Ferrari appears to be preparing an even more focused version of its front-engined V12 flagship, as a heavily disguised prototype believed to be the upcoming 12Cilindri Versione Speciale has been spotted undergoing road testing.

While camouflage covers most of the bodywork, a few key details suggest this is far more than a routine development vehicle.

Distinctive Ducktail Gives The Game Away

The most obvious clue is found at the rear, where a prominent ducktail spoiler can be seen protruding from beneath the camouflage. The larger aerodynamic element hints at a more performance-oriented package compared to the standard 12Cilindri.

At the front, the prototype also appears to feature a revised bumper design with additional aerodynamic components aimed at improving airflow and stability at higher speeds.

These visual changes suggest Ferrari is focusing on both performance and handling improvements for the Versione Speciale derivative.

Prototype Uses Temporary Exhaust Setup

Another interesting detail is the presence of what seem to be temporary exhaust outlets. Manufacturers often use disguised or non-production exhaust systems during development to conceal the final design before launch.

As a result, the unusual tailpipe arrangement seen on this test vehicle is unlikely to make it onto the finished production model.

More Power Expected From The V12

Although Ferrari has not officially confirmed specifications, the 12Cilindri VS is expected to follow the brand’s established Versione Speciale formula.

That means a sharper driving experience, reduced weight, more aggressive chassis tuning and additional power over the standard car.

The naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 is expected to remain at the heart of the package, although engineers are likely extracting additional performance from the engine. The standard Ferrari 12Cilindri produces 819 hp (610 kW), so the VS model could push that figure even higher.

Ferrari Cavalcade Could Hold More Surprises

Reports suggest Ferrari may showcase a manual-transmission special model to select clients during this month’s Ferrari Cavalcade event. Whether that car turns out to be the 12Cilindri VS or an entirely different project remains unclear.

For now, the appearance of this prototype provides the strongest indication yet that a harder-edged Versione Speciale variant is nearing its official debut.

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For years, Ferrari has dominated the luxury merchandise space, turning the Prancing Horse logo into a global lifestyle brand found on everything from clothing and footwear to watches, luggage and collectibles.

Bugatti has followed a similar path, expanding far beyond hypercars. Its catalogue already includes luxury furniture, premium audio products, electric scooters and even champagne. Now the French marque has ventured into an entirely new category with what could be one of the most extravagant televisions ever created.

Meet the C Seed Bugatti N1

The latest collaboration pairs Bugatti with Austrian luxury display specialist C Seed to create the Bugatti N1, a massive MicroLED television that doubles as a piece of automotive-inspired art.

Available in 110-inch and 137-inch configurations, the N1 is designed to disappear into its surroundings when not in use. Rather than resembling a traditional television, it takes the form of a sculptural sideboard that transforms into a giant display at the touch of a button.

What makes the system particularly striking is its dramatic deployment sequence. In roughly 45 seconds, the unit unfolds through a series of precisely choreographed movements before revealing the full display.

Inspired by the Bugatti Tourbillon

The design language draws heavily from the Bugatti Tourbillon, particularly its instantly recognisable side profile and signature C-shaped design element.

The resemblance is most obvious when the television is closed. As the display begins to open, the movement of the panels creates a visual effect reminiscent of the Tourbillon’s butterfly doors.

Bugatti says the concept aligns with the Tourbillon’s philosophy of reducing unnecessary screen exposure, allowing the display to remain completely hidden when not required.

Advanced MicroLED Technology

Beyond its theatrical transformation, the N1 packs some serious display technology.

The television uses advanced 4K MicroLED MiP technology, which promises exceptional contrast, deep black levels and impressive brightness while maintaining efficient power consumption and low heat output.

Additional features include HDR10+ compatibility, specialised anti-glare coatings and C Seed’s Adaptive Gap Calibration technology, all intended to deliver a seamless cinematic viewing experience even on a display of this scale.

A 180-degree rotation function further increases flexibility, allowing owners to adjust the screen position depending on the room layout.

