2017 Suzuki V-Strom 250 first view

November 9, 2016, 3:04 pm

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Suzuki's V-Strom adventure bike range is set to expand with the launch of a 250 model.

Like the just-announced GSX250R, it features a liquid-cooled, parallel-twin, 248 cc engine which is mated to a six-speed transmission. 24.6 bhp (18.4 kW / 25.0 PS) is on hand at 8,000 rpm, while 23.4 Nm (17.3 lb/ft) of peak torque arrives at 6,500 rpm.

As well as a Bosch anti-lock braking system and LCD instruments, the V-Strom 250's standard equipment list includes integrated mounting points for some optional panniers. A top box is also available if more luggage-carrying capacity is needed.

Pricing hasn't been announced, but Suzuki has said that deliveries are due to begin next summer. Customers will have a choice of Pearl Nebular Black / Solid Dazzling Cool Yellow two-tone, Metallic Diamond Red or Pearl Nebular Black paint finishes.

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2017 BMW G 310 GS revealed

November 10, 2016, 2:27 pm

≫ Next: BMW will build the HP4 Race

≪ Previous: 2017 Suzuki V-Strom 250 first view

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BMW Motorrad's family of GS adventure bikes is getting a new entry-level member. The G 310 GS, which has been unveiled at the EICMA show in Milan, is designed for light off-road use.

Distinguishing features include longer-travel suspension, a 'beak' that protrudes beneath the headlight and an upright riding position. The standard saddle height is 835 mm (32.9”), but an 820 mm (32.3”) low seat and an 850 mm (33.5”) comfort seat are optionally available.

Power is provided by a 313 cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, single-cylinder engine with four valves and twin overhead camshafts. Sitting inside a tubular steel frame, it's joined to a six-speed gearbox and a chain final drive.

Output is rated at 33 bhp (25 kW / 34 PS) and peak torque is 28 Nm (20 lb/ft). Combined with a fully-fuelled weight of 169.5 kg (373.7 lbs), those figures result in a modest top speed of 89 mph (143 km/h). Average economy according to the World Motorcycle Test Cycle is 84.8 mpg (3.33 l/100km).

The colour choice comprises Cosmic Black, Racing Red or Pearl White. However, G 310 GS pricing and an on-sale date have yet to be confirmed.

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BMW will build the HP4 Race

November 10, 2016, 2:35 pm

≫ Next: Kawasaki launches the Versys-X 300

≪ Previous: 2017 BMW G 310 GS revealed

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According to BMW Motorrad, the HP4 Race is going to be “the most exclusive model in its history to date” – a bold claim indeed.

What makes this motorcycle so exotic is the use of carbon fibre for the main frame and wheels. However, for now at least, the final design and specifications remain a mystery.

More details will be revealed next spring. Then, limited-volume production is due to begin during the second half of 2017.

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Kawasaki launches the Versys-X 300

November 11, 2016, 3:14 pm

≫ Next: 2018 Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 first view

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Kawasaki is expanding its “any road, any time” philosophy with the new Versys-X 300. Novice riders, A2 licence holders and anybody wanting to downsize are the main target markets.

As befits an adventure-style bike, this smallest member of the Versys family boasts wide handlebars, long-travel suspension, wire-spoke wheels and an upright riding position.

A backbone-type steel frame supports a 296 cc, fuel-injected, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine with eight valves and double overhead camshafts. A slipper clutch and a six-speed gearbox complete the powertrain. Kawasaki has yet to reveal outputs or performance and economy figures, though.

When the Versys-X 300 arrives next year, buyers are going to have a choice of either Metallic Graphite Grey or Candy Lime Green paintwork.

They'll also be tempted by a wide range of accessories, many of which feature in two special launch editions. The first, named Urban, comes with a centre stand, hand guards, a tank pad and a 30 litre top case. Alternatively, the Adventure version gains engine protector bars, a centre stand, a tank pad and two 17 litre panniers.

For the time being, prices remain unknown.

