Category Archives: NEW CARS

NEW CARS

Honda Passport Baja Spec: 1,300-HP Trophy Truck Set to Tackle the 2027 Baja 500

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Honda is taking its off-road racing ambitions to a new level with the Honda Passport Baja Spec, a purpose-built race truck developed by Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US) to compete in the top Trophy Truck class of the 2027 SCORE World Desert Championship. Packing a formidable 1,300 horsepower and featuring technologies developed across Honda’s global motorsport programs, the extreme off-roader will mark a new chapter in the Japanese manufacturer’s long-standing relationship with desert racing.

Behind the wheel will be Bryce Menzies, a two-time Baja 1000 winner and one of the most experienced names in American desert racing. The project combines Honda’s engineering expertise with the knowledge of Menzies Motorsports, aiming to put the Passport Baja Spec against the toughest competition in the world of high-speed off-road racing.

Honda Passport Baja Spec Brings 1,300 HP to Trophy Truck Racing

The Honda Passport Baja Spec is being developed specifically for the demanding Trophy Truck category, where immense power, suspension performance, durability and driver control are essential to surviving the punishing terrain of Baja California.

With 1,300 horsepower on tap, Honda’s new race truck promises to deliver the performance needed to tackle the high-speed desert sections, rocky trails and unpredictable surfaces that define the SCORE World Desert Championship.

Although the project carries the Passport name, this is a competition-focused machine rather than a conventional production SUV with a few off-road upgrades. Honda Racing Corporation USA is developing the vehicle as a dedicated race truck, with its sights set on competing at the highest level of North American desert racing.

Honda says the program will incorporate advanced technologies developed through its participation in several major motorsport disciplines, including Formula 1, IndyCar, IMSA sports car racing and off-road desert competition. The goal is to bring expertise from across Honda’s racing operations into a single vehicle built to withstand the extreme demands of Trophy Truck competition.

Technical specifications beyond the announced 1,300-horsepower output have not yet been detailed.

Global Debut in Los Angeles Before the 2026 SEMA Show

The Honda Passport Baja Spec is scheduled to make its global debut on October 29, 2026, at a private event in Downtown Los Angeles hosted by Menzies Motorsports and Race Service.

Its first public appearance will follow at the 2026 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where the truck will be displayed at the Honda Racing Corporation booth from November 3 through November 6.

The SEMA Show provides an opportunity for Honda to introduce the project to the wider automotive and motorsport community before the truck begins its competitive campaign.

The next major milestone is already planned: the Honda Passport Baja Spec is scheduled to make its racing debut at the 2027 SCORE Baja 500. The event will serve as the truck’s first opportunity to demonstrate its capabilities against established competitors in one of the most demanding forms of off-road motorsport.

With Bryce Menzies behind the wheel, Honda will have an experienced desert racer leading the program as it prepares for the challenge.

Honda’s Baja Racing Heritage Dates Back to 1962

Honda’s involvement in Baja racing stretches back more than six decades, predating the establishment of the peninsula’s first official off-road race.

In 1962, Los Angeles-based Honda dealers joined forces with desert-racing pioneers Dave Ekins and Bill Robertson Jr. for an extraordinary motorcycle journey. Riding two Honda CL72 motorcycles from Tijuana to La Paz, the pair completed the route in just 39 hours and 56 minutes.

Their achievement established an influential benchmark for desert riding and helped inspire the development of organized off-road competition in the region. The ride also became part of the history that ultimately led to the creation of the official Baja 1000 in 1967.

Since then, Honda has built an extensive record in Baja competition. According to the manufacturer, Honda is the most successful motorcycle manufacturer in Baja history, with 22 overall victories and numerous class wins.

The company has also established a significant presence on four wheels. Since 2015, Honda’s off-road racing program has accumulated 17 class victories, including four Baja 1000 wins and five Baja 500 triumphs.

The Passport Baja Spec represents the next step in that four-wheel racing story, with Honda preparing to compete in the elite Trophy Truck category.

Can Honda’s Motorsport Expertise Translate Into Baja Success?

