Maharaja Phantom Drophead Coupé unveiled

November 14, 2014, 6:45 pm

≫ Next: Cadillac ATS-V.R racer revealed

≪ Previous: Kawasaki Ninja H2 and H2R prices

$

0

0

It might seem rather odd that a collection of one-off cars created to commemorate the historic relationship between Rolls-Royce and the Indian Maharajas is going to be available only in Dubai. But that market is where the demand is, so the decision makes commercial sense.

The first offering is the logically-named Maharaja Phantom Drophead Coupé. Developed by Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke division, it features Carrara White paintwork with a contrasting dark green hood. Peacock motifs incorporated into the emerald green coachlines and the rear deck’s marquetry complete the exterior look.

That same emblem also appears embroidered into the head restraints and as an inlay on the dashboard’s veneer fascia. Crème Light leather upholstery and emerald green highlights echo the bodywork’s colour scheme, while a unique clock provides a finishing touch.

Related posts:
Phantom Metropolitan Collection launched
Rolls-Royce Phantom Waterspeed Collection

---

Cadillac ATS-V.R racer revealed

November 15, 2014, 3:05 pm

≫ Next: Mini confirms its 2015 Dakar Rally crews

≪ Previous: Maharaja Phantom Drophead Coupé unveiled

$

0

0

Cadillac has previewed the ATS-V.R Coupe ahead of its competition debut in 2015. Built to comply with GT3 regulations, the new contender will be eligible for numerous championships such as the Blancpain Endurance Series, Pirelli World Challenge and ADAC GT Masters.

Power comes from an all-aluminium twin-turbo 3.6 litre V6 engine which develops around 600 horsepower (roughly 450 kW) with 705 Nm (520 lb/ft) of torque. That output is delivered to the rear wheels via an Xtrac six-speed sequential transmission.

Among the upgraded chassis components are Penske adjustable dampers, a ZF hydraulic power-assisted steering rack and 18” BBS wheels. The Brembo braking set-up meanwhile comprises six- and four-piston calipers for the front and rear discs respectively. It’s backed up by an adjustable Bosch anti-lock system.

Carbon fibre body panels help to keep the car’s dry weight down to 1,315 kg (2,900 lbs). Also fitted is a full aero kit that includes a front splitter, dive planes, extended side skirts, a diffuser and a huge rear wing.

The road-going ATS-V Coupe, which is due to be launched at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this month, arrives in dealers next spring.

Related posts:
Cadillac ATS-L created for China
2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe unveiled at NAIAS

Images © General Motors.

Mini confirms its 2015 Dakar Rally crews

November 16, 2014, 1:09 pm

≫ Next: 2015 Triumph Tiger 800 range launched

≪ Previous: Cadillac ATS-V.R racer revealed

$

0

0

January’s Dakar Rally could see Mini achieving a fourth consecutive victory in the event. Once again the Countryman-based ALL4 Racing, as prepared by German firm X-raid, will be used for the attempt.

The works-backed Monster Energy Rally Raid Team has announced a three-car entry. Title defenders Nani Roma and Michel Périn are confirmed for the #300 Mini, while Orlando Terranova / Bernardo Graue and Krzysztof Holowczyc / Xavier Panseri are set to man the #305 and #306 contenders.

Those won’t be the only Mini competitors, though. As well as the factory campaign, five privateer crews are due to take part with an ALL4 Racing each.

The route of the 2015 Dakar Rally is going to begin in Buenos Aires. Over thirteen days it will then loop through Chile and Bolivia, before returning to the Argentinean capital city.

Related posts:
Peugeot 2008 DKR unveiled
2015 Dakar Rally route announced

2015 Triumph Tiger 800 range launched

November 17, 2014, 4:57 am

≫ Next: The Peugeot 2008 DKR gets a new livery

≪ Previous: Mini confirms its 2015 Dakar Rally crews

$

0

0

A totally revamped Triumph Tiger 800 line-up boasts restyled bodywork, an upgraded powertrain and a choice of four different versions.

Aimed at those who might want to venture off-road, the XC features wire-spoke wheels and long-travel WP suspension components. Alternatively the XR, which is intended purely for road use, comes with a Showa suspension set-up and lightweight cast aluminium rims.

Standard specification on both motorcycles includes a height-adjustable saddle, a sump guard, an auxiliary power socket, traction control and a switchable anti-lock braking system.