Premium Materials Throughout

Like many Bugatti products, attention to detail extends beyond the technology.

Carbon fibre components are incorporated into the structure, helping reduce weight while reinforcing the connection to the brand’s hypercars. The unit also uses materials, finishes and design cues inspired by the Tourbillon, alongside an exclusive Sculpture Silver finish and a range of bespoke colour options.

A Sound System Worthy of the Price Tag

Audio performance is handled by a high-end system developed with Wisdom Audio.

The speaker array uses advanced planar magnetic technology and is integrated directly into the furniture-like structure. When activated, the speakers extend into position and then retract neatly when the television is switched off, preserving the clean appearance of the unit.

It Costs More Than Many Supercars

Bugatti has not officially confirmed pricing, but reports suggest the flagship 137-inch version could exceed $500,000 (approximately R8.3 million).

That places it firmly in the territory of exotic supercars and limited-production luxury vehicles, making it one of the most expensive televisions money can buy.

For Bugatti clients seeking the ultimate statement piece for their home, however, price is unlikely to be the deciding factor.

The post Bugatti Unveils TV Inspired by the Tourbillon With R8 Million Price Tag appeared first on Zero2Turbo | High-Performance Car News, Reviews and Videos from South Africa.

The aftermarket world has no shortage of controversial creations, and Venuum has built a reputation for producing some of the most polarising vehicles on the planet. While the company has attracted attention with projects such as its Ferrari SF90-based V40, it has also developed a number of highly unconventional SUVs.

Its latest creation falls firmly into that second category.

Meet the Mercedes-AMG G 63 Mastodon V4 Convertible

Venuum has officially revealed the Mercedes-AMG G 63 Mastodon V4 Convertible, an open-top interpretation of the iconic G-Class that takes the already dramatic Mastodon package to a completely new level.

According to the tuner, the project has been in development for an extended period and is now ready for production. Venuum claims the vehicle combines an unmistakable design with a commanding road presence that is impossible to ignore.

That statement is difficult to argue with. Whether the attention it attracts is entirely positive will likely depend on personal taste.

Extensive Exterior Transformation

The Mastodon V4 Convertible is far more than a simple roof conversion. The front end has been completely redesigned with a bespoke grille featuring Venuum branding, newly developed rectangular headlights, unique daytime running lights and an aggressively sculpted bumper unlike anything seen on a factory G-Class.

A heavily modified bonnet further separates the vehicle from the standard Mercedes-AMG G 63, while the bodywork receives extensive alterations along the sides and rear.

New wheel arch extensions, side skirts and a redesigned rear bumper create a much wider visual stance. At the rear, custom taillights and a bespoke spare wheel carrier continue the distinctive theme.

The example shown wears a light brown exterior finish paired with matching wheels. Various exterior elements feature a forged carbon-look treatment that adds another layer of visual drama.

A Convertible G-Wagen With Seating for Four

The most significant change is, of course, the removal of the roof.

Venuum has transformed the G-Class into a fully open-top vehicle featuring a folding fabric roof that retracts behind the rear seats. The extensive structural modifications required to create the convertible layout are evident throughout the vehicle’s design.

Unlike some two-seat conversions, the Mastodon V4 retains seating for four occupants, preserving much of the practicality that has made the G-Class so popular among luxury SUV buyers.

Bespoke Interior Design

Inside, Venuum has continued the customisation theme with a striking yellow-and-black colour combination. The cabin receives numerous bespoke details, including forged carbon-style trim pieces and Venuum branding integrated throughout the interior.

The result is a cabin that is every bit as dramatic as the exterior.

Performance Remains a Mystery

One detail Venuum has not disclosed is whether the Mastodon V4 Convertible receives any performance upgrades.

The standard Mercedes-AMG G 63 is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 producing 577 hp (430 kW) and 850 Nm (627 lb-ft) of torque, but there has been no confirmation regarding additional power or chassis enhancements for this conversion.

For now, the focus appears to be centred entirely on styling and exclusivity rather than outright performance gains.

