, because they with the Volkswagen Group, interfaces has led to questions work the same across every Mercedes-Benz and BMW all about how safe they are. model of car. They also replace offering their own versions. There are concerns that large any need for drivers to use Ödgärd Andersson, screens can cause a distraction smartphones while driving. Volvo’s digital boss, said: and that, without the tactile The government is currently “Voice commands make total response of a physical button working to close loopholes that sense when you’re driving.” to assure users they’ve have enabled some drivers Thatcham’s Avery agreed: “It selected the right option, to escape penalties for using brings clear benefits in keeping drivers are more inclined to smartphones for functions the driver’s eyes on the road.” look away from the road to other than making phone But he also said: “Functions operate them. calls while driving. But some like this are often built in some Still, the growth in the size of the same concerns about Volvo has teamed up with Google to create a safer in-car set-up years ahead of a model hitting of touchscreens is a boost for such distractions could apply the road and are therefore 26 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 NEWS UNDER WHAT THIS PIC REVEALS ABOUT THE SKIN JESSE CROSSE ASTON’S NEW TWIN-TURBO V6
Audi’s new A3 has fewer buttons and more touchscreen reliance
Aston’s TM01 Voice control is becoming increasingly receptive to natural speech is no revolution, but the devil is in the detail. behind the development curve you to speak in a much more ASTON MARTIN’S NEW ‘hot vee’, dry- front of each plenum chamber of [Apple] Siri or [Amazon] natural way, which is a safety sump ‘TM01’ V6 engine, so named because tucked under each cylinder Alexa. Where the voice feature from our perspective.” the turbos lie in the vee of the engine, looks bank. On this prototype, they’re control fails to recognise The hope is that such as exciting on paper as it probably will be in made by the Italian firm Dellorto, which what the driver is saying, improvements might win over the flesh. Although Aston isn’t disclosing was famous for its carburettors back in the the safety benefits are lost.” people yet to be convinced a huge amount of detail at this stage, the day. Andersson said that having by voice control. But it’s also picture of it shown above reveals a lot. The three black blocks on top of the right- access to Google Assistant about choice: giving drivers Starting at the bottom, there’s that sump. hand side of the engine are coil packs, one voice control is “a key thing multiple ways to control a car ‘Dry’ sump is a bit of a contradiction in for each spark plug. In this configuration at we’re very excited about” so they can use whichever is terms, because sumps on engines store least, the TM01 appears to have both direct with the partnership. the most comfortable to them – oil and dry sumps are designed to do the and port fuel injection – an idea pioneered The Google system is being which will likely be the safest. opposite. Instead of a large, deep sump full by Toyota. To the right is a fuel rail (pipe) continually developed based It’s clear from looking inside of engine oil, the dry sump is reduced to a for delivering petrol to three port injectors, on real-world feedback from any concept car that, like them shallow pan and gives two advantages. their black electrical connectors peeking out its use in other smartphone or not, touchscreens are The main one is that oil is pumped around above the rail. Three more direct injector and electronics functions and increasingly going to dominate the engine from a separate tank, so there’s connectors are visible just below each coil works with multiple languages car controls. It reflects no chance of the oil pick-up collecting pack for delivering atomised fuel directly and accents. Andersson demand. The key is ensuring air instead of oil during hard cornering, into the combustion chamber. claimed that “it’s well above technology developments braking and acceleration. The second is The combination of the two gives more anything that’s in any car right make them ever safer. that a shallow pan in place of a deep sump scope for blending the torque of the engine now”. She added: “It enables JAMES ATTWOOD means the engine can sit low in the chassis, at different revs and loads with the hybrid lowering the car’s centre of gravity. Bottom left looks like the dry sump WHY HONDA IS BRINGING BACK DIALS pump. The difference between this and a BATTERY TESTING GETS REAL standard oil pump is that it scavenges oil Not every car maker is previous-generation Jazz. as well as pumping it, and it scavenges The testing of EV batteries and being able removing physical controls Takeki Tanaka, the car’s faster than it pumps, so the pan remains to simulate real-life drive cycles in the from dashboards: Honda project leader, said: “We quite dry – hence the name. If it didn’t, laboratory is an important part of improving has returned to some wanted to minimise driver the engine would drown in its own oil. the breed, and Mahle Powertrain has just analogue controls in the disruption for operation, The Y-shaped casing on the front of the opened a new facility to do exactly that. new Jazz as a result of in particular for the heater engine is likely to cover chains, rather than The firm is famous among other things customer feedback. and air conditioning. belts, taking drive from the crankshaft for making components such as forged The Japanese company “We changed it from up to the four camshafts. pistons for high-performance engines. has decided to reintroduce touchscreen to dial The pair of black circular covers at the heating and air-conditioning operation, as we received top of each Y form part of the variable cam controls via a dial rather customer feedback that timing mechanism and give away the than a touchscreen, as in the it was difficult to operate position of each camshaft. Above that are intuitively. You had the air compressors of the twin BorgWarner to look at the screen turbos. On top of each one, a black electronic to change the heater control unit opens and closes the turbo’s setting. Therefore we wastegate on the ‘hot side’ of the turbo, changed it so one can towards the rear of the engine, via a rod. operate it without The two large ports at the top are the looking, giving turbo air intakes and the lower pair are the more confidence exits for the pressurised air. Hoses will take while driving.” the intake air from the lower two ports via intercoolers to the two throttle bodies on the MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 27 Platform has flat floor. Wheel modules control main functions Israeli firm ‘reinvents’ EV base REE’s radical EV tech enables a 2.7m-long five-seat robotaxi and much more besides
srael-based start-up MEB [electric architecture] can have raised wheel arches largest gear manufacturers. Instead of having a large REE has designed a new are more or less the same. by using horizontally located With new market entrants, too manufacturing base of its electric vehicle platform It’s still a three-box chassis springs and smaller wheels, – in the autonomous and last- own, REE says it has identified with modular corner and configuration. They’ve taken has already been showcased mile delivery segments – Barel partner-company factories wheel assemblies that, it says, the ICE and moved it into an by Hino Motors, Toyota’s claims there’s interest from that have spare capacity, allows more freedom of design electric motor, and the centre commercial vehicle division, plenty of market segments. which saves it bigger capital and the fitment of more body is a skateboard chassis, but it’s with which it has a partnership, “One is new autonomous expenditure costs. configurations than is possible far from a skateboard. Tesla’s in a six-wheel configuration. delivery vehicles,” Barel said, “We have unique on current EV architectures. is the same and Jaguar Land “Everything you can see “which is small, slow vehicles. partnerships with the world’s REE’s platform can Rover’s is the same – and that there is what we do for them Some countries are more open biggest T1s,” said Barel. incorporate a totally flat floor didn’t make any sense to us.” – the motor, the braking, the to that than others. Those “They’re our investors and while the motor, suspension, REE’s corner modules suspension, the drivetrain, have been permitted to go shareholders. We do all the steering and braking – all of have the motor and software everything. You can imagine on the road in the US already, research and development which are by-wire systems – are attached to the chassis end of the depth of due diligence and soon in Japan. and then, like any other OEM, all handled by individual wheel the suspension, so this isn’t a we had to go through before “Shuttles are an we send it to production.” modules. There’s an ECU at motor-in-wheel design, which they trusted us,” said Barel. interesting business for us REE says it can build each corner and one within would have a heavier unsprung “I can’t think of any other as well. And a robotaxi [an components in more than the chassis itself. The system mass and the ride and handling manufacturer that is so autonomous short-haul car] 300 plants worldwide. is scalable for anything from disadvantages that entails. 100% involved in the major we’re building with a partner is Barel said the focus isn’t small delivery vans to large REE says a corner module future of any OEM [original 2.5cm longer than a Smart car solely on autonomous or commercial vehicles. can be removed and replaced equipment manufacturer].” and seats five comfortably.” commercial vehicles: “There Speaking to Autocar from Tel in 18 minutes, which would REE has partnered with other That would put an will be a steering wheel. Aviv, REE co-founder and CEO give real gains in downtime OEMs and tier-one suppliers autonomous taxi at just 2.7m There is a car today that is Daniel Barel said: “A V6 internal and maintenance costs for (T1s), including Mitsubishi long but gains in usable space by-wire and you can drive it. combustion engine [ICE] commercial vehicles. Corporation, American Axle exist if REE’s platform can use We’re agnostic to whether it’s platform and Volkswagen’s The architecture, which and Musashi, one of the world’s the full length of the platform. autonomous or not. You can put anything you want on top.” REE is behind the VW Group’s MEB The company is also open- Toyota-owned Hino platform is far less minded about which badging Motors six-wheeler flexible, says REE its platform gets. “We want to be the ‘Intel inside’ of it,” Barel said. “For the first time in a century, you don’t know how cars are going to look in five, 10, 15 years from now,” Barel said. “It’s a moving target, so how do you hit one? You make something that is completely different to anything else.” MATT PRIOR 28 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 NEWS Vauxhall boss tips UNDER HOW A 100-YEAR-OLD TECHNOLOGY THE SKIN next big thing in retail JESSE CROSSE STILL UNDERPINS MODERN ENGINES
VAUXHALL BOSS STEPHEN Norman said this new trend Norman believes the UK’s won’t make dealers irrelevant coronavirus lockdown is but is likely to threaten the cost encouraging car buyers to base of what he termed “gin embrace a new phone-based palace” dealerships. direct sales system his He said the eventual return company is rushing to put in to normal social values will put place – and he’s confident it extra focus on what he claimed will remain effective long after is a recent, society-wide business returns to normal. over-consumption of premium Norman is so passionate products and values. “Before about the new project that he the epidemic, this trend had plans to spend two hours a day arrived in the food and clothing personally answering phone industries,” he said. “I think it’s calls from potential customers. coming to the car industry.” The firm has about 12,000 For this reason, Norman cars in the pipeline between forecasts increasing relevance production line and dealer, a for his bold Great Brit Plan, the figure he called “unusually low”. Vauxhall ad campaign featuring “Even when we’re clear of the post-Brexit slogan ‘New the epidemic, I believe retailing Rules Britannia’, which was just will never go back to the way it starting to benefit Vauxhall was,” said Norman. “I expect sales when the pandemic hit. car buyers to keep doing what “Our plan could prove even Multiple inlet we’re encouraging them to do more relevant than before. and exhaust now: phone the company, get a I certainly expect it still to be FOUR-VALVES-PER-cylinder engines valves per cylinder and one valves improve response from a human being working through next year,” are the norm these days and the cylinder exhaust – giving most of the drivability and who can guide them through he said. “We have to be very head combustion chambers of Aston advantage of four valves, but performance. the process, then carry on their careful not to take the fun out of Martin’s TM01 engine we examined here using only one camshaft to business through the retail car purchase. It’d be a disaster last week look much like they always have. keep cost down. network in the usual way.” if we let it become boring.” Petrolheads generally accept that four The main difference more recently has valves per cylinder – usually opened by twin come with direct injection and the insertion Norman: “Retailing cams, one for inlet and one for exhaust – is of an injector into each combustion chamber will never go back better than two, but what’s the advantage? as well as a spark plug. With direct-injection to the way it was” Engines rely on getting as much air into engines, more of the combustion chamber each cylinder as possible to produce power. lies in the crown of the piston to generate Surprisingly, using two large valves, one to maximum swirl and the best air-fuel let exhaust out and a larger inlet valve for mixing, but the design of the inlet ports letting air and fuel in, isn’t the best way to of the cylinder head still matter. do that. You can think of a valve in a typical So while all modern engines are boosted engine as a disc attached to the end of a stick usually by turbochargers, the fundamentals that seals a port in the combustion chamber of how an engine breathes still play an of the cylinder head. When the valve opens, important role. Aston says it’s allowing for its disc-like head describes the walls of an various injection techniques for the TM01, invisible cylinder known as the ‘curtain including port injection. That could mean area’. It’s this area that the air will flow a version with direct injection only, rather through to enter the engine, or in the case than the combined direct and port injection of exhaust valves, for gases to get out. we’ve seen in pictures of the prototype. Do the sums and the numbers surprisingly reveal that two smaller valves – say, half the size of a single valve – allow BEYOND BAFFLING more air to flow into the engine? The power Air pollution could an engine makes is derived from the torque The latest performance exhaust silencers generated in each combustion cycle, so up often incorporate a lot more than a few to a point, the faster an engine revs, the baffles. The new Chevrolet ‘cold end’ increase Covid-19 risk more power it produces. But at high revs, it exhaust designed for the 2020 Corvette becomes harder to get enough air in quickly Stingray incorporates up to four Tenneco AREAS WITH HIGHER local air region of Italy and cities such enough and that’s where two inlet valves electronic valves to work in conjunction pollution could be seeing higher as London and New York. have an advantage over one. with the engine’s fuel management system rates of Covid-19 infections, The theory is countered by Multiple valves also give designers more and cylinder deactivation system, as well as according to Italian research. some medical quarters that scope to improve swirl in the combustion modifying the exhaust note. University of Bologna and claim it is the effects of the chamber, needed for fuel-air mixing, and Bari researchers claim it is pollution itself (respiratory the smaller components are lighter, which is possible that virus cells are diseases, hypertension, an advantage when they have to move faster. latching on to airborne soot weakened immune systems) The downsides are that four-valve layouts particles and remaining in the that are leaving people in require many more parts and more complex air for longer and travelling affected areas more vulnerable machining than two-valve, and back in the further than areas with less to the infection. Other theories day that restricted use of the design to more pollution. Although it’s just a suggest the pollution interferes exotic engines. theory, the correlation tallies with things that would normally The idea isn’t new, first appearing in with the rate of infection kill the virus, including cars in the early 1900s. Honda split the experienced in places such as protecting the virus from difference in the 1970s with the Civic’s Wuhan in China, the Lombardy ultraviolet light. three-valve-per-cylinder engines – two inlet MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 29 First high-riding Ferrari is scheduled for 2022 Roma coupé was one of five Ferraris to IMAGE come out in 2019 CONFIDENTIAL
HOW IMPORTANT ARE performance models to the Volkswagen Golf’s success? Well, according to the firm, the hot variants (the GTI, GTD, GTE and R) made up around 40% of sales of the Mk7 model in the UK. The GTD diesel was the most popular of those, but many buyers of the Mk8 Golf are expected to migrate from Two new Ferraris this year that to the GTE petrol- electric plug-in hybrid.
Major range expansion set to continue despite Covid-19 disruption IT HASN’T BEEN around for long, but Cupra’s early errari plans to reveal two presentation in May but, with of the year before the closure. Regarding 2020, Galliera sales success has proved its new models this year, and production slated to resume While he wouldn’t offer any said: “We need to consolidate critics wrong, according to its commercial chief has this month (see below), it could details about them, he did the launch of our five products new CEO Wayne Griffiths. F hinted they will continue still continue with its expansion. hint that they will continue from last year but, while doing “At the time, there were a the push into new markets. According to Galliera, the Ferrari’s range expansion, that, we don’t stop looking for lot of people around who The firm launched five new new cars were scheduled to saying: “We’ll keep looking opportunities to grow as a had their doubts,” he said models in 2019, including the be revealed in the second half at new, untapped markets.” company and business.” at the launch of the new F8 Tributo, SF90 Stradale and When asked what segments Roma, as part of a major range Ferrari is looking at, beyond expansion that’s set to include MARANELLO SET TO REOPEN NEXT WEEK the Purosangue SUV that’s 15 cars in a five-year window. due in 2022, Galliera said: Ferrari is aiming to resume cancellations so is having to At the unveiling of the Roma, “Potentially every segment production at its Maranello evaluate ways to make up Enrico Galliera said 2020 would is of interest to us, with the factory on 14 April after for the production shortfall, be “a year of consolidation” caveat that Ferrari is in the a month-long shutdown likely by adding a second to support those launches. luxury sports car market. caused by the coronavirus. shift temporarily or working But when asked more recently “We can enter every market Production was halted on Saturdays. if that meant Ferrari won’t in which we can deliver a car Cupra Leon. “We’ve sold on 15 March, largely due to Ferrari continued paying unveil any new cars this year, that meets our position as a 40,000 cars globally since supply chain issues and for its employees in full during he told Autocar: “We’re always luxury car firm. We have certain launching the brand, with workers’ safety. Maranello is the shutdown. It will give a planning to do something more, limitations connected to the 25,000 of those in 2019. located in Emilia-Romagna, further update on how its and we intend to make some [sportiness] of the car: Ferrari That’s 70% up on the year which borders Lombardy, business and 2020 plans news. We will launch two new is a sports car manufacturer. before.” In two years, Cupra the region worst hit by the have been affected during models by the end of the year.” “When we look at new has become Seat’s most Covid-19 pandemic in Italy. an earnings call on 4 May. Galliera was speaking before segments, we have to keep in profitable business unit. Ferrari has worked to the Covid-19 pandemic forced mind the soul and positioning of secure its supply chain and Ferrari to suspend production the Ferrari brand, and that’s our A KEY REASON Volvo is understood to have the at its Maranello factory, and the only limitation. There are some partnered with Google to backing of trade unions. ongoing threat could lead to natural segments, such as create a new infotainment Autocar understands that the unveilings being delayed. sports and GT cars, but we can operating system was to Ferrari hasn’t received an Ferrari is understood to be look to others as long as they’re ensure its electrified cars abnormal number of order amending its plans for the rest consistent with our heritage.” could offer Google Maps. of this year before an investors’ JAMES ATTWOOD Olivier Loedel, Volvo’s electrification business manager, said: “It’s not about range anxiety any Aston still needs cash more, it’s charging anxiety, and Google Maps gives detailed information ASTON MARTIN MAY still not production to start as soon as on charging points.” have enough working capital the St Athan factory returns to to sustain it for the next year, normality. First deliveries are THERE’S STILL A future despite the recent £536 set for the summer if the supply for saloons, according to million fundraising round and chain functions as anticipated. Kia UK boss Paul Philpott, rights issue led by billionaire More than 2000 DBX orders despite sales of the Optima Lawrence Stroll’s consortium. have been taken already, plus and all but the GT S version Stroll, who will take over as there’s strong early demand of the Stinger being stopped executive chairman of the car for the new Vantage Roadster. recently. Philpott said that maker on 20 April, will rebrand However, the pandemic has if electrified models arrive his Racing Point F1 team Aston still had a big impact on Aston, that could help emissions Martin F1 for the 2021 season. with its share price hitting a targets be met, Kia would The injection will allow DBX new low of £1.04 on 1 April. First Aston Martin SUV is absolutely crucial to the brand’s future consider selling them here. 30 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 NEWS UNDER BRITISH FIRM FINDS A WAY FOR THE SKIN JESSE CROSSE E-BOOSTERS TO REPLACE TURBOS
New electronic control system could consign WHEN THE FIRST prototype e-boosters the electronic control system turbochargers to came on the scene a few years ago, back- kick in. With the Aeristech history. to-back comparisons with conventional design, there are no electronic turbochargers swiftly revealed what an limits and 48V e-boosters have improvement they made to the response of been tested at up to 120,000rpm. large-capacity diesels. Until this point, the The benefit of switching to pure compressors, driven by an electric motor e-boosting is appealing on several levels. It rather than exhaust gas, have only been could also be used on small, 1.2- to 1.5-litre used in short bursts before a conventional downsized petrol engines, which, like exhaust-driven turbocharger system takes diesels, produce less of the exhaust gas over. Now, Aeristech, based in Leamington energy at low speeds that a turbocharger Spa, has come up with a new e-booster needs to work properly. Removing the that can be used full time, doing away with turbocharger from the exhaust system exhaust-driven turbochargers altogether. means the catalytic converter can be moved A turbocharger is driven by the energy closer to the engine to clean up tailpipe released from hot, expanding exhaust emissions more effectively, too. It also gets gases. The harder the engine is working, rid of the exhaust back pressure that a the more energy there is and the quicker the turbocharger causes, which ironically can turbocharger responds. When the engine be bad for fuel consumption. isn’t working so hard, there’s less energy in The new control system can be used for the exhaust and turbocharger response gets air pumps as well, such as those needed laggy. Diesels are more thermally efficient in fuel cell stacks, and a booster could be than petrol engines, so more of the fuel used in conjunction with electrically is converted to mechanical energy rather heated e-catalytic converters to get on than heat and the exhaust releases less top of emissions even before an engine energy. So when a diesel is loafing around, has been started. its turbocharger system really struggles to wake up and that’s when an electric booster can fill the boost gap. BLINK AND YOU’LL MISS IT One of the biggest enemies of a powerful electrical system is the heat it generates and Hyundai parts supplier Hyundai Mobis is controllers for e-boosters are no exception. working on a novel roof-mounted airbag to Because the electric motors generate high prevent occupants from being ejected via a torque, controllers quickly get hot, limiting sunroof during a rollover. First revealed in the time motors can run without a break. 2017, the system is still being refined by the Aeristech has rethought the design of the company but basically it deploys along two power electronics behind the e-booster rails either side of a panoramic sunroof in to lessen the amount of heat it generates 80 milliseconds, or about five times faster without reducing the torque. That means than the blink of an eye. it can be used full time for boosting and replace exhaust-driven turbochargers. The new electrical architecture separates control of the motor’s revs from the amount of torque it generates. Normally, both are controlled together, but under the new regime, the amount of heat generated by the controller is dramatically reduced. Not only can the motor be run for longer but it can be run much faster than usual. Typically, e-boosters are designed to run at up to 70,000rpm before the limitations of MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 31 Williams Advanced Engineering has donated its spare PPE gear, including masks and gloves, to Oxford’s John Radcliffe Hospital and smaller surgeries near its factory.
Car firms step up to help NHS How the industry’s expertise is being applied to producing medical equipment
he National Health consortium. While Ford the group opted to increase ❝ Service’s urgent need and the seven UK-based production of a device already for more ventilators and Formula 1 teams are involved, made by Smiths Medical. We’ve got a talented team who T other medical equipment the consortium is largely “We decided it was best to help treat patients suffering comprised of aerospace firms, to work with an existing are used to manufacturing both from Covid-19 sparked an including Airbus, BAE Systems design,” said Wilson. “Like any incredible response from UK and GKN Aerospace, and motorsport business, we look quickly and appropriately industry, including a huge medical equipment companies at the risk for any engineering number of automotive and such as Penlon and Renishaw. routes we might take and the ❞ motorsport firms. WAE boss Craig Wilson said best way to add value. The consortium recognised that models, we built two prototype On 16 March, the the firm took the decision to Smiths device is currently in we just needed to do this, so units based on our reverse- government called for join VentilatorChallengeUK service, so once we scale up normal arrangements went engineering designs, which manufacturing firms to because it had pre-existing production, we can have the out the window so we could were then validated by Smiths assist with rapid high-volume relationships with a number of units operating quickly with get on as quickly as possible,” to ensure they were the same production of mechanical those involved. “It meant we no regulatory tests needed.” said Wilson. “The idea was to standard,” added Wilson. ventilators, which are didn’t need to get to know each The varied companies in the scale production using four WAE has also been involved designed to assist critically other, so we could quickly start consortium each have a diverse or five high-volume assembly in using validation techniques ill patients with breathing to make a difference,” he said. range of specialisms and lines, with the aerospace firms developed for motorsport and other functions. Several VentilatorChallengeUK also manufacturing capabilities, working to accelerate their projects to set up a testing consortiums were formed in appealed to WAE because, and to ensure ventilators supply chains. But information process for the ventilators response, and within 15 days rather than work on a new could be produced as quickly for the parts didn’t exist in that will be produced on the the first ventilators resulting ventilator design as some firms as possible it was key to 3D CAD files, so we had to various production lines. from those efforts had been and consortiums have done, harness each firm’s skills. reverse-engineer a unit, take “Because of our motorsport produced and were ready. For WAE, that meant taking it apart and produce those for heritage, we’re very good at So how have firms put a lead in reverse- every part, along with a bill getting answers to problems automotive and motorsport engineering of materials. It was our first and then just getting on and expertise to use producing an existing activity and key to getting solving it,” said Wilson. “It’s in medical equipment? Smiths the project running at speed.” our DNA. Bigger companies Williams Advanced ventilator WAE completed that task in don’t have the same agility Engineering (WAE), to create the just over a week, with around and ‘just do it’ mentality baked originally formed to apply information 50 staff working on the project. into them. But they have technology developed that will allow While most operated remotely, scale: aerospace firms have by the Williams Grand Prix the larger firms a handful worked – with supply chains on a completely team to other industries, WAE is making to produce parts. appropriate measures in place different volume to the has played a major role in a Smiths Medical “The mindset – at WAE’s Oxfordshire factory. automotive industry.” the VentilatorChallengeUK ventilator design throughout the “As well as creating the 3D Within three weeks PETROL PLUMMETS AS DEMAND DROPS ELECTRIC SKODA CITIGO SELLS OUT Petrol could drop below £1 per litre, according Skoda has removed the new Citigo-e iV from sale to RAC Fuel Watch. Crude oil is currently £24 a after all 400 UK examples sold out in less than barrel – half the price it was in March – with lack of two months. The brand’s first EV arrived in late demand a big factor. The RAC says a supermarket January. A spokesperson said it will return to price war will hit rural independent fuel retailers. market when Skoda’s factory shutdown ends.
32 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 NEWS HOW COVID-19 IS AFFECTING THE INDUSTRY Precept to inspire Polestar SUV New car sales slump POLESTAR’S PIVOTAL THIRD departure from parent the 3 will feature a simple UK new car registrations model, which is expected next company Volvo, with an interior like that of the 2, fell by 44.4% year on year, will take heavy styling aerodynamically focused which eschews buttons year in March as a result of inspiration from the recently profile, a pointed front end and switches in favour of a the nationwide lockdown revealed Precept concept. and a wraparound tail-light large central touchscreen. that closed dealerships Polestar head of design bar among its features. Despite likely to be riding and kept customers at Max Missoni said a production Missoni further hinted higher and weighing more home. A total of 254,684 version of the Precept saloon at the 3’s billing as a sleek, than Polestar’s current cars were sold. hasn’t been confirmed, but it minimalist Tesla Model X production cars, the 3 will stay will definitely influence future rival. “Our next car will be true to the brand’s premium JLR making visors cars. “The design language a performance SUV – the performance values and Jaguar Land Rover has of that car is something you Polestar 3 – and that will deliver pleasing dynamics. begun production of NHS- can and should expect in carry some of the features “We want the cars to be approved plastic visors at our future cars, starting and design cues you’ve seen performance cars, not only its Gaydon plant, with the with the Polestar 3,” he said. in the Precept,” he said. from 0-60 but [also] great aim of eventually making The 3 SUV, which will follow “We’re really keen on driver’s cars with good driving around 5000 examples the 1 plug-in hybrid coupé keeping a minimalistic dynamics,” Missoni said. “All each week. The firm is and 2 electric fastback, can surface to things, keeping of our cars – especially with making the CAD files for therefore be expected to things extremely pure and the performance pack – will the design available so continue Polestar’s design clear,” he added, suggesting fulfil some of those desires.” that other firms can also put it into production.
Aid for key workers Several car firms are offering free roadside assistance to NHS or key workers who drive their vehicles, regardless of the car’s age. Firms with such schemes include the of the call to action, the PSA Group (Citroën, DS, VentilatorChallengeUK Peugeot and Vauxhall), consortium is now producing Toyota and Lexus. Precept could reach around 1500 ventilators per production itself as week, with a government order Clean Air Zones delayed a Tesla Model S rival to supply at least 10,000 units. The government is While it seems an incredibly postponing the planned quick turnaround, Wilson said roll-out of Clean Air Zones it’s something that WAE is in cities such as Bristol, CATERHAM EVOKES HALCYON DAYS WITH NEW SUPER SEVEN used to from motorsport Leeds and Birmingham and automotive projects. until next year to allow Caterham has launched a new version of the Seven “We’ve got a talented team freight businesses to of engineers who are used to focus on delivering vital aimed at combining 1970s design inspiration with modern manufacturing both quickly goods and services performance. The Super Seven 1600 revives the spirit of and appropriately,” said during the pandemic. Wilson. “Working on projects the original Super Seven and includes classic flared front at such speed is something the Ford offers six-month company does regularly. We payment holiday wings, 14in wheels and a wood-rimmed steering wheel. faced similar time constraints Ford has introduced a six- The Super Seven’s 1.6-litre Ford Sigma engine has 135bhp, when we were preparing the month payment holiday Jaguar C-X75 fleet for the for all customers who making for a 0-60mph acceleration time of 5.0sec. James Bond Spectre film. purchase a new car or “Obviously, this project van on finance in April or Caterham says is of national importance, May. Under the scheme, throttle body and the team were hugely Ford will cover the first motivated for it. We supported three monthly instalments injection by DCOE it at the highest levels of the and delay the following company, and it’s fantastic three instalments. gives the car a that we had the ability to distinctive 1970s contribute to a project that can make a real difference.” everyone is both unbelievable soundtrack. As Wilson noted, the role of and incredibly inspiring. The Super Seven the consortium is ultimately We’re just helping to supply Super Seven 1600 a supporting one. “It’s all to equipment to ensure they 1600 is priced features period help the NHS and its staff,” he can do the really vital work.” design touches said. “What they’re doing for JAMES ATTWOOD from £33,495. MOTORSPORTIMAGES AUTOCAR EXTENDS BTCC BACKING SPEEDERS ESCAPE PROSECUTION Autocar will remain a media partner of the British Speeding drivers are getting written warnings due Touring Car Championship for the next three to increased police workloads amid the pandemic, seasons, extending a deal that began in 2014. The Times reports. Letters sent to offenders say We will continue to provide news and features it’s “not in the public interest” to prosecute at this coverage of Britain’s biggest motorsport series. time. Speed awareness courses are also on hold.