Completing the new Tiger 800 family are the XRx and XCx. Their extra equipment comprises an enhanced trip computer, cruise control, a centre stand, hand guards and an adjustable windscreen. Furthermore, they gain rider-selectable ‘Road’, ‘Off Road’ and ‘Programmable’ riding modes that affect the traction control, ABS and throttle map settings.

Common to all models is an improved 800 cc three-cylinder engine. Producing 94 bhp (70 kW / 95 PS) with 79 Nm (58 lb/ft) of torque, it’s reckoned to be 17% more fuel efficient than its predecessor thanks to reworked internals and innovations such as a ride-by-wire throttle.

Deliveries of the 2015 Triumph Tiger 800 are due to begin in January. UK prices start from £8,499.

Related posts:
Rocket X Limited Edition marks ten years
Triumph creates the Street Triple Rx edition
2014 Triumph Tiger 800XC Special Edition

The Peugeot 2008 DKR gets a new livery

November 17, 2014, 3:31 pm

≫ Next: Thunderbird Nightstorm Special Edition

≪ Previous: 2015 Triumph Tiger 800 range launched

$

0

0

Peugeot has revealed the colour scheme that its 2008 DKR will be wearing at January’s 2015 Dakar Rally. Predominantly blue and white, the new paintjob replaces the carbon finish previously seen.

The 2008 DKR is a very different proposition to most of its rivals. Along with long-travel suspension and very short overhangs, the unusual specification includes a mid-mounted 335 bhp (250 kW / 340 PS) twin-turbo diesel V6 engine and a rear-wheel drive transmission.

Commenting on the project, Peugeot Sport Director Bruno Famin said: “The results of our test programme show that our technical concept is well founded.

“That said, this car is at a very early stage of its development, so it is important to remain cautious. Although we have big ambitions for this adventure, we are still tackling it with a great deal of humility.

“By deciding to kick off our cross-country rally programme with the toughest event imaginable, we will no doubt come across unforeseen obstacles and problems. It is consequently important to take things one step at a time. For our first attempt, our main objective is to get as many cars as possible as far as we possibly can.”

Cyril Despres, Stéphane Peterhansel and Carlos Sainz have been named as drivers for the three-car Peugeot team.

Related posts:
Peugeot 2008 DKR unveiled
2015 Dakar Rally route announced

Thunderbird Nightstorm Special Edition

November 18, 2014, 12:46 pm

≫ Next: Bentley Grand Convertible concept revealed

≪ Previous: The Peugeot 2008 DKR gets a new livery

$

0

0

Triumph has added the Thunderbird Nightstorm Special Edition to its cruiser bike range.

Based on the existing 1,699 cc Thunderbird Storm, the newcomer sports a very individual look. As well as a Phantom Black and Silver Frost flame-effect paintjob, most of the chrome has been swapped for a black finish and there are unique ‘Nightstorm’ badges.

Deliveries of the Thunderbird Nightstorm are due to begin next spring. Priced at £13,399 in the UK, it costs £500 more than a regular Thunderbird Storm.

Related posts:
Rocket X Limited Edition marks ten years
Three Bonneville special editions launched

Bentley Grand Convertible concept revealed

November 19, 2014, 5:14 am

≫ Next: 2016 Mazda CX-3 first view

≪ Previous: Thunderbird Nightstorm Special Edition

$

0

0

There can be no doubt about which rival the Bentley Grand Convertible is targeting. Design elements such as its ornate wooden tonneau cover and contrasting ‘liquid metal’ silver bonnet and windscreen surround clearly mimic the Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupé, after all.

On display in concept form at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the large cabriolet is an exercise in opulence. The four-seat cabin requires fourteen hides for its diamond-quilted leather upholstery, for example, while the aforementioned tonneau features the largest piece of veneer ever seen on a Bentley.

If (or more likely, when) the Grand Convertible enters production, a lack of pace is unlikely to be an issue. That’s because power is provided by a 530 bhp (395 kW / 537 PS) 6.75 litre twin-turbo V8 engine borrowed from the Mulsanne Speed saloon.

Related posts:
2015 Bentley Mulsanne Speed launched
Bentley rediscovers style?

2016 Mazda CX-3 first view

November 19, 2014, 2:54 pm

≫ Next: 2016 Cadillac ATS-V unveiled

≪ Previous: Bentley Grand Convertible concept revealed

$

0

0

Mazda has unveiled its all-new CX-3 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. A small crossover, it’s roughly the same length as a Vauxhall / Opel Mokka or Suzuki SX4 S-Cross.