The Passport Baja Spec project reflects Honda’s broader approach to motorsport development: using competition across different disciplines to advance engineering knowledge and strengthen its racing programs.

Formula 1, IndyCar and IMSA operate under very different technical demands from desert racing, but experience in areas such as powertrain development, vehicle dynamics, reliability and performance engineering can contribute to a broader motorsport knowledge base.

Baja racing, however, presents its own unique challenges. Trophy Trucks must combine extreme power with the suspension travel, chassis strength and durability required to maintain speed over hundreds of miles of rough terrain. Mechanical reliability is particularly important, as a competitive advantage means little if a vehicle cannot reach the finish.

Honda’s established Baja record provides a foundation for the new project, while Menzies brings valuable experience from the discipline in which the truck will compete.

The 2027 SCORE Baja 500 will be an important early test of how effectively the team can bring those elements together. Further technical details, including the truck’s powertrain configuration and chassis specifications, should help clarify the engineering approach as the program develops.

Honda Passport Baja Spec: What Happens Next?

The immediate focus is on the truck’s unveiling and preparations for its first competitive appearance. Following its October 29 global debut, the vehicle will be displayed publicly at SEMA in Las Vegas before entering the 2027 SCORE World Desert Championship.

Honda has not yet released a complete technical specification sheet or detailed its full race schedule. For now, the headline figures are clear: a purpose-built Trophy Truck, 1,300 horsepower, Bryce Menzies as its driver and a racing debut planned for the 2027 Baja 500.

With more than 60 years of history in Baja competition behind it, Honda is preparing to take on a new challenge in one of off-road racing’s most demanding categories. The Passport Baja Spec will have to prove its potential in the desert, where speed, durability and consistency ultimately matter more than headline numbers.

If the new truck can translate Honda’s motorsport engineering experience into competitive results, it could become a significant addition to the manufacturer’s off-road racing legacy.

Source: Honda

NEW CARS

Bentley Torcal First Edition Unveiled With 888 PS, 1,350 Nm and Bespoke Luxury

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Bentley is celebrating the arrival of the all-new Torcal with an exclusive First Edition that combines extraordinary performance, distinctive styling and an extensive list of luxury features. Designed to showcase the model at its most desirable, the special launch specification brings together bespoke craftsmanship, advanced technology and sporting details that elevate the Torcal’s presence both inside and out.

At the heart of the Bentley Torcal First Edition is the most powerful powertrain available for the model, producing an impressive 888 PS and 1,350 Nm of torque. The result is performance that places this luxury machine firmly in high-performance territory, with acceleration from 0 to 60 mph taking just 2.8 seconds. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is completed in 2.9 seconds, while the top speed reaches 162 mph (260 km/h).

However, the First Edition is about more than outright speed. Bentley has carefully curated its specification to deliver a distinctive combination of performance, comfort and exclusivity, incorporating features that would otherwise be available as individual options.

Bentley Torcal First Edition: Performance Meets Exclusive Design

The Torcal First Edition adopts a more assertive appearance, with a collection of exterior enhancements designed to emphasize its powerful proportions. Unique 22-inch First Edition alloy wheels combine a gloss-black finish with Liquid Silver spokes, while self-levelling Bentley badges maintain the brand’s signature attention to detail.

Behind the wheels, Graphene Grey brake calipers by Mulliner introduce a subtle contrast, adding another distinctive element to the exterior. A dedicated First Edition badge on the front fender identifies the exclusive launch specification without compromising the vehicle’s understated elegance.

The sporting character is further reinforced by Bentley’s Carbon Fibre Styling Specification. Carbon-fibre front bumper winglets, mirror caps, side sills and a rear diffuser introduce additional visual drama while creating a cohesive connection between the vehicle’s design and its performance-focused identity.

Together, these details give the Bentley Torcal First Edition a more purposeful appearance, balancing the elegance expected of a luxury Bentley with the visual confidence of a high-performance flagship.