Not Short on Alternatives

The luxury convertible G-Class market is becoming increasingly crowded. Companies such as Brabus and Mansory have already developed their own interpretations of open-top G-Wagens, while Mercedes-Benz itself is reportedly exploring future G-Class variants that could revisit the concept.

Whether Venuum’s latest creation becomes a collector’s item or simply another divisive tuning project remains to be seen. One thing is certain: subtlety was never part of the brief.

The post Venuum Reveals Radical Mercedes-AMG G 63 Mastodon V4 Convertible appeared first on Zero2Turbo | High-Performance Car News, Reviews and Videos from South Africa.

It has been almost nine years since Tesla first unveiled the second-generation Roadster, yet the all-electric supercar remains one of the most delayed vehicles in modern automotive history. Now, according to new reports, Tesla is once again preparing to showcase the long-promised model, with a public demonstration reportedly planned for August 2026.

Whether that date ultimately materialises remains to be seen.

Tesla Reportedly Planning Public Demonstration

Fresh details from sources familiar with the project suggest Tesla is targeting a public Roadster demonstration later this year. The event is expected to take place in Texas and could finally provide a closer look at a vehicle that has spent nearly a decade trapped in development limbo.

The Roadster was originally revealed in 2017 alongside the Tesla Semi, with production initially pencilled in for 2020. Since then, the launch timeline has slipped repeatedly, with new production targets announced and missed almost every year.

While Tesla has not officially confirmed a firm launch date, reports indicate the company still intends to bring the Roadster to market rather than quietly abandoning the project.

A Decade of Delays

The Roadster’s journey has become infamous among automotive enthusiasts.

After its 2017 debut, Tesla stated production would begin in 2020. When that deadline passed, the company blamed supply chain disruptions, semiconductor shortages and shifting manufacturing priorities. Production was subsequently pushed to 2021, then 2022, then 2023 and later 2024.

Fast forward to 2026 and customers are still waiting.

Tesla’s focus over the past few years has largely centred on scaling production of high-volume models such as the Model Y, while also investing heavily in autonomous driving technologies, robotics and artificial intelligence projects.

As a result, the Roadster has often appeared to sit at the bottom of the priority list.

Reservation Holders Continue to Wait

Unlike the Cybertruck, which required only a small reservation fee, the Roadster demanded a far larger financial commitment from prospective buyers.

Customers were required to place an initial deposit of $5,000 followed by a further $45,000 payment within ten days to secure a production slot. The total refundable reservation amount therefore reached $50,000.

Over the years, some reservation holders reportedly chose to withdraw and request refunds after growing frustrated with the seemingly endless delays.

Expect the Price to Be Much Higher

When Tesla first revealed the Roadster, it announced a starting price of $250,000.

However, automotive history suggests buyers should not expect that figure to remain unchanged.

The Cybertruck serves as a clear example. Early pricing targets announced years before launch ultimately proved far lower than the final production vehicle’s sticker price. Given rising production costs, inflation and the lengthy delay, it would be surprising if the Roadster arrived at the exact price originally promised.

SpaceX Technology Could Be the Main Attraction

Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the upcoming demonstration is Tesla’s reported intention to showcase the Roadster’s SpaceX-inspired cold-gas thruster system.

Internally known as the A71 package, the system is said to use compressed gas thrusters developed with technology from SpaceX. Tesla has previously suggested these thrusters could dramatically improve acceleration, braking and cornering performance.

There have even been claims that the technology may allow the vehicle to briefly lift off the ground under certain conditions, although exactly how this would work in a production car remains unclear.

If the August demonstration goes ahead, it could provide the first real-world proof that the ambitious system is more than just a concept.

Tesla Needs the Roadster More Than Ever

The Roadster was originally intended to serve as a technological halo car for Tesla, demonstrating what electric performance vehicles could achieve.

Today, the situation is different. Tesla faces increasing competition across virtually every segment of the EV market, while its ageing flagship models continue to attract criticism for their lack of major updates.