A bold and stylish look comes courtesy of Mazda’s current ‘Kodo - Soul of Motion’ design language. The bodyshell, which incorporates a large proportion of high-tensile steel, is engineered to offer impressive levels of passive safety and rigidity while being comparatively lightweight.

Across Europe the engine line-up is set to comprise a couple of Skyactiv-G 2.0 litre petrol units plus a Skyactiv-D 1.5 litre diesel. Buyers will be able to combine them with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes, and either front- or all-wheel drive.

For North America, Mazda is restricting the powertrain selection to a single 2.0 litre petrol motor mated to the automatic transmission. Both front- and all-wheel drive options are going to be available, though.

Sales of the CX-3 are due to begin in Japan next spring. Further global market launches are then expected to follow soon afterwards.

Related posts:
New Mazda MX-5 has controversial looks
2015 Mazda 2 first view
2014 Mazda 3 saloon revealed

---

2016 Cadillac ATS-V unveiled

November 20, 2014, 2:56 pm

≫ Next: Lexus debuts the LF-C2 concept

≪ Previous: 2016 Mazda CX-3 first view

$

0

0

Following the launch of its ATS-V.R race car, Cadillac has revealed the road-going ATS-V. This new variant, which is described as a ‘dual-purpose luxury performer’, is going to be offered in both Sedan and Coupe guises. Obvious rivals include the Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG and BMW M3 / M4.

The ATS-V gains a 3,567 cc all-aluminium V6 engine boasting variable valve timing, direct fuel injection and twin turbochargers. As a result, estimated power is 455 bhp (339 kW / 460 PS) while peak torque is a healthy 603 Nm (445 lb/ft).

Delivered to the rear wheels via either a six-speed Tremec manual gearbox or an eight-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, that output is sufficient for a 0-60 mph (96 km/h) time of just 3.9 seconds. Top speed for the ATS-V is reckoned to be in excess of 185 mph (299 km/h).

Numerous chassis improvements complement the enhanced powertrain. To start with, the bodyshell has been made 25% stiffer thanks to extra bracing and other modifications. Added to this are a recalibrated suspension set-up, stronger anti-roll bars, the Magnetic Ride Control adaptive damping system and a more responsive ZF electric power-steering rack.

Also fitted are upgraded Brembo brakes, an electronic limited-slip differential and 18” alloy wheels shod with specially-developed Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres. Furthermore, there’s a choice of ‘touring’, ‘sport’ and ‘track’ driving modes.

A lightweight carbon fibre bonnet, restyled bumpers and side sills, a front splitter, widened wheel arches and a rear spoiler complete the V Series transformation.

Prices for the 2016 ATS-V Sedan and Coupe have yet to be announced.

Related posts:
Cadillac ATS-V.R racer revealed
Cadillac ATS-L created for China
2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe unveiled at NAIAS

Images © General Motors.

Lexus debuts the LF-C2 concept

November 21, 2014, 1:47 pm

≫ Next: Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 concept unveiled

≪ Previous: 2016 Cadillac ATS-V unveiled

$

0

0

Lexus has unveiled the striking LF-C2 concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Looking very much like a 2+2 convertible version of the current RC coupé, its chances of making the transition to production model are probably quite high.

Some things would definitely have to change before that, though. Not least is the concept’s complete absence of any roof…

Related posts:
Lexus RC F GT3 concept unveiled
2014 Lexus RC F first view

Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 concept unveiled

November 22, 2014, 1:01 pm

≫ Next: 2015 Shelby GT350 Mustang launched

≪ Previous: Lexus debuts the LF-C2 concept

$

0

0

Chevrolet’s ZR2 badge traditionally stands for enhanced off-road ability, and that’s certainly the case with the latest truck to wear it. The Colorado ZR2, which has been revealed in concept form at the Los Angeles Auto Show, is suitably equipped for rough terrain use.

An enhanced specification includes electric-locking front and rear differentials, long-travel King coilover suspension and a front-mounted winch. Also fitted is a set of 18” beadlock alloy wheels that sit beneath widened arches.

The bumpers meanwhile have been specially profiled to offer greater approach and departure angles. A unique black grille, a ‘powerdome’ bonnet, leather upholstery and numerous ZR2 logos inside and out further add to the transformation.