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 33 FIRST DRIVES NEW CARS TESTED AND RATED
PORSCHETESTED 17.3.20, STUTTGART, 911 GERMANY ON SALE JULY PRICETURBO £155,970 S Range-topping version of iconic sports car gets a host of key technical upgrades, including a new engine that makes it the quickest 911 yet
34 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 mong Porsche enthusiasts – before – 48mm wider than the well, any car enthusiasts, base 911 Carrera, to be precise. really – the combination of Although the 992 is based on the A the number 911 and the word same platform as its predecessor, Turbo has long enjoyed cult status. with a 2450mm wheelbase, Back in 1974, Porsche redefined its aluminium body has been road car performance with the widened to further accentuate original 911 Turbo, fitting a the Coke-bottle form built up turbocharged engine and an over more recent generations. oversized rear wing to its signature The increase is necessitated by model to create the legend that the adoption of a 42mm-wider exists today. Ever since, the front track and 10mm-wider company has striven to refine rear track, together with, for the fundamental formula, even the first time, the combination if there has been the odd change of standard 20x9.0in front and in philosophy along the way. 21x11.5in rear wheels. Almost half a century later, we All up, the car is 28mm longer now have the seventh-generation and 20mm wider than the old 911 Turbo: the 992. It replaces the Turbo S, at a respective 4535mm facelifted version of the 991-series at 1900mm. Despite a number of 911 Turbo that was launched in weight-saving measures, including 2016 and comes at a time when new optional composite glass Porsche, with a record number of that’s claimed to weigh some 4kg new petrol-engined and electric less than the glass used before, models in the pipeline, appears to it has also gained 40kg, giving it be very much at the top of its game. a kerb weight of 1640kg. That’s In its headlining S guise, due mainly to the introduction the new Turbo looks familiarly of a more advanced dual-clutch purposeful and muscular in the automatic gearbox and other key metal. Its lines clearly draw from developments that include new the model it replaces, albeit with brakes and the larger wheels new detailing, most notably to the needed to accommodate them. round LED headlights and new The aerodynamic functions have full-width tail-light assembly. been reworked too. Together with And yes, it’s wider than ever the active front spoiler ducts ◊
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 35
FIRST DRIVES
❝ The remarkable thing is just how amenable the car is ❞ Driving position is excellent and all around you is of luxurious quality
∆ brought over from its predecessor improvement over the old model, horizontally opposed six cylinders captivating as those of Porsche’s in a revised form, the Turbo S gets with a new steering wheel hosting hung out back drowns out the naturally aspirated powerplants. a reworked rear spoiler offering shift paddles and a driving mode sound of the exhaust. However, that The remarkable thing – and this Speed and Performance settings, controller, a high-definition changes the moment you draw the has been a key strength of the top- with the latter contributing to a 15% digital instrument display, a 10.9in stubby gear selector backwards of-the-line 911 for years now – is just improvement in downforce. There’s infotainment touchscreen and and set off down the road. how amenable the car is. Threading also a new air brake function to a neatly organised centre console. The new Turbo S is typically through traffic and heading beyond increase drag at high braking speeds. It’s all of a suitably high quality. well mannered in Comfort mode the suburbs onto smooth-surfaced As before, buyers can choose a Yet despite its increase in exterior around town. It’s not exactly quiet, country roads, it really is as easy to coupé or cabriolet body, the former dimensions, the 911 is still a strict but neither is it ever particularly drive as your average hot hatchback. of which we will concentrate on here. 2+2, with 128 litres of luggage raucous. There’s greater intent to Only it’s in a completely different The 992 abandons the 3.8-litre capacity in its nose. When the rear the gravel-toned exhaust note than dimension as far as performance flat-six engine that has been a backrests are folded down, a further before, thanks to the availability of is concerned. The acceleration in mainstay of the Turbo since the 264 litres of stowage becomes an optional sports exhaust – as fitted lower gears is mind-numbing in its facelifted version of the 996 was available behind the front seats. to our test car – for the first time. intensity. Porsche claims 0-60mph in launched in 2009 for an all-new There’s a lovely familiar meshing However, it’s still relatively subdued. 2.6sec, a 0.2sec improvement over the powerplant that, despite giving away of mechanical clatter as the ignition Until you call up Sport mode and old Turbo S, making this the fastest- 14% in overall capacity, offers greater fires. This engine may be new, but it plant it, that is, at which point it accelerating series-production 911 power and torque than before. continues to make all the right noises. unleashes a gloriously deep blare yet. Yes, that means it’s quicker here There are no official engine output At idle, the pulsating action of the that’s less guttural but every bit as than the GT1, GT2 RS and GT3 RS. figures for the standard Turbo just The savage low-to-mid-range yet. But in the Turbo S, power has thrust and ability of the four-wheel increased by 68bhp to 641bhp at drive system to place it to the road 6750rpm, endowing the coupé with a with outstanding efficiency make 20bhp boost at 233bhp per litre and a for explosive forward momentum, power-to-weight ratio of 391bhp per as exemplified in the 0-124mph tonne. Torque also climbs by 37lb ft to time, which has been improved 590lb ft between 2500 and 4000rpm. by a full second to just 8.9sec. For perspective, that’s 50bhp less but There’s so much torque available 37lb ft more than the most extreme that you can call up higher gears and roadgoing 911 to date, the GT2 RS. surf the resulting potency well into These added reserves, not least significant three-figure speeds in one the increase in torque, have brought wonderful unbroken line of surging about an upgraded eight-speed acceleration, aided all the while by gearbox as well as a new front axle the stunning straight-line stability transmission for the multi-plate- brought on by 170kg of downforce clutch four-wheel drive system. Turbo has been widened once again; active wing adds yet more downforce at the claimed 205mph top speed. The cabin represents a big There’s no noticeable turbo lag ◊ MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 37 TESTER’S NOTE The new 911 Turbo is quite a heavy car, tipping the scales at 135kg more than the base 911 Carrera. However, it doesn’t feel it. There’s an engaging fluidity to its actions that marks it out as not just a devastatingly effective grand tourer but also, with just a turn of the driving mode controller, a true sports car. GK
Turbo S is furiously quick at full chat and sounds suitably menacing
∆ anywhere, just one exceptional true at the upper end of its rev range, revised the steering action on the Also on the optional equipment stream of urge from not much more where it feels stronger and more rear wheels, increasing the ratio list is a lift function that provides than 1000rpm all the way to the determined than its predecessor. by 6% for even sharper and more an additional 40mm increase in 7200rpm ignition cut-out on a There’s more to the dynamic decisive turn-in traits than before. ground clearance on the front axle. loaded throttle. appeal of the Turbo S than just its For the first time, Turbo S The sports suspension breathes The smoothness of the delivery straight-line speed, though, and that buyers can specify optional sports nicely over longer-wave undulations and rapid action of the kickdown all starts with the steering. There’s a suspension with a 10mm-lower and remains superbly controlled over from the gearbox mask the improved lovely slickness and immediacy to the ride height and retuned active roll higher-frequency bumps, without the response of the new engine, but it speed-sensitive electromechanical compensation system among other characteristic nose bob that affected is there. This latest version of four-wheel system. detailed changes over the standard previous generations, keeping the Porsche’s traditional six-cylinder The weighting remains consistent underpinnings. This is allied as Turbo S well planted on all but the unit isn’t rabid in the character of a over a wide speed range, creating the standard to the Porsche Active most badly pitted surfaces. This is flat-plane-crank engine, but there’s sort of engagement that no recent Suspension Management system, thanks in part to the adoption of still added resolve to the way it goes Turbo S has managed to offer. In a which brings adaptive damping new helper springs that provide about its business. That’s especially bid to improve agility, Porsche has into the mix. a preloading effect to the main springs for more controlled rebound. If there’s a weakness, it’s the incessant road roar on anything but super-smooth surfaces, especially from the rear end. Still, the tuning really is sweetly struck, bestowing the new model with adequately absorbent long-distance properties in Comfort mode and a firm but controlled ride in both Sport and Sport Plus modes. All this makes the new Turbo S, a car that makes well over twice the power of the original, eminently approachable. Yes, it’s absurdly fast, but the calmness of its ride and its otherwise superb resistance to pitch and dive under acceleration and braking is all the elixir you need to take full advantage of its exceptional grip, which now comes Latest 911’s interior deftly mixes retro cues with the latest technology via a combination of standard 255/35-profile tyres at the front 38 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 FIRST DRIVES UPGRADES SMALL ❝ BUT SIGNIFICANT It feels deliciously The new twin-turbocharged horizontally opposed six-cylinder well planted from entry engine of the 911 Turbo is based on the 2981cc unit used by the latest 911 Carrera. It has an 11mm to apex and beyond increase in bore, at 102mm, giving it a swept volume of 3745cc – some 55cc less than the engine ❞ it has replaced. Developments include larger, variable-geometry turbochargers operating at up to 1.4bar of pressure. The diameter of the turbine wheels is increased by 5mm to 55mm, while the 61mm compressor wheel is 3mm larger than before. Also new are electronically controlled wastegate flaps; a charge air cooling system with new routing from the side air intakes and rear spoiler; revised piezo injectors; and a petrol particulate filter. With its increases in power and torque, the new engine is mated to a new eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox that has a shorter first gear, a longer top gear and a longer final drive than the old seven- speeder. In keeping with other new 911 variants, there’s also now a Wet driving mode for the range-topper.
Torque-vectoring four-wheel drive system makes for splendid handling and 315/30-profile tyres at the rear. front wheels. The torque-vectoring of adhesion are so high, though, that The strength of the new Turbo S The combination of this new effect at the rear is also improved. you would need to be on a race circuit lies in the breadth of its repertoire: rubber and the latest incarnation of Given the 911’s distinctive rear- to really explore the car’s true ability. it eases and thrills in equal Porsche’s four-wheel drive system, biased weight distribution, it feels This also applies to the brakes, measure. It doesn’t quite deliver which uses a lighter and more rigid deliciously well planted and neutral which now feature carbon-ceramic the same whip-crack reactions and driveshaft and a single universal from entry to apex and beyond. discs of 420x40mm at the front at-the-wheel sensitivity of some joint to the front wheels, delivers There’s a trace of steady understeer and 390x32mm at the rear in competition-bred 911s, but what it huge traction and purchase. when you’re really on it, as you combination with huge 10-pot lacks in sheer tactility is more than Tip the car into a fast corner and would hope for and expect from front calipers and four-pot rear made up for in its speed and ability it displays exceptional body control, something capable of generating calipers. They’re incredibly to swallow big distances at legal while remaining unflinching in its such high cornering speeds. effective, providing reassuring limits in relative comfort without determination to hold your chosen However, unshackling the stability bite in the initial degrees of travel ever needing to work hard at all. It’s line. The changes to the four-wheel control system brings a degree of and strong but progressive arguably the world’s most complete drive system now allow up to 369lb ft adjustability that enthusiast drivers qualities as you add further and versatile all-season supercar. of torque to be apportioned to the may seek in tighter bends. The limits pressure to the pedal thereafter. GREG KABLE PORSCHE 911 TURBO S Following the evolutionary path, the latest 911 Turbo delivers new levels of performance and driving thrills AAAAB Price £155,970 Engine 6 cyls, 3745cc, twin- turbocharged, petrol Power 641bhp at 6750rpm Torque 590lb ft at 2500-4000rpm Gearbox 8-spd dual-clutch automatic Kerb weight 1640kg 0-60mph 2.6sec Top speed 205mph Economy 25.4mpg CO2, tax band 254g/km, 37% RIVALS Aston Martin Vantage, BMW M8 Coupé, Front seats are very comfortable but rears are still best left for luggage Mercedes-AMG GT S Coupé
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 39 TESTED 25.3.20, INGOLSTADT, GERMANY ON SALE JUNE PRICE £79,900 AUDI E-TRON SPORTBACK Coupé version of Audi’s first dedicated EV promises to be more engaging to drive. A true alternative to the excellent I-Pace, then?
40 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 FIRST DRIVES his is the car with which Audi is 95kWh lithium ion battery made aiming to challenge the Jaguar up of cells supplied by LG Chem. I-Pace for zero-emissions SUV At 4901mm long, 1935mm T driving honours. wide and 1616mm tall, the E-tron The E-tron Sportback 55 quattro, as Sportback is 85mm shorter, 60mm its name suggests, is a more sporting narrower and a considerable 89mm version of the E-tron 55 quattro that lower than Audi’s conventionally has been on sale here since mid-2019. powered flagship SUV, the Q8. Outwardly, it’s distinguished from The drivetrain is borrowed its sibling by a more heavily curved, wholly from the E-tron. It uses two coupé-like roofline and liftback-style differently specified asynchronous tailgate, among other subtle changes, electric motors, one sitting up front including more aggressively styled that produces peaks of 181bhp and bumpers and headlights using Audi’s 182lb ft of torque and a second at the new digital matrix LED technology. rear making 221bhp and 232lb ft. Together, these alterations provide Together, they provide a maximum the E-tron Sportback with a shapely system output of 402bhp and 490lb ft profile similar in style and detailing for limited periods of up to eight to the Elaine concept that Audi seconds in Boost mode, which is unveiled three years ago. activated by slotting the gear selector Sharing certain exterior design into S. In D, the combined output elements with conventionally of the motors is reduced to a milder powered Audi models, it’s perhaps 355bhp and 414lb ft to help increase not as distinctive as the I-Pace. But efficiency and consequently extend with a drag coefficient of just 0.25Cd, the range between charges. it’s among the most aerodynamically The I-Pace’s two motors, by way efficient series-production SUVs yet, of comparison, deliver a maximum beating the Jaguar in this crucial combined 394bhp and 512lb ft. area by a considerable 0.04Cd Power is sent to all four wheels margin. This is thanks in part to via a single-speed gearbox attached the availability of ‘virtual exterior to each motor and networked via a mirrors’, which use a camera to central power electrics system. In a project a live video feed on the key departure from its more practical forward part of the doors inside. sister, however, the E-tron Sportback The changes to the cabin over the features a decoupling mechanism regular E-tron are slight, but that’s no between its front and rear axles. bad thing. In terms of attractiveness, This enables it to send its drive perceived quality and tactility, exclusively to the rear wheels in the dashboard, controls and trim everyday driving in D, giving it an materials are all premium in nature. additional seven miles of range over The optional front sports seats the E-tron, at 278 miles. It’s only are firm and supportive, setting when you call up greater reserves via up a pleasantly roomy and airy the kickdown function in S that the driving environment. However, other motor is called upon and the accommodation in the rear is front wheels begin to do the driving. compromised to the tune of 20mm Acceleration off the line is strong by that plunging roofline. The but far from explosive in D, owing adoption of a more heavily angled in part to the E-tron Sportback’s tailgate also reduces boot capacity hefty 2480kg kerb weight and the by 45 litres over the E-tron, at 615 considerable amount of energy litres. Even so, it’s still quite versatile, required to set it in motion. Once with 58 litres more than the I-Pace. you’ve built up initial momentum, Like the E-tron (alongside which though, rolling acceleration is quite it’s produced at Audi’s factory in sharp. Keep the throttle nailed Brussels, Belgium), the E-tron thereafter and the car will dispatch Sportback is based on a modified you beyond the British motorway version of the MLB Evo platform, speed limit with a good deal of force. housing between its axles a sizeable Selecting S instantly heightens ◊
Driving environment is impressive but steering is numb
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 41 TESTER’S NOTE ❝ The use of an MLB- derived platform Audi has managed to take acoustic means the E-tron Sportback suffers civility to a whole new level the same packaging problems as regular Audi SUVs. Without ❞ the long bonnet and bulky transmission tunnel, it would be even roomier and more versatile. GK
Standard-setting refinement and a comfy ride make for relaxing journeys
∆ the performance further, providing limited top speed of 124mph. of off-throttle coasting. buffeting are particularly good, more responsive tip-in, noticeably For perspective, Jaguar claims In its automatic setting, the system even at motorway speeds. The near- stronger roll-on qualities and greater figures of 4.8sec and 124mph. is amazingly efficient, although it silent operation of the motors and overall performance intensity. So Satisfaction doesn’t only come does take some trial and error before power electrics system is excellently configured, the car has a claimed via the accelerative forces at play, you fully understand what setting isolated from the cabin too, making 0-62mph time of 5.7sec, but from though. An advanced kinetic energy best suits any particular situation. the E-tron Sportback very relaxing to recent experience with the E-tron, recuperation system with three Another real strong point of the drive over long distances, especially we wouldn’t be surprised if that time selectable degrees of intensity (in E-tron Sportback is its outstanding in its more comfort-focused mode. is a little on the conservative side. addition to an automatic setting that refinement. We’ve become used to Given the E-tron Sportback’s The E-tron Sportback certainly feels draws on the sat-nav for topographic the inherent quietness of electric outstanding ability to place those not- quicker once all that torque is flowing information) also demands a degree cars, but Audi has managed to take inconsiderable reserves to the road, freely to each wheel, and the inherent of skill from the driver, in seeing acoustic civility to a whole new level. it’s a pity that its steering doesn’t urgency doesn’t subside until you’re how much energy can be harvested Rolling refinement, suppression of offer more feel; the speed-sensitive well on the way to the electronically under braking and during periods road noise and resistance to wind electromechanical rack delivers a reassuring sense of sharpness and weighting but is lacking in feedback. Don’t let that shortcoming put you off, though, because the E-tron Sportback still offers enough for the driver to be described as engaging. It’s capable of stringing together a series of medium-to-high-speed corners with excellent resistance to roll and some proper rear-biased handling properties. With the majority of its weight concentrated low within its platform and a comparatively low ride height by SUV standards, it has a very low centre of gravity and can offer the sort of assured handling traits that promise to win it wide appeal. Despite heady levels of weight transfer under braking and in Sloping roofline at rear was taken from the A7 Sportback five-door coupé tight corners, body movement is excellently suppressed thanks to 42 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 FIRST DRIVES AUDI IMPROVES ITS MANAGEMENT SKILLS
The E-tron Sportback 55 quattro’s 95kWh battery pack can be charged at a rate of up to 150kW and from both sides of the car. Audi claims that charging from 20-80% of its capacity can take half an hour and that from 20-100% can take 50 minutes. Drawing on experience gained from the regular E-tron 55 quattro, Audi has reworked the cooling system for the battery. Instead of using two water pumps, the E-tron Sportback uses a larger single unit, saving weight, cost and energy. This key difference is claimed to contribute up to 1.2 miles of the seven-mile increase in range that the E-tron Sportback has achieved over the E-tron.
adoption of softer springs, have reduced friction, Audi says, eking out another 1.9 miles of range. The £79,900 E-tron Sportback is more driver-oriented than the £71,520 E-tron, if not quite to the degree we were led to believe by Audi when revealing it at the Los Digital dial display sits alongside touchscreens spanning 10.1in and 8.8in Angeles motor show last year. The difference between the two is quite subtle on pure performance alone. a combination of firm damping worn by our test car deliver plenty the ride is nicely struck, with firm However, with a more sporting and fast-acting qualities of the of mid-corner grip, allowing you underlying qualities providing shape, greater athleticism on more standard air suspension. Lean isn’t to carry a good deal of speed up to well-controlled vertical movement. challenging roads, further improved entirely absent, but the degree of the apex without any premature A further point of note is the refinement and a superb interior it is relatively low and sufficiently understeer or intervention from outstanding feel of the E-tron that continues to offer a good deal progressive so as not to upset the the electronic stability control Sportback’s brake pedal, which is of everyday versatility, despite the otherwise respectable balance. system. Thereafter, you can be very among the best we’ve come across coupé redesign, the E-tron Sportback The ability of the quattro four- prodigious with the throttle without in an electric car of any guise. sets a high standard among the wheel drive system and its torque- causing any deterioration of poise. Despite there being four different electric SUV ranks. vectoring system to individually In the UK, the E-tron Sportback intensities of energy recuperation It’s certainly one the I-Pace won’t apportion power to each rear wheel comes as standard on big 21in alloys, available, the feel remains strong have an easy time surpassing when helps to provide a decent amount of but buyers will also be able to specify and positive at all times. we get to put the two side by side purchase on smooth surfaces, too. 22in wheels as an option. On the Changes over the regular E-tron after the lockdown. The optional 255/50-profile tyres 20in rims available in Germany, to the brake pads, including the GREG KABLE AUDI E-TRON SPORTBACK 55 QUATTRO Quick, quiet and classy electric SUV builds on the solid foundations of its upright sibling with sharper handling AAAAB Price £79,900 Engine Two electric motors Power 402bhp (in Boost mode) Torque 490lb ft (in Boost mode) Gearbox 1-spd, direct drive Kerb weight 2480kg 0-62mph 5.7sec (in Boost mode) Top speed 124mph (governed) Battery 95kWh Range 278 miles (WLTP) CO2, tax band 0g/km, 0% RIVALS Jaguar I-Pace, E-tron’s rear light bar appears again on the Sportback Tesla Model X
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 43 AUDI A3TESTED 12.3.20, GRANADA, SPORTBACK SPAIN ON SALE MAY PRICE £31,650 (FROM £24,900) New family hatch takes the fight to the A-Class and 1 Series with more tech, classier looks and – shock! – a more rewarding drive
44 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 FIRST DRIVES
ince its introduction in 1999, enhancements to accommodate a the Audi A3 has been the wider spread of powertrain options conservative and consistent, that will include mild-hybrid and S if somewhat predictable, plug-in hybrid variants. option in the premium family Three main trim levels will hatchback class. Now into its make up the A3 range: Sport, fourth generation, it’s no longer Technik and S line, with each available with a three-door body, receiving subtle exterior styling but to compensate Audi has differences. In the case of Technik created a more appealing design and S line, the headlights feature for the five-door Sportback version. a small panel of 15 LEDs that Just like its new-generation provides different light signatures Seat Leon, Skoda Octavia and for each version to give greater Volkswagen Golf relations, visual differentiation. Audi the new A3 uses an evolution distinguishes the S line exterior of the Volkswagen Group’s further with larger honeycomb ubiquitous MQB platform, with structures for the side vents ◊
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 45 ∆ and the three Quattro-inspired The variable ratio allows this (blanked-off) slots in the front of the without making the steering overly bonnet. Higher-spec Edition 1 and sensitive at or near the straight-ahead Vorsprung versions will arrive later. position. It’s a worthwhile upgrade Anyone stepping out of the no matter where you spend most of relatively minimalist cabin of the your time driving. Incidentally, the previous A3 and into this new one standard power steering system will be in for a shock, albeit mostly a is electromechanical, with speed- pleasant one. There is a wider variety sensitive assistance. of materials and a dashboard that is, Drivers can further adjust the to a degree, split in two, with a more feel of the steering by toggling driver-focused design. through the different modes in Every new A3 comes with a the Drive Select function (available 10.25in digital instrument display from Sport trim). We found that as standard and Audi offers a larger, it was only the sportier Dynamic 12.3in version (as already featured mode that made any real difference, in several of its other models) as an predictably weighting up the steering optional upgrade. There’s also a to require more input force from the 10.1in touchscreen that runs Audi’s driver. And actually, as you wind latest MIB3 infotainment system. There’s a good mix of comfort and control on standard passive suspension on lock in this setting, there’s an Smartphone mirroring for Android unpleasant amount of resistance, so and Apple devices is available, we feel the steering is best left in the although not wirelessly at launch. for the inlays that are manufactured Sport specification up, these are split default mode. Usefully, there are both USB-A and from recycled PET bottles. According 40:20:40, rather than 40:60. Better in operation is the adaptive USB-C ports in the centre console to the company, each A3 uses 45 Audi hasn’t enjoyed a stellar suspension, again an option, which and an angled wireless device discarded 1.5-litre plastic bottles in reputation for giving its cars lowers the ride height by 10mm. It charging pad. every set of seats that feature the involving steering feel but, while the uses a new system with specially As in other smaller models in the new material. A3 isn’t pitched as the last bastion designed valves in the dampers to Audi range, there isn’t a secondary Aside from that, there’s 6mm of engaging dynamics, most buyers alter the rate of flow, thus allowing touchscreen for the climate control more elbow room in the front and won’t have cause for complaint. All of for a greater difference between settings. Instead, there’s a small 3mm more in the rear, thanks to an the models we drove came equipped the Comfort and Sport settings cluster in the lower section of the increase in the car’s width. A 7mm with Audi’s optional Progressive than with previous systems. Driven dashboard with easy-to-reach increase in front head room and Steering, which uses a variable back to back with an A3 on passive physical buttons that make frequent 2mm more shoulder room are also ratio rack. This makes the steering suspension, the greater distinction adjustments possible without welcome, if small, improvements. more direct the more you turn the between the settings is immediately glancing away from the road. This is The boot capacity of the A3 wheel, which is great for parking, obvious. However, the standard set- the preferable set-up in our opinion. remains the same as in the previous because you can get from lock to lock up still offers a good compromise The A3’s seats are also new and, in generation, at 380 litres, and this speedily, but it also makes the A3 feel between comfort and body control, so a bid to improve its environmental increases to 1200 litres when the incredibly biddable when attacking a the upgrade isn’t strictly necessary. credentials, Audi now uses materials rear seats are folded forward. From sequence of especially tight corners. An 11mm-wider track raises
❝ Its core strengths include a far better interior and a more polished drive than before ❞
Cabin gains a wider range of materials and has a 10.25in digital driver display and a 10.1in touchscreen as standard
46 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 FIRST DRIVES GET A HEADS-UP ON A HEAD-UP DISPLAY
TESTER’S NOTE An interesting feature making its Audi’s new adaptive debut on the A3 – Audi claims it’s suspension set-up a world first – is head-up-ready includes three-axis preparation. The design of the accelerometers to instrument binnacle makes it detect movement and much easier to add in the colour surface conditions, head-up display at a later date, acting independently because the preparation kit can be to adjust the dampers pre-installed at the factory. on all four corners in According to Audi’s engineers, near-real time. DH it will be far easier for dealers to upgrade this kit by removing the steering wheel and digital screen before slotting in the head-up display hardware. The large colour display can then project directly onto the windscreen. This may prompt some retailers to order cars for stock with the preparation pre-installed to either sell as an upgrade to customers or to add to used stock returning from PCP deals later to improve a car’s appeal in the used market.
