Latest news with #sportscar
The Sun
13 hours ago
- Automotive
- The Sun
Iconic British sportscar manufacturer ‘threatens to close UK factory and set up new plant in US' with 1,300 jobs at risk
AN iconic British sportscar manufacturer is threatening to close a UK factory and set up in the US. Lotus may be axing production at its headquarters in Hethel, Norfolk, and heading to the United States, as reported by the BBC. The firm has declined to make any official statement on potential plans. But, sources claimed moving production to the US was being discussed. 1 Like us on Facebook at and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSun.
Car and Driver
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Porsche Macan GTS Review, Pricing, and Specs
Specs See all specs Seating 5 Seats Powertrain Gas Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive Limited Warranty 4 Years/50,000 Miles Overview Every Porsche Macan feels like a sports car trapped in a luxury compact crossover body, but the GTS takes that formula to the limit. Brandishing a 434-hp twin-turbo V-6, all-wheel drive, and a 60-mph sprint time of just 3.5 seconds, the Macan GTS's Carrera-rivaling specs only tell part of the story. Its ultra-responsive steering is something that you have to feel to believe, and its chassis is tuned to get the most out of backroad antics. While rivals like the BMW X3M and Mercedes-AMG GLC-Class offer more slightly more cargo capacity, neither of those models can match the GTS's athleticism. What's New for 2026? It has been a while since the Macan GTS received a notable update, and that trend continues into the 2026 model year. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Porsche Macan GTS starts at $93,250. Macan GTS $93,250 0 $25k $50k $75k $100k $125k $150k The Macan GTS comes well-equipped with performance goodies right out of the gate, but we think the SUV's luxury is a bit lacking. So, we'd order the Premium Plus package, which includes a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated 14-way adjustable front seats, and a 14-speaker Bose stereo system. Want to compare the 2026 Porsche Macan GTS to other vehicles you're interested in? Our new compare tool provides a comprehensive, side-by-side look at up to five cars of your choice. Compare Cars Engine, Transmission, and Performance Although the base Macan (reviewed separately) is available with a turbocharged four-cylinder, going with the higher-performance GTS gets you a much more powerful 434-hp twin-turbo V-6. Several rivals offer even more power, including the 505-hp Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio and the 503-hp BMW X3 M Competition. Despite the disadvantage in power, though, the Macan GTS feels like the more accomplished option thanks to its crisper handling and more communicative helm. 0–60-MPH Times The Macan GTS delivered an impressive 3.5-second 60-mph time at our test track. That's quick, but so is the slightly less powerful Macan S, which did the same in 3.8 seconds. View Photos Porsche More on the Macan GTS SUV Tested: 2022 Porsche Macan GTS Is the One to Get Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG The EPA hasn't released any fuel economy information for the 2026 Macan GTS yet, but last year's model carried estimates of 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. Without any significant changes, the newest model should achieve similar results. We'll update this section with updated EPA estimates and results from our 75-mph real-world highway fuel economy test when they become available. For more information about the Macan GTS's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo While entry-level Macans can be a bit too spartan for their price, the GTS model comes with more niceties such as leather upholstery, aluminum trim, and heated front seats. Still, those seeking an SUV with a plusher cabin may find the Genesis GV70 more appealing. The Macan GTS aims for maximum fun, with well-placed controls, good outward visibility, and a comfortable driving position. Its cargo hold isn't as large as some of its rivals, but when has buying a Porsche ever been a rational choice? We fit six carry-on bags in the cargo bay and 16 with the rear seats folded, which should be enough for most people. View Photos Porsche Infotainment and Connectivity Porsche's infotainment system offers all manner of high-tech features, including standard Apple CarPlay and a wireless charging pad. Still, as with nearly everything on the Macan's equipment list, the best features cost extra. Upgrading to the 14-speaker Bose audio system adds $990, and the even more powerful 16-speaker Burmester stereo is a whopping $5690 option. USB ports and 12-volt outlets dot the cabin, so driver and passengers alike should be able to keep their devices fully charged. With the standard mobile Wi-Fi package onboard, the family data plan might be able to escape a road trip unscathed too. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features The Macan GTS is available with a wide array of driver-assistance technology, but almost none of it is standard. For information about the Macan's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include: Standard lane-departure warning Available automated emergency braking Available adaptive cruise control Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Porsche's warranty coverage is good but not great. The BMW X3 M and the Jaguar F-Pace SVR offer greater coverage in certain areas. Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles Complimentary maintenance covers one year or 10,000 miles Specifications Specifications 2022 Porsche Macan GTS Vehicle Type: front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon PRICE Base/As Tested: $81,250/$104,410 Options: GTS Sport package, $12,010; Python Green paint , $2910; Surround View, $1200; adaptive cruise control, $990; BOSE speakers, $990; thermal and noise insulated glass, $920; Lane Keep Assist, $700; Lane Change Assist; $700; heated steering wheel in Race-Tex, $680; wireless charging, $580; heated front and rear seats, $570; LED headlights in Black, $520; Self Steering ParkAssist, $390 ENGINE twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection Displacement: 177 in3, 2894 cm3 Power: 434 hp @ 6600 rpm Torque: 405 lb-ft @ 1900 rpm TRANSMISSION 7-speed dual-clutch automatic CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: multilink/multilink Brakes, F/R: 15.6-in vented, cross-drilled, carbon-ceramic disc/14.6-in vented, cross-drilled, carbon-ceramic disc Tires: Pirelli P Zero Corsa PZC4 F: 265/40R-21 101Y NE0 R: 295/35R-21 103Y NE0 DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 110.5 in Length: 186.1 in Width: 75.9 in Height: 62.8 in Passenger Volume: 96 ft3 Cargo Volume: 17 ft3 Curb Weight: 4332 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 3.5 sec 100 mph: 9.4 sec 1/4-Mile: 12.1 sec @ 112 mph 130 mph: 17.5 sec 150 mph: 27.7 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.2 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 4.5 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 2.6 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 3.4 sec Top Speed (mfr's claim): 169 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 148 ft Braking, 100–0 mph: 301 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.98 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 16 mpg EPA FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST) Combined/City/Highway: 19/17/21 mpg C/D TESTING EXPLAINED More Features and Specs
Top Gear
11-06-2025
- Automotive
- Top Gear
Honda Civic Type R - long-term review 2025
Our new Civic Type-R goes one better. Forget the 100 metre test, the Type-R feels right as soon as you drop into the bright red driver's seat and clasp the cool-to-the-touch aluminium shifter for the six-speed 'box. Something about the driving position and the simplicity of it all says instinctively that you're in for a very good time. Some cars feel right within 100 metres. The polish of their controls, the way suspension perfectly deals with the surface beneath and the accuracy of their steering makes all seem right with the world almost immediately. Of course, we already know the Type-R is brilliant. It destroyed the 'competition' in our recent hot hatch test and really goes beyond the usual brief. It feels like a ground-up sportscar rather than a hatchback with some killer bits thrown into the mix. So, this long term test is really intended to discover if that pure sportscar feel gets wearing in every day use. The ride is pretty tough. The manual 'box is a thing of beauty but will we be craving a dual-clutch after a stint on the M25? Especially with the new for this generation lighter flywheel that gives even greater engine response but might make trundling to the shops a little bit lumpy. My guess, right now, is that the Type-R's purity won't hurt its daily appeal at all. So many cars seem to mistake 'breadth of ability' with an across the board averageness that the Honda's determination to be sharp, agile and exciting creates a sense of occasion that far outweighs any compromises. So far, aside from the fact I can't turn off the speed limit warning chime, I'm loving pretty much everything about this thing. And in Racing Blue Pearl (the only extra at £700) it looks stunning.