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2018 Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 first view

November 12, 2016, 3:06 pm

≫ Next: 2018 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 unveiled

≪ Previous: Kawasaki launches the Versys-X 300

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Husqvarna is well-known for manufacturing enduro and motocross motorcycles. Now, though, the Austrian-based firm is extending its road-going range with the Vitpilen 401 and Svartpilen 401, which have been revealed at the EICMA show in Milan.

The Vitpilen 401 is strikingly minimalist. Built around a steel trellis frame, this naked bike features a single seat, clip-on handlebars and bodywork that neatly integrates the tank and side panels.

Power comes from a 375 cc, single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine that produces 43 bhp (32 kW / 44 PS).

Judging by the specification, Husqvarna is trying to create a premium product. As well as a Bosch anti-lock braking system, components include a WP suspension set-up, LED lights and a slipper clutch.

Deliveries of the Vitpilen 401 are expected to begin in about a year's time, so prospective customers are going to have a long wait.

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2018 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 unveiled

November 12, 2016, 3:09 pm

≫ Next: The BMW R nineT is getting updated for 2017

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Along with the Vitpilen 401, Husqvarna's new Svartpilen 401 represents the brand's attempt to grab a larger share of the street-legal motorcycle market.

In fact, both models are very similar. That means the Svartpilen 401 has a 43 bhp (32 kW / 44 PS) 375 cc single-cylinder engine, which is mounted within a steel trellis frame.

A more rugged look is its key differentiator. Accordingly, the bike's standard equipment list includes wider off-road style handlebars, a skid plate, an exhaust protector, Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR knobbly tyres and a unique tank-mounted rack.

Also fitted are WP suspension components, a Bosch anti-lock braking system, twin seats and LED lights.

Deliveries are due to start in late autumn 2017 so, understandably, pricing hasn't been announced yet.

Related post:
2018 Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 first view

The BMW R nineT is getting updated for 2017

November 14, 2016, 10:49 am

≫ Next: 2017 BMW R nineT Urban G/S launched

≪ Previous: 2018 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 unveiled

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Three years after it was first launched, BMW is giving the R nineT retro roadster a mild refresh.

The most significant technical change concerns the suspension. Geometry tweaks should improve directional stability and steering response, plus the upside-down front fork is now fully adjustable.

As before, the R nineT features an air- and oil-cooled 1,170 cc engine. EU4-compliant, this twin-cylinder boxer unit delivers 108 bhp (81 kW / 110 PS) via a six-speed transmission and a shaft drive.

Cosmetically, most things remain the same, including the aluminium fuel tank with its brushed side panels. The instruments have been altered, though.

The ordering process is set to involve even more decision making, because customers will have two additional paintwork options to choose from. The first, Black Storm Metallic / Vintage, gains hand-applied '21' decals and some extra pinstripes. Alternatively, Blue Planet Metallic / Aluminium introduces another shade to the mix. Both come with an aluminium seat hump.

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2017 BMW R nineT Urban G/S launched

November 14, 2016, 10:54 am

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≪ Previous: The BMW R nineT is getting updated for 2017

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Another model is joining BMW Motorrad's 'Heritage' line-up. Named R nineT Urban G/S, it unashamedly draws inspiration from the R 80 G/S of 1980.

As per a regular R nineT, power comes from an EU4-compliant 1,170 cc twin-cylinder boxer engine that produces 108 bhp (81 kW / 110 PS).

The Urban G/S has plenty of unique features, though.

For instance, the rear frame's end piece is fixed rather than removable, enduro-style suspension is fitted and the front wheel has grown in diameter from 17” to 19”. As standard, the bike has five-spoke cast alloy rims shod with road tyres, but both wire-spoke wheels and knobbly rubber are on the options list.

One particularly retro element is the colour scheme. White paintwork covers the tank, headlight cowl and front mudguard, while contrast is provided by two-tone blue accents and a red saddle.

A UK price has yet to be confirmed.