A3 hatchbacks are five-door only this time but Audi has created a more overtly sporty-looking design cornering speeds and stability across It certainly feels smoother than While maintaining a similar power presumably due to how it links with the board, in comparison with the previous iterations of this unit did, output to the older 1.6-litre TDI the mild-hybrid system to provide outgoing A3, but the sophistication too. When matched with the S tronic engine, the only noticeable area that energy recuperation when slowing. of the suspension underneath varies seven-speed automatic gearbox, it this 2.0-litre unit concedes to its The turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol across the line-up. If your A3 has makes for an ideal long-distance more powerful relation is outright engine will be available without less than 148bhp, it gets a torsion- driver. All diesel A3 engines also acceleration. Once up to speed, it the BAS, featuring the cylinder-on- beam rear axle. The more powerful gain a twin-dosing AdBlue system clips along nicely, and a drive with demand technology that enables it to variants benefit from superior to help reduce NOx emissions, the six-speed manual confirms that run on two cylinders during lighter multi-link suspension with a especially at higher speeds. this less potent version still makes engine loads. separate spring and damper A few months after the initial roll- for a sensible buy. Regardless of which engine you design. Finally, the S line comes out in the UK, the A3 line-up will Smoother still is the 48V mild- go for, the A3’s core strengths are with a stiffer passive set-up as be expanded by the introduction hybrid petrol 35 TFSI. Its BAS (belt its exterior design, a significantly standard, reducing the ride height of a 114bhp diesel version (still a alternator/starter) ensures near- improved interior and a more and centre of gravity by 15mm. 2.0-litre but badged 30 TDI) with seamless engine restarts at traffic polished driving experience than All of the A3’s engines have been a more tempting benefit-in-kind lights and can provide for engine-off before. It bodes well for the model re-engineered and, in the case of the tax rate – as low as 21%, depending coasting at up to 100mph to save line as it expands to sportier S3 35 TDI (2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel), on spec – that will undoubtedly fuel. The only blot in its copybook models and beyond. this has resulted in quieter operation. appeal to company car drivers. is a wooden-feeling brake pedal, DAVE HUMPHREYS AUDI A3 SPORTBACK 35 TDI S LINE S TRONIC Bolder design, more choice and improved driving dynamics make the A3 stand out more than ever AAAAC Price £31,650 (from £24,900) Engine 4 cyls, 1968cc, turbo, diesel Power 148bhp at 3000-4200rpm Torque 265lb ft at 1600-2750rpm Gearbox 7-spd automatic Kerb weight 1410kg 0-62mph 8.4sec Top speed 139mph Economy 72.4-76.3mpg CO2, tax band 98-103g/km, 22-23% RIVALS BMW 1 Series, Mercedes- Boot is 380 litres, as before, but swells to 1200 litres with the rear seats down Benz A-Class, VW Golf
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 47 MERCEDES-BENZTESTED 18.3.20, STUTTGART, GERMANY ON SALE SUMMER PRICE £37,700 (EST) GLA 250 4MATIC Second-generation Audi Q2 and BMW X2 rival rolls out of Stuttgart with a greater emphasis on its crossover billing
48 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 FIRST DRIVES he original Mercedes-Benz GLA wheelbase at 2729mm, its interior was an undoubted success from has actually grown in size, notably in its launch in 2014, with sales the rear, where it’s now considerably T that touched the one million roomier than before. mark worldwide. But with all the At its launch, the new GLA marketing nonsense that surrounded will be offered with two different it stripped away, the high-riding four-cylinder petrol engines and a hatchback was in essence not much single four-cylinder diesel engine more than a rebodied version of the across seven models, although not third-generation A-Class, and the all are planned for sale in the UK. claim to it being a genuine crossover The entry point is the front- was somewhat empty in terms of wheel-drive GLA 200, which uses pure function. a turbocharged 1.3-litre petrol unit This new one is different – and all sourced from Renault and delivering the better for it. Developed as part of 161bhp and 184lb ft. It’s joined by the an eight-strong Mercedes compact initial range-topping GLA 250, in car line-up, it has been given the front- and four-wheel-drive guises necessary design and engineering with a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol scope to evolve into a much more engine making 222bhp and 258lb ft. rounded and talented rival to the The two diesel models, both with Audi Q2 and BMW X2. the choice of front- or four-wheel While the mechanical similarities drive, use the same turbocharged to its lower-riding sibling remain, a 2.0-litre four-cylinder powerplant whole host of unique touches help not but in differing states of tune. It has only to provide the second-generation 148bhp and 234lb ft in the GLA GLA with a more stand-alone 200d, while it produces 187bhp character but also to instil the car and 295lb ft in the GLA 220d. with the inherent qualities to make it The GLA 200 is fitted with a more appealing on many fronts. standard seven-speed dual-clutch Before we get into the finer points automatic gearbox supplied by of the way the GLA drives, though, Getrag, while all other new GLA we should consider its altered form. models receive an eight-speed dual- Styling is always subjective, so we’ll clutch gearbox built by Mercedes. sidestep judgement on the new GLA’s It’s the top-of-the-line GLA bolder appearance. What you should 250 4Matic we’re in here, and the know, however, is that its dimensions similarities to other recent new have changed: length has been Mercedes models can’t be denied. reduced by 14mm to 4410mm, Inside, the dashboard, controls while width extends by 30mm and free-standing digital display to 1834mm and height is up by a will be familiar to anyone who considerable 104mm at 1611mm has set foot in the latest A-Class without the optional roof rails. hatchback, A-Class Saloon, B-Class, By comparison, the Q2 measures CLA, CLA Shooting Brake or GLB. 4191mm long, 1794mm wide and Our highly equipped test car 1508mm high, while the BMW X2 featured optional 10.2in twin stretches to a respective 4360mm, displays along with a multicolour 1824mm and 1526mm. head-up display unit in place of Don’t think the reduction in length the pair of standard 7.0in screens, has greatly reduced its versatility, giving it a rather upmarket air that’s though. With a 30mm-longer further accentuated by Mercedes’ ◊
The new GLA is not as long as before but is actually roomier inside
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 49 ∆ latest multi-function steering Despite the decrease in overall wheel and lots of brushed- length, Mercedes has managed to aluminium-look trim. squeeze an extra 14 litres of load So configured, it’s all fittingly volume into the boot, which, with premium in look and feel, and a capacity of 435 litres, now offers with the latest in conversational 30 litres more than the Q2 but voice recognition and touchscreen still 35 litres less than the X2. functions within easy reach of the Out on the road, the GLA 250’s steering wheel, it’s quite intuitive, engine provides solid performance. too. The response from the It never feels quite as refined as the infotainment system and MBUX 2.0 TSI unit used by the Q2 nor as operating system is particularly smooth in nature as the engine that impressive, making it easy to set powers the X2 xDrive20i. But with commands on the go. little obvious lag and a good deal Befitting the GLA’s crossover of low-end torque, it endows the positioning, its front seats are junior Mercedes crossover with mounted 140mm higher than purposeful off-the-line and mid- those in the A-Class hatchback. In range acceleration, as reflected in combination with its increased ride its claimed 0-62mph time of 6.7sec. Off-road mode gives four-wheel-drive models decent capability in the rough height, this provides the GLA with a Scrolling through the various more commanding driving position. driving modes alters the acoustic The added height within the body qualities quite markedly. In Comfort, if not outstanding, combined fuel the new GLA a larger footprint than also brings a 22mm increase in the exhaust note is nicely subdued economy figure of 40.9mpg. its predecessor and, in combination front head room compared with and distanced from the cabin. Switch It’s the chassis and the with increased volume to the wheel the first-generation model. into Sport, though, and it becomes improvements that Mercedes’ houses, the ability to offer a wider It’s an agreeably airy and instantly more determined in nature, engineers have brought to the ride range of alloy wheel sizes, from the relatively spacious driving with a raspy timbre under load and and handling that really stand standard 17in up to 20in. environment by class standards. the odd crackle on a trailing throttle out, though. The basis for this is To this, the GLA 250 4Matic The rear gets a fixed seat as serving to engage enthusiast drivers. the updated MFA platform, which adds a reworked multi-plate-clutch standard but, as with the latest The action of the gearbox, which brings increased rigidity and four-wheel drive system with B-Class and the new GLB, there’s an can be controlled via steering wheel- stiffness, as well as a decision to electromechanical instead of the optional bench with 140mm of fore mounted shift paddles, is quite provide all new GLA models with a earlier hydraulic operation, as well and aft adjustment and, crucially, decisive on upshifts. However, it’s suspension featuring a combination as fully variable apportioning of 116mm more rear leg room than sometimes caught out as you step of MacPherson struts up front and power to each axle depending on before. Longer door apertures with off the throttle in automatic mode, multi-links at the rear, together with prevailing grip levels. In Comfort and less intrusion from the rear wheel leading to the odd less-than-smooth optional adaptive damping control. Eco modes, the drive is distributed arches also ease entry to the second downshift as you brake to a halt Along with the 30mm increase in a nominal 80% front, 20% rear row, although rear head room has for traffic lights. With quite long in the wheelbase, the tracks have split, while in Sport mode it’s set up to been reduced by 6mm, due to the new gearing, it also helps endow the also been widened by 36mm at the deliver a more rear-biased (30% front, GLA’s more heavily sloping roofline. GLA 250 4Matic with a reasonable, front and 46mm at the rear, giving 70% rear) apportioning of drive. In
TESTER’S NOTE Mercedes makes a big play of its driver assistant systems, claiming class-leading technology in this respect for the new GLA. However, the standard Active Brake Assist and Active Lane Keeping systems are overly intrusive. They often trigger the brakes, introduce steering wheel input and sound an alarm when it’s not required. GK
The GLA is very refined with a quiet, compliant ride, even on optional 20in alloy wheels
50 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 FIRST DRIVES VARIATIONS ON THE GLA THEME The new GLA will be offered in seven different model variants with both front- and four-wheel drive from the beginning of sales. But there are more to come. The petrol-electric plug-in hybrid GLA 250e EQ Power is due on sale by the end of this year, running a 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbo engine and an electric motor for a total 250bhp and 332lb ft. Also set for UK sale is the GLA 35 4Matic+ and GLA 45 4Matic+ from Mercedes’ AMG performance car division. Both run a heavily reworked version of the GLA 250’s turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. This makes 302bhp and 295lb ft in the GLA 35, while the GLA 45 has 316bhp and 369lb ft or an even stronger 387bhp and 354lb ft ❝ in its range-topping S guise. There is an ease to the driving that makes it very appealing from an everyday point of view ❞ A commanding driving position enhances the GLA’s crossover billing; cabin has an appropriately premium feel
Off-road mode, it offers and evenly excellent levels of grip. There’s a qualities of 4Matic models, which Mercedes must be complimented balanced 50/50 front/rear split. sheer ease to the driving that makes come as standard with an Off-Road on the new GLA. It’s a far more The on-road character alters quite it very appealing from an everyday Engineering Package. rounded and complete car than its a bit depending on the driving mode, point of view. The new GLA is never going to take predecessor, with greater dynamism giving the new GLA a broader range With a good degree of spring travel you deep into the jungle or the desert and maturity to the way it drives, of qualities than before and the sort and the optional adaptive damping without the benefit of proper off-road a considerably richer and roomier of cross-market appeal it is going to the ride is fairly compliant, even tyres and mechanical differential interior and improved levels of need to launch a greater challenge with the largest wheel choice and locks. However, the ability of its versatility and quality throughout. to its premium-brand rivals. 225/45 R20 Bridgestone Alenza reworked four-wheel drive system However, we suspect the The weighting of the tyres of our test car. Road noise is to vary the amount of drive to each ownership experience will hinge electromechanical steering is quite also well isolated from the cabin. axle – together with a downhill speed greatly on the drivetrain. In four- light, but there’s precision to its In fact, overall refinement has been regulation, a unique Off-road mode wheel-drive GLA 250 guise, it’s action, even if it fails to impart much greatly improved, making for more that alters the intervention of the convincingly powerful and punchy, in the way of genuine road feel. enjoyable long-distance travel. anti-lock braking system, multibeam with distinct sporting qualities. Despite its raised ride height, the The G in the GLA name stands for LED headlights with an integrated But we’ll need to spend time in GLA 250 4Matic also manages fine the German word Gelände, meaning off-road function and a moderate more affordable front-wheel-drive body control and engaging agility. terrain. And having experienced the amount of ground clearance – does models before we can say if the Quick directional changes are met new GLA away from the bitumen, help it go places few prospective new GLA has truly hit the target. with progressive movements and we can vouch for the limited off-road owners are ever likely to consider. GREG KABLE MERCEDES-BENZ GLA 250 4MATIC Second-generation crossover is a far more complete and likeable offering than its predecessor AAAAC Price £37,700 (est) Engine 4 cyls, 1991cc, turbo, petrol Power 222bhp at 5500rpm Torque 258lb ft at 1800-4000rpm Gearbox 8-spd dual-clutch automatic Kerb weight 1525kg 0-62mph 6.7sec Top speed 149mph Economy 40.9mpg CO2, tax band 163g/km, 37% RIVALS Audi Q2 40 TFSI quattro, Rear bench seat that slides 140mm forwards and backwards is an option BMW X2 xDrive20i
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 51 FORDTESTED 18.3.20, SURREY ON SALE APRILKUGA PRICE £33,095-£37,795 (2.5 PHEV) All-new version of Ford’s best-selling SUV, tested here in plug-in hybrid guise, marries Focus-like dynamics with SUV practicality
52 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 FIRST DRIVES
t’s fair to say the Kuga has driving modes in the form of always been a bit of an SUV adaptive cruise control and slow burner. The original, steering assist. There’s cutting- launched in 2008, looked great edge connectivity and a healthy and steered more sweetly than smattering of TFT screens, too. the competition yet it failed to sell Yet despite all of this, the Kuga is strongly. The second-generation a claimed 80kg lighter than its Kuga arrived in 2013 and was a similarly specified predecessor. product of the global ‘One Ford’ In the case of this plug-in policy that meant it had to work as hybrid version, that’s harder to well in New York as it did Neasden. verify, because there’s no direct It grew in size but retained its comparison, but at 1844kg, it’s predecessor’s ability to entertain 50kg lighter than a Mitsubishi its driver. After a slow start, sales Outlander PHEV. It’s still no took off and, in its last couple lightweight, but that’s not bad of years on sale, it hit its stride, given how much is packaged becoming Ford’s best-selling SUV. beneath the all-new skin. So there’s quite a bit resting on Powering this plug-in version the latest version. New from the is a variant of the Atkinson-cycle ground up, it’s arguably the most 2.5-litre petrol four-pot already ambitious iteration yet. Not only seen in the Ford Escape, which does the Kuga take a different was the North American version of design approach from its forebears, the previous Kuga. Mated to what but it also features Ford’s broadest is essentially a CVT gearbox (see range of powerplants yet, including box, overleaf), it’s boosted by an petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid diesel electric motor fed by a 14.4kWh and, here, petrol plug-in hybrid. lithium ion battery. The power It’s also bigger and more output is 222bhp (petrol 113bhp, spacious than before and packs electric 109bhp) and the electric all the latest showroom lures, motor can propel the Kuga at up including semi-autonomous to 85mph and for up to 35 miles ◊
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 53 ❝ It delivers Ford’s trademark blend of comfort and control as you slice cleanly from bend to bend ❞ Roomy cabin shares much with the Focus and is well equipped but it falls short of a premium feel
∆ before internal combustion takes is brisk rather than quick, being it’s worked hard. The sense of calm is the batteries are located as low and over or you can find a recharging outgunned by the similarly powerful enhanced by low levels of wind noise centrally as possible. point. (You’ll need six hours from a Vauxhall Grandland X Hybrid. Ford (there’s special acoustic glass for the Add all this together and you get domestic supply for a full charge.) claims 9.2sec for the 0-62mph sprint, windscreen) and suspension that an SUV that handles with impressive In operation, it’s remarkably but the linear nature of the gearbox reduces even big impacts to nothing poise and agility. In fact, it feels effective, the transition between means it never feels that fast or more than a muffled thump. like what it is: a slightly higher and the different motive forces proving responsive. Only when you require The Kuga is underpinned by the heavier Focus. As ever with Ford, smooth and almost inaudible. You some rapid mid-range muscle for same C2 platform that’s used on the it’s the damping that impresses the can run in pure EV mode, or leave overtaking does the Kuga feel really Focus. There are struts up front and most, the Kuga breathing with the it in Hybrid and let the computers lively, the electric motor delivering a a multi-link rear axle, while ST-Line surface, delivering that trademark work out what’s best. Engage Sport helpful burst of torque. versions like our test car get subtly blend of comfort and control as and you summon the combined However, refinement is excellent, stiffer springs and dampers. Yes, it’s you slice cleanly through one bend efforts of petrol and electricity for particularly in EV mode. And when taller than a Focus, but it’s 20mm after another. Sharp ridges and maximum performance. the traditional engine does cut in, you lower than the old Kuga and sits deep potholes can cause a shudder Even then, though, the Kuga only notice its subdued efforts when on a track that’s 44mm wider, plus through the cabin but otherwise the Puma rides with suppleness. The light, electrically assisted steering is far from chatty, but it’s quick and accurate, the Kuga diving for apexes with surprising zeal. Of course, it lacks the smaller Puma’s sense of agility and adjustability but it’s not far behind and there’s genuine poise through quick corners. It’s certainly a more entertaining choice than the Grandland X or Outlander. Only when pushing on through tighter bends does the car’s mass start to tell, with over-ambitious entry speeds giving the torque vectoring system a real workout as it struggles to maintain your chosen line. Another niggle is the braking system, which lacks a totally smooth transition between its regenerative and friction systems, so you need a Latest Kuga has a softer, more rounded appearance and is 20mm lower than its forebear delicate foot to avoid jerkiness. While the Kuga has retained 54 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 FIRST DRIVES GEARBOX ENABLES TWO HYBRID MODES TESTER’S NOTE Most hybrid models favour an auto The majority of Kuga or dual-clutch transmission, but models are front Ford has developed its own ‘Power drive, with four-wheel Split’ system. Essentially, it’s very drive available only as similar to the simple yet effective an option on models set-up that Toyota has been using with the 187bhp in the Prius for years. 2.0-litre diesel. JD Commonly referred to as a CVT, it actually uses a compact planetary gearset sandwiched between a pair of motor/generator units that are mated to the internal combustion unit. This allows the Kuga to operate as both a series and a parallel hybrid. In the parallel hybrid mode, the wheels can be driven by the electric motor, the petrol motor or both together, while in series hybrid use, it can run the petrol unit independently of road speed to charge the batteries or cut in to provide motive power as necessary. Finally, it can use the electric motor to double as a starter for the petrol engine.
What it lacks in outright pace, it makes up for in refinement and mid-range response is strong the well-judged ride and handling unchanged, complete with the same Ford has been striving for. Most of rear bench as far forward as it will balance of its forebears, it looks simple-to-use Sync touchscreen, the materials look and feel good, but go and there’s up to 645 litres, or noticeably different. Gone are the which is installed with the FordPass there’s too much hard and scratchy 581 litres for the plug-in. angles and sharp creases, replaced Connect app that allows you to plastic lower in the cabin. Still, you As for pricing, the plug-in Kuga by softer, more rounded lines. The remotely access and monitor the car’s sit high behind the wheel, with good is pretty much on the money with similarities to the smaller Puma are functions from your phone. visibility ahead. Rear visibility isn’t its rivals, with Titanium models obvious and, if the slightly bulbous There’s a TFT instrument cluster quite as good, with the thick C-pillars starting at a competitive £33,095 new car isn’t as handsome as before, ahead of the driver that changes its limiting your over-the-shoulder view. and rising to £37,795 for the Vignale. then it’s certainly distinctive, ‘theme’ depending on the selected In the rear, there’s now a split We suspect the cheaper petrols will particularly with this ST-Line’s driving mode, the choices of which folding bench that can slide back and be the pick of the line-up, but the colour-coded wheel-arch extensions are Comfort, Sport, Eco, Slippery forth by up to 150mm. With the seats plug-in makes a strong case against and 18in gunmetal grey alloy wheels. and a pseudo off-road setting. pushed back, there’s loads of room its less entertaining rivals from As with its predecessor, there’s Yet while it looks the part, the to stretch out, yet the boot can still Vauxhall and Mitsubishi. a heavy Focus theme inside. The smartly designed interior still falls accommodate 411 litres in the plug-in JAMES DISDALE dashboard is carried over largely short of that premium ambience or 475 litres in other models. Slide the @jamesdisdale FORD KUGA 2.5 PHEV ST-LINE Kuga has lost none of its dynamic flair yet it is now more refined and practical than ever AAAAC Price £35,195 Engine 4 cyls, 2488cc, petrol, plus electric motor Power 222bhp (total system output) Torque na Gearbox CVT Kerb weight 1844kg 0-62mph 9.2sec Top speed 124mph Economy 201.7mpg CO2, tax band 32g/km, 12% RIVALS Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Peugeot 3008 Hybrid, Rear seats split and slide. Binnacle (right) matches colour to drive mode Vauxhall Grandland X Hybrid
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 55 TESTER’S NOTE The Taycan Turbo is more slippery than the S, with the drag coefficient down from 0.25 to 0.22. That puts it among the most aerodynamically efficient production cars on sale. LA
TESTED 23.3.20, SURREY ON SALE NOW PORSCHE TAYCAN TURBO Will the UK’s narrower, bumpier roads put this 671bhp electric Porsche in its place?
his, allegedly, is the year of the current ‘base’ Taycan – the 4S – baulk at the £23,000 jump from around south-east England’s most electric car. “Wait, wasn’t that and with a Turbo S set to undergo Turbo to Turbo S – may see the 81bhp enjoyable Tarmac when the power last year, or the year before?” Autocar’s full road test treatment in deficit between this and the S as reserve wasn’t ample to the point T I hear you cry. Well, this time, the coming weeks, we find ourselves substantial. But, actually, both cars of being excessive. Of course, being we’re inclined to believe it. sliding behind the wheel of the reserve this maximum power rate battery powered, the pick-up is Or rather we were, were it not for middling Turbo. Not that 671bhp and for full-bore launch mode. In normal instantaneous and relentless in this global pandemic forcing mass nearly £116,000 really justifies the driving, both Turbo and Turbo S any situation, but unlike some EVs, factory shutdowns and sending use of the term ‘middling’. make an identical 617bhp. there doesn’t seem to be any let-up car company shares plunging at an Customers for a car in this price Certainly, there wasn’t a single at higher speeds. Be in no doubt that alarming rate. range – people who are unlikely to second during our four-hour drive only a handful of road-legal cars This is the first year that new EU could keep up with the Taycan corporate fleet average emissions Turbo in the real world. Launch targets come into play, prompting control (Sport Plus, left foot hard certain manufacturers to flood the on brake, right foot on throttle) market with the lowest-CO2-emitting brings full power and ensuing cars possible (namely, EVs and plug- seat-pinning hilarity. in hybrids) to help avoid hefty fines. Porsche has also engineered Yet estimates for new car sales in the in some motor whirr to stimulate coming months are bleak at best, and the ears under acceleration, but understandably so, which could put the optional Electric Sport Sound some makers in difficult situations. (standard on the Turbo S) dials it in But, hey, there’s enough doom and further with some sci-fi whooshing gloom around these days. The new, and power-up noises. This may all-electric Porsche Taycan is finally sound cringeworthy, but actually it here, on British roads, and that’s adds an appealing aural reference something to celebrate, if our verdicts as the numbers come thick and fast from launches abroad (remember on the dials. So it’s a Tesla beater going abroad?) are anything to go by. It rides typical UK roads in a well-disciplined and largely jolt-free manner in a straight line. We knew that Having most recently driven the already, but where Porsche carries 56 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 FIRST DRIVES
Taycan doesn’t feel like a 2305kg car from the driver’s seat, helped by clever chassis tuning and quick steering
Taycan Turbo can cover ground at a ferocious pace, with an instant 627lb ft on tap and four-wheel drive
darty, and weighty but consistent. ❝ Forward visibility is excellent (although rearward visibility isn’t Only a handful of road-legal cars could keep great) and the driving position spot on. Even brake pedal feel is largely up with a Taycan Turbo in the real world good. The coasting regeneration is relatively mild because Porsche wants driving the Taycan to be a two- ❞ pedal experience. No, it isn’t as much PORSCHE TAYCAN TURBO the baton farther than EV rivals sports car? It’s certainly the most fun as a 911, but for it to be so close to is in the Taycan’s chassis tuning. dynamically convincing four-seat EV a car more than three-quarters of a The new benchmark for electric It’s reassuring to know that the we’ve driven. It takes 10 minutes on a tonne lighter is extraordinary. performance saloons. Only the price remarkable blend of cornering favourite B-road to discover what an The Taycan is also (smallish and so-so range hold it back composure and usability rings true unprecedented job Porsche has done boot aside) perfectly usable family AAAAB even on pockmarked UK Tarmac. in disguising the Taycan’s 2.3-tonne transport, with ample leg and head Let’s start with ride comfort, kerb weight. It feels lighter on its room for two adults in the rear. The Price £115,858 which sits somewhere between the feet than a Panamera, despite being interior is as well finished as it should Engine Two electric motors plushness of a Panamera and the 300kg heavier, with sharp turn-in be for the price and it takes little Power 617bhp (671bhp on purposeful firmness of a 911. In and unflappable body control. time to get used to the dual-screen ‘overboost’) normal mode with the adaptive air Our car has optional Dynamic dashboard layout. Torque 627lb ft suspension at its softest, it does a Chassis Control, bringing active roll The only area in which the Taycan Gearbox Single-stage transmission passable impression of an executive stabilisation, which probably helped isn’t top of the EV tree is range – (front), dual-speed (rear) saloon, and although really battered matters. Only extreme direction crucial for many. Its 800V tech means Kerb weight 2305kg surfaces still send the odd jolt changes reveal the substantial an 80% charge is possible (with a 0-60mph 3.0sec through the body, it’s less unsettled weight transfer in action. The torque- rare 350kW charger) in as little as Top speed 161mph (governed) than a Mercedes-AMG E63. With vectoring four-wheel drive also 22 minutes, but while the Turbo’s Battery 93.4kWh the 20in wheels and Michelin Pilot makes traction nigh-on impossible to quoted 279-mile figure isn’t bad, the Range 279 miles Sport 4S tyres of our test car, road break on the road, although there’s a Tesla Model S Performance claims to CO2, tax band 0g/km, 0% noise is also much more subdued welcome sense of rear-biased power go 88 miles further on a charge. RIVALS Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door than a 911, for example. delivery on the exit of corners. LAWRENCE ALLAN Coupé, Tesla Model S But, crucially, is the Taycan a The steering feels quick but not @loballan MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 57 TESTED 22.2.20, SURREY ON SALE NOW BMW M8 COMPETITION COUPE Big-hitting all-rounder lacks the single edge it needs over rivals on UK roads
his feels like the ‘right’ M8 to me. The coupé, here driven in the UK for the first time. It’s T smaller and lighter than a four- door Gran Coupé and less floppy than a Convertible. And two fewer doors than an M5, with which this large ‘M’ platform otherwise shares a good amount – the same 616bhp 4.4-litre V8 and automatic four-wheel drive. Which can also be put into rear-drive. Goody. BMW’s big platform underpins 5, M8 impresses at speed; two red buttons on steering wheel are for driving modes 7 and 8 Series but the M8 coupé has a shorter wheelbase than the M5, sits Inside, the M8 is thoroughly mode, it has all the 10mm lower and is firmly sprung to well finished; sumptuous and scope you need to murder the rear character of a Mercedes-AMG GT. keep hold of its 1885kg. comfortable but with a bewildering tyres in short order). I like it a lot in isolation but, when it There’s a 38mm wider rear track array of driving mode controls, On the road, the M8 is an agreeable comes to it, would sign elsewhere. and, underneath, subframes are more as if BMW and Mercedes-AMG are companion. Unlike most of its rivals, MATT PRIOR firmly attached to the shell – so this competing to see which can create you can, at least, get a couple of is a more rigid car; more suited, you’d this year’s most baffling cabin. people in the back (they’ll complain @matty_prior argue, to being a super-GT. Familiarity helps a little and there are less than they would in a 911, though That, and its price, plus the fact two red buttons on a busy steering wouldn’t want to be there too long) BMW M8 COMPETITION COUPE that it’s the fastest BMW ever, gives wheel to programme your preferred while there’s a decent boot, too. it a vast array of rivals; everything modes. I suspect after a few weeks But for practicality, which could be Tries to do all things, having grand from a Porsche 911 to a Bentley of trial and error you’ll find one that a deal breaker, the M8 doesn’t have touring and sporting behaviour, but Continental GT (I’ve tested it against works as your base mode and another the ride deftness of the best GT cars. is ultimately compromised on both both on video, online this week), for occasional faster driving. A 911 is no less comfortable, although AAABC via the Mercedes-AMG GT, Audi R8 The M8, despite its girth, is more it is less spacious and noisy. But it and even McLaren GT. impressive during the faster stuff. drives with so much more agility and Price £123,435 In essence, it’s a 2+2 that’s meant to As well as the 616bhp, the engine poise you’d forgive it that one thing, Engine V8, 4395cc, turbocharged, do everything. A daily car designed to makes a flat 553bhp figure all the given the BMW doesn’t pull out a petrol entertain, up to and including going way from 1800-5800rpm. At a test strong comfort advantage. Power 616bhp at 6000rpm on a race track. With a 0-62mph time track, the car’s inherent pace was In fact, the lesser 850i is a more Torque 553lb ft at 1800-5800rpm of 3.2sec, a (delimited) top speed evident. It doesn’t feel quite as urgent pleasing every-day car, a better GT Gearbox 8-spd automatic of 190mph and optional carbon- as its headline acceleration time that’s more comfortable and has no Kerb weight 1885kg ceramic brakes, it has the credentials suggests but I think that’s down to little poise itself. As speeds rise, the Top speed 155mph (190mph delimited) for a track, though I think an M8 the soft, big-boosting nature of its M8 Competition doesn’t truly satisfy 0-62mph 3.2sec Competition (there’s a less hardcore performance. It grips brilliantly, like a sports car to set it apart from Economy 25.4mpg non-Competition one available starts to slide and then has the this or its rivals, either. It lacks the CO2, tax band 242g/km, 37% overseas) would be surprised to find security of four-wheel drive to pull steering feel of a 911 or the agility RIVALS Audi R8, Mercedes AMG GT its owner had taken it to one. it straight easily (or, in rear-drive of an R8, or the brute muscle car
TESTER’S NOTE There are some 12 different M models on BMW’s website. I understand why, but wonder if fewer, better ones would be good for us, if not the bottom line. MP
58 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 FIRST DRIVES
TESTER’S NOTE Lamborghini’s new sports seats cost a whopping £6156 but are a game-changer for a brand that has never matched Ferrari or Porsche when it comes to positioning the driver. Gone is the awkwardly perched sensation and there’s more leg room than before. The Evo now feels like a supercar as well as looking – and going – like one. RL
TESTED 21.3.20, BEDFORDSHIRE ON SALE NOW LAMBORGHINI HURACAN EVO RWD New rear-wheel-drive version is the cheapest Evo and, for keen drivers, the most fun
