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News

Aston Martin Vantage GT4

The Vantage GT4 is based on the new European specification V8 Vantage, with modifications to prepare the car for racing. The V8 Vantage was originally launched in 2005, having undergone the most extensive test programme of any Aston Martin, in total over 1.5 million kilometres.

In 2008, Aston Martin announced the new technically enhanced Vantage V8. In production form, the V8 Vantage’s 4.7 litre engine produces 313 kW (420 bhp), giving the car a maximum speed of 290 kph (180 mph) and a 0-100 kph time of 4.8 sec (0-60 mph in 4.7 sec).

Aston Martin’s unique aluminium bonded architecture gives class-leading strength and rigidity, with a front midmounted V8 engine creating optimum front to rear weight distribution and a low centre of gravity – the perfect foundation for a successful race car.

The Vantage GT4’s foundation, is the V8 Vantage. Under the bonnet, the engine is modified to enhance throttle response and outright performance. The engine management system is recalibrated for race use. The Vantage GT4 also has a free flow exhaust system and air filters. The standard V8 dry sump lubrication system is retained, helping to prevent oil surge during extreme cornering. The Vantage GT4 can be supplied with either a six speed manual, or a Sportshift transmission with paddle controls.

At 1,330 kg (2,930 lb), the Vantage GT4 is 300 kg (660 lb) lighter than the standard car. This has been achieved through a range of weight reduction measures. The interior trim is removed with the exception of the facia moulding which is re-trimmed in Alcantara. The console and door casings are replaced by new lightweight mouldings. The chassis has been fitted with a high-strength steel rollcage and Recaro competition seats. A suede-trimmed steering wheel with a quick release mechanism is also fitted as standard. The Vantage GT4’s safety features are completed with a Sabelt sixpoint safety harness with a push-button release and Lifeline Zero 360 gas extinguisher system.

News

Lexus RC F

New Lexus RC F. From its muscular stance and redesigned available Premium Triple-Beam LED headlamps and taillamps, to its driver-inspired cabin including aggressively styled high-back sport seats, the Lexus RC F is even more stirring inside and out.

With various aerodynamic elements, from the carbon fiber front spoiler and RC F GT3–inspired rear wing to the flat-panel undercarriage and more, the RC F Track Edition was designed specifically to channel air in a way that optimizes performance. After countless hours of working with the RC F GT3 development team, Lexus engineers found the perfect balance that increases downforce while simultaneously reducing the drag coefficient.

Complementing its exclusively available Matte Nebula Gray exterior, you’ll find bold Circuit Red Alcantara® interior trim with Red Carbon Fiber ornamentation. The driver-centric cockpit in the RC F Track Edition also features an LFA-inspired instrument panel and bolstered high-back sport seats for even more comfort during high-G turns. In addition to a carbon fiber roof that helps lower its center of gravity, it features a more daring front fascia with an exclusive carbon fiber hood.

Featured on every RC F, new Launch Control is a key component of the vehicle’s lightning-fast acceleration off the line. This track-ready technology seamlessly allows the driver to hold the optimal rpm for launch. The throttle control within this sophisticated system helps eliminate wheelspin and maximize grip, propelling the vehicle virtually instantaneously.

Adding to its aggressive design, you’ll find lightweight forged alloy wheels and red brake calipers with 14.9-inch front and rear carbon-ceramic brake discs. These exclusive discs are significantly lighter than traditional cast-iron ones, reducing unsprung weight and increasing responsiveness.

Experience a more powerful 472-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 and eight-speed Sport Direct-Shift transmission with Manual-mode torque converter lockup in gears two through eight. Taking the high-performance RC F to the extreme, the RC F Track Edition accelerates from 0–60 mph in a mere 3.96 seconds.

The more potent 472-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 is not only the largest engine in its class, it’s also the most powerful Lexus V8 ever. An unprecedented feat of precision engineering, the RC F delivers enhanced torque, added responsiveness and an updated differential gear ratio for lightning-fast acceleration. Making its V8 even more stirring, the RC F emits a throaty, specially tuned intake and exhaust note as it screams to its impressive 7,300-rpm redline.

News

Sorento plug-in hybrid

The new Sorento plug-in hybrid is the second electrified version on offer. The new performance combines exceptional practicality with low operating costs and high engine performance. That increases the attractiveness of the Sorento in the large SUV class (SUV-D).

Visually, the Sorento PHEV retains the same modernly designed exterior as the other versions. It has additional charging socket on the right side of the rear end, which makes it different from the others.

Inside, the cab is largely unchanged from the classic version, although the 12.3-inch all-digital instrument panel has been redesigned, with new graphics and counters, which offer drivers a clear picture of the state of the drivetrain. It allows drivers to monitor the state of charge of the battery, energy flow and gasoline power. The infotainment system with 10.25-inch touch screen brings new functionalities, which allow drivers to easily locate charging points on the road.

The basis of this ‘turbo hybrid’ drive is its 1.6-liter T-GDi engine with 180 hp and 265 Nm of torque. The engine operates in combination with a 13.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack and a 30.9 Nm 66.9-kilowatt electric motor. All components together allow the hybrid Sorento a total of 265 hp and 350 Nm of torque.

The Sorento has a 6-speed automatic transmission that provides full power to the motor and electric motor in parallel, with minimal energy loss. The result is instant acceleration and direct access to battery power at higher speeds.

Various innovations give the new Sorrento the status of the most advanced plug-in hybrid of the Kia brand. The new model brings Kia’s first use of an independent water-cooled battery, which enables optimal performance and efficiency of the high-voltage battery pack.

The Sorento’s PHEV version offers one of the largest luggage capacities in its class. The seven-seat version offering 809 litres versus the 821 litres of the standard hybrid.