Successfully launching the Roadster would not only fulfil one of Tesla’s oldest promises but could also provide a much-needed boost to the brand’s image.

For now, though, the Roadster remains a car that exists largely on presentation slides, concept displays and social media promises.

August may finally change that. Or it may simply become another date added to the Roadster’s ever-growing list of delays.

The post Tesla Roadster Could Finally Appear in August After Nine Years of Delays appeared first on Zero2Turbo | High-Performance Car News, Reviews and Videos from South Africa.

Lamborghini appears to be preparing the next chapter in the Revuelto story, with the more focused ‘Revuelto SV’ reportedly set to break cover later this year. However, a select group of the brand’s VIP customers may get an early look at the car much sooner.

According to industry sources, Lamborghini will host a private unveiling of the Revuelto SV on 13 June, offering some of its most valued clients an exclusive preview before the model’s public debut.

Sharper Aerodynamics Expected

As has traditionally been the case with Lamborghini’s SV models, the Revuelto SV is expected to place a greater emphasis on performance and circuit capability.

The visual changes are likely to be functional rather than purely cosmetic. Reports suggest the car will feature a more aggressive aerodynamic package, including a fixed rear wing designed to generate additional downforce at high speeds. A redesigned front splitter and revised rear diffuser are also expected to form part of the package, helping improve stability and cornering performance.

These upgrades should allow the Revuelto SV to deliver even greater confidence on track while maintaining the dramatic styling that has become synonymous with Lamborghini’s flagship V12 models.

Powertrain Could Receive a Boost

While Lamborghini has yet to confirm any technical details, the Revuelto SV is expected to benefit from chassis and powertrain enhancements.

The standard Revuelto is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 paired with three electric motors, producing a combined 1,001 hp (747 kW). Power is sent to all four wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Industry insiders believe Lamborghini engineers may extract additional performance from the hybrid system, potentially increasing power output while also revising the suspension setup for sharper handling and improved responsiveness.

Continuing Lamborghini’s SV Legacy

The Super Veloce badge has long represented the most extreme road-going versions of Lamborghini’s flagship models. Previous examples such as the Murciélago SV and Aventador SV focused heavily on weight reduction, enhanced aerodynamics and increased performance.

If the reports prove accurate, the Revuelto SV will continue that tradition by taking Lamborghini’s electrified V12 supercar and pushing it even closer to track-car territory.

With a private reveal reportedly taking place this week, it may not be long before we get our first official glimpse of what could become one of the most exciting Lamborghini models of 2026.

The post Lamborghini Revuelto SV Reportedly Set for Private Reveal This Week appeared first on Zero2Turbo | High-Performance Car News, Reviews and Videos from South Africa.

Two decades after production of the Porsche Carrera GT came to an end, the V10-powered supercar continues to command enormous respect among enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its recent return to the spotlight, thanks to an impressive Nürburgring lap time improvement achieved without any major mechanical development, serves as a reminder of just how special the analogue masterpiece remains.

Given the Carrera GT’s status and soaring market value, most owners would never consider altering one. However, a new coachbuilt creation known as the JC9 has done exactly that, sparking debate throughout the automotive world.

A Unique Creation From Jason Castriota

The JC9 is a bespoke one-off project designed by renowned automotive designer Jason Castriota in partnership with Connecticut-based Miller Motorcars.

Castriota is no stranger to ambitious coachbuilt projects. His portfolio includes the celebrated Ferrari Enzo-based P4/5, a vehicle that successfully blended modern engineering with classic racing-inspired design. The JC9 follows a similar philosophy, taking inspiration from Porsche’s rich motorsport heritage while creating something entirely new.

Unlike many tribute builds that simply add styling cues to an existing platform, the JC9 appears to be a comprehensive reimagining of one of Porsche’s most revered supercars.

Built Around Carrera GT Foundations?

Details surrounding the construction of the JC9 remain limited, but information released through social media suggests the car is “fully constructed out of carbon fibre and based on the Porsche Carrera GT.”