amborghini likes to keep What you lose, apart from the The dual-clutch gearbox is another this is less desirable than a perfectly us waiting for the sweetest front driveshafts, is the standard highlight, and the paddle shifters are flat body, but it feels far more derivative of its entry-level Evo’s four-wheel steering and torque- a joy to use, being nicely weighted satisfying. Really chase throttle and L supercar. It’s a cruel habit, vectoring electronics. You also lose and enacting ultra-quick changes. you’ll also get the rear tyres ever so and one that took root in 2009 with 33kg from the kerb weight and 29bhp As a method of reloading the engine slightly over-rotating with a delicacy the much-loved Gallardo LP550-2 from the howling 5.2-litre V10, which for another surge to the 8500rpm that’s beyond the regular Evo. Balboni, which arrived a mere six is otherwise transplanted directly redline, this takes some beating. Equally, there’s so much grip that years after the original ‘baby Lambo’. from the bowels of the outgoing Equally, if you want to lope about for outright oversteer you need to There was then a delay of two years Huracán Performante. It’s a nominal in Strada mode, with the dampers provoke the car and use some weight between the Huracán LP610-4 and decrease in power, and one designed usefully softened off (Sport remains transfer; and if the RWD has a vice, the far better LP580-2. And now, only to usher more suggestible customers marginally too firm for the road, and it’s that the tail can snatch wide after the coupé and Spyder versions towards the more expensive four- Corsa is straight-up brittle), this ’box sharply and requires concentration to of the widely revised Huracán Evo wheel-drive Huracán. For the rest goes about its business gently, leaning catch. The F8 Tributo is more playful have enjoyed generous head starts, of us, the RWD’s 602bhp, 413lb ft on the engine’s torque. In fact, and forgiving in this sense and, just Lamborghini has presented its latest and 0-62mph time of 3.3sec (versus drivability at low speeds is excellent. maybe, a little less authentic. potential gem: the Huracán Evo RWD. 2.9sec for the regular Evo) are more But by far the best thing about That’s the thing about this latest As the name suggests, and as than enough to be getting on with. the RWD is that where the regular Huracán: beyond the noise and formerly denoted in Lamborghini The RWD is also the finer driver’s Huracán must be driven at breakneck performance, it’s more gritty and nomenclature by ‘2’, this is a rear- car. When combined, the sound speed to express itself, this car flows involving than typical Lamborghini wheel-drive model. It is also now the and the performance are as giddily more sweetly at sensible speeds and fare, and the additional polish in most attainable rung on the Huracán pulverising as ever, and even without feels less frenetic. Without rear wheels the steering and handling add up to ladder, costing £34,000 less than the four-wheel drive, there’s never any that swivel, the steering rack can something special. ‘normal’, four-wheel-drive Evo. At issue with straight-line traction, at feel lazy mid-corner, but without the RICHARD LANE £164,000, the RWD is priced closer least on dry roads. All you ever hear corruption of driveshafts, its initial @_rlane_ to the £149,000 McLaren 570S than about is this magnificent engine’s top travel is cleaner and lighter, and less Ferrari’s £203,500 F8 Tributo, but end, but so big are its lungs that you’ll unsprung mass means the front axle LAMBORGHINI HURACAN EVO RWD there are some eye-watering options. have left almost anything else for also rides bumps in the road more The transparent engine cover alone dead by the time the needle has even fluently. Better still, with nothing The most involving car Lamborghini costs £4860, while composite brake reached 4000rpm, and from then on pulling the car’s nose along, there’s makes and genuinely good to drive discs will set you back £5412 and a things only get wilder. It’s one of the more of a squatting sensation at the but still short of the best from Ferrari DAB radio an indefensible £648. greatest road car engines ever built. rear through corners. Technically, AAAAB Price £164,400 Engine V10, 5204cc, petrol Power 602bhp at 8000rpm Torque 413lb ft at 6500rpm Gearbox 7-spd dual-clutch automatic Dry weight 1389kg 0-62mph 3.3sec Top speed 202mph Economy 20.5mpg CO2, tax band 330g/km, 37% RIVALS Audi R8 RWD, Ferrari F8 RWD is more enjoyable at road speeds than the four-wheel-drive Evo and it still feels suitably supercar inside Tributo, McLaren 570S
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 59 TESTER’S NOTE Imagine the serenity of a Bentley Mulsanne paired with the silent running of a Tesla Model S. In effect, that’s what you get with this A8. NW
TESTED 23.3.20, SURREY ON SALE NOW AUDI A8 L 60 TFSIe Does petrol-electric power elevate Audi’s luxury limousine to an even higher level? his might come as something of The 0-62mph sprint takes However, with that big battery on So, should your A8 be a plug-in a surprise, but if we had to pick just 4.9sec (quicker than both the board, the 60 TFSIe is unsurprisingly hybrid? That depends on how you’ll a car that best demonstrates the 745Le and S560e L) and it’s able to not exactly a driver’s car. It wallows a use it. If you cover many motorway T virtues of electrification, this accelerate up to an electronically bit through bends on its standard air miles, go for a diesel, because you new Audi plug-in hybrid might be it. limited 155mph on the autobahn. suspension, its steering is accurate won’t reap the benefits of the electric Why? Well, judged solely on what a But with most 60 TFSIes destined but devoid of feel and its brakes element. But if you spend a lot of time luxury limousine needs to deliver, to spend life ferrying high-flying can be a little inconsistent in their in town, the 60 TFSIe is a no-brainer. namely supreme refinement and execs around cities, we suspect that operation. It’s a car that wants you to As well as being smoother than smoothness for passengers and low a 28.6-mile electric range (compared drive like a chauffeur – so much so, in the diesel, it’s quieter than a pair of running costs for the owner, the A8 with 28-31 for the BMW and 25 for fact, that it will even give you lessons. Bose noise-cancelling headphones 60 TFSIe isn’t simply on par with its the Mercedes) will be of more interest Predictive sat-nav data is used to and very frugal; we saw more than petrol and diesel siblings but better. to buyers than outright performance. help you manage the battery’s charge, 100mpg on our inner-city test route. Then again, it should be. BMW and Indeed, with its 14.1kWh battery so you’ll receive plenty of electrical Plus, with that 28.6-mile electric Mercedes-Benz have offered plug- fully charged, this A8 to all intents assistance on a shorter journey but range and an official CO2 rating of in hybrid versions of their largest and purposes functions just like an more help from the petrol engine on just 60g/km, it makes for a relatively limos for a couple of years already, electric car, with its motor producing a longer one. The accelerator pedal cheap company car and is exempt giving the engineers at Ingolstadt enough poke for most situations. It will even nudge your right foot when from London’s congestion charge. something to aim for as well as can even reach 84mph on electricity you’re approaching a lower speed If figures like those don’t clearly the opportunity to make use of the alone, making for a beautifully serene limit to remind you to lift off so that demonstrate to you the virtues of newest hybrid technology available. experience for passengers, with no juice can be sent back to the battery; electrification, we can’t see what will. That technology includes a 126bhp engine noise or jerky gearchanges the system can recover 25kW from NEIL WINN ‘permanently excited’ electric motor disturbing the relaxed ambience. coasting and 80kW from the brakes. @nwinn86 (like in the electric Porsche Taycan), When the V6 does eventually kick This is a cleverly calibrated system which is paired to a 335bhp 3.0-litre in, the transition from electric to that not only improves electric range AUDI A8 L 60 TFSIe turbocharged V6 petrol engine. Their petrol power is almost undetectable. but also makes you a smoother driver, combined output of 443bhp is sent This, combined with a distinct lack benefiting your passengers. And this Even placing aside its frugality, this to all four wheels through an eight- of wind noise, makes the way the car being an A8, they should already be hybrid feels like far more of a luxury speed automatic gearbox, resulting accelerates somewhat deceptive; it very relaxed, thanks to the all-round product than its diesel range-mate in pretty punchy performance. gains speed like an A380 at take-off. plushness and acres of leg room. AAAAB Price £88,195 Engine V6, 2995cc, turbo, petrol, plus electric motor Power 443bhp (combined) Torque 516lb ft (combined) Gearbox 8-spd automatic Kerb weight 2330kg 0-62mph 4.9sec Top speed 155mph (governed) Economy 108.6mpg CO2, tax band 60g/km, 15% RIVALS BMW 745Le, Ride is a little lumpier but still supple; interior is plusher than rivals’ Mercedes-Benz S560e L
60 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 FIRST DRIVES
TESTER’S NOTE The boot may be much less practical after the soft-top conversion, but there is at least a hatch with remote openers to enable the through-loading of longer items. GK
TESTED 17.3.20, MUNICH, GERMANY ON SALE NOW VOLKSWAGEN T-ROC CABRIOLET New model is Volkswagen’s only convertible and the sole soft-top crossover on sale
dding handsomely to the 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, which retracts and hides above the The problem with that, however, is weight, reducing the structural with 148bhp and 184lb ft of torque, is cargo area in just 12sec, provides you then find yourself enclosed in a rigidity and compromising the terrifically flexible and quite willing an al fresco experience at the press car that has a relatively high shoulder A versatility of one of the most to rev, but it has to work harder while of a button. With the windows up, line, shallow glass and a high rear, popular crossovers around doesn’t on the move and demands more there’s very little wind buffeting up making visibility a key weak point. sound like a clever idea. But that’s gearchanges to achieve this. to around 80mph, making it quite The open-air experience doesn’t exactly what Volkswagen has done. Despite firm damping, the T-Roc pleasant as long as the road isn’t too come without compromises in other The new T-Roc Cabriolet indirectly Cabriolet doesn’t like to be pushed challenging and the weather is right. areas, too. When down, the roof robs replaces the Golf Cabriolet and, with too hard, either. Body roll is pretty Still, it’s unusual. Forget any notion the boot of space and versatility. It the Beetle now also gone, that leaves well controlled – there’s a lower of sportiness: you sit at SUV height, shrinks from 445 litres in the regular it as the brand’s sole open-top model. centre of gravity, due to the lighter just without a roof over your head. T-Roc to 284 litres, while the narrow The styling remains well balanced roof and added weight concentrated The cabin mirrors that of the usual aperture restricts bulky item loading. when the hard top is in place; it’s a within the platform – but flex and T-Roc, with a hard plastic dashboard It’s easy to see why the T-Roc multi-layer fabric structure designed shake are quite noticeable, especially and a mix of precise controls and Cabriolet might tempt some buyers. to mimic the lines of the fixed-roof on less-than-smooth surfaces, inoffensive but not exactly luxurious From the outside, it promises the best T-Roc. To package it, VW has made limiting the ride and handling. trim materials. You can choose Active of both worlds: the versatility of an some notable changes to the platform, It’s not all bad, though, because Info Display digital instruments SUV and the open-air driving appeal the most significant of which is the adopting a more moderate speed and as part of a long list of options, of a convertible. But the reality is that addition of 37mm to the wheelbase, lowering the roof gives the T-Roc which also includes an excellent it’s compromised on both fronts. in turn adding 34mm to the overall Cabriolet a chance to display more infotainment system and the well- GREG KABLE length. There’s also a raft of extra favourable traits. It’s very much in bolstered sports seats of our test car. strengthening measures in the its element at a gentle cruise, even The driving position immediately VOLKSWAGEN T-ROC CABRIOLET floorpan, sills, doors and windscreen. if the effect of flex and shake never feels more intimate than is usual in 1.5 TSI EVO DESIGN These underbody changes create really disappears completely. The the T-Roc, due to the extra rake of one big drawback: the car tested here seven-speed dual-clutch automatic the windscreen and proximity of its Limited in terms of ride and handling weighs almost 200kg more than its would be our choice, but the six-speed header rail, which sits uncomfortably by its porkiness, and loses a fair deal regular equivalent, and it struggles manual is light and precise in action. close within your peripheral vision. of versatility from the regular T-Roc to hide that heft. The turbocharged The swift operation of the roof, It’s better, then, to lower your seat. AAACC Price £28,525 Engine 4 cyls, 1498cc, turbocharged, petrol Power 148bhp Torque 184lb ft at 1500-3500rpm Gearbox 6-spd manual Kerb weight 1524kg 0-62mph 9.6sec Top speed 127mph Economy 44.0mpg CO2, tax band 146g/km, 32% RIVALS BMW 2 Series Convertible, T-Roc cruises nicely but can flex and shake; interior is just about up to scratch Mercedes C-Class Cabriolet
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 61 ROAD TEST
Ford Puma MAX EDLESTON Ford aims to take the crossover class by storm as it revives the Puma name MODEL TESTED 1.0T 125 MHEV TITANIUM
PHOTOGRAPHY Price £20,845 Power 123bhp Torque 155lb ft 0-60mph 10.0sec 30-70mph in fourth 13.5sec Fuel economy 39.0mpg CO2 emissions 96g/km 70-0mph 57.3m 62 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 ROAD TEST iven that the Puma of the late 1990s arrived Range at a glance G with the bold tagline ‘A driver’s dream’, Ford’s ENGINES POWER FROM decision to reprise the name of its 1.0T 123bhp £20,545 pint-size coupé on the tailgate of a 1.0T MHEV 123bhp £20,845 crossover seems perplexing. With a 1.0T MHEV 153bhp £21,595 larger frontal area, a higher centre of gravity and more weight, this TRANSMISSIONS new Puma clearly distances itself 6-spd manual from traditional ‘driver’s dream’ territory where the 1034kg original For now, the UK Puma line-up is did everything budgets would allow relatively straightforward. Power to get closer. comes from Ford’s 1.0-litre Ecoboost But times have changed. Today, the petrol three-pot, which is available Titanium cars have these smart- compact crossover class is bursting with either 123bhp or 153bhp. Mild- looking 10-spoke 17in alloy wheels as at the seams with members as hybrid assistance is an option for standard. ST-Line models also get 17in manufacturers cash in on demand the 123bhp unit and standard on the alloys but in a different style, while and the mass-market space for more 153bhp engine. All are paired with ST-Line X cars move up to 18s. unusual, enthusiast-minded projects a six-speed manual gearbox that has rapidly shrunk. However, what drives the front wheels. The trim this segment has long been devoid of line-up is also simple: our Titanium- is something genuinely good to drive, spec test car represents the entry which is where – Ford says – this new level and is followed by ST-Line and Puma will justify its name. The car ST-Line X. A diesel-powered Puma will slot into the range between the and a sportier ST performance dreary EcoSport and the Kuga and model are in the pipeline, the latter it shares a platform with the Fiesta, expected to be officially revealed at which, as you may have heard, is some point this year. easily the dynamic benchmark in the supermini class. The Puma is the first small Ford available in the UK with 123bhp, in to use hybrid power, in the form of both non-hybrid and mild-hybrid a 48V system bolstering a three- guises, and 153bhp, in mild-hybrid cylinder petrol turbo engine. The form only. Ford is marketing the Headlights are standard projector car’s striking design, which has been Puma heavily on its hybrid status. units on all Puma models. However, the described as ‘anti-wedge’ by one Ford An integrated starter/generator daytime-running lights and rear lights designer, is intended to steal sales replaces the alternator and, as well do make use of LED bulbs and look from more premium brands, notably as recovering some energy during appealingly sharp as a result. Mini. Strong ergonomics are also braking and allowing the car to coast promised, with the Puma possessing with the engine off, provides torque one of the largest boot capacities fill for better throttle response and in the class, more passenger space acceleration. The system can add than the Fiesta and what Ford calls only 37lb ft, so nobody should expect the Megabox, more on which in a dramatically improved acceleration. moment. Fully digital instrument On a related note, with the mild- dials and level two ‘autonomous’ hybrid system masking lag, Ford driver aids should add to its appeal. has been able to add a larger turbo. How, then, does the second coming Cylinder deactivation is then carried of the Puma measure up to the likes over from previous versions of the of the Nissan Juke, Seat Arona, Skoda non-hybrid Ecoboost engine and Kamiq, Renault Captur, Volkswagen can cut three cylinders down to two T-Cross and Mini Countryman? in just 14 milliseconds under light Let’s find out. loads. A 1.5-litre four-cylinder diesel Rear parking camera comes as part of DESIGN AND ENGINEERING will arrive later and an ST version is mooted, but our test car is in 123bhp the £900 Driver Assistance pack, which AAAAC petrol hybrid form with a six-speed also adds a suite of semi-autonomous The Puma is built in Ford’s Craiova manual and 17in alloy wheels. driver aids such as traffic jam assist and plant in Romania and sits on the With its extra ride height, there is adaptive cruise control. same B2 platform as the Fiesta, ‘more’ suspension than in the low- although this has been stretched and riding Fiesta, although the Puma’s widened to meet the more spacious rear torsion beam is said to be stiffer crossover brief. The upsizing is and there are firmer suspension considerable, the new model being bushes and new top mounts. A 146mm longer (95mm of which is common crossover bugbear is overly accounted for in the wheelbase) and firm suspension, a result of trying to 71mm wider than the supermini, contain a taller body while cornering, We like with track width up 58mm. so it will be interesting to see how the Naturally, the roofline also sits Puma fares in this respect as it strives Practical, but genuinely rewarding far higher, while the exterior design for class-topping dynamics. ◊ to drive in any specification rivals that of the Juke for sheer Impressively, ride quality isn’t individuality and references the compromised in order to achieve this original Puma in its slightly bug- eyed, open-mouthed face. Ford has deliberately made the car’s beltline In what is increasingly Ford’s house We don’t like flatter than usual in an effort to keep style, the model name is sprawled Interior lacks design imagination, the car’s proportions balanced and across the tailgate in bold lettering, with some cheaper-looking surfaces less raked towards the nose, as is just as it is on the new Focus. We think Many will expect better fuel commonplace among rivals. it suits the compact crossover rather economy from a hybrid powertrain Under the bulbous bonnet is a well, actually. 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol unit Previous Ford Puma was a small coupé MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 63 Weights and measures DIMENSIONS
0.32
860mm
1010mm max 401- 1554mm 1161 litres
720mm 1120mm max
Kerb weight: 1205kg 850mm 2588mm 748mm 4186mm Front seats offer good lateral support. The inclusion of the £300 Comfort pack PARKING adds seat heaters and a heated steering wheel as well. Worth it in winter. T ypical garage height Typical parking space width (2400mm) 2090mm
Typical leg room 720mm
1940mm (with mirrors) Rear door apertures are a touch narrow but there’s enough room for two adults to 3450mm sit comfortably back here. Three small children should be able to fit at a push, too.
WHEEL AND PEDAL ALIGNMENT Throttle and brake pedals could be slightly closer, but otherwise the positioning 80mm 35mm is fine. The clutch pedal’s travel is fairly short, but 140mm the bite point is easy to read. The steering column’s Width 990-1000mm slight offset doesn’t prove uncomfortable, either. Height 410-660mm HEADLIGHTS Length 710-1520mm Beam spread and brightness when the headlights are dipped are reasonably limited but work well 10mm enough. We weren’t able to Centre try them on full beam. Fold the rear seats down and you can extend the available boot space from 401 litres to 1161 litres. Back seats can split and fold through a 60:40 ratio.
INTERIOR a wide range of adjustability in the The manual gearshifter could sit a bit Megabox. This hard plastic container steering column and seat base, higher up and squeak a bit less when is ideal for carrying muddy boots or AAAAC which affords you the opportunity you use it, mind. sodden raincoats and comes with a Ford hasn’t been quite as to sit in a marginally lower, slightly Passenger space in the second row plug in the floor so it can be rinsed adventurous with the Puma’s interior more immersive driving position is reasonable enough, but those sat in out and drained. styling as it was with its bold exterior. than you’ll find in many of its rivals. the back won’t feel quite as separated PERFORMANCE In fact, there’s really very little about Given the Puma’s heightened focus as they might in a T-Cross or Kamiq. the compact crossover’s cabin to on energetic driver appeal, this Our tape measure revealed 860mm AAAAC separate it from any other vehicle in flexibility is welcome. of head room (the Captur we road The Puma’s powertrain has a the Ford line-up. Long gone are the days when tested last week had 920mm) and a downsized, turbo three-pot capable Finished largely in darker shades Ford saw fit to adorn its dashboards typical leg room figure of 720mm of shutting off entirely when the car’s of cloth and soft and hard plastics, with an almost infinite selection (up to 680mm in the Renault). coasting; of deactivating a cylinder it’s a slightly drab environment in of tiny buttons, too. The controls In mild-hybrid guise, the Puma’s when running lean; and of leaning which to spend time. Next to the for the HVAC system, heated seats boot isn’t quite as capacious as it on a 15bhp, 37lb ft electric motor to likes of the more expressive Captur, it and Quickclear windscreen are could be. The additional battery boost overall efficiency, outright feels decidedly ordinary, and almost thoughtfully sized and spaced, while drops outright space from 456 to performance or drivability. It works ascetic when compared with the ritzy gentle blue backlighting makes them 401 litres with the rear seats in place really well 99% of the time to conceal new Peugeot 2008. easy to read. The 8.0in touchscreen (the Captur has 422 litres). Lift the the technical complexity needed to But what it lacks in form it isn’t quite as difficult as some boot floor, though, and you’ll reveal achieve all that. makes up for in function. There’s systems to use on the move, either. the Puma’s party piece: the 80-litre It hauls the car along from ◊ 64 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 ROAD TEST
Drive mode selector sits on the centre console, just A wireless charging slot comes as standard on all Removable boot floor can be positioned so as not to aft of the gearlever. Lowered position can make it a Puma models. It doubles as a handy storage tray if sit flush with the mouth of the Megabox, liberating a touch tricky to find on the move on first acquaintance. your phone isn’t compatible, too. storage cavity between that and the main boot space.
Multimedia system AAABC
All Pumas sold in the UK have Ford’s Sync3 infotainment system as standard. This comprises an 8.0in touchscreen that’s used to operate effectively all of the suite’s main features, which include sat-nav, DAB radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Its responsiveness is fine but, as we’ve written previously, it wants for graphical sophistication – particularly in comparison to its Volkswagen Group rivals. The shortcut buttons that run along the bottom edge of the screen give quick access to all of the primary sub-menus, although physical buttons around the display’s border would still be preferable. FordConnect comes as standard across the range, too, adding a wi-fi hotspot with connectivity for up to 10 devices. Meanwhile, the FordPass mobile app includes handy features such as a vehicle locator and vehicle status checker, so you can verify the fuel level and oil status remotely, and unlock the doors as well.
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 65 ❝ The handling makes you question whether you’re driving a crossover at all ❞
∆ lowish revs with impressive exceptional showing. But the fact that lower gear. It’s best not to downshift to produce anything genuinely responsiveness and a pleasingly it was almost 7.0sec (or about 40%) in the middle of a deceleration appealing to drive. accessible sense of oomph. Perhaps quicker accelerating from 30mph phase where you can avoid it, since Our test car had no particular more important, it only allows you to to 70mph in fourth gear than the doing so interferes slightly with the advantage to its specification in become aware of the complexity of its 1.0-litre turbocharged Juke we tested regenerative braking you get from this respect: it was a Titanium-trim operating brief in the most fleeting late last year illustrates the difference the hybrid system and spoils the example without the lowered sport moments – sometimes with a hint of made by Ford’s hybrid system. initial braking response a little. suspension that an ST-Line would inconsistency in its braking response When pulling from low engine HANDLING AND STABILITY have had and its 17in rims left plenty if you happen to knock the car out of speeds in higher gears, you can feel of room to further increase the gear early when decelerating, or with the torque it contributes quite clearly AAAAA outright grip level. And yet its lateral a slightly abrupt take-up of drive just – and, if you watch the tacho needle, The Puma was clearly intended body control and chassis response as you tip into the accelerator pedal. you can also feel the point in the rev to be a crossover hatchback that were both excellent and its steering These are problems you’d be likely range (just above 4000rpm) when would handle before it left the gently meaty in its weighting and to become conscious of only if you the electric motor has to switch off. designer’s sketchbook. It’s lower- crisply incisive in its feel. were anticipating them, though. The car has a healthy-feeling rising and more athletic-looking Just as the driving position seems Considering how much it plainly outright performance level for mixed than most of its class opponents to place you only medium-high at does to boost low-rev torque, saving road driving and a short, pleasant, and quite clearly carried certain the wheel, so the keen, level, agile you from otherwise necessary well-defined gearshift action. It’s key advantages forward into its and engaging handling makes you gearchanges, the mild-hybrid system smooth enough and as powerful dynamic development phase for its question whether you’re driving a adds much more to the car’s overall and stable as it needs to be, under chassis engineers to seize on. Even crossover at all. The car arcs neatly drivability than it detracts. braking, although it’s easier to judge so, it’s remarkable how well those towards an apex and maintains its On a wet test day, the Puma took your initial pedal inputs once you’ve engineers have done and how clearly dynamic composure and chassis a two-way average of 10.0sec to hit learned to squeeze the middle pedal this car stands apart from its rivals in balance under load and when driven 60mph from rest, a fairly strong if not only after you’ve already selected a a class that has until now struggled quickly, and in both respects, the
Puma feels keen, lithe and engaging in corners, especially for a crossover, yet there’s no price to pay for its athleticism in its ride quality, at least in a Titanium-spec model 66 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 ROAD TEST Assisted driving notes AAAAC
The entry-level Titanium Puma has AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY autonomous emergency braking, BRAKING conventional cruise control and lane- Does the system seem less than keeping assist. An optional £900 averagely prone to false activation? ✓ Driver Assistance pack (fitted to our Can it be deactivated? ✓ test car) brings blindspot warning, Does it have pedestrian/cyclist cross-traffic alert and traffic jam detection? ✓ assist systems, among others, and adds ‘intelligent’ distance-keeping LANE KEEPING ASSIST functionality to the cruise control. Is the system tuned to keep the driver The systems are generally tuned engaged at all times? ✓ so as to be quite discreet but can, Is it adjustable for sensitivity? ✓ in most cases, be adjusted for Does it allow you to drive around a sensitivity and, in some cases, pothole/obstacle within your lane easily deactivated completely. Even in its and without deactivation? ✓ most sensitive setting, the lane- keeping aid keeps the driver engaged. INTELLIGENT CRUISE However, it didn’t always detect the CONTROL bounds of a motorway lane through Can the system consistently roadworks or in bad weather. recognise and automatically adopt Our test car was able to motorway gantry-signed variable consistently recognise posted speed speed limits? ✗ limits and offered a speeding warning Does it prevent undertaking? ✗ but couldn’t adapt the car’s set Does it have effective audible or cruise control speed automatically. visual alerts, or steering intervention, to Still, for a £20k car, the Puma’s prevent changing lanes into the path of assisted driving functionality is fairly an overtaking car? ✓ extensive and impressive. car could easily just pass for a well- The impressively tuned suspension of brittleness into the dynamic lights among the amenities included. sorted, athletic-feeling hatchback. provides an enviable blend of close equation, particularly around town. However, to have the 12.3in digital When the electronic traction and body control and well-mannered At motorway speeds, the Puma’s instrument display, you’ll need stability controls do intervene in fluency when travelling at pace, cabin is sufficiently well isolated ST-Line trim. Forecasts also predict the driving experience, they do so enabling it to confidently smooth from wind and road noise to avoid that the Ford will have more robust progressively and without intruding over successive low-frequency undue criticism, but it doesn’t quite residual values than even strong at first. The car only gives you the compressions. rewrite the playbook, either. The rivals such as the Captur and option to disable the traction control, Its low-speed ride isn’t as prone three-cylinder engine can also boom T-Cross, and the fact that such a large leaving the stability aid on in any to upset and agitation as the Captur back into the cabin if load is applied proportion of the range slips under circumstances; and just occasionally, we road tested last week, either. at crank speeds below 2000rpm. Still, the 99g/km CO2 threshold ought to once you’ve really got to grips with Admittedly, a T-Cross will more at a 70mph cruise, our microphone make the Puma an attractive option the potential of the chassis and are consistently distance you from the returned a 67dB reading, which is for company car users. at risk of actually enjoying yourself, sorts of physical and aural intrusions equal to the Captur’s efforts. As for fuel economy – a pivotal that does seem a shame when it that accompany runs over cratered BUYING AND OWNING battleground in the family crossover begins to intrude on the car’s stretches of road, but the Ford’s ability class – the Puma does well without ability to entertain. to soften all but the largest impacts AAAAB managing to be exceptional. Our COMFORT AND ISOLATION means it doesn’t trail too far behind. Although the Puma may appear 123bhp hybrid returned 50mpg That said, it’s worth pointing out, an expensive option in relation to on the motorway and near enough AAAAB albeit briefly, that pricier ST-Line various rivals, this isn’t the case. 40mpg with a mix of driving for a For a compact crossover so keen on and ST-Line X Pumas aren’t quite For one thing, all the available typical driving range of 360 miles. entertaining with fleet-footed, spry as liveable with as their Titanium engines are strong and frugal, and Big-mileage owners may benefit handling responses, it’s pleasingly range-mates. Wider test experience for another, even our entry-level further from the diesel Puma, which refreshing to discover that ride shows their larger wheels and stiffer Titanium car came well equipped, is likely to notch up nearer 60mpg on refinement hasn’t been sacrificed. sports suspension can add a degree with climate control and automatic longer routes. ◊
ACCELERATION Ford Puma 1.0T 125 MHEV Titanium (6deg C, wet) Standing quarter mile 17.8sec at 81mph, standing km 32.3sec at 100.6mph, 30-70mph 9.6sec, 30-70mph in fourth 13.5sec 30mph 40mph 50mph 60mph 70mph 80mph 90mph 100mph 3.6s 5.3s 7.2s 10.0s 13.2s 17.4s 23.2s 31.7s 0 10s20s 30s Renault Captur 1.3 TCe 130 S Edition EDC (8deg C, dry) Standing quarter mile 17.4sec at 83.1mph, standing km 31.6sec at 103.5mph, 30-70mph 9.2sec, 30-70mph in fourth 11.3sec 30mph 40mph 50mph 60mph 70mph80mph 90mph 100mph 3.4s 4.9s 7.0s 9.4s 12.5s 15.9s21.7s 28.2s 0 10s20s
BRAKING 60-0mph: 2.61sec Ford Puma 1.0T 125 MHEV Titanium (6deg C, wet) 30mph-0 50mph-0 70mph-0 10.6m 29.3m 57.3m 0 10m 20m 30m 40m50m Renault Captur 1.3 TCe 130 S Edition EDC (8deg C, dry) 30mph-0 50mph-0 70mph-0 8.6m 23.7m 46.3m 0 10m 20m 30m 40m
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 67 Data log FORD PUMA 1.0T 125 MHEV TITANIUM On-the-road price £20,845 Price as tested £23,405 Value after 3yrs/36k miles £11,225 Contract hire pcm £231.07 Cost per mile 39 pence Insurance 17E/£545 TYPICAL PCP QUOTE 42 litres Three years/36,000 miles £296.57 After a £2085 deposit, you’ll be able to have a Puma for £296.57 per month over the course of 36 months. Annual mileage stands at 12,000. An optional final payment of £8857 will apply if you want to purchase the car outright. EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST 17in alloy wheels Projector headlights with LED DRLs TECHNICAL LAYOUT Automatic headlights Puma sits atop Ford’s Global-B small car platform. Suspension is typical compact Ford Megabox extended boot space crossover fare, consisting of MacPherson struts up front and a torsion beam at Heated, power folding door mirrors the rear. A 1.0-litre three-pot is mounted transversely at its nose, driving the front Cruise control wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox. Brakes are via discs at the front and Lane keep assist, departure warning drums at the rear. We weighed the Puma at 1260kg, split 60:40 front to rear. Wireless charging pad Rain-sensing wipers ENGINE ECONOMY Rear parking sensors Installation Front, transverse, TEST MPG Track 27.3mpg Quickclear heated windscreen front-wheel drive Touring 50.0mpg Selectable drive modes Type 3 cyls in line, 999cc, Average 39.0mpg Electronic air temperature control turbocharged, petrol Pre-Collision Assist with Autonomous Made of Cast iron block, CLAIMED Low 43.5mpg Emergency Braking aluminium head Mid 55.4mpg 8.0in Sync3 touchscreen infotainment Bore/stroke 71.9mm/82.0mm High 61.4mpg including sat-nav, Apple CarPlay, Compression ratio 10.5:1 Extra high 47.1mpg Android Auto, DAB, Bluetooth, Valve gear 4 per cyl Combined 51.4mpg aux, USB, MP3 Power 123bhp at 6000rpm Driver Assistance pack £900 Torque 155lb ft at 1750rpm Tank size 42 litres Grey Matter paint £750 (e-assist) Test range 360 miles Comfort pack £300 Redline 6500rpm Rear privacy glass £250 Power to weight 102bhp per tonne EMISSIONS & TAX Options in bold fitted to test car Torque to weight 129lb ft per tonne CO2 emissions 96g/km (NEDC eq) = Standard na = not available Specific output 123bhp per litre Tax at 20/40% pcm £80/£160 CHASSIS & BODY TRANSMISSION BRAKES SAFETY Construction Steel monocoque Type 6-spd manual Front 278mm discs ESC, ABS, TMPS, PCA, AEB, pedestrian detection Weight/as tested 1205kg/1260kg Ratios/mph per 1000rpm Rear 228mm drums Euro NCAP crash rating 5 stars Drag coefficient 0.32 1st 3.42/5.3 2nd 1.96/9.2 3rd 1.28/14.1 Anti-lock Standard, with brake assist Adult occupant 94% Child occupant 84% Wheels 7.0Jx17in 4th 0.94/19.1 5th 0.76/23.7 6th 0.63/28.6 Handbrake type Lever Pedestrian protection 77% Safety assist 74% Tyres 215/55 R17 98W, Final drive ratio 4.35:1 Handbrake location Centre console Goodyear Efficient Grip CABIN NOISE Performance STEERING Idle 42dB Max rpm in 3rd gear 73dB Spare Repair kit SUSPENSION Type Electromechanical, 30mph 61dB 50mph 64dB 70mph 67dB Front MacPherson struts, coil springs, rack and pinion anti-roll bar Turns lock to lock 2.8 Rear Torsion beam, coil springs, anti-roll bar Turning circle 10.0m ACCELERATION ACCELERATION IN GEAR MAX SPEEDS IN GEAR RESIDUALS MPH TIME (sec) mph 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 34mph 91mph 119mph 25 0-30 3.6 20-40 3.1 4.6 6.7 – – 6500rpm 6500rpm 5028rpm VW T-Cross 1.0 TSI 115 SEL 0-40 5.3 30-50 3.6 4.6 6.2 8.2 11.3 20 0-50 7.2 40-60 – 5.1 6.5 8.4 11.9 1 3 5 Ford Puma 1.0T 125 MHEV Titanium 0-60 10.0 50-70 – 5.9 7.3 10.0 16.0 15 0-70 13.2 60-80 – 7.1 9.2 13.4 20.6
0-80 17.4 70-90 – – 11.1 17.3 – 10 Value (£1000s) Value 0-90 23.2 80-100 – – 13.8 – – Renault Captur 1.3 TCe 130 Iconic 0-100 31.7 90-110 – – – – – 5 0-110 – 100-120 – – – – – 2 4 6 0-120 – 120-140 – – – – – 60mph 119mph 119mph* 0 0-130 – 140-160 – – – – – New 1 year 2 years 3 years 4 years 6500rpm 6218rpm 4168rpm 0-140 – 160-180 – – – – – *claimed Puma performs well against rivals 0-150 – 180-200 – – – – – from Renault and VW, retaining a 0-160 – RPM in 6th at 70/80mph = 2451/2802 greater share of its value than both.