A Bespoke Interior With Mulliner Personalisation

Inside, the Bentley Torcal First Edition places craftsmanship and personalisation at the centre of the experience. Bespoke seat quilting featuring contrasting chevron patterns creates a distinctive visual signature, while illuminated First Edition treadplates provide an exclusive finishing touch.

The cabin also benefits from Bentley’s expanded Colour Specification, which offers customers additional opportunities to tailor the interior to their preferences. The selection introduces more colour combinations, including two created by Mulliner, along with eight accent colours and the option of incorporating a third interior colour.

Customers can also choose a full-leather interior and contrasting stitching, allowing the cabin to reflect their individual tastes. Gloss Carbon Fibre technical trim comes as standard, complementing the exterior’s carbon-fibre elements and reinforcing the First Edition’s sporting character. Alternative interior finishes are available at no additional cost.

Attention to detail extends to the smallest elements, including deep-pile overmats that add another layer of tactile luxury. The result is an interior that combines traditional Bentley craftsmanship with a contemporary, performance-oriented aesthetic.

Enhanced Comfort for Front and Rear Passengers

Although the Torcal First Edition delivers supercar-like acceleration, Bentley has ensured that passenger comfort remains a central part of the package.

Wellness front seats are included alongside the Rear Comfort Seat Specification, enhancing the experience for occupants throughout the cabin. Rear passengers benefit from ventilation and comfort headrests for both outer seating positions, reinforcing the Torcal’s credentials as a luxury vehicle designed for more than just its driver.

One of the First Edition’s most distinctive features is its powered front and rear doors. Designed to make entry and exit more effortless, the system adds a sense of occasion to everyday journeys and formal arrivals alike.

Another highlight is the Frosted Diamond Switchable Sunroof, which introduces a new dimension to the cabin environment. Together, these features combine convenience, visual sophistication and a more carefully considered passenger experience.

The extensive standard equipment reflects the First Edition’s central philosophy: bringing together desirable features and carefully selected finishes in a single, highly specified package rather than leaving customers to assemble them individually from an options list.

Naim for Bentley Audio System Delivers an Immersive Experience

The technology offering reaches its high point with the Naim for Bentley premium audio system, developed to provide an exceptionally immersive listening experience.

The system features an output of 1,780 watts and a total of 28 speakers. Its configuration includes kinaesthetic seat transducers, speakers integrated into the front headrests and Dolby Atmos 7.1.4 technology.

This combination is designed to create a more involving listening environment, surrounding occupants with detailed sound while adding a physical dimension through the seat transducers. The front headrest speakers further enhance the experience, bringing the audio presentation closer to individual occupants.

For customers who view in-car entertainment as an essential part of luxury motoring, the Naim system provides a compelling complement to the Torcal’s extensive comfort equipment and bespoke interior.

Bentley Torcal First Edition: A Complete Luxury Performance Package

The Bentley Torcal First Edition has been conceived as a carefully curated expression of the new model, combining the most powerful available powertrain with exclusive styling, extensive personalisation and a comprehensive suite of standard equipment.

Its headline figures are formidable: 888 PS, 1,350 Nm of torque, a 0–100 km/h time of 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 260 km/h. Yet the First Edition’s appeal extends beyond its impressive acceleration figures.

Unique 22-inch alloy wheels, Mulliner brake calipers, carbon-fibre exterior components and bespoke cabin details establish a more distinctive identity. Meanwhile, powered front and rear doors, a Frosted Diamond Switchable Sunroof, Wellness front seats and the 28-speaker Naim for Bentley audio system underline the vehicle’s luxury credentials.

By combining these elements into one exclusive specification, Bentley aims to make the Torcal First Edition a particularly compelling interpretation of its new model. It brings together sporting performance and meticulous craftsmanship while giving customers an extensive range of premium features from the outset.

For buyers seeking a luxury vehicle that pairs exceptional acceleration with bespoke design and advanced comfort technology, the Torcal First Edition presents itself as a distinctive statement of Bentley’s performance and personalisation ambitions.