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2017 NACTOY finalists

November 15, 2016, 11:56 am

≫ Next: Mercedes-Maybach reveals the S 650 Cabriolet

≪ Previous: 2017 BMW R nineT Urban G/S launched

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Jurors have chosen the finalists for the 2017 North American Car of the Year, Truck of the Year and Utility Vehicle of the Year awards. Yes, there are now three prizes, because organisers sensibly decided to split the previous Truck / Utility of the Year category.

Here are the finalists:

2017 North American Car of the Year

• Chevrolet Bolt
• Genesis G90
• Volvo S90

Volvo S90

2017 North American Truck of the Year

• Ford F-Series Super Duty
• Honda Ridgeline
• Nissan Titan

Nissan Titan

2017 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year

• Chrysler Pacifica
• Jaguar F-Pace
• Mazda CX-9

Mazda CX-9

The winners are due to be announced on the 9th of January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Predicting which models will be victorious is a hard task. The Bolt, Ridgeline and F-Pace are most deserving of the accolades, though.

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Mercedes-Maybach reveals the S 650 Cabriolet

November 16, 2016, 3:17 pm

≫ Next: The 2017 Colorado ZR2 is off-road ready

≪ Previous: 2017 NACTOY finalists

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If a regular S-Class drop-top isn't glitzy or exclusive enough, then the new Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet could provide a solution. However, anybody wanting to place an order had better act quickly, because just 300 examples are going to be built.

From the outside, distinguishing features include a set of 20” forged wheels, Swarovski headlights, a redesigned front bumper and some extra chrome trim.

As expected, the interior has a slightly over-the-top luxury ambience. Just about every surface is covered in leather, although nut brown magnolia veneer trim offers some textural contrast. Standard-fit Airmatic air suspension with continuously variable damping also helps to raise comfort levels.

Power comes from a 6.0 litre bi-turbo V12 engine. Mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission, its 620 bhp (463 kW / 630 PS) and astonishing 1,000 Nm (737 lb/ft) of peak torque are sent to the rear wheels. Those figures result in a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 4.1 seconds and the usual electronically-limited 155 mph (250 km/h) top speed.

The Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet has a price tag of €300,000, which roughly equates to £257,900 at current exchange rates. To put that amount into perspective, a Mercedes-AMG S 65 Cabriolet costs £193,900.

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The 2017 Colorado ZR2 is off-road ready

November 17, 2016, 3:19 pm

≫ Next: 2017 Mini John Cooper Works Rally revealed

≪ Previous: Mercedes-Maybach reveals the S 650 Cabriolet

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Chevrolet's latest Colorado variant is intended for serious all-terrain use. The ZR2 mid-size pick-up, which has been unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show, boasts numerous modifications to help achieve that goal.

As a starting point, a two-inch ride-height lift and reprofiled bumpers have increased the approach and departure angles. Extra protection is provided by steel rocker bars, an aluminium engine skid plate and a shield for the AutoTrac transfer case.

Together with a wider track, an upgraded suspension set-up includes Multimatic Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve dampers that are reckoned to offer better handling and ride characteristics. The ZR2 features exclusive 17” wheels shod with 31” Goodyear Duratrac tyres.

Customers will get to specify either a 308 bhp (230 kW / 312 PS) 3.6 litre V6 petrol engine or a 181 bhp (135 kW / 183 PS) 2.8 litre I4 Duramax diesel unit. Both options come with a selectable four-wheel drive system, plus front and rear electronic locking differentials.

Prices for the 2017 Colorado ZR2 have yet to be announced.

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Images © General Motors.

2017 Mini John Cooper Works Rally revealed

November 18, 2016, 3:35 pm

≫ Next: Volkswagen’s e-Golf gains more range for 2017

≪ Previous: The 2017 Colorado ZR2 is off-road ready

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Mini's latest cross-country rally car is simply called the John Cooper Works Rally. Developed in conjunction with X-raid, it's primary task will be to beat Peugeot (and every other challenger) in the 2017 Dakar Rally.