THE SMALL PRINT Power-to-weight and torque-to-weight figures are calculated using manufacturer’s claimed kerb weight. © 2020, Haymarket Media Group Ltd. Test results may not be reproduced without editor’s written permission. For information on the Puma, contact Ford Customer Relationship Centre, Royal Oak Way South, Daventry, Northamptonshire, NN11 8NT (020 3564 4444, ROAD TEST ford.co.uk). Cost-per-mile figures calculated over three years/36,000 miles, including depreciation and maintenance but not insurance; Lex Autolease (0800 389 3690). Insurance quote covers 35-year-old professional male with clean licence and full no-claims bonus living in Swindon; quote from Liverpool Victoria (0800 066 5161, lv.com). Contract hire figure based on a three-year lease/36,000-mile contract including maintenance; Wessex Fleet Solutions (01722 322888). Read all of our road tests autocarmalaysia.com 68 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 ROAD TEST Testers’ notes SIMON DAVIS While I’m still not entirely sold on the B-SUV as a concept, the Puma is undoubtedly the car the segment has been crying out for. Always great when you’re genuinely pleasantly surprised by something.
MATT SAUNDERS The contrast between the Puma and its B-SUV range-mate, the EcoSport, is so stark that you wonder if the latter wasn’t actually the canniest bit of strategic product planning in recent industry history. A VERDICT great car is made to seem even better, after all, by AAAAB immediate comparison to a really awful one. The driver’s car this class has been crying out for, and more besides Spec advice ord has landed what might be its biggest achievement in more than a decade Unless you’re absolutely sold on the sportier looks with the new Puma. It has succeeded where other manufacturers have failed and set-up of the higher F trims, stick with Titanium and has furnished the still-growing and all-important compact crossover spec. The £300 Comfort pack is a worthy option, market with a car that represents the company’s long-standing core strengths brilliantly. as is the £900 Driver The Puma has really distinguishing design appeal and, for its handling deportment Assistance pack. and its universal driver appeal, it rises above the standards of its peers even more clearly. Jobs for As our test car also proved, you don’t need the most powerful engine or sportiest trim the facelift to experience the car at its dynamic best; and you needn’t accept compromises to Keep refining the control software for that practicality, refinement or ride comfort in exchange for any of its dynamic strengths. hybrid system. The real Much as the completeness of its dynamic performance impresses, the Puma is just a minutiae of the pedal feel could still be improved. little bit plain and ordinary in terms of on-board technology and perceived quality and it Drive up the quality of the background cabin doesn’t excel for fuel economy quite as you might imagine a modern hybrid might; so it materials to banish any hint of cheapness. misses a five-star score. But this is unquestionably our new number one crossover – and Make the electronic stability control properly we’ve been waiting a long time for it. switchable.
ROAD 1 2 3 4 5 TEST RIVALS
FORD PUMA 1.0T 125 MHEV VOLKSWAGEN T-CROSS 1.0 TSI MAZDA CX-30 2.0 SKYACTIV-G SEAT ARONA 1.0 TSI 115 FR RENAULT CAPTUR 1.3 TCE 130 TITANIUM 115 SEL 122 SE-L Handsome, spacious, fun S EDITION EDC Sharp, wieldy handling, Well-rounded T-Cross isn’t as Slightly bigger than the Ford, but to drive and impressively Sturdy, agile handling a practical interior and sharp to drive as its rivals, but it similarly fleet-footed. Naturally affordable. A consummate undermined somewhat by an impressive ride refinement and is comfortably the most polished aspirated engine is a bit weedy all-rounder, if not quite as at times brittle ride. Practical performance. A big win for Ford. and easy to live with. and ride can lack sophistication. refined as its VW sibling. enough, though. AAAAB AAAAB AAAAC AAAAC AAABC Price £20,845 £22,370 £22,895 £21,245 £20,295 Power, torque 123bhp, 155lb ft 114bhp, 148lb ft 121bhp, 157lb ft 114bhp, 148lb ft 128bhp, 177lb ft 0-62mph, top speed 9.8sec, 119mph 10.2sec, 120mph 10.6sec, 116mph 9.8sec, 118mph 10.6sec, 121mph CO2, economy 96g/km, 51.4mpg 113g/km, 46.8mpg 116g/km, 45.6mpg 110g/km, 43.5-47.9mpg 127g/km, 44.1mpg
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 69 70 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 F-TYPE R vs 911 4S COMPARISON IN WITH A SHOUT
The Jaguar F-Type may be getting on a bit, but it isn’t going quietly. Can the latest, raucous R-badged incarnation hold a candle to Porsche’s finely honed 911 Carrera 4S? Matt Saunders decides PHOTOGRAPHY LUC LACEY
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 71 he Jaguar F-Type is back, with a fresh look and an assortment of new bells and whistles. They have, T thankfully, resisted the urge to treat it to a new pair of beige slacks and a matching M&S cardigan, although that must have been tough. Alright, there’s a bit more to the update than the above would imply (a modest engine power hike, a new engine derivative, some new suspension componentry and some digital instruments) but perhaps not as much as you might imagine would be necessary to keep a Is the 911 best of this bunch? Sorry, pear. No, pair… current sports car up to date in what is now – wait for it – its eighth year in production. Is it entirely fair, then, you may wonder, to pitch rival Aston Martin: it allows you to start ❝ the ‘new’, range-topping R version of this car into the car’s engine discreetly on an early weekday a head-to-head contest with the only-a-year-old morning so as not to upset the neighbours. There are some things 992-generation Porsche 911? Knowing what we Or the neighbour’s neighbours. Or, for that already do about the latter – it’s a group test winner matter, the night-shift staff at your local early- already and was highly commended at Britain’s warning earthquake monitoring station. the F-Type does as well Best Driver’s Car shootout, don’t forget – is that a In actuality, ‘quiet start mode’ is nothing more contest the plucky Brit can possibly win? or less than the car’s normal running setting; if as the 911; there are a Well, it’s certainly a curious notional position you want noisy, you simply select Dynamic mode for the fresh meat in one of these twin tests to or the active exhaust’s loud setting before turning occupy. Usually it’s the most recently launched over the engine (and then, presumably, you just handful it does better car that comes in with all the advantages, yet the move house). So it’s not even a new button in an Jaguar holds nothing over the lighter, faster and otherwise pretty familiar cabin that, but for fundamentally newer Porsche that might give it an some new trim materials (nice matt black door on-paper head start here – save, perhaps, the peak handles, by the way, folks) and the new digital ❞ outputs of its supercharged 5.0-litre V8 engine. instruments and infotainment system, could But here is the truth you’ll discover having perhaps have done with more of a material lift. driven these cars extensively and one after The Porsche would have been my bet to get its another: there are some things the new Jaguar nose in front when these cars were compared as F-Type R P575 AWD does every bit as well as a stationary, daily use ownership prospects, no Porsche 911 Carrera 4S; there are a handful of question. But for every blow the 911 lands, the things it does even better, actually. I must add F-Type lands one right back. for the sake of balance that there are also plenty You’re a little more squeezed into the Jaguar, it’s of ways in which the German is quite plainly the true, but the seat it offers to your backside is softer Brummie’s superior. And yet what you’re about and more comfortable than the 911’s and barely any to read is a contest, trust me, not a pushover. less adjustable or supportive. It also needs slightly The Jaguar, for all of the long-toothedness that less of a bend-and-stoop manoeuvre to slide into. the new styling and interior smartening seek The Porsche offers more room for your to disguise, has its shout, and for some – maybe extremities, along with those occasional back even for you – it will be the better car. seats for your clobber, better visibility, a better Did someone say ‘shout’? My ears are still driving position, significantly more sophisticated ringing, as it happens. The first thing I’m happy and usable on-board display and infotainment to confirm is that a range-topping Jaguar sports technology, and significantly better perceived car with a Welsh-made supercharged V8 engine quality. The neat look and substantial feel of its could out-shout just about any 911 road car it switchgear is a cut above and then some. happened to be within a few hundred metres of. But the Jaguar conjures a warmer and more There’s mention of a ‘quiet’ mode in the car’s inviting feel: its palette of decorative materials is press material, and naturally you assume – having wider and more imaginative, its ambience richer heard the thing snarling through the middle of its and a shade more luxurious. Sure, it doesn’t have rev range at full load like a band of bloodthirsty back seats, but that sizeable boot is usefully bigger sousaphone players – it might be a misprint. than any one storage space the 911 has. In fact, it’s a convenience feature that Jaguar And so if you had to pick one of these cars just would seem to have appropriated from close to use as personal transport for an undefined ◊
Despite its colour, the 911 is the stealthier option
The F-Type R has a more settled ride F-Type R at least has a usable boot
The 911’s 20/21in wheels induce roar Rear-engined 911 wants for load space
72 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 F-TYPE R vs 911 4S COMPARISON
Jaguar actually added four-wheel drive to the R model earlier in the F-Type’s life. You’ll hear the Jaguar The new car’s extra power coming before you see and torque make it the it, as will everyone else equal of the old SVR, although it is a little heavier.
F-Type R gets a forceful 567bhp V8 911’s responsive flat six has 444bhp
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 73 ❝ The Jaguar has too much power, too much weight and too much traction ❞
∆ period of time, without a thought given to how far, to award extra credit to a charismatic and There’s just a bit too much of the F-Type R to much fun you might have in the process, I’m not likeable British alternative that – you’ve guessed allow it to hit the same dynamic heights as the totally convinced the Porsche would be the it – can’t quite match even a pretty sub- Porsche or to impress its driver quite as clearly at automatic choice. It has been executed optimally equipped 911 for driver appeal. both low speeds and high. It has too much power, with typical German precision and On paper, the That’s a shame and not exactly a too much weight and, at least for this tester, at attention to detail, so the sat-nav F-Type’s torque-to- shock, but if you don’t do these things times a shade too much mechanical grip, traction is easier to programme and more weight ratio looks very properly, you never really know. and lateral stiffness necessary to harness the ◊ reliable and it’s easier to find the healthy, but it’s the 911 instrumentation mode that suits that feels more tractable you best. By contrast, on one from fairly low revs, occasion when I pressed the button and it picks up more that I imagined would activate the effortlessly. voice recognition on the Jaguar’s navigation system, all it did was mute the radio. So much for the British technological avant-garde. But it’s the Jaguar that does better for refinement and rolling comfort – and that means it would double up better as the grand touring part-timer. The Porsche’s ride is noisier than the Jaguar’s (on those optional mixed-sized RS Spyder Design 20/21in alloys and optional PASM lowered sports suspension, admittedly), and it lacks a little bit of the supple dexterity that typically characterises mid-range 911 variants. It reads just that little bit too much information from the road surface for ideal daily driven comfort, you’d say. The Jaguar, by contrast, can get feisty and reactive over an uneven surface, but it’s quieter and better isolated on most others. The Porsche, being a rear-engined 911, is also less naturally stable at high speeds than the Jaguar and more easily disturbed by camber and crosswind, both of which have a part to play in defining how wearing it might be to use. Not that a 911 is ever likely to wander quite as far off course – as some might say the narrative thread of this test already has. Hands up, you got me: not F-Type has better GT many people buy sports cars for their refinement credentials despite levels or the rich luxury feel of their interiors. It’s its power surplus just possible that I’ve been finding reasons, thus 74 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 F-TYPE R vs 911 4S COMPARISON ∆ aforementioned and to move it all around to be drivability the equal of its audible drama. good for the car’s wider sporting appeal. It might Some Porsche flat sixes might be able to compete have newly configured suspension and better with a great V8 like the F-Type’s for audible rear axle location, but the F-Type R remains the character (and the one in the car in our little burly, surly hotrod that you guide with plenty of twin test below gets pretty close, by the way), concentration and a slightly wary hand. but a modern twin-turbocharged one doesn’t. By way of contrast, the 911 is at once more The Bridgend 5.0-litre is never better than when communicative and can be coaxed more precisely gargling majestically from 3500rpm to 5000rpm and instinctively than the F-Type. It’s easier to at full throttle, and then crackling after a lift as if drive quickly and feels more special when driven the music has just stopped at a fireworks display. slowly – although, it must be said, the enticing But before you’ve learned to keep the Jaguar’s rumble of the Jaguar’s engine is pretty special also. gearbox in manual mode in order to prevent it And what an engine. If only it came with from needing to shuffle ratios before it can ◊
718 vs 911: Six-cylinder power SHOULD YOU has returned to GO LITTLE OR the 718 line-up GO LARGE?
Critics of the latest Porsche 911 claim that it has become too wide, too soft, too heavy and too complex to work quite as perfectly as the any-occasion sports car its best predecessors have been. At times, I’ve agreed with some of what I’ve read on that score – albeit only because I know how great some of those predecessors were. So, is the 911’s status as the defining Porsche driver’s car ripe for inheritance by the smaller 718, with its returning six-cylinder engines? I thought so. But then the Cayman GT4 we had at Best Driver’s Car 2019 failed to entertain at Anglesey Circuit nearly as well as the 992-generation 911 Carrera S. Matter settled, then? Not for me, I’m afraid. It’s still lingering like a bad smell. Leaving track driving out of the equation, if only for the sake ❝ of argument, can a six-cylinder 718 Spyder beat a 911 Carrera 4S The 718 is a reminder of now for mixed on-road appeal? It’s a less weighty question than the one I had intended to answer, what the 911 is missing but right now I’d say the best 718 is the better driver’s car, defined strictly in those on-road terms. There are all the obvious 718’s naturally aspirated motor is crisp and linear ❞ reasons: at the moment, you can’t buy a 911 with a manual gearbox and there is as yet no extra- special, normally aspirated flat six that has been signed off for it by the GT division. The 718 Spyder is all the reminder you need of what the 911 is missing in both respects: its engine is fantastic (although it has curiously long gear ratios to wade through), it sounds incredible as it passes 5500rpm and it has a crispness and linearity to its delivery that turbochargers just can’t replicate. The 718’s ride and handling don’t quite match those of the 911 for complexity and character. Driving them back to back is a bit like comparing Heath Ledger’s Joker with that of Joaquin Phoenix: the 911, like Phoenix, simply has more going on. But it’s a close enough thing to give the smaller car the nod, albeit 718 has more appeal in an incomplete and unfair exercise. as a driver’s car – on Right now it’s the 718 I’d have. Which, the road, at least I’m afraid, settles precisely nothing.
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 75 ∆ respond meaningfully to any lug of power, you’ll find it’s the Porsche’s combination of twin-turbo flat six and eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that’s more likely to be in the right gear and ready to go, whenever you might need it to be. The Jaguar’s engine is a wonderful treat when at its very best, but it’s less consistently brilliant than that of the Porsche. Precisely the same observation could be made about the respective chassis of these cars. The Jaguar gets into a lovely fluent stride when conditions suit it, when the bends are faster and smoother and there’s a bit of room to give the engine its head and feel the rear axle gently squirm with the workload. It begins to sit heavily on its dampers when the surface gets tougher, though, and particularly so in its Dynamic mode. Meanwhile, the sense of slightly muted elasticity and tactile compliance evident in the steering, which doesn’t bother you so much when you’re arcing more gently around curves, increasingly becomes an obstacle when you’re continually turning this way and that. The Porsche steers superbly; you feel as if you F-Type R cossets can adjust the car’s course by the millimetre and nicely but its in-car as if you know the instant the front sidewalls load tech lets it down up every time you turn the rim. It doesn’t do fast and fluent quite like the Jaguar but, instead, from both powertrain and chassis, it produces this super-responsive yet entirely progressive sense of poise. It’s fit for any road or track and would make you guess its weight advantage over its rival was greater than it really is. And it always involves. This may be a well-worn road test cliché, but while the Jaguar feels at times like it’s launching you into conflict with the surface underneath you and the physics acting upon it, the Porsche engages you in a fascinating, instructive conversation with both. Want to go faster? Here’s how, it seems to say. Fancy a different line and way around that bend of yours? Take your pick. It must be a fearsomely disheartening task for any car maker to beat a driver’s car as dynamically versatile and accomplished as the current 911. For all of its little victories, the F-Type R fell some way short in the final reckoning. There was one car we had along for the ride that didn’t (see p53) – not that Weissach need worry because, as it happened, it took a Porsche to beat a Porsche. And Weissach wouldn’t for one moment worry anyway, of course, because as much as the F-Type feels like its race is pretty much run, we all know 911 has a better that the 992 is only just getting started. It’s Turbo driving position and soon and GT3 not so long after that, so they say. a higher-quality feel Yes very much please, would be my reply. L
PREVIOUSLY OWNED POWERHOUSES FOR THE PRICE OF A NEW 911 OR F-TYPE
FERRARI FF LAMBORGHINI GALLARDO LP560-4 HONDA NSX The FF made the notion of a four-seat, four-wheel- True, the LP560-4 will feel antiquated next to an Soon even the supercar won’t be immune from drive Ferrari acceptable and paved the way for the ultra-modern 911, but the Gallardo just has that added electrification. The clever people at Honda know mightily impressive GTC4 Lusso. Wonderful 651bhp sense of drama that the evergreen but continually this, which is why the current NSX is a hybrid marvel V12, 208mph and 0-60mph in 3.7sec mean it’s no updated Porsche simply can’t muster. Despite a with three electric motors assisting the twin-turbo slouch. Also has a hatchback and folding rear seats, new price of roughly £200k, you can now pick up 3.5-litre V6, giving an output of 573bhp. Expect to so a must for Courchevel. Buy from around £100k. this V10-powered Italian monster for just £90k. pay £90k for a 2017 example with minimal mileage.
76 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 F-TYPE R vs 911 4S COMPARISON
PORSCHE 911 CARRERA JAGUAR F-TYPE R 4S COUPÉ PDK P575 AWD COUPÉ Rating AAAAB AAAAC Price £98,418 £97,280 Engine 6 cyls horizontally opposed, V8, 5000cc, supercharged, 2981cc, twin-turbo, petrol petrol Power 444bhp at 6500rpm 567bhp at 6500rpm Torque 391lb ft at 2300-5000rpm 516lb ft at 3500-5000rpm Gearbox 8-spd dual-clutch automatic 8-spd automatic Kerb weight 1565kg 1743kg 0-62mph 3.6sec 3.7sec Top speed 190mph 186mph Economy 27.2mpg 26.4mpg CO2, tax band 237g/km, 37% 243g/km, 37%
Loads of hotrod charm and brutish drama, with impressive 2nd pseudo-GT usability. Not as precise or involving as the Porsche, though, and may not be the best F-Type either.
Not the very best example of a 911 that, by its own 1st standards, still has room for improvement as a driver’s car. Still good enough to keep the Jaguar at arm’s length.
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 77 SMOOTH OPERATORS Slick, battery-powered superminis make perfect sense for the urban cut and thrust of daily use, and soon we’ll be spoiled for choice. James Disdale pits three of the current contenders against each other PHOTOGRAPHY JOH N BR A DSH AW 78 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 SUPERMINI EVs COMPARISON
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 79 lectric cars have come greater stamina from larger 52kWh and gone over the lithium ion cells. Unlike its rivals years, gaining and here that have been developed to be E waning in popularity propelled by fossil fuels as well as as eco-friendly electricity, the Renault is exclusively fashions have flared and faded, but an EV. It’s also Europe’s best-selling this time they’re here to stay. Of small electric car by miles. ❝ course, the government’s proposal Visual updates to the Zoe have This rash of battery- to ban the sale of new internal been minor, its LED-haloed combustion-engined cars by 2032 headlights being the most obvious plays its part in their assured future, change to the tall and narrow powered superminis but it’s the recent rash of battery- machine. It’s distinctive but not as powered superminis that really handsome as the e-208, which is one points the way to their permanence. of the French firm’s most successful really points the way to Small cars are big business but small car designs since (whisper it) the margins are slim, so to invest the 205. Only the clunky wheel-arch the EV’s permanence hefty sums packaging them with extensions jar visually – although at expensive electrical internals is as least they are functional, covering strong an EV endorsement as you’ll get from the automotive industry. ❞ Almost all of the major players are in the process of launching a pure- electric supermini or city car, while many have already arrived. Perhaps the most eagerly anticipated is the Mini Electric, which has been on the cards since the Mini E began field trials over a Peugeot gets neat 3D instruments decade ago. While rivals have taken a cooking approach to their EV babies, Mini has spiced up its offering with a 181bhp motor (shared with the BMW i3s) and Cooper S badging, making this a hot hatch without the environmental hitch. The 134bhp Peugeot e-208 (you can leave your Yorkshire-tinged French hatchback jokes at the door) trails the Mini on performance but Floating dials add to Mini’s classy feel promises greater practicality, both in terms of the space available in its five-door shell and its promised 217- mile range. The Mini can muster just 144 miles, although the claims for all three cars here should be taken with a pinch of salt, as we shall see. Both have to give best to the 238- mile WLTP figure for the Renault Zoe, which appears here freshly facelifted and complete with a more Updated Zoe has better TFT screens powerful motor – now 132bhp – and
the wider rear track necessary to accommodate its lithium ion battery. Despite its basic shape being the most familiar, it’s the Mini that attracts the most attention, with alloys that appear to have been designed during a Minecrafting session and lemon yellow trim inserts at least helping to turn heads. Inside, the Mini has its rivals licked for quality and ambience, the standard car’s impeccable fit and finish enhanced by the neat ‘floating’ In Sport mode the instrument cluster sitting ahead e-208 is impressively of the driver. There’s precious little quick off the line space, though. Driver and passenger are comfortably catered for but those 80 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 SUPERMINI EVs COMPARISON
SU B - £30K USE D ALTERNATIVES
2019 HYUNDAI KONA ELECTRIC Our test cars’ budget could also buy you a barely used Hyundai Kona Electric. A whopping 64kWh battery gives the Kona up to 279 miles between plug-ins, which is far more than any of the others here. It’s also good to drive, with punchy performance and a spot-on driving position, and decently equipped.
2014 TESLA MODEL S It will be getting on a bit and have around 60,000 miles on the clock, but many will see that as a small price to pay for putting an on-trend Tesla on their driveway. It’s only the 60kWh version but it claims a 208-mile range. Er, reliability might be an issue, though…
2019 BMW i3 120AH For around £26,000, a used BMW i3 makes a good case for itself against the all-new Mini Electric. Examples from 2019 got an enlarged 42.2kWh battery pack, meaning it has similar electric range, plus there are back doors, so it’s slightly more practical, and Energy-efficient it can be rapid-charged as often LED headlights as you like. feature on all Mini Electrics and Zoes but are in the back are cramped due to a rear the elevated view only standard on e-208 GT bench raised to house the battery makes the Renault Line models and above cells beneath. Access through the gap the most assured – other versions get between the front seats and B-pillar choice in the urban halogens. is tight, and the 211-litre boot is no cut and thrust. Quality more than vestigial, particularly has improved over the when full of charging cable. previous versions, but there The Renault’s 338-litre boot is are still lots of hard and scratchy the biggest here, 27 litres up on the plastics alongside the new recycled e-208, while occupants in the rear fabrics and improved TFT screens. get more leg room than in the Mini. Most welcoming is the Peugeot, What they don’t benefit from is head its body packing the most space for room, again due to a high-set rear people front and rear (it’s easily the bench forced by the battery under the most family-friendly), while the bold Peugeot’s low-slung floor. This extends to the front seats, dash architecture looks great. The wheel obscures dials meaning you’re sitting on rather 3D instrument cluster is a particular for some drivers than in the Zoe. On the flipside, treat, provided you can see it over ◊ MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 81 ❝ The Mini matches the Peugeot’s hushed approach yet lacks its suppleness ❞
∆ the small-diameter steering wheel issuing little more than pedestrians on their toes. (some of our testers couldn’t). There a muffled thud from the Off the line, the Zoe’s more are still some below-par plastics to be springs and dampers. powerful motor delivers a found, but overall the e-208’s cabin Neither rival can get close You sit high in the useful extra turn of speed, feels classy and sophisticated. to the e-208 in this regard. Zoe owing to its and like all electric cars It’s an impression that’s reinforced The Mini matches the underfloor battery there’s instant urge and, up to on the move, at which point the Peugeot’s hushed approach around 50mph, the Renault Peugeot makes the most of the yet lacks its suppleness, feels warm-hatch quick. unobtrusive benefits of electric while its extra firmness Its regenerative braking power to deliver a smooth and causes the car to follow rather than other two keep to themselves. It also is the weakest here, however, as refined driving experience. Our test swallow imperfections. develops more wind and road noise even in B mode there’s not as much route took in towns, motorways and The Zoe isn’t as stiff-legged as than the other two, making it the retardation as in the e-208 and Mini, some wiggly secondaries, and over the Mini but feels more brittle, with least suited to longer-haul trips. which can both be driven effectively all of them the e-208 is calmer than broken surfaces sending shudders It’s not the only noise issuing as one-pedal cars in day-to-day the competition. Its relatively soft through the structure. It’s also from the Renault, which at low dicing. The British-built machine’s suspension smothers bumps, and noisier, the suspension clonking and speeds emits a strange Dan Dare- dash-mounted toggle for accessing it’s quiet, with even big impacts crashing in protest over surfaces the like sci-fi whirring intended to keep the increased brake-energy 82 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 SUPERMINI EVs COMPARISON
PLUG AND PLAY
The Mini can handle both AC and need to pay an extra £1000 for the DC rapid 50kW DC charging as standard. 50kW rapid-charging option on the Use a three-pin domestic socket Renault, but on the flipside the car and you’re looking at a 12-hour comes with a 7kW installed wallbox charge time, which means a wallbox included in the price. The e-208 is is a must-have. BP Chargemaster also currently available with a free is Mini’s preferred supplier and for wallbox installation, plus for £300 £549 will install a unit that will slash you can add the CCS DC charger electrical refills to just over three that features a best-in-class 100kW hours. Use one of the DC units and charging capability, meaning 80% you can achieve an 80% charge in a capacity replenished in half an hour. smidge over half an hour. Naturally all three feature sat- Bigger batteries in the Peugeot nav that can guide you to a public and Renault mean longer charging charging point – although they can’t times – the Zoe needs nearly 40 tell you whether it’s actually going to hours from a three-pin plug. You’ll be working when you get there…
The e-208 is available with free wallbox; DC rapid-charging is a £1000 option on the Zoe
powerful Mini for zest, though. The shown a dirty pair of tailpipes by the Cooper S responds to the throttle internally combusted model. with an elastic energy that tricks you The Mini continues to play the into thinking the car is lighter than it entertainer as the roads turn twisty, actually is. Again the linear delivery the Electric version serving up a plays its part here, as does that puppyish up-and-at-’em agility. muscular 199lb ft and lowest-on-test Curiously, the steering feels lighter weight. Engaging Sport adds greater than the ICE car, but there’s some sharpness to the throttle, while in feel and it’s as quick as ever. The Mini all modes the Mini offers dives for apexes with the zeal of a greater thrust at higher bloodhound on the scent, and there’s Factor speeds, continuing lots of grip and tight body control, in the plug-in to accelerate with while killing the throttle mid-corner grant, as we have reasonable vigour results in a strong tightening of line, here, and entry-level above 60mph – prices are £26,900 for enhancing the sense of agility. although from here the Zoe, £25,700 for the The Zoe feels vertiginously high on in it would be ◊ e-208 and £24,900 after the Mini, almost SUV-like for the Mini Electric.
retardation is more of a faff than the two French machines, which require little more than slotting the gearlever to B. While it has more power than before, the 1502kg Zoe succumbs to the Peugeot for get-up-and-go. That said, the Peugeot doesn’t feel as quick as the figures suggest, its impressive refinement sapping some of the speed sensations. Switching to Sport takes some resistance out of the throttle pedal for quicker response while raising the top speed to 93mph Renault’s ride is noisy and rendering the e-208 a demon and can feel harsh; starter away from the lights. Peugeot is soft and quiet Neither can match the far more MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 83 Mini’s cabin has by far the classiest feel, fit and finish Smooth, spacious, comfortable and has a 1st good range. Not the sharpest drive, but it’s the most convincing small electric car yet.