That wording leaves room for interpretation. It is unclear whether an original Carrera GT was used as the donor vehicle or whether the project utilises a separate chassis combined with Carrera GT mechanical components.

Photographs released alongside the announcement reveal several unmistakable Carrera GT elements inside the cabin. These include the iconic gauge cluster and the distinctive balsa wood gear shifter, both hallmarks of the original supercar.

The presence of these components has fuelled speculation that a genuine Carrera GT may have contributed significantly to the project’s creation.

Inspired By Porsche’s Greatest Racing Icon

Regardless of the exact origins of its underpinnings, the JC9’s exterior design is impossible to mistake.

The shape draws heavily from Porsche’s legendary endurance racing programme, most notably the short-tail Porsche 917K that achieved outright victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in both 1970 and 1971.

The low-slung proportions, flowing bodywork and race-inspired details create a dramatic interpretation of one of motorsport’s most celebrated machines. Rather than simply replicating the 917K, the JC9 blends classic influences with contemporary surfacing and modern coachbuilding techniques.

The result is a vehicle that feels both nostalgic and fresh at the same time.

A Controversial Yet Fascinating Tribute

Projects like the JC9 inevitably divide opinion.

For some collectors, modifying or repurposing a car as historically significant as the Carrera GT borders on sacrilege. With original examples regularly commanding multi-million-dollar values, preserving them in factory specification is often seen as the only acceptable route.

Others view the JC9 as an exciting expression of automotive artistry, continuing the long tradition of coachbuilt specials that transform existing platforms into unique rolling sculptures.

Whichever side of the debate you fall on, there is no denying that the JC9 stands out as one of the most intriguing Porsche-based creations unveiled in recent years.

The post Designer Transforms Porsche Carrera GT Into Modern-Day 917K Tribute appeared first on Zero2Turbo | High-Performance Car News, Reviews and Videos from South Africa.

Audi Unveils a New Halo Model Above the R8

Audi has revealed the all-new Nuvolari, a limited-production hybrid supercar that takes its place at the very top of the brand’s performance hierarchy. Positioned above the legendary R8, the newcomer serves as both a technological showcase and a preview of where Audi’s future performance models are headed.

Limited to just 499 examples worldwide, the Nuvolari combines electrified performance, Formula 1-inspired engineering and a completely new design direction for the German manufacturer.

Set to enter production next year, it will also become the first road-going Audi to showcase the brand’s latest design language, first hinted at by the Concept C.

Twin-Turbo V8 Hybrid Produces 987 hp

At the heart of the Nuvolari sits a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 paired with three electric motors. Combined output stands at an astonishing 987 hp (736 kW), making it the most powerful production Audi ever built.

The combustion engine alone develops 789 hp (588 kW) and 729 Nm (538 lb-ft) while revving all the way to 10,000 rpm. Each electric motor contributes 148 hp (110 kW), with two mounted on the front axle and another positioned between the engine and transmission.

Power is supplied by a larger 7.3 kWh battery pack, allowing Audi engineers to extract significantly more performance than the closely related Lamborghini Temerario despite sharing core hardware.

Performance Figures Rival Modern Hypercars

Audi claims the Nuvolari will sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 2.6 seconds before reaching 200 km/h (124 mph) in 6.8 seconds. Top speed is rated at more than 349 km/h (217 mph).

While the Lamborghini Temerario shares portions of its powertrain architecture, Audi says extensive software calibration, unique torque mapping and bespoke chassis tuning give the Nuvolari a completely different character.

The focus remains on delivering immense performance without sacrificing everyday usability.

Advanced Quattro System Takes Centre Stage

One of the Nuvolari’s standout technologies is a next-generation all-wheel-drive system known as Quattro Predictive Ride.

Using data from steering inputs, yaw sensors, acceleration measurements and grip monitoring systems, the setup continuously adjusts torque distribution between the wheels.

The system works in conjunction with the front-mounted electric motors, active aerodynamics and braking systems to maximise traction and stability.