Forbes
28-05-2025
- Automotive
- Forbes
BMW Unveils The Lighter, More Powerful 2026 M2 CS
The 2026 BMW M2 CS Despite some uncertainty regarding the future of its current internal combustion engine lineup, BMW has unveiled the most powerful M2 model ever: The 2026 BMW M2 CS. With less weight, more power, and an MSRP of nearly $100,000, all signs point to it being quite the ravenous little coupe. The previous F87-generation BMW M2 CS was impressive across the board, so, naturally, BMW had to go all out for this latest model. The Bavarian brand cut out a respectable 97 pounds by bolting up lightweight forged wheels (19-inch front, 20-inch rear) and carbon fiber body panels—including a sharp rear ducktail spoiler—and fitting carbon fiber bucket seats as standard, which are optional on the base M2. This drops the curb weight from 3,814 to 3,770 pounds. Then, output from its ravenous, twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six is rated at 523 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, 50 more hp and 36 more lb-ft than standard. The 2026 BMW M2 CS When it comes to putting all that power to the ground, this angry M2 is solely available with rear-wheel drive and BMW's venerable eight-speed automatic gearbox—sorry, three-pedal manual enthusiasts. We'll be interested to see how grippy (or not grippy, in a fun oversteer-ready fashion) it feels, as it produces the same amount of power as the all-wheel-drive-equipped M3 and M4 Competition. To make the most of this bump in power and drop in weight, BMW revised the M2's suspension by upping spring stiffness, re-programming the adaptive dampers, ABS, and traction control systems, as well as revising the throttle mapping and electronically controlled limited-slip differential. Then, for even more focused, lap-time-dropping performance, lightweight carbon ceramic brakes are available. I didn't have much to complain about when I drove a lightly equipped 2024 model year example with a six-speed manual, I can only assume that this will feel significantly more athletic. The specs certainly point to it, too: 0-60 mph takes just 3.7 seconds. Production is set to begin later this year with pricing starting at $99,775 after destination. The 2026 BMW M2 CS
Motor 1
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- Motor 1
This MGA Restomod Has a Miata's Soul. And It's Brilliant
Somewhere in the UK, a lady had a great idea. She wanted a classic MG to tool around in, but didn't want the one-on-every-corner MGB that most go for. Nor did she want any possibility of breaking down. So she went to Abingdon's Frontline Cars, who make MGBs bulletproof (and electric… and V8-powered) and asked them to work their magic. Perhaps it was the right combination of sunny afternoon, British countryside, and classic British sports car. Perhaps it wasn't. But this was one of the best experiences I've had in a car in 2025. Photo by: Frontline Cars Let's back up a bit—what is Frontline? It's a business that restomods MGBs. It started off as a company that modified MG Midgets for racing, but as time went on, Frontline realized it could take the world's plentiful supply of B's and make them quicker, more reliable, and more luxurious. The lady with a good idea didn't want an MGB, though; she wanted an MGA. Older and sleeker than the B, the A's shape appealed to her, and lo, the Frontline MGA Factory Edition was born. You can have an MGA with a 2.0 or 2.5-liter Mazda -derived four cylinder that's been delightfully reworked (with ITBs..!) to produce 225 or 290 horsepower. Whichever motor you choose is hooked up to the famously brilliant Mazda MX-5 gearbox to ensure slick shifting and big grins. Photo by: Frontline Cars Photo by: Frontline Cars The brakes and springs have been swapped out too, the chassis has been reinforced, and the wooden floors have been replaced with steel for better ride and handling. Pleasingly, there's a Quaife limited slip differential fitted too. Frontline's treatment doesn't stop at making an MG go better, either. This A's interior is covered in sumptuous leather, with alloy bucket seats to keep you in place during spirited driving. There's even a USB slot, Bluetooth audio, and it's all hidden away so you can keep your phone charged for on-the-fly Google Maps. While the dials are all as they were in period, the electrics powering them are modern, so they shouldn't go all 1950s on you and conk out at an inconvenient moment. Frontline's demonstrator was built to look like the standard car, but the firm says you can happily ask for a de-bumpered car fitted with a perspex racing screen if you want to look like you're going endurance racing, too. They'll make you a convertible or a coupe, depending on preference as well. There's a lot to love about the whole deal, though it comes at a cost: £145,000 ($195,000) plus local taxes, so it's one for the more committed enthusiasts out there. That said, Frontline's prowess is proven, which means you can rest assured the work going into the car isn't half-assed. Photo