The Mini’s neat Mini’s range is the poorest here, at barely 100 real-world miles new dial pack looks great, until it’s hit by ∆ from behind the wheel. And while things back on direct sunlight and you the flat seats are fine at a cruise, track, but neither realise the main gauge they offer little support as cornering French car is as isn’t TFT but an analogue forces grow. The Zoe clings on harder adjustable and unit behind a heavily than you’d think but lifeless steering biddable as the tinted screen. means it’s not exactly fun, although fun-loving Mini. a lowish centre of gravity and decent Where the Peugeot body control allow you to scoot and Renault really score through bends with poise and pace. over the Cooper S is in their ability to You feel better located in the travel further between charges. lower-slung Peugeot, which on initial Arguably range is even more acquaintance slices through corners important on small cars, which with a familiar French fluidity. If are likely to be town-bound where anything the steering, heavier than driveways are in short supply, the Mini’s, is a little too sharp, but it’s meaning you’ll have to fight it out precise and there’s decent front-end with others for roadside chargers. bite. Push harder and the composure Realistically you can knock about cracks as the softer dampers fail 40 miles off the WLTP figures for to control bigger body movements all of these machines. That drops and the e-208’s nose ploughs wider, the Mini’s real-world figure to just sooner. Lifting the throttle gets north of 100 miles, which is poor
compared with the easy 170 miles- plus achievable in the other two. The Mini’s range lacks the resilience of the others, too. Its miles drop off as you crank up the air-con, switch on headlights or use that extra performance. The French pair are less affected, helping to instil a confidence that you can travel as far as the readout insists that you will. That said, none of our trio likes high cruising speeds, which see the miles tumble from the range faster than they roll under your wheels. So where does that leave us? Well, Zoe’s claimed range matters are complicated by the fact of 238 miles equates that these are three very different to 200 in daily use takes on the small EV, each trying to attract a slightly different type 84 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 SUPERMINI EVs COMPARISON
Impressive range, decent space and great around 3rd town, but a relative lack of sophistication is harder to justify, particularly in pricey GT Line guise.
Mini is hard to beat for sheer brio, and its rabble-rousing entertainment value is largely undiminished. Best to drive by 2nd a mile but severely hobbled by limited range and practicality. of buyer. Plus there’s the thorny entry-level model it’s fractionally the PEUGEOT E-208 MINI ELECTRIC 2 RENAULT ZOE R135 subject of price: even in their most most affordable. Yet it’s hamstrung ALLURE PREMIUM COOPER S ZE 50 GT LINE basic guises these are expensive by that range and an interior that superminis, and that’s taking into is a little too bijou for it to double RATING AAAAC AAAAC AAABC account the potential ‘fuel’ savings. up as the sort of occasional family Price £27,550 (after £26,900 (after £29,695 (after The Renault’s range is truly transport supermini drivers typically government grant) government grant) government grant) impressive, plus it offers decent demand – in terms of space it’s more Engine Asynchronous electric Hybrid synchronous Permanent magnet practicality. Yet it can’t match the of a Volkswagen e-Up rival. motor electric motor synchronous electric other two for quality, refinement The Peugeot? Well, it’s the most motor or driver appeal. And it feels less compelling package, striking a neat Power 134bhp 181bhp 132bhp expensively engineered than its pair balance between the practicality Torque 192-221lb ft 199lb ft 181lb ft of rivals, which would be fine if it and range of the Renault and the Gearbox 1-spd automatic 1-spd automatic 1-spd automatic didn’t cost more than them to buy. quality and refinement of the Mini. Kerb weight 1455kg 1326kg 1502kg Less expensive versions of the Zoe No, it’s not the most thrilling to drive, 0-62mph 8.1sec 7.3sec 9.5sec make more sense than this GT Line. but it features the most even spread Top speed 93mph (Sport mode) 93mph 87mph The Cooper S feels like nothing of talents and demands far fewer Battery Lithium ion, 56kWh Lithium ion, 32.6kWh Lithium ion, 52kWh less than a premium product, and for compromises – and for a motoring Range 217 miles 144 miles 238 miles driving fun it’s head and shoulders public getting used to an inevitable (WLTP combined) (WLTP combined) (WLTP combined) above the rest, plus at £24,900 for the EV future, that’s a good thing. L MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 85 BMW’SBMW’S GLORIOUSGLORIOUS FAILUREFAILURE The BMW i8 was an inspired car ahead of its time, says Andrew Frankel, yet it ends its life without being replaced and will be classified as a failure. Why? PHOTOGRAPHY MAX EDLESTON
88 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 BMW i8 EULOGY
first drove a BMW i8 in 2014. And when I was done, seeking to I compare it to anything else that might remotely be considered a rival, I sat down and wrote: “It is the odd one out only because it is so demonstrably far ahead of its time. Others will react and may well do an even better job than the far from flawless i8, but for now it has the field to itself and its every success will be deserved.” BMW’SBMW’S GLORIOUSGLORIOUS FAILUREFAILURE Well, I got that wrong. Others didn’t react. It was then and remains today the only car of its kind. Truly, I don’t think it occurred to me that it might fail, but fail it has: the fact that BMW has chosen not to replace it tells you that. As does losing half its value in its first year. It takes a lot to make me sad at a car’s passing: these things we think we love are, after all, mere objects at our disposal and in this business there’s always some other interesting device to go and drive. But the i8, to me at least, is different. When I look back over all the long-term test cars I’ve run on this magazine, the McLaren 720S is obviously the one I miss most; but the i8 is next and not that far behind. And I will miss it in two ways. Most simply, I’ll miss what it does. The quick adrenaline shot just upon seeing it first thing in the morning, coupled with the knowledge that it will make special everything from a cross-continental adventure to a trip to the village shop because you’ve run out of milk. It still looks incredible, the novelty of its lines having never worn off. It has never received fair credit for the way it drives, either. I’m not terribly bothered whether it oversteers or understeers on the limit, because it’s not that kind of car. I care more about the fact that it’s light and beautifully damped, with accurate and pleasingly geared steering. I like the powertrain, too: it sounds terrific, has no lag, and if anyone sneers about the sound being synthesised, I’d refer them to almost any decent car on sale. They all have a synthesised soundtrack to some ◊
BUYING AN i8
The i8 seems to be an exceptionally robust car, with occasional electronic niggles reported and not much else. Remember that depreciation is vertiginous in the first year but flattens out rapidly after that, so a nearly new example is an even better bet than usual. Consider whether the roadster is really worth the extra premium – I’d have the coupé all day long – and remember the car’s flaws: minimal rear room, a tiny boot and doors that mean you always have to park in a space where no one can park too close next to you.
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 89 Front wheels have their own electric motor
Frankel ran an i8 as a long-term test car and still misses it Its concept car looks always turn heads
∆ extent and in one way or another. this car and that bravery deserved I couldn’t care less. far better than this. I imagine the But the best thing about driving deep breaths taken around the the i8 is how well matched the chassis boardroom table when the plan for is to the powertrain. It doesn’t feel this carbon-framed, aluminium-clad overpowered so you’re not always on mid-engined masterpiece was signed the brakes, spoiling the rhythm of the off. It would have been hideously road. But nor does it feel like it could expensive to develop. They’d have do with another 200bhp: its tyres known that, bar a convertible, there are unfashionably slender, which is was no other car they’d be able to spin another reason it feels so good. It is off the same platform. But they went baby bear’s porridge: not too hot, ahead and did it anyway because it ❝ not too cold, but just right. was the right car to do. But then there’s this whole other How were they to know that even This is a way where you way I’ll miss it and, in fact, it is this by the 2020s, it would still be the rather more cerebral fondness that wrong time to do it? Seems nuts, makes its departure something doesn’t it? If I were to sit down and can have your cake yet not truly to regret. For with the i8, BMW specify a less unsustainable kind of revealed to the world a way forward long-distance driver’s car for our era, at least for a certain kind of car. A way the only reason it wouldn’t look like get fat: a supercar that’ll do where your car still gets to go hard this is because I’m not smart enough and sound good. A way where it’s to have thought of it. Yet BMW is actually even better to drive because getting rid of it while, at the same 40mpg however you drive it it is so damn light. A way where you time, launching the M8 Competition, can have your cake yet not get fat: another similarly priced 2+2 coupé a supercar that’ll do 40mpg almost but one that weighs nearly two however you drive it. tonnes and is powered by a twin- ❞ And the world’s response? “A BMW turbo V8 engine. with a six-figure price and a three- But you can’t blame BMW for cylinder engine from a Mini? You’re the death of the i8. It had six years kidding, right?” I admire BMW so in the marketplace, so they gave it much for having the courage to do a decent run and it’s not their fault
WHAT ABOUT THE BMW i3?
Although the i8 is dead, happily And if it can be made to fit your BMW’s ‘i’ adventure is not, but it life and you don’t mind its highly seems that in future it will make only alternative appearance, I think there electric cars. First is the iX3, a Jaguar remains a strong case for the i3. I-Pace and Audi E-tron rival coming It’s quick, it’s fun and the interior this year, followed by an i4 next year, still feels fresh and modern. Just a car with Tesla’s Model 3 in its sights. remember that the range-extender For now, though, there is the trusty model is no longer on sale so you’ll i3, launched before even the i8 and, have to put up with either a pure EV for now at least and despite rumours or find a REX on the used market. of its imminent demise, apparently safe from the executioner’s axe. For while it has never been a strong seller – anything but, in fact – sales have increased every single year since it went on sale in 2013, helped by changing attitudes, increasingly tax-friendly legislation, a couple of well-timed technology upgrades and closely controlled pricing.
90 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 BMW i8 EULOGY the world proved resistant to the sea go further on electrons alone and use change it represented. less fuel. It’d be even more relevant Effortless progress Even so, the real source of my and then the world would finally is via a 1.5 petrol sadness is that if BMW did replace wake up to the wonders within. and two motors it, I think its successor would stand a But now it won’t get that chance. very good chance indeed. We live in a And what can we learn from this? completely different world from that That even producing one of the most into which the i8 was born and, in advanced, interesting, attractive one more generation’s time, there will and effective cars of its time is no be no more two-tonne V8s. But there guarantee of success. The lesson of will be plenty of lightweight coupés the i8 story is to try less hard, take with downsized hybrid powertrains fewer risks and do less well. And because, with pure EVs, those are that’s what is saddest of all. L the only cars of this type that are going to survive the transition that is so swiftly coming our way. Sure, some issues would have needed to have been addressed – more luggage room and a more special interior among them – but these are relative details. With a few years’ development, a new i8 would have more power, Its powertrain and chassis capabilities are a sweet match HOW MUCH FOR AN i8 TODAY?
2015 i8 COUPE £42,000 38,000 miles You could probably haggle your way into an i8 for less than £40k now, which makes an older car sound incredibly cheap. But the real value is in newer models.
2019 i8 COUPE £73,000 100 miles There are loads of delivery- miles i8s out there for this kind of money: brand-new cars for £50,000 off list, despite their deserved reliability reputation.
2019 i8 ROADSTER £76,000 5 miles Proportionally, Roadsters lose even more money than coupés in their first year. The roof works well, but it spoils somewhat the lines of the car.
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 91 PORTRAIT OF A SERIAL THRILLER
92 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 40 YEARS OF QUATTRO COMPARISON
It’s now 40 years since Audi introduced the world to four-wheel-drive performance cars. Andrew Frankel climbs down the Quattro family tree PHOTOGRAPHY OLGUN KORDAL, MAX EDLESTON MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 93 lmost all cars reckoned wheel drive, and it has now been to be true pioneers joined by most of the world’s other turn out to be nothing major car manufacturers. A of the sort. The Range But for Audi, four-wheel drive Rover wasn’t the proved far more than just a means first luxury off-roader, the Renault of halving the tractive work load Espace wasn’t the first MPV, the of each tyre. Quattro started life as Volkswagen Golf GTI wasn’t the first a car, soon became an automotive hot hatch and none of the Saab 99, legend and then turned into a sub- Quattro had a 2.2-litre turbo five-pot Porsche 911 or BMW 2002 was the brand, to Audi what M is to BMW first turbocharged road car. And the and AMG is to Mercedes-Benz. Audi Quattro wasn’t the first high- But which Quattro machine is the performance four-wheel-drive car. greatest? With hundreds to choose That, of course, was the Jensen FF from and only five examples allowed, produced between 1968 and 1971. it wasn’t an easy process, especially But like all of the aforementioned, the as two places were already bagged Quattro was the one that perfected by the original and the most recent. and popularised its innovation. Many will disagree with the The problem with all previous four- chosen quintet, but I went for the wheel-drive cars, Jensen included, final version of the original Quattro; Porsche boosted it to 311bhp for RS2 was that they needed to direct their the RS2 Avant as the first of the power forwards through a heavy, truly nuts estates for which Audi clunky and bulky transfer box. became so renowned; the original This solution was impractical and TT because it was a design revolution expensive, which perhaps explains that did far more to democratise the in part why just 320 FFs were built. sporting four-wheel-drive coupé than What Audi did was find another the Quattro; the Mk1 R8 because, way of doing the same thing. well, it’s an R8; and the latest RS6 It was Jörg Bensinger who realised Avant panzerwagen. I know: no V10s, that if you used a hollow output shaft no RS4, no Sport Quattro, no SQ2… from the gearbox, it could run into a Okay, perhaps we won’t be shedding TT borrowed turbo four-pot from Golf centre differential mounted behind too many tears over that last one. the gearbox, while a second shaft The benchmark is, of course, the within the output shaft could then Quattro. I’m old enough to have take the power forward to the front tested late 20-valve examples like wheels. The need for a transfer box the one we have today when they was bypassed and the first modern were new and recall most of all just four-wheel drive system invented. astonishing point-to-point pace. Bensinger and his team started But even though the Quattro had work on this in the mid-1970s, but been on the market fully 10 years it wouldn’t be until 1980 that the by then, I don’t recall it feeling old. fruits of their labour could be seen It does now. The strange driving Naturally aspirated 4.2 V8 is stunning in public, in the form of a boxy coupé position, even stranger gear ratios, called the Audi Quattro. Since then, arcade-game electronic dashboard Audi has never stopped using four- and acres of hard plastic all speak of another era. The gearbox is quite clunky, while the engine is surprisingly lethargic off-boost, even for its age. At low speeds, it feels quite awkward, rattly and cumbersome. A disappointment, These three Audis you might even say. are separated by 27 But then the revs rise and Today’s V8 sports twin turbochargers years of development you hear that noise (how to ◊
These hot Audis are rather disparate in character
94 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 40 YEARS OF QUATTRO COMPARISON
Audi won the constructors’ title of the World Rally Championship with the Quattro in both 1982 and 1984.
❝ At low speeds, the Quattro feels quite awkward. But then the revs rise and you hear that noise… ❞
New RS6 Avant is a The Quattro steers £93k technological deliciously and has tour de force a chassis to match
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 95 Back to the ’80s with hard plastics, digital dash and tape deck
Driving seat feels superb and those dials are just ace
TT’s curvaceous and minimalist aesthetic is continued inside ❝ The RS2 Avant will still surprise you by how hard it hauls. If only it were as good Incredibly, the stick is even better to use than it is to look at at changing direction ❞
From LCD to TFT: RS6 is full of tech and super quality
96 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 40 YEARS OF QUATTRO COMPARISON
It’s incomparably better built, and from far better materials. This may have something to do with the involvement of Porsche, which was in such dire financial straits at the time that it had to earn money on the side by engineering cars like the RS2 and, before it, the Mercedes-Benz 500E. Zuffenhausen’s involvement certainly explains how the output of essentially The new RS6 the same engine rose from 217bhp in Avant produces the Quattro to 311bhp for the RS2. exactly three times ∆ describe it without The car remains as funny as ever. the power (591bhp) of saying ‘off-beat thrum’?) It looks brilliant and oozes promise the original Quattro and discover that what has as you settle into the chunky Recaro of 40 years ago not diminished one bit over driving seat and survey those black- (197bhp). the decades is the sense of on-white dials. Lag is, of course, occasion. It’s still fast enough prodigious from a 26-year-old road to be engaging, clocking an easy car engine providing more than 120mph before that unforgiving 140bhp per litre, but once it’s past shape finds it increasingly hard about 3500rpm, it will still surprise to bludgeon the wind asunder. you by how hard it hauls, and over It’s still fun, too. Grip, the an unexpectedly wide powerband. commodity for which it was most It hit 140mph in the same space the famed 30 and 40 years ago, is Quattro needed to reach 120mph. actually quite modest by modern If only it were as good at changing standards and it still understeers, but direction. It clings on, of course, but the steering is lovely and the chassis we must remember this was the first is far more adjustable than I recall. of the doggedly understeering high- That’s not something I’d say so speed Audis and old habits die hard. readily about the RS2 Avant. Like so The TT you enjoy for other reasons. many of the crazily rapid RS estates I will take engineering over design that followed it, the RS2 is absolutely every day, but you can’t just climb at its best in a straight line. But it also into the TT and set off. First you have feels from a far more recent era, for to sit and survey the interior, with while they missed each other by just all of its unique and lovely touches. three years, the Quattro and RS2 I understand absolutely why it was feel a generation apart. The latter such an enormous hit: it looked and is a modern car, you might say. felt not like a platform spin-off ◊
R8 is at its best in Mk1 form with a V8 and a manual shift
RS6 is much more adept at cornering than its forebears
FIVE MORE SIGNIFICANT QUATTRO CARS
1984 SPORT QUATTRO 2008 RS6, RS6 AVANT 2008 Q7 V12 TDI 2012 RS4 AVANT 2020 E-TRON S The Sport is the 1984 Group Yes, this is an Audi A6 with a In many ways, this is the For those looking for the best Quattro enters the EV era. B rally homologation special twin-turbocharged 5.0-litre craziest Quattro car yet, here Quattro all-rounder made to Electric torque delivery means Quattro with mad looks and V10 derived from the normally not because it was great per date, look no further. It wasn’t there’s a greater need for four- a comically abbreviated aspirated version fitted to the se but because it remains the the first to use the 4.2-litre V8 wheel drive, while the flexibility wheelbase. With 306bhp, it Lamborghini Gallardo. And world’s only diesel-powered from the R8, but it was one so of layout makes it far easier to was the fastest Audi road car with 571bhp, very little less V12 production car and had much sharper and more fun provide than before. Audi’s 40- ever produced. And with just 12 years ago than the new 737lb ft of torque. Which to drive than its predecessor. year love affair with four-wheel over 200 examples made, it RS6 Avant has today, it was meant it could tow Blenheim Superb looks and outstanding drive is about to find itself a remains the rarest to this day. absolutely as nuts as it sounds. Palace without really noticing. quality complete the picture. new relevance all over again.
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 97 ∆ sharing as much componentry Yes, it ticks all the boxes from with its brethren as possible but a outlandish power to outrageous genuinely bespoke product. appearance, but such strengths in the It was built properly, too. This one past have flattered mainly to deceive. has done 134,000 miles and still However, with a more neutral set-up feels taut. Perhaps the TT deserves and a far greater feeling of agility reappraisal from those of us who were (thanks no doubt to four-wheel slightly sniffy about it when it was steering), it’s not just comical in a new. It’s no Porsche Cayman for sure, straight line (it indicated 180mph 15in alloys look tiny in modern context but its 222bhp 20-valve engine is with ease on Bruntingthorpe’s eager, its six-speed gearbox a genuine currently abbreviated runway) but delight and its handling more poised also has something to offer on the and less nose-heavy than I recall. perimeter road. It’s still not the best- The R8 is, of course, the anomaly handling fast wagon out there, but it here: it’s the only genuine supercar has better steering, sharper turn-in Audi has made, the only mid-engined and more front-end grip than any car and the only closed two-seater. big Audi estate of my acquaintance. And although its appearance, interior So, it would be hard to overestimate and quality are all very traditionally the benefit to Audi of that little word Michèle Audi, the way it drives is not. Indeed, ‘quattro’. It started life as a niche Porsche 968 lent rims, tyres, brakes for the sweetness of is engine, the product with very modest ambitions Mouton won precision of its manual gearbox and and became, as Quattro GmbH, the the 1981 Rallye the deftness of its chassis, this early halo brand for the entire brand. Yes, it Sanremo in an Audi manual V8 car is every bit as credible was renamed Audi Sport back in 2016 Quattro, becoming a high-performance driving machine (which I always thought a shame), the WRC’s first as any standard Porsche 911 or Aston but the idea of using Quattro not female victor. Martin Vantage from the same era. just as a technology for making its It may be rather lacking in cars easier to drive but as standard- horsepower compared with a modern bearer for the marque, emblematic R8, but it’s still plenty fast enough to of its entire philosophy, has played register over 150mph in short order a pivotal role in the transformation Mk1 TT offered 16in, 17in or 18in alloys and more than sufficiently rapid to of Audi from the bit player also-ran feel restricted by the confines of the it was in the 1970s to the enormous public road. What’s more, unlike so organisation it is today. It may not many quick Audis, it’s a car of the have saved the company, but it is no most exquisite balance, and I mean exaggeration to say it helped make it. that both literally and figuratively. As for our famous five, it seems First, it’s refreshingly resistant iniquitous to order cars so separated to understeer and, despite almost in time, space, performance and unlimited traction, very happy to concept. But I’ll share with you now tuck its nose into an apex and let its that there are some really good cars rear run wide. But second, it doesn’t here and one absolute titan. Spindly rims reveal powerful brakes feel overpowered: the relationship The Quattro has significance and between power and grip is spot on, charm, but it feels pretty limited allowing you to slip easily into a these days. The RS2 isn’t as rounded delicious rhythm, which is a defining in its abilities as you might hope, but characteristic of a great driver’s car. it’s hilarious, it looks great and it’s That brings us to the RS6 Avant, by far the rarest. And for completely which is interesting – and not just different reasons, both the TT and because it has 591bhp and will do RS6 are far better than I expected. 0-62mph in 3.6sec. What holds my But that early manual R8? Wow. It’s attention more firmly is a distinct not just a great Audi, it’s one of the sense that, at last, Audi is trying to do finest examples of that kind of car 22in wheels, 30% tyre aspect ratio… this kind of car slightly differently. from its or indeed any other era. L
THE DIFFICULT SECOND ALBUM
After 11 years of sterling service, the Audi Quattro was retired in 1991. And, of course for a car that had done so much to transform the image of Audi, it was replaced. It seems odd that S2 was hot version of the 80-derived Coupé they chose to drop the Quattro name that had done so much good, but the S2 coupé looked great, was bang up to date, had a far better interior and, after 1993, even came with six gears. Yet despite all that, it never managed to capture the magic of the original – nor even get close. It was fast for sure but less TT is more enjoyable sharp – more a businessman’s tool than a road warrior’s toy. than we credited it It never rallied or raced. It was, in truth, just another car. It for back in the day lasted only four years in the marketplace and had no successor.
98 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 40 YEARS OF QUATTRO COMPARISON ❝ For the sweetness of its engine and deftness of its chassis, this R8 is every bit as credible as any 911 ❞
AUDI QUATTRO AUDI RS2 AVANT AUDI TT AUDI R8 AUDI RS6 AVANT 2.2 20V TURBO 1.8T 225 QUATTRO 4.2 FSI QUATTRO QUATTRO TIPTRONIC Price £32,995 (in 1990) £45,760 (in 1994) £29,470 (in 1999) £76,532 (in 2007) £92,750 Engine 5 cyls in line, 2226cc, 5 cyls in line, 2226cc, 4 cyls in line, 1781cc, V8, 4163cc, petrol V8, 3996cc, twin- turbocharged, petrol turbocharged, petrol turbocharged, petrol turbocharged, petrol Power 217bhp at 5990rpm 311bhp at 6500rpm 222bhp at 5900rpm 414bhp at 7800rpm 591bhp at 6000-6250rpm Torque 228lb ft at 1950rpm 302lb ft at 3000rpm 207lb ft at 2200rpm 317lb ft at 4500rpm 590lb ft at 2050-4500rpm Gearbox 5-spd manual 6-spd manual 6-spd manual 6-spd manual 8-spd automatic Kerb weight 1380kg 1595kg 1465kg 1560kg 2075kg 0-62mph 6.5sec 5.4sec 6.6sec 4.6sec 3.6sec Top speed 141mph 163mph 151mph 187mph 189mph (delimited) Economy na na 30.4mpg (NEDC) 19.3mpg (NEDC) 22.6mpg (WLTP) CO2 na na 223g/km (NEDC) 349g/km (NEDC) 283g/km (WLTP)
Hot Audis have often been a bit po-faced, but not these three
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 99 From start to finish The original Audi TT seemed revolutionary in 1998, and the Mk3 still has a unique appeal today. Mike Duff takes the two for a spin to consider the past and the future PHOTOGRAPHY MAX EDLESTON
reat design is always in a low-flying spacecraft or handing for the current, third-generation dynamically focused rivals, the TT a victim of its own out £50 notes. On a gridlocked model, which will reach its sixth pretty much always finished runner- success. Familiarity Euston Road, a bus driver heading in anniversary this year. Market tastes up; Audi must have a cupboard full G might not always the opposite direction abandoned his are changing as aspirational punters of wooden spoons somewhere from lead to contempt, double-decker and crossed several move to crossovers, and the TT has all the comparison tests that it lost. but it certainly breeds indifference. lanes of traffic to demand to know certainly enjoyed a good innings. Yet, with the exception of the The original Audi TT has long since what this vision from the future was. But this also feels like a good time Porsche Boxster and Cayman, it become an automotive background Another bloke offered to buy it for for a retrospective to celebrate both outsold the sportier alternatives artist, a near-invisible part of any cash, which might have caused some the car and the dying segment that and has outlived most of them. streetscape that rarely gets a second mild friction with the Audi press could be termed the everyday coupé. That was thanks in part to the glance. Yet when it was new, it drew office had I accepted. Not bad for a Parts-bin special sounds like practicality that came from the attention better than most supercars. car that shared its underpinnings an insult, but here it isn’t. To use humble underpinnings: the utility of I’m serious. Back in 1999, I got with the Mk4 Volkswagen Golf. it acknowledges the TT’s greatest a tailgate and four seats. You could to drive an early TT coupé through Yet now the TT is nearing the end strength: the fact that it isn’t an carry a bike in a TT or more than one central London months before UK of its life. Audi has said there are uncompromising, pure-bred sports passenger, provided they were small sales started, and it was as if I were no plans for a direct replacement car. When compared with more enough to squash into the back. ◊ 100 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 AUDI TT vs AUDI TT COMPARISON
Original TT’s old- Third-gen TT was a school steering is return to form after far more feelsome the forgettable Mk2
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 101 Shifting through Today’s car has a the Mk1’s six manual fairly firm ride but gears is a highlight handles pleasantly
Success has many fathers, with TT looks muscular and more modern, SOFT IN THE plenty of designers keen to have but also like a hand that has been MIDDLE their involvement with the TT played far more safely. acknowledged. The two biggest The first-generation TT’s interior When the Audi TT’s obituary is influences were Freeman Thomas, is impressive now; it was off the scale eventually written, one thing will who sketched the original 1995 for a mainstream car 22 years ago. be clear: the original and third- concept, and Peter Schreyer, who The metal rotary controls around the generation versions are the ones translated most of that magic into the air vents still feel great (Audi used to go for. A spin in a Mk2 from production model. Special mention pretty much the same thing in the Audi UK’s heritage collection was is also due to Romulus Rost, who did A3 until the new version) and the a reminder of just how difficult the groundbreaking interior. Twenty combination of brushed metal and it is to replace an iconic car. years later, the TT often features dark trim gives what still feels like a Not that there’s much evidence on lists of the most influential car 2020 aesthetic. It feels smaller than Audi tried too hard with the designs. Schreyer still owns and I remember: the front seats are set second TT. There are design riffs regularly drives one, despite having close together, while the rear pair on the original with all the zip and been design head at Kia since 2006. barely qualify as plus-twos. precision of a geriatric pub band The TT went on sale in Europe in The boosty power delivery of the and it’s almost as uninspiring 1998, but only briefly. Several high- turbocharged 1.8-litre engine is to drive as it is to look at. speed crashes in Germany suggested entirely as I recall it. Audi offered The interior is particularly a lack of aerodynamic stability, so 178bhp and 222bhp versions from dull; the fact it shares its heater production was halted while a wedgy launch, with a 148bhp unit arriving controls with the first R8 might be rear spoiler and standard stability later. The company has opted to the most exciting thing about it. control were added. Earlier cars had preserve a version packing 222bhp, One for collectors to skip over. ESC retrofitted but not the spoiler; that being delivered with more the car you see here is one of the tiny enthusiasm than finesse. WHAT’S NEXT? number of right-hand-drive examples The chassis balance is also no built early enough not to have it. surprise. It’s front-led but not in a While Audi insiders have said there That’s why Audi UK recently bad way; all early TTs had the Haldex are no current plans for a direct bought it for its heritage collection, part-time four-wheel drive system, TT replacement, the company is although they agreed to let us borrow which diverts power rearwards only well aware of both the affection the car for this story before giving it when the front is running short on held for the dynasty and the any cosmetic attention. So it still has grip. So while it’s easy to accelerate to need for future models capable the patina of dings, scratches and the edge of understeer, neutralising a of delivering a similar level of even rust bubbles that reflect 21 years widening line is easily done by lifting emotional engagement. and 128,000 miles, behind which the the throttle. It’s an easy car to drive at When we spoke to Audi technical core design looks remarkably fresh a high percentage of its capability. development boss Hans-Joachim for something in its third decade. Time has changed some other Rothenpieler in March last year, The form is still striking if you look subjective opinions, however. In he said: “There’s a future for an beyond the familiarity, the curves 1999, the TT didn’t stand out for icon, but I don’t know if it’s a TT.” and surfaces on show without any having notable steering feel, but fussy detailing. Next to it, the latest the numb electric helms of modern
THE BEST USED TTs YOU CAN BUY
Mk1 TT 1.8T 180 QUATTRO Mk1 TT 1.8T QUATTRO SPORT Mk3 TT RS TFSI QUATTRO Anyone looking for a collectable early Although there was a VR6-powered Among faster TTs, the five-pot RS TT must kiss many frogs to find their range-topper, the most desirable Mk1 versions already have a cult following prince. But there are pre-spoiler cars TT is the limited-run Quattro Sport, and look set to be fondly remembered for sensible money, especially left- which received a 237bhp version of the as such cars grow increasingly rare. hand-drive ones that were parallel- 1.8-litre turbo engine and substantial Early examples of the ludicrously fast imported. Prices range from £2000 chassis changes. Values are already 395bhp Mk3 TT RS are dropping into Two decades on, the upwards; we discovered an early, rising and cars don’t come up often; the mid-£30,000s now. They will fall original TT remains spoiler-free LHD coupé for £3000. a good one will cost around £10,000. further but at a gentler pace. a joy to drive
102 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 AUDI TT vs AUDI TT COMPARISON Unique cockpit layout still seems an excellent idea
machines mean there now seems to be a pleasant degree of chattiness through the thick rim of its wheel. Nor do I remember the shift action of the six-speed manual being so slick and accurate, the TT being one of those cars that encourages you to change gear even when you don’t really need to. In terms of raw pace, it’s still more than fast enough to keep the modern TT honest. Our Mk3 comes from the bottom of the range, a front-wheel-drive 194bhp 2.0-litre, intended to provide context rather than thrills. Yet I’m soon pleased that Audi sent it rather than one of its more potent models, because it shows how the TT has matured over the years. Sitting on the Volkswagen Group’s ubiquitous MQB platform means the current car is tauter and is much more refined, with a keener front end and markedly less roll. It feels bigger and more grown- up, simply because it is – a point made by a glance into the back and at the almost-usable rear seats. But despite a dual-clutch gearbox in place of the tactile challenge of a manual, there’s still a pleasure to be had in driving at everyday pace; it’s not always goading you to go faster. There’s lots of intelligence in the third-generation TT, too, unlike the lacklustre Mk2 (see box, left). It was never going to have the impact of the original and it didn’t try to be a tribute act for its famous predecessor – rather clever in its own right. I still like the idea of its decluttered interior, where the only screen is the digital instrument display behind the steering wheel and there’s no glaring distraction on top of the dashboard. It’s a handsome, desirable car. It’s also a reminder that the bottom of the range has always made more sense than the top. There have been faster TTs, and some of them have been pretty good, but they’ve always served to emphasise how far Audi’s natively front-driven coupé is from being a purpose-built sports car. ❝ Spiritually, the TT is closer to a hot hatch, one that offers desirability and It’s still more than fast enough modest excitement at an affordable price. As such, it’s almost a latter-day Ford Capri – and yes, that is intended to keep the modern TT honest to be a compliment. If Audi does replace it with something, whether that’s an EV or a creation even more radical, that new car will ❞ have a mighty challenge to match its rational-emotional appeal. L MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 103 At 2500kg and with 1200bhp, the Drako has a power-to-weight ratio of 500bhp per tonne. Yet Jay Leno said in his video review that “it doesn’t actually feel that fast”. He’s right: it doesn’t.