Drivers can select from five driving modes:

• E-Hybrid
• Balanced
• Dynamic
• Dynamic+
• Track

The hybrid system can also intelligently blend regenerative braking and coasting to maximise energy recovery. Audi says the electric system alone can generate up to 0.3g of deceleration.

Carbon-Ceramic Brakes and Track-Focused Hardware

The Nuvolari rides on 21-inch wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza performance tyres measuring 255/35 at the front and 325/30 at the rear.

Braking is handled by a sophisticated brake-by-wire system featuring carbon-ceramic discs and ten-piston front calipers. Audi claims the cooling system improves heat dissipation by as much as 21% compared with conventional carbon-ceramic setups.

The company also says the braking package is capable of handling deceleration forces comparable to those experienced in Formula 1 machinery.

Carbon Fibre Construction Helps Reduce Weight

The Nuvolari is the first production Audi to feature a predominantly carbon fibre exterior structure.

Most body panels are constructed from carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP), helping improve rigidity while reducing weight. Although Audi has not released an official kerb weight figure, it is expected to come in below the Lamborghini Temerario’s 1,690 kg dry weight.

Heat-resistant materials are used in critical areas exposed to extreme temperatures generated by the powertrain and braking systems.

Formula 1-Inspired Aerodynamics

Aerodynamics played a major role during development, with feedback reportedly provided by Audi Formula 1 drivers Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hülkenberg.

The Nuvolari features:

• Active rear wing
• Adjustable drag reduction system (DRS)
• Large cooling intakes
• Front splitter
• Massive rear diffuser
• F1-inspired S-duct

The rear wing operates in three modes:

• Closed
• Low Downforce (LD)
• High Downforce (HD)

Under heavy braking, the wing automatically shifts into its maximum-downforce setting. Audi claims the system can generate more than 400 kg of aerodynamic load in its most aggressive configuration.

A New Design Language For Audi

The Nuvolari marks the debut of Audi’s next design era under styling chief Massimo Frascella.

The bodywork is heavily shaped by aerodynamic requirements but also introduces a fresh interpretation of the brand’s Singleframe grille.

The front fascia incorporates a squared-off grille featuring numerous small aerodynamic elements designed to improve airflow management.

The launch vehicle was finished in Titanium, a new signature colour already associated with Audi’s Formula 1 programme.

At the rear, the Audi rings are machined from aluminium and seamlessly integrated into the carbon fibre bodywork.

Driver-Focused Cabin

Inside, Audi has adopted a minimalist and driver-centric philosophy.

Key controls and information displays are positioned within the driver’s immediate field of view, while colour accents pay tribute to the legendary Auto Union Type C race car driven by Tazio Nuvolari during the late 1930s.

The cabin is visually divided into two zones:

• A darker front section intended to enhance driver focus.
• A lighter rear section finished in a colour called Shadow Dune.

The result is an interior that balances performance intent with luxury and comfort.

Pricing and Availability

Audi has not officially confirmed pricing, but the Nuvolari is expected to start at around £500,000. Production will be capped at just 499 units globally, with deliveries scheduled to begin during the first half of next year.

The post Audi Nuvolari: New 987 HP (736 kW) Hybrid Hypercar Becomes Audi’s Most Powerful Road Car Ever appeared first on Zero2Turbo | High-Performance Car News, Reviews and Videos from South Africa.

MotoGP provided the backdrop for a major BMW M debut this weekend as BMW officially revealed the all-new BMW M2 xDrive, the car that will be awarded to the winner of the 2026 BMW M Award.

The unveiling took place at the Balaton Park Circuit during the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend, marking the first public appearance of the latest addition to the M2 range. The annual BMW M Award remains one of MotoGP’s most coveted prizes, recognising the rider who accumulates the most qualifying points throughout the season.

BMW M2 Gains xDrive for the First Time

The biggest talking point surrounding the new M2 xDrive is the addition of BMW’s all-wheel-drive system. This marks the first time an M2 model has been offered with xDrive, giving the compact performance coupe improved traction and enhanced performance in all weather conditions.