by: Frontline Cars Whichever motor you choose is hooked up to the famously brilliant Mazda MX-5 gearbox to ensure slick shifting and big grins. On a sunny day in the UK, folding yourself into the cockpit is a joy—though one that requires some work if you're tall. The MGA is not a capacious car. The controls are all pleasingly classic. Smiths dials are neatly laid out over the stunning dash. Everything works as you'd expect, bar the indicators, which are on a toggle switch to the right of the wheel. Pull the lever to the left to indicate right, and vice versa. It takes a while to get used to, and the mechanism is a bit soft, but once you know what you're doing, you'll be fine. Classics, restored or otherwise, can be a bit of a crapshoot to set off in. The risk of stalling a shiny car that draws the eye is ever present, and in the MGA, you really don't want to be 'that guy.' The Mazda 'box puts those fears to bed. Photo by: Frontline Cars Photo by: Frontline Cars It's easy to slot into gear, and the light clutch is a joy to roll away slinkily from a stop. In town, it's easy to thread the MGA through any gap you'd care to mention. It's a car from the 50s, when everything was smaller and actually fit on the UK's roads (the less said about safety regulations the better… ahem), so you needn't worry about peeling bits off the side. Even if that was a concern, the MG's body is low and easy to see over, which allows for last-moment bum proppage to make sure you're in a good place on the road. The visibility is a genuine highlight. The windshield is large enough to keep bees out of your retinas, and there's no roll hoop to speak of. Being narrow and roofless, the rear view mirror does the job of the (absent because old car) wing mirrors, and if you do need to do a lifesaver check, you don't need to turn your head too far to see over the back of the low trunkline. You'll get eyes on you in town, and you'll have a lovely time gently parping around as though the '50s never ended. But to go full 'post-war fun', you need to head to the country. Usually, when you're driving an older car, it feels somewhat cruel to push the motor. The MGA sounds tremendous on a trundle, and you'll pick up a decent clip without bother. However, when I looked at the rev counter, I saw that rolling up to 4,500 rpm was barely touching the sides of its range. Photo by: Frontline Cars Usually, when you're driving an older car, it feels somewhat cruel to push the motor. The MGA sounds tremendous on a trundle, and you'll pick up a decent clip without bother. A suitably straight bit of road found, I gave it some welly and the thing soared far, far higher, letting out a beautiful noise as it went. Loud, glorious parps flew from the rear, plastering a big grin on my face as they did so. In 225 hp spec, with 178 pound-feet on tap, it feels plenty quick. The gas pedal has decent feel. A gentle push to get you going leads to smooth progression, allowing for parps-ahoy. Frontline says it'll get from 0-60mph in 4.8 seconds and will apparently hit 155mph. With a suitably clear road and a heavy right foot, that's more than believable. There's only 815 kg to shift, so modest power is more than enough. Scrubbing the speed off is down to a set of chunky brakes, front and rear. There's no ABS to save you in a pinch, which means you need to learn them, and the pedal's on the heavy side. Once you've figured it all out, they're great, but don't go in thinking you can brake like a Golf. Parps are one element of the fun, the handling is a cherry on top. Double wishbones with Frontline's own dampers live up front, with five-links and Frontline telescopic dampers at the rear. The MGA simply glides around the tight 'n twisties. The ride can get jarring on some of the UK's more… lumpy roads, but that's par for the course with old British metal no matter how much you do to it. It's all part of the fun. Photo by: Frontline Cars Frontline's steering is a joy, too. A neatly-sized Motolita 'wheel is your connection to the road. It's assisted at low speeds (in this car - it can be adjusted to driver preference) because old cars are heavy buggers, but once you're at speed it's all you. It's well weighted and gives you confidence that you know where the car's going to go. Wind in your hair (or beard), sun shining, and engine on song, Frontline's take on the MGA is nothing short of unfiltered happiness. The sounds it makes, the smell of its leather interior, the feel of its wood-rimmed wheel, the look of the thing… it all adds up to a uniquely British experience. You may even end up tasting an errant bee if one slips over the windshield. Yes, it's expensive and still comes with 1950s sports car compromises, so it's not for everyone, but that's part of its charm. More Restomod News This Jaguar E-Type Restomod Does the Original Proud This Isuzu Truck Is the Coolest Restomod We've Ever Seen Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily. back Sign up For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