Power is provided by a 2.8 litre four-cylinder Duramax turbodiesel engine. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, it produces an estimated 181 bhp (135 kW / 183 PS) with 500 Nm (369 lb/ft) of torque.

Chevrolet says it’s going to gauge public reaction to the Colorado ZR2 concept before committing to a production version.

Related posts:
2015 Chevrolet Silverado HD High Country
2015 North American-spec Chevrolet Colorado

Images © General Motors.

2015 Shelby GT350 Mustang launched

November 23, 2014, 2:13 pm

≫ Next: Chrysler gives the 300 a facelift for 2015

≪ Previous: Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 concept unveiled

$

0

0

Beneath the bonnet of the new 2015 Shelby GT350 sits Ford’s most powerful normally-aspirated production engine ever. A 5.2 litre V8, it produces more than 500 horsepower (370 kW) with around 540 Nm (400 lb/ft) of peak torque.

Helping to achieve that output are numerous modifications such as the reworked cylinder heads and valve gear. Furthermore a motorsport-inspired flat-plane crankshaft is fitted, which allows the firing order to alternate between both cylinder banks.

Completing the drivetrain is a six-speed manual transmission and Torsen limited-slip differential. Although performance figures have yet to be released, Ford has confirmed that five different modes are available for the driver control system.

Chassis upgrades comprise a wider front track, recalibrated springs, a reduced ride height and continuously variable MagneRide dampers. Braking meanwhile is taken care of by cross-drilled iron discs that have been paired with Brembo calipers.

A completely redesigned front end, 19” alloy wheels shod with bespoke Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres and a subtle rear lip spoiler visually identify the GT350. Inside, a suitably sporty vibe is provided by Recaro front seats and a flat-bottom steering wheel.

Whether or not the Shelby GT350 ends up being produced in right-hand drive form remains to be seen, but for now the prospect is extremely unlikely.

Related posts:
The new Ford Mustang at SEMA 2014
2015 NACTOY shortlists
Right-hand drive Mustang first view

Chrysler gives the 300 a facelift for 2015

November 30, 2014, 4:30 pm

≫ Next: Honda’s CB125F replaces the CBF125

≪ Previous: 2015 Shelby GT350 Mustang launched

$

0

0

At first glance, the 2015 Chrysler 300 might appear very similar to its predecessor. Look more closely though and a deeper front grille, restyled bumpers and updated light clusters are all evidence of a refresh.

Interior enhancements include the adoption of an electronic rotary shifter for the eight-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission, which has become standard on all versions. Furthermore, a 7” colour driver information screen is now part of the specification, there’s a new three-spoke steering wheel and the Uconnect infotainment system has gained some extra functions.

The 2015 300 line-up consists of four trim grades, with prices in the United States beginning at $31,395 (plus destination).

2015 Chrysler 300 - United States starting MSRPs
300 Limited	$32,390
300S	$35,890
300C	$38,890
300C Platinum	$43,390
Prices shown include a $995 destination charge.

Available across the range is a 3.6 litre Pentastar V6 engine that produces 292 bhp (217 kW / 296 PS), or 300 bhp (223 kW / 304 PS) in the sportier 300S. Alternatively, all variants except the 300 Limited can be specified with a 363 bhp (270 kW / 368 PS) 5.7 litre Hemi V8.

Production of the 2015 Chrysler 300 is scheduled to begin before the end of this year.

Related posts:
Chrysler 200S Mopar to debut at SEMA 2014
2014 Chrysler 300C John Varvatos Limited Edition

Honda’s CB125F replaces the CBF125

November 30, 2014, 5:00 pm

≫ Next: 2015 Holden Colorado and Colorado 7

≪ Previous: Chrysler gives the 300 a facelift for 2015

$

0

0

Despite having a very similar name to its predecessor, the 2015 Honda CB125F is a substantially different motorcycle. Novice riders and those people who simply want an affordable means of transport are still the target market, though.

The revisions begin with a new steel frame, which is clothed in restyled bodywork that offers a visual link to the CB500F and CB650F. Wheel size has increased by an inch to 18”, but carryover features from the CBF125 include the single front disc and rear drum braking set-up.

Another updated component is the CB125F’s single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. As well as a redesigned cylinder head and an altered fuel injection system, a balancer shaft is now fitted to give a smoother experience.