Source: Bentley

NEW CARS

Opel Corsa YES and Mokka YES Bring Halloween Style With Koral Orange Paint and Black Accents

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Opel is celebrating Halloween with two of its most distinctive special-edition models: the Opel Corsa YES and Opel Mokka YES. Finished in eye-catching Koral Orange metallic paint, both cars combine bold exterior styling, contrasting black details and orange-inspired interior accents to bring a seasonal twist to the German manufacturer’s popular small car and compact SUV.

Designed for drivers who want to stand out from the crowd, the Opel Corsa YES and Mokka YES pair their vibrant Halloween-inspired appearance with modern infotainment technology, practical comfort features and a choice of powertrains, including fully electric versions. With their combination of distinctive styling and everyday usability, the two YES models demonstrate how a carefully chosen colour scheme can give familiar vehicles a fresh personality.

Prices in Germany start at €24,790 for the Opel Corsa YES and €30,340 for the Opel Mokka YES, including VAT.

Opel Corsa YES: A Compact Car With a Bold Halloween Look

The Opel Corsa YES brings a distinctive appearance to one of the brand’s most important models. Measuring just 4.06 metres in length, the Corsa remains focused on urban practicality, making it suitable for city driving, commuting and everyday journeys.

The YES edition introduces Koral Orange metallic paint as standard, giving the hatchback an unmistakable appearance. A carbon-black roof provides a contrasting finish, while 16-inch alloy wheels feature a black-and-silver diamond-cut design that reinforces the car’s sporty character.

The orange theme continues inside the cabin. Orange stitching, decorative stripes and coordinated trim elements create a visual connection between the exterior and interior, giving the special edition a more expressive personality than a conventional specification.

Technology is another important part of the package. Standard equipment includes a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a fully digital driver information display and a steering wheel finished in vegan synthetic leather.

The result is a small car that combines a contemporary digital cockpit with distinctive styling, without losing the practical dimensions that have helped make the Corsa popular among European motorists.

Opel describes the Corsa as Germany’s and the United Kingdom’s most popular small car, highlighting the model’s importance in two major European markets.

Opel Mokka YES: A Compact SUV With Contrasting Black Details

For buyers who prefer a higher-riding vehicle, the Opel Mokka YES applies the same colourful design philosophy to the brand’s compact SUV.

Its Koral Orange metallic exterior is complemented by a carbon-black roof and black 17-inch alloy wheels with a five-double-spoke design. The contrast between the bright bodywork and darker detailing gives the Mokka YES a particularly striking appearance, emphasising its compact proportions and distinctive SUV silhouette.

Inside, the colour treatment continues with orange decorative elements around the instrument panel, alongside orange and white stitching on the seats and door panels. These details give the cabin a coordinated look while maintaining the Mokka’s modern, minimalist design approach.

The Mokka YES also offers several comfort and convenience features as standard. Six-way adjustable front seats help drivers find a comfortable position, while a centre armrest adds convenience on longer journeys.

A 180-degree panoramic rear-view camera is included to improve visibility when manoeuvring in confined spaces, particularly useful in crowded urban environments and tight parking areas.

Versions equipped with an automatic gearbox also receive polished aluminium sport pedals, adding another visual detail to the driver’s area.

Together, these features make the Mokka YES an appealing option for motorists seeking a compact SUV that combines expressive design with practical everyday equipment.

Koral Orange Metallic: Opel’s Colour for the Halloween Season

The defining feature of both YES editions is their Koral Orange metallic paintwork.

With pumpkins appearing outside homes and Halloween decorations transforming streets into displays of orange and black, Opel’s special editions fit naturally into the seasonal atmosphere. The vivid orange bodywork evokes the colour of glowing pumpkins, while the black roof and alloy wheels create a dramatic contrast.

However, the appeal of the colour scheme extends beyond Halloween itself. The combination of bright paint, dark exterior details and coordinated interior accents gives both vehicles a distinctive identity throughout the year.

Standard Intelli-LED headlights add another practical benefit, providing illumination for driving during increasingly dark autumn and winter evenings.