A LOAD OF BALBONI It was rather a shock for Colin Goodwin to bump into Lamborghini’s legendary former test driver at the launch of a Silicon Valley electric car. What’s the deal? PHOTOGRAPHY JAMES LIPMAN
ell I never, if it isn’t is a pretty slick dude but also a rather from looking at the photos, the Drako shows. I suspect also that Balboni, a Valentino Balboni, more polished act than Balboni – a is based on the Fisker Karma. The guest here today, is being somewhat the legendary bit more designer shades. When you doors are the same but the rest of the diplomatic, so I’ll get him alone later. W Lamborghini test got in a Lamborghini with Balboni, carbonfibre body has been tweaked ‘Alone’ is sitting next to him in the driver. He’s possibly you felt that you were in the car with by ex-Pininfarina designer Lowie Drako. The last time I met Balboni, I the last person I’d have expected to a proper mechanic and craftsman. Vermeersch. It isn’t ugly, but it does was driving a slightly scuffed Diablo bump into at the launch of an electric He would roll up his sleeves and get have a visibly enormous wheelbase. SV into the car park at Sant’Agata. hypercar. The car in question is stuck in. Boy did he get stuck in. A 90kWh battery pack containing It had been teeming with rain and I called the Drako GTE and the place This GTE is a bit of a thing. It was 10,000 cells sits under the floor, had been unable to make a mountain is Thermal Raceway in California. born in Silicon Valley, the project of which explains why. The four motors road corner in the non-ABS-equipped I wasn’t expecting to be here electroboffins Dean Drako and Shiv drive the wheels via half-shafts and and summer-tyred Lamborghini. myself, but I’m staying with a Sikand. Drako isn’t here today, but produce a combined total of 1200bhp. “Ah, yes,” says Balboni. “A blue one photographer pal who’s shooting the quick-talking, very passionate Balboni is being interviewed on with orange SV lettering on its side.” the car for the journalists and other and clearly intelligent Sikand is. The camera. This should be interesting. He remembers. He was fine about it media at the event. We recently ran car itself is powered by four electric What does he think about high- at the time; he just wanted people to a feature on Thermal (22 January) motors, making it, he points out, the performance EVs? “They’re the drive his cars with gusto and passion and I was curious to see it for myself. only quad-motor EV that exists in the future, for sure,” he says. “The days of and expected the odd bit of collateral. It’s great to see Balboni here. He metal (well, if you ignore Mercedes- the traditional supercar are coming Balboni answered the questions in was always the coolest of the Italian Benz’s late SLS AMG Electric Drive). to an end.” He’s right, of course, as the a matter-of-fact way, just as I would test drivers. Ferrari’s Dario Benuzzi As you might have already guessed plethora of super-EVs in development have done. Yes, EVs are the future, 104 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 VALENTINO BALBONI INSIGHT
Goodwin and Balboni recall old escapades with Lamborghinis
but don’t expect me to weep with that even from the passenger seat. joy at the prospect. The real Balboni The Lamborghinis that Balboni ❝ comes out when I talk about the old developed weren’t exactly light or He hammers the car days and his first love, the Miura, and easy to drive fast, so this is no great mention that I had lunch with his old challenge for Il Maestro. There’s gaffer, Gian Paolo Dallara, last year. plenty of time to catch up and talk around, accompanied We’re in a different world now. Last joyfully of old times, because the time I was his passenger, there was a Drako has to spend quite a lot of time loud V12 behind us and he was about suckling from a large and very noisy by whirrings and a to pull out of the factory gates and diesel generator. Drive super-EVs on into the Emilian countryside with track and you get a lot of coffee time. his foot flat to the floor. In the Drako, “We lived through a golden age lot of tyre squeal there are just odd whirring noises of the sports car,” says Balboni, and the whining of cooling pumps. becoming more wistful by the Different environment, same moment, “with a freedom to drive ❞ old rolled-up sleeves, same talent. and enjoy cars that no longer exists.” Balboni hammers the Drako around Indeed: a period in which an Thermal’s multiple corners with the Italian policeman would have been accompaniment of more whirrings put on parking meter patrol if he had and a lot of tyre squeal. This car been stupid enough to give Balboni weighs 2.5 tonnes, and you can feel a speeding ticket in a Countach. L
RIDING SHOTGUN IN THE DRAKO GTE
Shiv Sikand explained at length the around the car and helping you to advantages of having four electric drive it faster. Apart from on one Thermal motors and how an enormous occasion when I felt the Drako launch Raceway is rather amount of work has gone into the itself out of a corner with a wriggle, like the Drako GTE: electronic control and software that there’s no emotion to the experience very impressive but vectors torque between them, front of going fast in this car. ultimately a bit unemotional to back and laterally. Total control. The $1.25 million (£1m) Drako and soulless. I think I’d When you’re out on the track, won’t be homologated for sale in get bored of thrashing you feel that all this electrickery is Europe, so all 25 examples to be built around the place employed in keeping the Drako on the will be for American or Middle Eastern pretty quickly. asphalt, controlling its weight and customers. While the car is a job well enabling the Michelin Sport Cup 2 executed, I won’t miss it. tyres to last more than a couple of laps. The brakes are huge ceramic discs, which do the job, but they’re just one part of the system: it’s telling that the Drako has to have its brakes bled halfway through the event. The Nissan GT-R (which is a bit too technical for my taste) uses The Drako corners its demonically clever systems neatly, but you still to enhance the experience: sense its huge heft you can feel the torque moving Our man talks tech with Drako’s Shiv Sikand
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 105 Depending on who is at the wheel, the condition of the track surface and the car itself, you can probably expect to get about two full laps out of a set of tyres under proper drift conditions.
GET THE DRIFT Turn in, shake the rear loose and hold it there… Just how tricky can it be to drift a car? Trickier than it sounds, as Simon Davis learns the hard way PHOTOGRAPHY LUC LACEY
n S-chassis Nissan rounds the Having been guilty of harbouring similar corner with the length of its heavily thoughts in the past, I was keen to get to the modified body wildly perpendicular bottom of this drifting malarkey once and for A to the apex. Its highly strung all. And so, brimmed with the sort of misplaced gazillion-horsepower engine is confidence that can only come from spending screaming in furious protest as it bounces off a bit too much time watching drift videos on the limiter, while plumes of white smoke erupt YouTube, I arrived at Drift Limits Motorsport from the rear wheels with the ferocity of a full- Academy in Hertfordshire ready to get stuck in. on pyroclastic flow. A metre or so from its rear The plan was simple. Instructor Bill and I Saint Bill of Bovingdon reminds Davis how it’s done bumper, a similarly modified Mazda RX-7 matches would head out in a second-generation Mazda the leader’s absurd angle of attack, and in tandem MX-5 to cover the basics, before switching the two cars link slide after dramatic slide as they things up in a more powerful Nissan 350Z later make their way around the tight, technical circuit. in the morning. Everything going well, I’d have stock. Their rear diffs had been welded, and a But despite the cacophony of thrashed engines progressed from total drift novice to someone who few suspension tweaks had been implemented to and screeching tyres, their movements are all could link a few slides together with something make them that much easier to slide and to rein in beautifully composed and coordinated. In fact, resembling coherency by the end of the session. unwanted body roll. The dedicated track we’d be they’re so graceful you might even find yourself Now, although the cars we’d be using were by using was also lubricated with a high-tech mixture wondering just how hard the process of getting a no means modified to the extent of those used of vegetable oil and water because, y’know, we car to behave in such a manner can really be. in competitive drifting, they weren’t entirely newbies need as much of a leg-up as possible. 106 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 HOW TO DRIFT SIDEWAYS GLANCE
Davis uses the full the process of initiating, catching and then width of the track to holding a drift came more naturally. give himself space Now it was time to link a few slides together. This is the point where drifting really becomes an art form and also where you really need to ignore the urge to follow a classic racing line. ❝ The closer you get to the track extremities, the more room you have to initiate your next drift. It takes roughly Timing and patience are once again key here. You need to stay on the power for as long as possible at the end of the previous drift, four years of solid before lifting to begin the initiation process over again. The car swings like a pendulum beneath you, you catch it, and transition into practice to be able the next drift. I nearly completed an entire lap by the end embarrassing given the low speeds we were of the session. Nearly. Given where I’d started travelling at. out, the fact that I’d got this far in just a few hours to drift like a pro I’d accelerate up to a mighty 23mph on corner was immensely satisfying and a testament to approach, lift off the gas a car’s length or two Bill’s impeccable tuition and saint-like patience. ahead of the entry point, feel the weight shift Nonetheless, he reckons it takes roughly four ❞ gently forward off the rear axle, turn the wheel, years or so of solid practice to be able to drift feel the car begin to slowly rotate, stab and release seamlessly like a pro. the throttle to amplify the slide, miss the catch by But once you’re there, he said, the scope of your applying either too much or too little throttle, and imagination really becomes the only limitation. then either end up straightening up or facing the Those drivers who aren’t afraid to be creative, who opposite direction. Frustrating. The MX-5’s short are willing to push the boundaries of their abilities wheelbase made it feel particularly snappy, while and experiment, are easily the most exciting to my novice’s desire to be actively doing something watch. Just like any artist, really. L with my hands and feet only exacerbated the inevitability of my failure. Bill was incredibly patient. He gently reminded IT’S NOT JUST DRIFTING me of the importance of letting the car work for you and emphasised the need for patience when it Autocar snapper Luc Lacey had a hand in setting comes to making your inputs. In fact, allowing for up Drift Limits in 2011. In the beginning, it was just the momentary pauses between each step so you him and founder Jonny Barden, a Mk2 MX-5 and can really feel what the car is doing and tune into a wheelbarrow that was used for mixing cement. how its balance is shifting beneath you is just as Among other things, Lacey recalls spending important as the steps themselves. hours using that cement to manually fill the After more practice, I’d become comfortable potholes that littered the taxiways of Bovingdon with the initiation phase and was set to tackle the Airfield – the former RAF bomber base where the catch. Here, the pause between the initial stab of company is still based today. throttle and its reapplication is crucial, but after Although Lacey is no longer involved, Drift a few more failures, I got my timing right and Limits has grown significantly over the years – managed to power on through to the corner exit. thanks in no small part to its commitment to offer Although there’s still a lot to think about in terms driving experiences at more affordable prices. of balancing steering and throttle inputs, this final Today, in addition to the drift school, you can have phase feels a lot more intuitive than the catch. a go in homologated race cars such as a McLaren A quick break to let everything stew, and then it 12C GT3 and do stunt driving courses. There’s was back out in the 350Z to try to link a few slides also the ‘police pursuit’, which sounds hilarious. together. Immediately, it felt like an easier car Who wouldn’t have fun fleeing a professionally to manage. Its longer wheelbase made its driven Dodge Charger police car in a Porsche In 2018, rotational movement that much more Boxster? Find out more at driftlimits.co.uk. BMW set the progressive and easier to read, and record for the longest continuous wet drift Drift experiences undertaken in eight hours. in an MX-5 start at An ‘F90’ M5 covered 232.5 £98 at Drift Limits miles sideways, with a mid- drift refuel courtesy of another, similarly After a quick sighting lap to learn sideways M5. the circuit’s layout, Bill ran me through the basics. In its simplest form, there are three main phases. First is the initiation, where you lift off the throttle to move the car’s weight forward, turn in with about a quarter lock on, and quickly stab and release the accelerator to initiate the slide. Then you need to catch the drift with a more sustained application of gas. Finally, you maintain the drift through to corner exit by balancing throttle and steering inputs. All the while, you need to let the car do as much of the work for you as possible. Sounds easy, right? The reality is, of course, entirely different. Learning the steps is one thing. Actually executing them successfully is another challenge altogether. So rather unsurprisingly, my first few attempts at getting the Mazda out of shape resulted in me spinning almost immediately, which felt rather MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 107 FEELING IT With the rise of electric steering, a lack of steering feel has become a common gripe. But what is actually meant by this, and why does it matter? Andrew Frankel explains
his might seem a bold hard to explain and harder still to car drove” is the most familiar automotive education and, as a result, thing to say, but here understand. But for you who aren’t refrain. And I would bet plenty it quite understandably matters less. goes: there’s not a charged with reaching opinions and that, nine times out of 10, what But what exactly is steering feel, T single attribute more justifying conclusions about your has gone missing is steering feel. and why is it in such short supply important to the cars, you shouldn’t be troubled at all. It’s true that I’m somewhat old- these days? On one level, it’s precisely enjoyment of a car than the feel for Indeed, the reason I’m writing this school about this, which is partly a as it’s described: how does the the road derived through its steering. is because a reader took the time to factor of my age and partly because steering actually feel. On a less literal I’ll go further: there’s no single write in (thank you, Daniel Vernon), I spend my spare time driving old but more important level, steering reason for the erosion of driving complaining that the Vauxhall Astra cars, which, rubbish as they may feel is a car’s ability to communicate pleasure in recent years greater he drives has steering that’s too light be in very many ways, have steering both accurately and clearly through than the continued and continual and lacks feel relative to that of the feel that almost any modern car the steering apparatus information loss of that feel. But what exactly is Ford Focuses he owned in the past. simply wouldn’t recognise. about how the road and its conditions this feel whose passing I so lament? What’s interesting here is that There’s a younger cohort of are being managed as the car flows When I teach younger writers Daniel hasn’t merely spotted a writers and drivers who attach less over its surface. about the business of road testing, it’s problem – his new car isn’t as good importance to steering’s feel and To complicate matters a little, the subject most likely to be raised, to drive – but has also identified its more to its accuracy, linearity and a distinction needs to be drawn perhaps alongside determining cause. I’ve heard countless people weight, and I’m not saying they’re between desirable feel or feedback the difference between primary make this complaint over the years, wrong just because I take another and unwanted kickback. You and secondary ride. And for them but few know what lies at its heart. view. Traditional steering feel has absolutely want the steering to it’s a real problem, because it’s “I just really liked the way my old played a far smaller role in their create a very real sense of connection 108 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 STEERING FEEL INSIGHT
between you and the road, but “EPAS’s reputation for dead feeling you just as strongly don’t want the over centre and general lifelessness CARS WITH steering leaping around in your was due to the effects of internal EXCELLENT hands or threatening to break your friction, freeplay (‘lash’) and the STEERING FEEL thumbs every time you inadvertently rotational inertia inside the electric drop a tyre into a pothole. It is, motor, which is magnified at the therefore, something requiring very steering wheel by the system’s skilled suspension engineering. own gearing.” So now you know. Yet all the combined knowledge, But there’s another, even more talent and technology that exists persuasive reason why steering feel in the world today hasn’t stopped has become so hard to find these steering systems becoming ever days: most people don’t actually more mute. And, as ever, there’s no want it. You and I may want to sense one reason for this. The fact that an intimate connection to the road, cars have become heavier hasn’t but those who regard cars as mere Volkswagen Golf helped, nor has the fact that, partly in transport – which is most people – Volkswagens tend to steer well, response to this, cars have been fitted don’t want anything of the sort. They and the Golf’s mixture of decent with ever wider and heavier tyres, all want to be removed as far as possible feel and linear responses promotes of which compromises steering feel. from the sensations of driving, senses of enjoyment and stability. But the pantomime villain of the cocooned in their own little world. piece goes by the name of EPAS, And in that regard, EPAS is only too Ford Fiesta better known as electric power- ready, willing and able to oblige. Ford has always paid singular assisted steering. When it was Even so, it remains a matter of attention to feel, so the Fiesta’s realised that EPAS systems were choice for manufacturers. They can steering is class-leading by far. cheaper and less troublesome than take the CO2 hit and continue to traditional hydraulically assisted use HPAS – although among major BMW 3 Series steering, they must have looked companies, McLaren alone ploughs BMW made great efforts to pretty tempting, but what caused this lonely but noble furrow and will reconnect the driver to the road their near-wholesale adoption was continue to do so until it finds an with the G20, which is why it’s the that they allowed manufacturers EPAS system that can mimic feel so most enjoyable exec out there. to achieve slightly lower official well that you can’t tell the difference. fuel consumption figures and If your car is light enough, you Toyota GT86 therefore lesser CO2 emissions. obviously don’t need assistance When it was new, the GT86 set new When the first Porsche 911 with at all, which is really the way to standards for EPAS steering in an EPAS came out (the 991 in 2012), maximise steering feel. But even affordable car, and it’s still superb. I persuaded an engineer to tell within the world of EPAS, the me exactly what the saving would range of outcomes is enormous. Porsche 911 be in the real world, which I then Developments in EPAS pumps, The 911’s steering is as good as calculated amounted to two free the way they’re mounted and you can currently get with EPAS, tanks of fuel over a decade on the particularly the algorithms that although still not up to the HPAS road. To me, that wasn’t control them have transformed standard that it left behind in 2012. Toyota GT86 set worth compromising the what’s possible in the past decade. new standards for single most important So, if your car still has little or Any McLaren EPAS back in 2012 interface between man no perceived steering feel, the HPAS means there’s no need for and machine, especially sad truth is likely to be that its steering feel to be synthesised; in a car like the 911. manufacturer either couldn’t be you feel what you feel because Why does EPAS kill bothered to engineer it in or actively that’s what’s happening. And steering feel? Because, as didn’t want it there. If so, drive a there’s still no substitute for it. our own Jesse Crosse puts it: car from a company that does. L ❝ Steering feel is a car’s ability to communicate information ❞
Almost invariably you’ll find better feel in older cars
McLaren is the only mainstream user of hydraulic assistance
No supermini feels better in your hands than the Ford Fiesta
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 109 BRINGING UP XEDOS 9 Hands up who remembers Xedos. The quasi- upmarket Mazda spin-off enjoyed modest UK success with the 6, but the bigger 9 never really took off. Perhaps that’s because the UK version made do with the active four-wheel steering THE REAR system made available on Japanese versions. Rear-wheel steering systems are once again in the spotlight, but the idea isn’t new. James Mills picks 10 pioneers of the corner-taming technology
t shouldn’t come as a great pitched the Honda against sports cars from surprise that one of the most Chevrolet, Ferrari and Porsche. The humble LAMBORGHINI URUS hotly debated automotive Japanese saloon beat the lot of them. Lamborghini made great strides with the updated I chassis technologies originated As with so much innovation, the novelty Aventador S, which came with a four-wheel in Japan, a nation whose residents value of four-wheel steering diminished as the steering system that then found its way onto the appear to be born with a fascination for years passed by. At the same time, insurers grew Urus. It was a key ingredient in creating a high- high-tech gadgets and gizmos. wary of repair bills – any car equipped with the performance SUV that didn’t sully the reputation Active rear-wheel steering was introduced costly hardware faced big repair bills if hit from of Italy’s second-best-known sports car maker. in 1985. Fittingly, it made its debut on the behind. Rear steer systems faded away. Nissan R31 Skyline, a car as synonymous with Until, that is, engineers realised that as cars innovation as noodles are with ramen. However, of all shapes and sizes were getting larger and the technology was popularised by the 1987 heavier, active rear-wheel steering systems Honda Prelude, which was sold globally. could help make them more manoeuvrable, The benefits of active four-wheel steering be it in a car park or around a race track. were highlighted early on by American Here are 10 highlights, past and present, magazine Road & Track. In 1987, it took a of models that belonged to the rear steering Prelude 2.0Si 4WS, laid out a slalom course and committee.
BMW 850 CSi Want to know the reason why the flagship 850 CSi version of the E31 8 Series is so cheap these days? Its Aktive Hinterachs-Kinematik (AHK) system has a habit of going wrong and more often than not costs an eye- watering amount to fix. The car was powered by a 5.6-litre V12 with 375bhp and benefited from the input of BMW Motorsport. Trouble was, it came at a cost – almost £80,000, in the early 1990s.
HONDA PRELUDE The Prelude was the car that brought four-wheel steering into the public eye. Its system was able to steer the back wheels the same way as the fronts, by 1.5deg and up to a steering input of 246deg. Apply more lock and the back wheels were able to point in the opposing direction by up to 5.33deg, giving the Honda a compact turning circle of just 10 metres, or 33 feet in old money. However, the cost of the complex steering gear didn’t go down well with insurers when a Prelude was hit from behind. 110 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 REAR-WHEEL STEERS TOP 10 PORSCHE 911 GT3 While it was the 918 Spyder that Porsche first fitted with an active rear steering system, the first relatively attainable model was the 991-era 911 GT3. The company’s engineers did a good job because, after the first drive of the new model, Autocar reported: “If Porsche had not revealed its existence, we may never have noticed it.”
MITSUBISHI 3000 GT The 3000 GT was laden with nearly as many gizmos as Doc Brown’s DeLorean: active aero aids, all-wheel drive, adaptive suspension, two turbochargers and, of course, four-wheel steering. However, few of Britain’s drivers were drawn to it when they could have a BMW or Porsche instead.
FORD F-150 PLATINUM ZF When a car is 5.8 metres long and has a near 14-metre turning circle, the thought of negotiating a multi-storey car park is enough to bring out a cold sweat. It’s why the latest Ford F-150 gets a ZF rear- wheel steering system. Ford has since applied for a patent for such a system on the current F-150. FERRARI F12TDF With nearly 770bhp to manage, the limited-edition F12tdf needed all the help it could get when it came to keeping things on the black stuff. For the first time, Ferrari introduced a rear-wheel steering system, which it called a ‘virtual short wheelbase’. Remarkably, the ZF-sourced hardware added just 5kg to the kerb weight, which had been reduced by 110kg over a standard F12. The tdf was a challenge to drive at the limit but its steering tech filtered through to models including the GTC4 Lusso and 812 Superfast.
RENAULT MEGANE RS It may seem like overkill in a hatchback but Renault Sport’s engineers have used the latest generation of four-wheel steering – called 4Control – to their advantage, making it adjustable according to the conditions and ideal for track days. Renault says steering angle is reduced by up to 40% compared with a Mégane without the system.