Although capacity is unchanged, a power output of 10.4 bhp (7.8 kW / 10.6 PS) is actually down slightly compared to the CBF125. However, Honda is saying the modified motor has been tuned for a crisper throttle response and better torque delivery in the low to mid range. Fuel economy according to the World Motorcycle Test Cycle mode is an impressive 145 mpg (1.9 l/100km).

Like the CBF125, the CB125F should be an easily manageable bike. Kerb weight remains at 128 kg (282 lbs), while seat height has been reduced to just 775 mm (30.5”).

When CB125F sales begin buyers will have a choice of Onyx Blue Metallic, Candy Blazing Red or Pearl Twinkle Yellow paintwork. A UK price has yet to be announced.

Related posts:
All-new Honda Forza 125 scooter revealed
2014 Honda PCX125 announced

2015 Holden Colorado and Colorado 7

November 30, 2014, 5:30 pm

≫ Next: 2015 Suzuki MotoGP replicas launched

≪ Previous: Honda’s CB125F replaces the CBF125

$

0

0

Holden has announced some specification updates for its Colorado pick-up and Colorado 7 SUV.

Across the two ranges refinement promises to be better thanks to reduced engine and wind noise levels. Recalibrated Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist systems should make for an improved off-road driving experience, too.

The remaining changes focus on the LTZ trim grade. Its interior gains soft-touch door trims, piano black trim and bespoke instruments in an effort to create a more premium feel. The Colorado 7 LTZ also comes with leather upholstery and heated front seats as standard.

Furthermore, the Colorado LTZ truck now features comfort suspension. Incorporating a stiffer front anti-roll bar plus revised spring and damper rates, it’s intended to give a smoother ride.

Prices for the Colorado and Colorado 7 are being kept at their 2014 levels.

Related posts:
2015 Holden VF Commodore unveiled
2014 Holden Colorado and Colorado 7

Image © General Motors.

---

2015 Suzuki MotoGP replicas launched

November 30, 2014, 6:00 pm

≫ Next: 2015 Corvette Z06 European prices revealed

≪ Previous: 2015 Holden Colorado and Colorado 7

$

0

0

To coincide with its return to MotoGP next season, Suzuki has announced a collection of road-going MotoGP replicas based on the marque’s three-strong GSX-R range.

All come with a livery borrowed from the GSX-RR race bike. Also fitted are a double-bubble screen and a carbon-tipped Yoshimura R11 silencer, while an anodised finish for various parts such as the bar-end weights and rear paddock stand bobbins completes the enhanced specification.

In the UK, retail prices (which exclude a first registration fee and vehicle tax) for the MotoGP versions are £300 higher than those of the regular GSX-R models:

• GSX-R600 MotoGP - £8,899
• GSX-R750 MotoGP - £9,899
• GSX-R1000 MotoGP - £10,899

Related posts:
Crescent Suzuki GSX-R1000 WSB replica
Tyco Suzuki GSX-R600 replica launched

2015 Corvette Z06 European prices revealed

November 30, 2014, 6:30 pm

≫ Next: 2015 Suzuki V-Strom 1000 Desert revealed

≪ Previous: 2015 Suzuki MotoGP replicas launched

$

0

0

Chevrolet has announced that its European dealers are now accepting orders for the Corvette Z06 Coupe and Convertible.

In the UK prices start from £86,400. So, based on cost at least, that makes models such as the Porsche 911 Carrera S and Maserati GranTurismo direct rivals. However, with 394 bhp (294 kW / 400 PS) and 399 bhp (297 kW / 405 PS) respectively, neither gets even close to matching the 650 bhp (485 kW / 659 PS) produced by the Corvette Z06’s supercharged 6.2 litre V8 engine.

The Chevrolet is being offered with a choice of seven-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmissions. Included in its standard specification are adjustable Magnetic Selective Ride Control dampers, the Performance Traction Management system and widened arches that house lightweight aluminium wheels.

Also available as an option is the Z07 Performance Package. This comprises Brembo carbon-ceramic brake discs, Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tyres and additional aerodynamic elements. It certainly isn’t cheap, though.

Corvette Z06 deliveries are expected to begin across Europe next spring.

2015 Corvette Z06 - European prices (including local taxes)
Market	UK	Germany	France
Z06 Coupe	£86,400	€99,500	€100,400
Z06 Convertible	£90,700	€104,500	€105,400
Z07 Performance Package	£14,100	€16,500	€16,640

Related posts:
The 2015 Corvette Z06 has 650 horsepower
2015 Corvette Atlantic and Pacific packages
2015 Corvette Z06 Convertible unveiled

Images © General Motors.