Rather than relying solely on decorative changes, Opel combines the visual treatment with modern technology and convenience equipment, giving the YES editions a broader appeal than a purely seasonal styling package.

Opel Corsa YES vs Opel Mokka YES: Which Model Is Right for You?

Although the Corsa YES and Mokka YES share the same design theme, they cater to slightly different needs.

The Opel Corsa YES is the more affordable option, starting at €24,790 in Germany. Its compact dimensions make it particularly well suited to urban driving, daily commuting and drivers who prefer a conventional hatchback.

The Opel Mokka YES starts at €30,340 and offers a compact SUV body style, 17-inch alloy wheels and additional convenience features, including a panoramic rear-view camera and adjustable front seats.

The main differences are summarised below:

Opel Corsa YES

  • Starting price: €24,790 in Germany, including VAT.
  • Body style: Five-door small hatchback.
  • Length: Approximately 4.06 metres.
  • Exterior: Koral Orange metallic paint, carbon-black roof and 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels.
  • Interior: Orange decorative details, digital driver display and 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
  • Best suited to: Urban driving, commuting and buyers seeking a more affordable, compact car.

Opel Mokka YES

  • Starting price: €30,340 in Germany, including VAT.
  • Body style: Compact SUV.
  • Exterior: Koral Orange metallic paint, carbon-black roof and black 17-inch alloy wheels.
  • Interior: Orange and white stitching, orange dashboard accents and a modern cabin design.
  • Comfort and technology: Six-way adjustable front seats, centre armrest and 180-degree panoramic rear-view camera.
  • Best suited to: Drivers who prefer SUV styling, a higher-riding vehicle and additional everyday convenience features.

Both models offer a choice of powertrain options, including fully electric variants, although availability and specifications depend on the individual model configuration and market.

Modern Technology and Powertrain Choice

Beyond their distinctive appearance, the Opel Corsa YES and Mokka YES retain the technology and practical features associated with their respective model ranges.

The touchscreen infotainment system in the Corsa provides access to the vehicle’s multimedia functions, while its digital instrument display presents driving information in a modern format.

The Mokka YES places additional emphasis on convenience, with its panoramic rear-view camera helping drivers navigate tight parking spaces and busy city streets.

Intelli-LED headlights are another important feature, particularly during autumn and winter, when daylight hours are shorter and visibility can become more challenging.

Opel also offers both models with a range of powertrain options, extending from conventional engines to fully electric drivetrains. This gives customers the opportunity to prioritise their preferred balance of purchase price, driving range, operating costs and local charging availability.

For buyers considering the electric versions, the final choice should depend on the specific battery, range, charging performance and equipment offered in their market rather than the YES styling package alone.

Opel YES Editions: Expressive Design Without Losing Everyday Practicality

Special editions often focus on cosmetic changes, but the Opel Corsa YES and Mokka YES combine their distinctive styling with equipment intended to make everyday driving more comfortable.

The Corsa YES retains the advantages of a compact hatchback, including its relatively short length and city-friendly dimensions. The Mokka YES offers a more SUV-oriented design, with a contrasting roof, larger alloy wheels and additional standard convenience features.

Both models use the same visual formula: Koral Orange metallic paint, black exterior accents and coordinated interior details. This creates a recognisable identity across two different vehicle categories while allowing customers to choose the body style that best suits their lifestyle.

The approach also reflects a broader trend in the European car market, where buyers increasingly look for vehicles that combine practical transportation with individual styling and personalisation options.

Opel Corsa YES and Mokka YES Prices in Germany

The new special editions are positioned at different price points within Opel’s passenger-car range.

The Opel Corsa YES starts at €24,790, while the Opel Mokka YES starts at €30,340. Both prices are German recommended retail prices, including VAT, as stated by Opel.

The €5,550 difference between the starting prices reflects the different vehicle formats and equipment packages. Buyers should check local market prices, available powertrains, optional equipment and delivery costs before placing an order.

The German prices should not automatically be applied to other European markets, where taxation, equipment specifications and import costs may differ.

Source: Opel