Power comes from BMW’s familiar turbocharged inline-six engine equipped with BMW M TwinPower Turbo technology. Output remains unchanged from the recently announced M2 xDrive, but the added grip delivers a noticeable performance advantage.

BMW claims the new M2 xDrive can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds, making it 0.3 seconds quicker than the rear-wheel-drive version.

The special MotoGP prize car is finished in an eye-catching BMW Individual Borusan Turkish Blue paint finish, a colour making its debut on the M2 range.

MotoGP Stars Put the M2 xDrive to the Test

Following the reveal, the action shifted from the presentation stage to the racetrack.

Popular automotive content creator Becky Evans, better known as Queen B, joined reigning MotoGP World Champion Jorge Martín for BMW M’s entertaining “BMW M Racing Balance” challenge.

The challenge tests both driver precision and passenger composure. While the driver pushes for the quickest lap possible, the passenger must hold a bowl filled with balls and prevent them from spilling during the high-speed run around the circuit.

The exercise showcased the balanced chassis dynamics and all-wheel-drive capability of the new M2 xDrive under demanding track conditions.

BMW M Award Continues a Long-Standing MotoGP Tradition

BMW M has been rewarding MotoGP’s fastest qualifiers since 2003, making the BMW M Award one of the longest-running partnerships in the championship.

The award follows the same points structure used during MotoGP races. Riders earn points based on their qualifying position at every Grand Prix weekend, with the rider accumulating the highest total by season’s end taking home a specially selected BMW M performance vehicle.

The trophy cabinet of BMW M Award winners reads like a who’s who of modern motorcycle racing.

Record-holder Marc Márquez has claimed the award eight times, including the most recent edition. Three-time winner Francesco Bagnaia has also enjoyed considerable success, while other past recipients include Valentino Rossi, Casey Stoner, Jorge Lorenzo, Fabio Quartararo, Sete Gibernau and Nicky Hayden.

With the addition of all-wheel drive and a more focused performance package, the BMW M2 xDrive will undoubtedly be a highly desirable prize for whichever rider tops the MotoGP qualifying standings in 2026.

The post BMW Reveals New M2 xDrive as 2026 MotoGP BMW M Award Prize appeared first on Zero2Turbo | High-Performance Car News, Reviews and Videos from South Africa.

Mustang Nameplate Could Grow Beyond Coupe, Convertible and Mach-E

The idea of a four-door Mustang has been floating around for years and while Ford has never officially confirmed such a model, fresh comments from senior management suggest the concept is far from dead.

During a recent discussion about Ford’s future product plans, company executives acknowledged that there is still demand for traditional sedans, even though the segment has shrunk significantly over the past decade. While SUVs and crossovers continue to dominate sales charts, Ford appears to be exploring ways to broaden some of its most recognisable nameplates rather than launching entirely new passenger car models.

One name that continues to surface in those conversations is Mustang.

Ford Sees Opportunity To Grow The Mustang Brand

According to Ford, sedan buyers now account for roughly 16 to 17 percent of the market, a considerable drop from the days when sedans represented around half of all vehicle sales. Even so, the company believes there is still an opportunity to serve that audience, particularly through an established and highly recognisable brand.

Ford executives have repeatedly spoken about expanding the Mustang family, a strategy that already began with the introduction of the Mustang Mach-E. While the all-electric crossover initially attracted criticism from enthusiasts who felt the Mustang badge should remain exclusive to sports cars, the Mach-E quickly proved successful in the marketplace and has often outsold the traditional Mustang coupe and convertible.

That success appears to have reinforced the idea that the Mustang name can stretch beyond its traditional boundaries.

Previous Clues Point To A Four-Door Mustang

This latest development is not the first indication that Ford could be preparing additional Mustang variants.