2015 Suzuki V-Strom 1000 Desert revealed

November 30, 2014, 7:00 pm

≫ Next: Vauxhall Viva / Opel Karl first view

≪ Previous: 2015 Corvette Z06 European prices revealed

$

0

0

Suzuki is adding to its V-Strom adventure bike line-up by introducing the 1000 Desert limited edition.

Based on the existing V-Strom 1000 Adventure, the newcomer boasts an impressive array of extra equipment. The highlights are a pair of panniers and a Garmin 590 satellite navigation system, but also fitted are heated grips, hand guards, a centre stand, engine bars, a lower cowling and LED fog lights.

The V-Strom 1000 Desert, which is finished in a unique khaki colour scheme with a matching saddle, has an on-the-road price of £10,734. That makes it £600 more than a regular V-Strom 1000 Adventure, a reasonable premium given the enhanced specification.

Related posts:
2015 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT ABS launched
2014 V-Strom 1000 specifications

Vauxhall Viva / Opel Karl first view

December 3, 2014, 4:46 am

≫ Next: Circuit-only Ferrari FXX K hybrid unveiled

≪ Previous: 2015 Suzuki V-Strom 1000 Desert revealed

$

0

0

General Motors has revealed the latest member of its European small car range. The Vauxhall version resurrects the Viva nameplate which was last used 35 years ago, while Opel has gone for Karl in honour of the son of the firm’s founder.

Think of the Agila-replacing Viva / Karl as a less stylish five-door alternative to the Adam. At 3.68 metres (12’ 1”) long the newcomer is about the same size as its more fashion-conscious sibling, but a boxier body should be more practical. Indeed, there’s room for three (albeit probably quite small) people in the back.

Standard equipment is set to include hill start assist, a reduced-effort ‘city’ mode for the steering and the IntelliLink infotainment system which integrates Apple iOS and Android devices. Among the available options will be cruise control, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, lane departure warning and a sunroof.

Providing power is the innovative 1.0 litre Ecotec petrol engine that’s already offered with the Adam and updated Corsa. Developing 74 bhp (55 kW / 75 PS), this three-cylinder unit comes mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.

Sales of the Vauxhall Viva / Opel Karl are due to begin next summer.

Related posts:
2015 Corsa first view
Performance-orientated Adam S revealed
The quirky Adam Rocks

Images © General Motors.

Circuit-only Ferrari FXX K hybrid unveiled

December 3, 2014, 3:31 pm

≫ Next: 2015 Formula One calendar revised

≪ Previous: Vauxhall Viva / Opel Karl first view

$

0

0

Ferrari is calling the new FXX K a ‘laboratory car’ that has been created solely for research and development purposes. It won’t be road-legal, and nor will the FXX K be eligible for competition use.

However, as with the superseded Enzo-based FXX, some privileged customers are going to be able to participate in track-based test days. Ferrari has yet to announce a cost for this programme, which is expected to be very tightly controlled.

Judging by the FXX K’s specification those drivers should be prepared for an exhilarating experience. Taking the already exclusive LaFerrari as a starting point, it features a modified 6,262 cc V12 engine that develops 848 bhp (632 kW / 860 PS) with 750 Nm (553 lb/ft) of peak torque.

Also fitted is an enhanced kinetic energy recovery system which offers a choice of Fast Charge, Long Run, Manual Boost and Qualify modes. It takes total output up to a remarkable 1,035 bhp (772 kW / 1,050 PS), while combined torque is reckoned to be in excess of 900 Nm (660 lb/ft). Unfortunately Ferrari hasn’t revealed any performance figures, though.

Completing the powertrain are a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, an E-Diff 3 electronic differential, the EF1-Trac electronic traction control system and Racing Side Slip Angle Control. Chassis components include Brembo carbon ceramic brake discs and Pirelli P-Zero slick tyres that incorporate numerous sensors.

Careful attention has been paid to the aerodynamics too. The front end gets a twin-element spoiler, plus a two-section splitter with built-in vertical endplates. Complementing that set-up are an active spoiler, two distinctive fins and a huge diffuser for the rear. As a result, downforce is increased by up to 50%.

The Ferrari FXX K is due to appear in public for the first time next weekend at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit.

Related posts:
Ferrari creates the celebratory F60America
The one-off Ferrari F12 TRS
McLaren P1 vs. its rivals