NISSAN 300 ZX In 1990, Nissan struggled to convince UK drivers that a company best known for the Micra could rub shoulders with Porsche, so 300 ZX sales soon slowed to a negligible number. Although there was much to like, opinion is divided over whether or not to disable the High Capacity Active Steering (HICAS) four-wheel steer hardware. MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 111 EAT YOUR HART OUT Tom Hartley has made millions dealing supercars. Colin Goodwin visits his new place PHOTOGRAPHY JOH N BR A DSH AW
wo days ago, a text We’re at Hartley’s establishment a huge selection of other exotica), motoring scribe Ken Gibson. In arrived from Tom in Overseal, near Swadlincote, you will have to crack a formidable parts it’s an excellent manual for the Hartley’s personal Derbyshire, for a couple of reasons. security system. budding entrepreneur, with plenty T assistant, Hannah, First, Hartley wants to show off his Your other problem is that Hartley of advice and inspiration, in others asking what filling recently completed new showroom. not only lives on the estate – in a very a masterclass in self-obsession. It’s I’d like in my sandwiches. Attention Second, he wants to talk about his grand gaff in the middle of it – but interesting to discover that among to detail: that’s Hartley. It has been new autobiography, The Dealmaker. also doesn’t sleep much, so you’re Hartley’s business heroes are Philip a while. Eighteen years back, I took Establishment isn’t the official likely to be caught red-handed. Green and Mike Ashley (of BHS and Hartley, probably the world’s most description; Hartley refers to the While you and I are in the land of Sports Direct respectively) and that famous peddler of supercars, to the place as The Hartley Estate. Quite Nod, the hyperactive 59-year-old he considers Donald Trump a genius. Geneva motor show. If your memory a place it is, too. Visits are strictly Glaswegian will most likely be In the book, Hartley notes that he is better than mine, you might recall by appointment only, and if you did cutting a deal. Deals deals deals. likes characters rather than bland the resulting feature. Hartley brought think about turning up at two in If you read his book, you’ll be up to people, citing fellow car dealers Nick his son Carl, who was 13 then and is the morning to help yourself to the your neck in deals. And celebrities. Lancaster and Ron Stratton as falling now a full partner in the business. McLaren P1 that’s currently in the And money. The book was ghost- into the first group. He’s right about But more about the family later. front of the showroom (alongside written by fellow hack and ex-Sun Lancaster: I have about a hundred 112 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 TOM HARTLEY INSIGHT
Of all the stunning metal on show, it’s this 1972 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 that Goodwin wants
subjects as the sales potential of the can, if you want to, go down to the Lotus Evija, let’s take a tour around basement and survey the underbelly and kick some tyres. of your prospective purchase. The Hartley is rightly proud of his new glass had been occupied by a nearly showroom. The old one still exists; new Porsche 911 Targa, but that has it’s where his original office is and just been collected by its new owner: from where he still works. Carl has an the wife of a successful East End office in the new place with plenty of builder who last week made the trip computer screens and tech on show, north to collect his own Lamborghini while Dad’s is an old-school leather- Aventador SV. Hartley did 500 deals topped desk with a phone on it. For last year, mostly with private buyers doing deals. In case you’ve never read but also some within the trade. anything about Hartley in the media, Now the sheet of glass is covered by he’s had his office walls covered in the P1. There’s a Bugatti Veyron next old articles and features concerning to it, several more Lamborghinis and, him, including the one that I wrote. on the other side of the showroom, a The new showroom is stunning. Porsche 918 Spyder and Carrera GT. It’s across three floors, all of which I love Lamborghinis and the are serviced by a car lift. The straight-forward people who tend to top one has a balcony so buy them. Like that most famous of Hartley is that cars can be out in Lambo owners, Rod Stewart. particularly proud the open. The ground “I know what you mean,” says of his lake. It has a floor contains Carl Hartley. “I’ve sold Stewart several submerged bridge running and chief salesman cars. He used to live in Epping Forest across it so that cars can be James’s office. but now he’s up near Harlow. One photographed surrounded by There’s a big time, I had to drop off a car at Elton water. He got the idea from glass panel on John’s house in Berkshire and then seeing a photographer pouring the floor so you go on to Rod’s to collect one.” ◊ water on the asphalt while photographing one of his cars.
hilarious anecdotes involving him, so it’s a bit of a shame that Hartley, who has known him for longer than I have, didn’t commit a few to paper. While Hartley might not come across as your cup of char in this book, he’s very dynamic and likeable in the flesh. And if you’re into cars, and particularly very fast ones, he’s absolutely fascinating. I doubt there’s anyone in the world who has a better knowledge of this market or, more importantly, a more comprehensive You can usually spot address book containing the names Hartley stock in the of those who play in it. But before we classifieds right away question the oracle on such pressing MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 113 ❝ Ferrari have started taking the piss out
It’s possible to of customers pick up a bargain Younger son Carl is a partner in the business – and a true petrolhead from Tom Hartley – even an affordable one. In stock Some address book. the reason I drive is a five-mile-old BMW i8 ❞ As well as the P1, there’s a 720S and the Golf is that I Roadster that cost £130,000 a new GT. “I’ll never drive a McLaren don’t want to lose new. Now you can drive again,” says Hartley with some the special feeling it away for just over feeling. “I suffer from claustrophobia that you get when you half that price. and once got stuck in one because the drive a supercar. I don’t central locking failed. I nearly had want to become blasé to bash my way out of the thing but about them. I need to feel fortunately was rescued. They’re not what the customers feels.” at all well made, and then there’s the By his own admission, Hartley depreciation. That 720S was about isn’t a petrolhead, even though his £240,000, but you could take it knowledge is certainly prodigious. away now with fewer than 5000 For a chat with a proper enthusiast, miles on the clock for £150,000.” you need to buttonhole Carl. The Evija was mentioned earlier. The boy has turned out well. As I remember from when we trod the covered in his book, Hartley, who left boards at Geneva that Hartley didn’t school at 11 himself, home-schooled hold Lotus in especially high regard. both his sons and both his daughters. “The problem,” he explains, “is When I met Carl in 2002, I found that, as a brand, it simply isn’t on the experience rather unnerving. the same level as Porsche or Ferrari. A young version of Dad, in a sharp Selling a million-pound-plus Lotus suit, very earnest and very controlled. isn’t going to be an easy job.” I couldn’t imagine that he would So what does the man who has the grow up to be a normal person. He most amazing key box in the world has – and we can bond over cars, too. drive? “I’ve got a diesel Golf,” is the “What about electric supercars?” answer. “It’s a great little car. I do of I ask. “Not for me,” is the emphatic course drive lots of supercars, but reply. “That’s as far as I’ll go,” he says,
pointing at the hybrid P1. “Not pure EV, because the engine is the soul.” Carl’s brother, Tom Junior, worked with the old man until 2014, when he left to start his own eponymous business, which tends to specialise in classic cars. Top-end ones, of course. There are a few old-timers knocking around Hartley Senior’s premises, too: a Lamborghini Jalpa hiding in a corner, plus a Ferrari Daytona and a flat-floor Jaguar E-Type on the top level. Both are immaculate, but the Hartley has always Daytona is just sensational in dark been happy to talk blue. It’s my pick of the stock. to the press A rather more affordable Ferrari is a mint-condition 458 Spider. “These 114 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 TOM HARTLEY INSIGHT
THE RAREST, THE MOST UNUSUAL AND THE PRICIEST
Hartley has shifted three McLaren because his business isn’t a they’ll come unstuck doing this.” F1s in his time, which he rates as franchise, his willingness Hartley tends to own all his stock; some of the rarest cars he’s sold. to speak his mind. Witness there are no big loans with the bank. One of the most unusual has just his views on McLaren. He’s Everything you see has been hard- arrived. “This Ariel Nomad is pretty not shy about Ferrari, either. earned and paid for. This is going to unusual for us,” he says. “Not at all “They’ve started taking put Hartley in a better position post- the typical car you’d see us with.” the piss out of customers,” pandemic than many of his rivals. Unsurprisingly, Hartley regularly The showroom currently contains 51 cars for sale he rails, “with cars like the “I’ve been through several has to sign confidentiality clauses, 488 Pista, which it charges recessions,” he notes, “so I know so can’t talk about some of the a fortune for but which isn’t what to expect. I know I’m going to deals that he’s done. However, the are really that different [from lose a seven-figure sum on this stock, biggest is common knowledge. interesting,” notes Hartley, “because the regular 488 GTB]. but I’m well placed to deal with it.” The ex-Phil Hill Ferrari 250 TR he they’re worth “Also the way that you have to I don’t doubt it. Hartley’s sold in 2014 for £24 million was at more than the 488, as people prefer buy several ‘ordinary’ models like combination of self-belief, experience the time the most expensive car the naturally aspirated engine.” the 812 Superfast and Portofino and sound business acumen should ever sold from a showroom floor This is what makes him so to get yourself on the list for the get him through even this steadily in the UK and probably the world. interesting: his deep knowledge and, more exclusive stuff. Eventually, tumultuous economic storm. L MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 115 The Autocar archive covers a century-and- a-quarter of motoring KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON World wars never stopped us and neither will this pandemic. Colin Goodwin opens the archive to discover how Autocar has kept its readers entertained during national crises
e’re carrying on. Union Congress and Stanley Of course we are; we Baldwin’s government managed always have. Autocar to come to an agreement. Three W has witnessed a lot issues of The Autocar were lost. of world events and The second occasion many of us disasters during its 125-year life, but were around for, and I’m sure a great we’ve continued to produce a weekly number of you remember being magazine throughout. The Autocar starved of your favourite motoring was just a few years old when the publication. We’re talking about the Second Boer War broke out, but a war 1973 fuel crisis and the three-day being fought in South Africa didn’t week. Power cuts, sharing baths have much of an effect back home. and, as remembered fondly by this Anyway, there were only six privately writer, school lessons by candlelight. owned cars in Britain when the The miners were on strike and so too magazine was first published, and were the printers. The latter caused I doubt there were that many more the longest absence from the shelves while the Boers were being beaten. in Autocar’s history: an outage that Only twice in its long history ran from 15 November 1973 until 23 has Autocar not made it onto the March 1974. The print unions had shelves. There may be a few readers achieved something neither Kaiser who were alive during the first Wilhelm II nor Adolf Hitler could. occasion but probably none who will It’s amazing that not a single issue remember it or whose own reading was missed during either the First or was interrupted. Guessed it? It was Second World Wars. Paper could have during May 1926, when the General been a problem, certainly in WW2, Strike brought the country to a because it was strictly rationed, but standstill. Still the only general titles such as The Autocar and Motor strike ever called in the UK, it ran Sport were considered important for only nine days until the Trades for keeping up morale (hopefully We produced many stories on army driving and fighting vehicles during the world wars 116 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 TIMES OF CRISIS RETROSPECTIVE The unions❝ achieved something neither the Kaiser nor Hitler could ❞
There were widespread strikes in Britain in 1973-74, and Autocar was forced out of print for 19 weeks as a consequence
Lessons in arranging an album, anyone?
we’re doing the same today) so were allowed to keep printing. The demand was certainly there because, in times of stress and deprivation, one turns to hobbies and the hope of reconnecting with them when things are back to normal. Certainly that was the philosophy behind the Muhlberg Motor Club’s motoring magazine, The Flywheel, which was produced from 1944-45 by the inmates of Stalag IV-B. At the beginning of both world wars, not much changed. The first was famously anticipated to be over by Christmas and the second began as the ‘phoney war’. Eventually both became terrifically serious and impinged on all aspects of life, including motoring. There are comparisons to be made between wartime life and the current coronavirus crisis. Many aren’t relevant to a motoring magazine, but KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON the one thing that we who write for Autocar share with our forebears is a dwindling bank of new car features, whether it be first drives or group tests. All the UK importers have locked up their fleets of cars and all launch events have been cancelled. Soon we will have covered all the new cars that we have driven in the past months. What will we write about then? And about what did the staff at The Autocar write when they were in a similar position? Just before the lockdown, I spent a very enjoyable afternoon in the Editorial pieces and advertisements talked hopefully Haymarket basement, looking of peace returning throughout the Second World War through the company’s complete collection of the magazine from 1895 to the present. There’s some great stuff in there. Not just entertaining pieces but also thought-provoking and provocative articles on subjects not entirely irrelevant today. There’s a great editorial that was published on 6 May 1916. It starts with the brave statement that Germany could have staved off the war and instead beaten us commercially and industrially by simply continuing down the path Great War showed on which it was already travelling. reliance on imports The editor bemoans that the fact to be a vulnerability that we had become too reliant on imported and foreign parts for ◊ MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 117 ∆ our cars, mentioning magnetos in particular. He goes on to suggest Goodwin was pleased that, after the war is over, we in to discover just how Britain should make our own fuel resilient we have been from the by-products of agriculture so that we will no longer be beholden to foreign suppliers, and equally boldly points out that Germany is already doing just such a thing. The Autocar also played its part in the war effort, as a short news piece in the 10 November 1917 issue shows. The week before, we had run an article on The Red Cross School of Motor Mechanics that had been set up in Vevey, Switzerland, for prisoners of war interned in the country. The editor had pointed out the great work the school was doing to help the servicemen learn skills that would be useful to them in peacetime. He had also asked readers to contribute to the running of the school and a week later had received several hundred pounds. It’s good to note that the then publishers of The Autocar, Iliffe & Sons, had themselves put in £105. By the time the country was at war again, the motoring world had changed dramatically, even though just 20 years had passed. Private car ownership was far more common and there had been two decades of fantastic motorsport. There were more cars and there were better and more exciting cars. But, as announced in an editorial in the front of the issue dated 26 July 1940, right in the middle of the Battle of Britain, there were no new cars. “Since last Saturday,” wrote the editor, “it has been impossible to buy a new car without a licence.” Below this piece, we noted that 10 times more people were killed on the roads in June than were killed by air raids. ❝ That ratio would be modified that There was always autumn by the start of the Blitz. While buying a new car was out of the question, there was a plentiful a strong optimism supply of used cars available. The Autocar’s classified pages, certainly that things would in the early part of the war, were far better populated than petrol rationing would have you expect. go back to normal My nose would have been firmly pressed against the window of Brooklands of Bond Street in ❞ London, whose September 1940 advertisement contained such mouthwatering machines as a nearly As-new SS Jaguar could new Lagonda V12 coupé for £1050 be yours in 1940 for the (roughly a seventh of the price of equivalent of £16,640 a new Supermarine Spitfire) and, if its country of birth didn’t bother you, a 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K for £595. For the RAF fighter pilot, it surely would have had to be an SS Jaguar 100 two-seater at £295. The Autocar didn’t seem to have much trouble sourcing writers for its wartime articles. Here’s a name that may well be familiar to you (no, not Steve Cropley): Denis Jenkinson. 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Jenkinson contributed to the 28 March 1941 issue a fascinating four- pager on the relative performance of well-known competition machines – a feature that is timeless and would be fascinating to replicate in 2020. As for racing itself, there of course wasn’t any in Europe. The Indianapolis 500 was run in 1940 and 1941 but then stopped after the US entered the war. The Autocar didn’t forget about motorsport for the duration and instead ran many articles that looked back at some of the great races from the past decades. Prince Chula of Thailand, cousin of the famous racing driver Prince Bira, wrote several such emotive pieces, including a history of The British Empire Trophy for 4 April 1941. There was never a shortage of With new car sales banned and petrol rations withdrawn, we gave advice on how to mothball your car readers’ views, either. Here’s a cracker from John Bartlett of North London, which begins in the fashion that many of your letters still do. “Having been a reader of The Autocar since 1925, when I was 11 years of age, I have written at different periods in your correspondence columns. However, due to the Dunkirk business, I have returned to civil life minus my right leg but am managing on a metal one.” Mr Bartlett then goes on to describe the arrangement and operation of the disabled driving controls on his Austin Seven that he designed and manufactured himself. There was a strong feeling of optimism throughout the whole war, even during the darkest periods, that things would go back to normal after an Allied victory. Only strikes in 1926 Wide-ranging impact Towards the end, when this was and 1973-74 have of the oil crisis was on the horizon, The Autocar busied stopped us printing felt around the globe itself with practical matters, such as how to recommission your car. Even as far back as February 1943, we had been considering the problem of tyres on cars that had been laid up being perished by the time the war was over. The Autocar, concerned that post-war new car production would eat up the supply of fresh tyres, urged the authorities to make sure owners of old cars were also supplied. By 1945, the talk was of the sort of new cars that would be made and how the huge improvements in metallurgy, manufacturing and technology that had been learned in the development and building of war machines would benefit cars. There was excitement also about the restarting of motorsport and the very accurate prediction that the perimeter roads of RAF airfields could be used as racing circuits. We live in very different times, of course, and are facing different issues with this pandemic. But some things are the same: my colleagues are still beavering away to produce a magazine in challenging conditions, while we’re all looking forward to getting out on the road again and to enjoying events like the postponed Goodwood Festival of Speed. Stay calm and publish. That’s L
the Autocar motto. SHUTTERSTOCK MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 119 30 for 30: Qualified Since there’s no HOW TO live sport at the moment, BT Sport FILMS AND has been showing loads of ESPN’s excellent 30 for 30 documentaries. It’s worth watching TELEVISION out for Qualified, which tells the story GET YOUR of Janet Guthrie, the first female racer to qualify for and compete in both the Indianapolis 500 and Daytona 500. Besides the inspirational tale of The Sweeney (plus perseverance, there’s the awesome MOTORING other ’70s shows) mid-1970s Indy footage. JA There’s great pleasure to be had C’était un rendez-vous from watching reruns of classic Every second of Claude Lelouch’s TV shows like The Professionals 1976 cult classic is thrilling. Shot in and The Sweeney. It’s not just the a single take, the eight-minute film fights and shooters, it’s the glorious depicts a high-speed, high-stakes ’70s backgrounds containing cars. drive through early-morning Paris. FIX WITHOUT There are Austins, Rovers, Jaguars, Despite the distinctive V12 howl that Lancias and Renaults, to name plays throughout (said to come from just a few. Talking Pictures TV is Lelouch’s Ferrari 275 GTB), legend showing Out, featuring a 1978 has it he was actually at the wheel of Ford Granada 2.8 and rock-hard his Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL 6.9 for Tom Bell as an ex-con getting the run. Regardless, this is one of the LEAVING revenge. Brilliant. JR greatest film soundtracks ever. SD On Any Sunday With pioneering use of helmet cameras, slow motion and innovative high-speed filming trickery, it’s hard to believe that this early stab at the motorbike racing exposé dates from nearly 50 years ago. Director Bruce HOME Brown introduces the flourishing motocross scene, calling on Looking for some automotive fun to Steve McQueen for narration services keep you occupied while sitting round and taking in some of the sport’s most the house? Of course you are. Here are death-defying exploits and charismatic 50 ways to help make self-isolation and participants. Think of it as a bike fan’s version social distancing positively entertaining of Drive to Survive. FP
HELLO WORLD THE UNFAIR ADVANTAGE BANGERNOMICS By Hannah Fry By Mark Donohue BIBLE BOOKS Okay, so this Mark Donohue’s life story is told By James Ruppert isn’t technically through the prism of all the cars he Come worship at the about cars, but raced in formulae from Trans-Am high priest’s altar A RACING a significant to Indy, Can-Am to F1. The clarity of with the one and DRIVER’S chunk of the man’s brain is mind-boggling, only, truly original WORLD Hannah Fry’s while the phlegmatic descriptions of paean to buying a By Rudolf brilliantly the cars he drove make them appear second-hand car Caracciola accessible book somehow even more magical. It’s that won’t break the bank and which Few early grand is given over to a book about a you’ll fall in love with. James Ruppert prix drivers autonomous superb engineer, himself describes it as “futureproof survived long vehicles. Delving incredible driver and universe-friendly”, by which we enough to pen into the theory, the technology and, and fine human think he means that everything you autobiographies, most fascinatingly, the psychology being, tinged read in it will be as true tomorrow as but Rudolf of driverless cars, this carefully with the sadness it is today. So popular was this genre- Caracciola’s is pretty special. The researched account reveals that of knowing he definer that not even Ruppert has hugely talented German raced for we’re further away from letting would lose his any copies left today – but he will Alfa Romeo and Mercedes-Benz the machines take over than life so soon sell you a “thoroughly modern PDF” between the 1920s and 1950s, won some areas of the industry after it was for a scarcely believable £1.97 via six German grands prix as well as would have you think. JD completed. AF his Bangernomics website. JH a hard-fought Mille Miglia in 1931 and survived numerous crashes. CAR GUYS vs BEAN COUNTERS He had a brilliant turn of phrase: By Bob Lutz “A man is a racing driver as another Maximum Bob was always a journalist’s dream, ready to shoot from the hip and mouth off at anyone is a hunter.” Or: “After each and anything. What’s more, he was (usually) forgiven for some of his less well-judged commentary accident they look for new safety on account of whatever he said coming from the heart, as well as the perspective of a car guy. Lutz’s measures, but death finds ever new written works are prolific, so there are a few to choose from, but this tale built on how he helped ways to catch his victims.” MD turn around General Motors by focusing on decent profit rather than big margins is a belter. JH
120 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM MAY 2020 CABIN FEVER CURES INSIDE STORY Apex: The Secret Race Across America It’s The Cannonball Run in real life, and it doesn’t get much more dangerous or exciting than that. Rapper Ice-T and former Gumball Rally lunatic Alex Roy explore the underground US transcontinental races inspired by the film, including Roy’s highly illegal but thoroughly rehearsed 2006 attempt to break the 1983 coast-to- coast US driving record of 32 hours The Autocar and seven minutes in a modified YouTube channel BMW M5. Strap yourselves in for Forgive the blatant self-promotion, a wild one – and don’t think about but on Autocar’s YouTube channel having a go yourself. LA (760,000 subscribers can’t be wrong), there are more than 1000 videos for your perusal. News, reviews, group tests and silly features: there’s something new every week. And all for free. Like and subscribe guys, like and subscribe. MP Used Cars Here’s an ’80s screwball comedy with cars, lots of cars: mostly dented, often anonymous, square Chevrolets and chrome-filled ’50s/’60s Fords. It also contains the great Kurt Russell and even greater Jack Warden, a brilliant old Hollywood character actor. Drive to Survive For reasons Grand Prix Uppity Fallen out of love with F1 recently? revolving As beautifully shot as Steve This is the story of Willy T Ribbs, a You’re probably not the only one. around used McQueen’s Le Mans but vastly decently talented racing driver who As drivers and team managers car lot rivalry, superior as a film on account of faced into – and sometimes broke become increasingly media-trained the plot is all actually having a plot. James Garner down – social barriers as a black man and the budgets ever more obscene, about amassing – as big a petrolhead in real life as in a white man’s sport. A Formula personalities have taken a back a mile of used McQueen or Paul Newman – excels Ford champion in the UK, Ribbs seat. But this insightful Netflix cars. I won’t in the lead role, but it’s a great film (who enticingly recounts his gripping series gives refreshingly candid spoil it, but for spotting cameos from the racing tale with no lack of confidence about access to the behind-the-scenes there’s one drivers who helped make it, including the scales of his talent) ran out of sagas and bitter team rivalries, hell of a wild Graham Hill as Bob Turner. It’s fun money but made acquaintances who showing the true characters in F1. ride getting spotting which are real F1 cars and gave him shots in F1, Nascar and Indy With races postponed, this is an there. JR which are dolled-up F3 cars, too. AF – some successful, some less so. JH essential watch. LA
HOW TO BUILD A CAR HIGH PERFORMANCE By Adrian Newey By Peter Grimsdale How you would begin to design When I was a lad on a website called 4Car, Peter Grimsdale something so incredibly complex was the nice man at Channel 4 who supported the site as a car is mystifying to most of us, greatly. What I didn’t know then is what a great storyteller and even more so when it comes to the he is. High Performance is a ripping yarn of Britain’s pinnacle of motorsport. Who better motoring exploits in the glory years. Recommended. MP to hear about it from, then, than F1’s most successful designer ever? Part CARS: ACCELERATING DRIVING WITH THE DEVIL autobiography part handbook, and THE MODERN WORLD By Neal Thompson spanning from March 881 to Red By Brendan Cormier This book digs into Bull RB8, How to Build a Car lifts Those of you the fascinating the curtain on factory goings-on, who have visited relationship analyses key elements of car design the V&A’s Cars: between early stock and describes engineering innovations Accelerating the car racing and in understandable terms, aided by Modern World will moonshine running clear technical drawings. KC know how utterly in America’s Deep captivating the South, focusing HAYNES MANUALS exhibition is. Here’s the next best on a handful of Come clean now: how long has the Haynes thing: this coffee-table book curates complex, colourful manual for your slightly problematic, the highlights of the show, ranging characters who ageing motor been sitting on the bookshelf from the rise of Fordism to the early have long been left in the margins untouched? Now’s the time to dust off the days of racing at Brooklands in the of Nascar history. Come for crazy cobwebs and get to serious grips with fixes for 1920s to the Firebird 1 concept car tales of illegal alcohol deliveries your car. Once you’ve run out of inspiration of 1953, intended to look like a jet and early oval racing, stay for the there, Haynes now offers advice on an array fighter. Finally, it brings us to the political battle that led to the rise of subjects, ranging from ‘Vegan Man’ (yes, modern day, considering the place of America’s biggest motorsport. really) to the International Space Station. of electric and autonomous vehicles Think F1 politics with added You know you’re tempted. RB in society. RB southern drawls and guns. JA
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Circuit-spotting on Google Maps This is an activity that can keep you occupied for weeks. With a bit of time, research and the Google Earth app, you can visit any track you choose – but the obscure and forgotten ones are best. Trace the Esports sim racing Grace’s Guide layouts of places like Germany’s With motor racing postponed for the Upon his retirement from the world of industry, Andrew Tweedie set about Südschleife, Crystal Palace in foreseeable future, ‘real’ racers are shedding light on the fascinating early history of British industrialism the UK or even Spain’s recently going online to take on sim racers, and by founding Grace’s Guide. The charity is run by volunteers with niche abandoned venue in Valencia. JD you can watch it live or streamed. Some areas of knowledge, and its daily updated encyclopaedic website currently good fun that could very well exceed has some 139,000 articles and 225,000 images for you to enjoy, covering Online emulators your expectations. Search ‘The Race’ companies, people, events, machines and inventions. Autocar (founded Computer games were better in the on YouTube for the best of it. MP 1895, doncha know) has proved one of the key sources of information. KC old days, right? Well, dig around the Internet Archive (archive.org) and you’ll find a host of in-browser emulators, allowing you to play some old racing classics, such as the Commodore Amiga version of Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge. Be warned: they’re not all as good as you remember. JA VHS Rallies An anonymous rally fan has dedicated this channel to rescuing footage gathering dust on video cassettes and bringing it into the digital world. And we should all be grateful. The result is a hotchpotch of action from jaw-dropping rally talent from yesteryear (loosely Classic & Sports Car configurators speaking the Colin McRae-and- Car Classifieds Shortly after Land Rover unveiled the new Defender, it put its online Richard Burns era backwards), You know how sometimes a configurator for the model live. Within seconds, social media was flooded plus several amusing specials, nagging ache is enough for you to with ‘here’s one I made earlier’ creations. Sure, they’re ultimately there from 1981 champion Ari Vatanen tell yourself you won’t take feeling as buying tools, but configurators have become a source of entertainment in a jacket and tie on Sport Friday well for granted? This reminds me by themselves. JA to national rally hero Gwyndaf of that, but on a bigger scale: life’s Evans being interviewed while too short to own boring cars. And driving a school bus. JH Classic & Sports Car has loads of interesting ones. MP
Archive video on YouTube The Samba Experience joy by watching You might not have a project car racing at Brooklands in 1935. Kay in the garage that you can work Petre clocked 134.24mph in her on in times like these, so why not 12-cylinder Delage, making it the watch someone else finish theirs? fastest lap yet driven by a woman. This US-based forum, aimed at Download car colouring books The defeated Gwenda Stewart classic Volkswagen owners, allows Need to occupy kids? Well, get them colouring in some cars. Audi is shook her hand at the end and said readers to track the course of offering a free-to-download colouring book (audi.us/33JasCr), while with all the grace she could muster: Beetle, Microbus, Buggy, Karmann former Jaguar design chief Ian Callum’s new agency has put some “Jolly good show, I’m very glad you Ghia and even vintage Porsche designs on callumdesigns.com/downloads. Actually, both look much won.” Yeah, right. Squint and you builds from start to finish. FP too fun to set aside for the kids… JA can see The Autocar advertised. RB
MAY 2020 AUTOCARMALAYSIA.COM 123 Grand Theft Auto F1 2019 So GTA is not a ‘conventional’ With no real events, Formula 1 driving game, but there are bosses have thrown together a series cars, there is driving and there of all-star races using the F1 2019 COMPUTER are missions to complete that game. Still, the official F1 game is involve both. It just happens even better to play than watch, so that there’s quite a bit of why not find out if you could have GAMES carnage and bloodshed, too. 18- denied Lewis Hamilton his sixth plus. Don’t show your gran. MP title last year. JA
Gran Turismo Sport Nearly three years since it was launched, Gran Turismo Sport remains the standard to beat for classic driving simulators. Whether it’s gruelling online racing, relentless lap-time shaving around the Nürburgring or just the neat livery customisation feature, there’s plenty to enjoy. But a racing wheel is essential equipment to make the most of the impressive physics. LA Mario Kart Tour Mario Kart might be the antithesis of hardcore sim racing, but underpinning its cutesy graphics has always been sharp handling and challenging tracks. This smartphone redux makes the transition to touchscreen well. Still brutally cruel when you dominate a race only to be wiped out by a red shell. JA Dirt Rally 2.0 The successor to one of the best rally Mudrunner simulators of all time, Dirt Rally Forza Motorsport Based in the wilds of Russia, Mudrunner tasks you with 2.0 refines the physics, visuals and Physics nerds will probably prefer the Gran delivering logs across huge open-world maps, dodging gameplay. Everything from a Lancia Turismo franchise’s attention to detail when it muddy bogs and mountains. It’s tough and requires extreme Fulvia to brutal Group B cars and comes to suspension behaviour and bumps in patience, but the physics are amazing – you’ll find yourself today’s unstickable WRC models tracks, but Forza will let you make a faithful doing lots of slow-speed crawling, juggling diff locks and are available on all the greatest rally replica of your local plumber’s Ford Transit, planning your fuel. It’s way more fun than it sounds, honest – stages, mixing varied weather and whack in the V6 from a Jaguar XJ220 and and you get to drive huge Russian eight-wheelers. BSY surfaces to test your skill. LA then tear around the Nordschleife. FP
PLAN A OTHER THINGS TO DO ROAD TRIP Now’s not the time CHECK OUT YOUR to round up your FAVOURITE VIEW mates and tackle (VIRTUALLY) the North Coast One of the simplest joys of driving 500, so take extra is pointing your car towards time to plan your locations you love, aka scenery. next big road trip. I do it all the time, sometimes Be ambitious: diverting from long motorway imagine you’ve hauls for the purpose. But in got a couple of these times of essential travel weeks to spare, only, we’d suggest the next best the ideal car to thing: Google Earth. Find roads drive and enough and check out the view virtually, spare cash. Who so you know where to visit when can create the best the situation allows. SC bucket list? FP
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Rocket League TAMIYA RC CARS Rocket League couldn’t be further from HOME DELIVERY Ah, Tamiya radio-controlled cars. Happy a racing simulator if it tried. It’s basically memories of childhoods past and just as arcade-style online multiplayer car football relevant and entertaining today. They take with customised radio-controlled cars. It days to build, mere seconds to crash. MP doesn’t sound like much, but it’s absurdly addictive and easy to follow. LA
MODEL KITS If you’re of a certain age, you’ll know the joys of turning a sprue of odd grey plastic shapes, some nasty-smelling glue, a few miniature pots of paint and a set of decals into a lovely model. The quality and level of detail has improved since your youth. The likes of Airfix, Revell and Tamiya offer car kits in various scales ranging from the Bentley Blower through the Tyrrell P34 to the, er, Buick Grand National. KC
Grand Prix 4 LEGO TECHNIC DEFENDER The most recent version of Geoff Crammond’s It’s Lego. It’s a Defender. It has opening doors outstanding series dates from way back in and working steering. It has an inline six- 2002 – Lewis Hamilton’s first full season cylinder engine with moving pistons. And, in car racing – but such is its accuracy and most important, it has 2573 pieces. It’s not popularity that it’s supported and kept fresh a toy, it’s a proper engineering project. JA by an active online modding community. JA AUTOCAR BUILD A CATERHAM KIT CAR Motorsport Manager 3 Since you’re reading, This will be my third Caterham kit but the first An ideally pitched management game for it’s likely that you one that I’ve built for me and not for a magazine. smartphones. You get to juggle the many appreciate Autocar as Also the first one that’ll be a keeper. An for that jobs of a team boss – sign drivers and staff, a valuable source of reason, and because we have a lot of time on develop parts, chase sponsors, plot race strategy car-related escapism our hands due to this pandemic, it will be built – while avoiding getting bogged down in and entertainment. So more slowly and to a higher standard. The kit is tedious don’t miss out if you comprehensive so, as long as you’ve got things minutiae. get stuck at home: try like axle stands and trolley jacks (which I have) It’s also our digital edition or and a good tool kit, you shouldn’t need to leave available subscribe and have the home. What a pleasure. CG in a more magazine delivered in-depth to you (visit autocar. form for co.uk for details). The mag also doubles as the PCs. JA world’s glossiest toilet paper in emergencies. JA
BUY A MOTORBIKE Social distancing isn’t going to be much fun in this context, but it is when you have a motorcycle to ride, it’s a nice day and the roads are quiet. So take your new-found free time to hunt on the internet for the ideal bike. MP
TIDY THE GARAGE For years, my garage has been basically a lifestyle overflow zone – a place for things with no place. MAKE A GAMING RIG Now the lockdown means I’m out of excuses Okay, you’ve got the game, but the joypad to impose order, first by fixing the door that doesn’t cut it and a wheel clamped to a table was broken in the storms – box ticked – now by shakes. With a bit of dedication, some metal having a proper clear-out and finally sorting out or wood or bolts or welding, you too can have my tool mountain. I also need to somehow make a home ‘simulator’. Props if your other half space for my Porsche Cayman so it doesn’t spend will let it stay in the living room. MP another summer under a sap-dripping tree. MD
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