Nominally, the JCW Rally is based on the just-launched all-new Countryman, but similarities with the showroom model are tenuous. Some styling cues are carried over, but the tubular steel chassis and composite body panels made from carbon fibre and kevlar definitely aren't.

Likewise, the 3.0 litre diesel engine isn't found in any production Mini. This turbocharged six-cylinder unit, which develops 335 bhp (250 kW / 340 PS) at 3,250 rpm and 800 Nm (590 lb/ft) of torque at only 1,850 rpm, sits in a detachable sub-frame.

A SADEV six-speed sequential transmission and ALL4 four-wheel drive are also part of the specification. Furthermore, front, central and rear differentials are fitted.

Helping to maximise traction over rough terrain is a Reiger Racing Suspension set-up comprising two fully-adjustable modules per wheel. Braking is taken care of by 320 mm (12.6”) vented steel discs that are gripped by six-piston calipers (with those at the rear being water-cooled).

As well as next year's Dakar Rally, the JCW Rally is also set to compete in the FIA World Cup and the Silk Way Rally.

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Volkswagen’s e-Golf gains more range for 2017

November 21, 2016, 3:19 pm

≫ Next: 2017 Honda Rebel launched

≪ Previous: 2017 Mini John Cooper Works Rally revealed

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Thanks to an upgraded lithium-ion battery pack, the 2017 Volkswagen e-Golf should offer better practicality compared to its predecessor.

A much-needed capacity increase from 24.2 kWh to 35.8 kWh is reflected in official range figures for the pure-electric Golf.

According to the New European Driving Cycle, up to 186 miles (300 kilometres) can be travelled on a single charge – a rise of around 50 per cent. However, perhaps a more realistic expectation is provided by the US Environmental Protection Agency's 'estimated real-world driving range' of 125 miles (201 kilometres).

When the battery is depleted, recharging to 80 per cent takes about an hour using a 40 kW DC CCS station. Alternatively, a dedicated 7.2 kW AC wallbox does the job to 100 per cent in less than six hours.

There's extra output for the car's electric motor, too. It's now rated at 134 bhp (100 kW / 136 PS) rather than 114 bhp (85 kW / 116 PS), plus torque is up by 20 Nm (14 lb/ft) to 290 Nm (214 lb/ft). As a result, the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time has dropped from 10.4 to 9.6 seconds, while top speed becomes 93 mph (150 km/h).

Like the rest of the 2017 Golf range, the latest electric version has received some mild front- and rear-end styling changes. Inside, an enhanced specification includes Active Info Display (essentially, a configurable digital instrument cluster) and the innovative Discover Pro infotainment system that can be controlled by gesture, voice or touch.

UK sales of the 2017 e-Golf are due to begin next spring. Volkswagen has yet to confirm a price.

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2017 Honda Rebel launched

November 23, 2016, 3:09 pm

≫ Next: 2017 Formula One calendar revised

≪ Previous: Volkswagen’s e-Golf gains more range for 2017

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Thanks to blacked-out components and minimalist bobber styling, Honda's new 2017 Rebel cruiser has a very contemporary look.

Available with a choice of Graphite Black, Millennium Red or Matte Armored Silver Metallic paintwork, it features 16” cast alloy wheels, flat handlebars and a single round headlight that sits in a die-cast aluminium mount.

Furthermore, the pillion pad and rear foot pegs can be removed and Honda is offering numerous accessories, so owners will easily be able to customise their bikes.

Power is provided by a 471 cc parallel-twin, fuel-injected, liquid-cooled engine. A power output of 44.9 bhp (33.5 kW / 45.5 PS) means the Rebel can be ridden by A2 licence holders, while 44.6 Nm (32.9 lb/ft) of peak torque arrives at a very accessible 6,000 rpm.

In fact, the Rebel could be a decent first big bike for novices (especially those who want to eschew sports motorcycles). Its seat height is just 690 mm (27.2”), a 190 kg (418 lbs) kerb weight is manageable and anti-lock brakes are fitted as standard.