Reports surfaced in 2024 suggesting Ford had previewed two potential Mustang derivatives to dealers. One was described as a four-door coupe, while the other reportedly featured an all-wheel-drive, adventure-focused layout.

Adding further fuel to the speculation, Ford later trademarked the “Mach 4” name, a designation many believe would fit naturally alongside the existing Mustang Mach-E branding strategy.

While a trademark filing does not guarantee production, it has kept rumours of a Mustang sedan alive.

V8 Power Could Make It A Serious Performance Sedan

Should Ford decide to bring a four-door Mustang to market, leveraging the existing Mustang platform and powertrain lineup would be the most cost-effective approach.

That could open the door to a range of familiar engine options, including the beloved 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8. Such a move would instantly position the vehicle as a serious rival to performance sedans and four-door coupes from Europe.

Enthusiasts will also be hoping Ford retains the option of a manual gearbox if a sedan ever reaches production. While the likelihood of a three-pedal performance sedan in today’s market remains uncertain, it would undoubtedly strengthen the car’s credentials as a genuine member of the Mustang family.

Nothing Confirmed Yet, But The Signs Are Building

Ford has stopped short of confirming any future Mustang sedan, but several pieces of the puzzle are beginning to align. Comments about expanding the Mustang family, previous dealer presentations, trademark activity and the proven success of the Mach-E all point towards a broader Mustang lineup becoming a realistic possibility.

Whether the final product arrives as a traditional petrol-powered sports sedan, a hybrid performance model or something entirely different remains to be seen. For now, Mustang fans can only wait and watch as Ford continues to explore new directions for one of its most iconic nameplates.

The post Ford Hints At Expanding Mustang Family With Four Door Sedan appeared first on Zero2Turbo | High-Performance Car News, Reviews and Videos from South Africa.

Audi Teases Something Big for Monaco

Audi appears to be preparing something far more exciting than a simple marketing exercise for this weekend’s Monaco Grand Prix. Reports suggest the German brand is set to reveal a brand-new hybrid sports car concept during the Formula 1 weekend, and all signs point toward a dramatic return of a proper halo supercar which is hopefully the return of the R8.

The teaser campaign released ahead of the event references legendary Italian racing driver Tazio Nuvolari, who famously secured his final Grand Prix victory in 1939 behind the wheel of an Auto Union race car, one of Audi’s historic predecessors. That historical nod has fuelled speculation that the concept will celebrate Audi’s motorsport heritage while looking firmly toward the future.

Lamborghini Temerario Power Could Underpin It

According to reports, the new concept is expected to feature a V8 plug-in hybrid setup derived from the powertrain found in the Lamborghini Temerario. That means a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 working alongside electric assistance, with total output at 907 hp (677 kW).

If accurate, it would instantly position the car as a serious contender in the modern hybrid supercar segment, potentially giving Audi the perfect foundation for a next-generation Audi R8.

The idea of a high-revving electrified V8 mounted behind the driver sounds like exactly the kind of recipe enthusiasts have been hoping for since the original R8 left production.

A Modern R8 Revival Makes Perfect Sense

Audi has repeatedly hinted that the door has not completely closed on a flagship supercar. Earlier this year, Audi CEO Gernot Döllner suggested the company was still open to the idea of building another halo performance model, reigniting rumours that the R8 nameplate could eventually return.

A hybrid-powered successor would also align perfectly with where the performance car market is heading. Buyers still want emotion, sound and drama, but increasingly with electrification blended into the formula rather than replacing it entirely.

What this really means is Audi may finally have the technology and platform to build an R8 successor that feels properly exotic again, especially with Lamborghini hardware underneath.

Monaco Reveal Could Signal Audi’s Performance Future

Whether the Monaco reveal turns out to be a near-production preview or simply a design study, it is already generating serious excitement among performance car fans. Audi has spent the last few years heavily focused on EVs and mainstream SUVs, so the idea of a mid-engined hybrid supercar arriving back in the lineup feels like a welcome shift.

And if the rumours are true, Monaco might just mark the beginning of Audi’s next supercar chapter.

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