UK pricing and an on-sale date for the 2017 Rebel haven't been announced yet.

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2017 Formula One calendar revised

December 1, 2016, 5:19 am

≫ Next: BMW reveals its 19th Art Car

≪ Previous: 2017 Honda Rebel launched

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Next year's Formula One season is set to consist of twenty events. That's one less than in 2016, because of a failure to agree commercial terms for the German Grand Prix.

The latest schedule, which has been agreed by the FIA World Motor Sport Council, still incorporates a four-week summer break.

Sensibly, the Azerbaijan round won't clash with the 24 Hours of Le Mans, but unfortunately the British Grand Prix and the final day of the Wimbledon tennis championships are due to fall on the same date again.

2017 FIA Formula One World Championship - Calendar
Round	Date	Grand Prix
1	26 March	Australia (Melbourne)
2	09 April	China (Shanghai)
3	16 April	Bahrain (Sakhir)
4	30 April	Russia (Sochi)
5	14 May	Spain (Barcelona)
6	28 May	Monaco (Monte Carlo)
7	11 June	Canada (Montreal)
8	25 June	Azerbaijan (Baku)
9	09 July	Austria (Spielberg)
10	16 July	Great Britain (Silverstone)
11	30 July	Hungary (Budapest)
12	27 August	Belgium (Spa-Francorchamps)
13	03 September	Italy (Monza)
14	17 September	Singapore (Marina Bay)
15	01 October	Malaysia (Sepang)
16	08 October	Japan (Suzuka)
17	22 October	USA (Austin)
18	29 October	Mexico (Mexico City)
19	12 November	Brazil (São Paulo)
20	26 November	Abu Dhabi (Yas Marina)

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BMW reveals its 19th Art Car

December 1, 2016, 2:32 pm

≫ Next: 2017 European Car of the Year nominees

≪ Previous: 2017 Formula One calendar revised

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Thanks to a predominantly white colour scheme, the latest BMW Art Car appears more subdued than most of its predecessors.

The design, by conceptual artist John Baldessari, has been applied to an M6 GTLM.

Explaining his work, Baldessari said, “The ideas all came at once: for instance, the red dot on the roof, so you can see it from above, 'FAST' on one side and a picture of the car on the other side.

“I like the ambiguity, having two-dimension and three-dimension at the same time. Considering the car as an icon of contemporary life, my concept turned out playfully satirical, but it also highlights some of the trademark ideas that I use.”

This particular Art Car won't be relegated to a museum, though. It's due to compete in next month's Rolex 24 at Daytona, which is the first round of the 2017 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.

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2017 European Car of the Year nominees

December 2, 2016, 3:55 pm

≫ Next: Ford Transit Custom Black Edition launched

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Following a first round of voting, seven nominees for the 2017 European Car of the Year award have been named. They comprise a diverse group, but none are especially exciting or innovative.

In alphabetical order, the seven contenders are:

Alfa Romeo Giulia
This rear- or all-wheel sports saloon will doubtless help to revive the Italian brand's standing. However, a late launch (by a few years) means a win wouldn't really be appropriate.

Citroën C3
The C3 brings some design flair to the supermini class, particularly if the C4 Cactus-inspired Airbump side mouldings are specified. It's exactly the type of car that can do well in this contest.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class
1974 was the last time a Mercedes-Benz was named European Car of the Year. Given a predilection for non-premium marques in recent years, the new E-Class seems unlikely to repeat the feat.

Nissan Micra
If judging was based purely on whether a model is vastly better than its predecessor, then the latest Micra deserves to beat the six other nominees.

Peugeot 3008
In the transition from crossover to SUV, the second-generation 3008 gains sharper styling (but there's no all-wheel drive). Both factors are likely to appeal to Peugeot's target audience.

Toyota C-HR
Toyota's product planners must have decided that a Nissan Juke rival was required, so the C-HR is the result. Wacky looks plus a hybrid powertrain from the Prius could be a tempting package.

Volvo S90 / V90
2016's European Car of the Year saw the XC90 achieve a creditable second place. Volvo's large saloon and estate vitalise their respective segments, but they probably won't be ranked any higher.

There'll now be another ballot to determine the overall winner. 58 jurors each have 25 points, which they must allocate to at least five nominees.

The result is then going to be announced on the 6th of March, just before the 2017 Geneva Motor Show opens.

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Ford Transit Custom Black Edition launched

December 3, 2016, 3:16 pm

≫ Next: Hyundai has unveiled its 2017 WRC car

≪ Previous: 2017 European Car of the Year nominees

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Van users who prefer their vehicles to have a customised look are going to like the new Transit Custom Black Edition.

Based on the current 290 Trend short-wheelbase, standard-height variant, it features a 167 bhp (125 kW / 170 PS) 2.0 litre EcoBlue diesel engine which is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.

Despite being named Black Edition, customers will have a choice of Absolute Black, Deep Impact Blue, Race Red or Frozen White paintwork.

On the first of those options, the roof panel, door mirror housings, side stripes and unique front skid plate are all finished in Race Red. For the other three, Jet Black is the contrast colour.

Completing the upgrades is a set of black 17” alloy wheels and a sports suspension set-up that comprises recalibrated spring and damper settings plus a thicker front anti-roll bar. A rear anti-roll bar is fitted, too.

Ford is planning to build just 1,000 examples of the Transit Custom Black Edition. Deliveries will begin across Europe early next year.

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Hyundai has unveiled its 2017 WRC car

December 4, 2016, 3:39 pm

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Next year's FIA Word Rally Championship will see the introduction of new technical regulations. They're primarily intended to make the cars look more dramatic, but aerodynamics should also benefit.

Performance is set to be enhanced, too. While power is still provided by a 1.6 litre turbocharged engine, maximum permissible output is up from 295 bhp (220 kW / 300 PS) to 375 bhp (280 kW / 380 PS).

Hyundai Motorsport's answer to the revised rules is the 2017 i20 Coupe WRC.

According to Michel Nandan, head of the Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team, “We are heading into a new era for the sport with the biggest change to the regulations for some time. It's a great new technical challenge and one that we have tackled with enthusiasm.

“It's an opportunity to put into practice everything we have learned and experienced in the past three seasons. All teams are starting from scratch so we are on equal footing. Having finished in a fighting second in 2016, we want to demonstrate our ability to fight for the Championship next season – and we are confident the i20 Coupe WRC will help us do just that.”

Thierry Neuville, Hayden Paddon and Dani Sordo continue as Hyundai's drivers. All three are going to contest every round of the 2017 WRC.

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2017 BTCC team entries announced

December 5, 2016, 2:54 pm

≫ Next: Mercedes-AMG previews its GT4 race car

≪ Previous: Hyundai has unveiled its 2017 WRC car

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Every car that competes in the MSA British Touring Car Championship requires a TOCA BTCC Licence (TBL). With a maximum of 32 TBLs available, they're naturally coveted by race teams.

The allocation for the 2017 season has already taken place. Seventeen entrants are on the list, which is broadly similar to this year's. However, there are some notable changes: BTC is returning to the series, while AmD Tuning and Motorbase Performance have both gained an extra TBL.

Team	TBLs allocated
AmD Tuning	2
BMR Racing	4
BTC Norlin Racing	2
Ciceley Motorsport	1
Eurotech Racing	2
Handy Motorsport	1
Laser Tools Racing	1
Maximum Motorsport	1
Motorbase Performance	3*
Power Maxed Racing	2**
Simpson Racing	1
Speedworks Motorsport	1
Team Dynamics Motorsport	2
Team Hard Racing	3
Team Parker Racing	1
Triple Eight Race Engineering	2
WSR	3
*One TBL on loan from Welch Motorsport.
** Two TBLs on loan from TOCA.

Power Maxed Racing will campaign the new Astra

in 2017, with support from Vauxhall.

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