Ram has revived one of its most memorable performance truck names, and this time the formula is even more extreme. The new Rumble Bee returns with aggressive styling, supercharged HEMI muscle and enough straight-line pace to embarrass a number of serious sports cars. According to the brand, this is now the quickest production pickup truck ever built.

Ram 1500 Rumble Bee arrives with a much more planted stance than before, sitting lower and wider while adopting a more intimidating road presence. The truck is offered exclusively in Quad Cab short-bed form, giving it a broad-shouldered appearance that looks purpose-built for high-speed runs and aggressive street driving.

Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis has already acknowledged that some enthusiasts would have preferred a regular cab setup, but he pointed out that such models account for only a tiny percentage of truck sales today. It is a familiar situation for Stellantis, especially after the controversy surrounding the electric Dodge Charger Daytona.

At the front, the truck gets a redesigned single-piece fascia aimed at feeding maximum airflow into the engine bay. A sharp splitter, clean body surfacing and muscular proportions all contribute to the performance-focused design. LED lighting comes standard throughout, while colour-coded mirrors add to the premium finish. Inside, front occupants are treated to heavily bolstered bucket seats with unique stitching details, while the rear bench can fold flat for added practicality.

Entry-level versions feature an 8.4-inch infotainment display, while the Rumble Bee 392 upgrades to a 12-inch setup. At the top of the range, the SRT variant receives a large 14.5-inch portrait-style touchscreen. Each version also gets a dedicated transfer case control panel and selectable drive modes.

Ram plans to offer the truck in three versions: the standard Rumble Bee, the Rumble Bee 392 and the flagship Rumble Bee SRT. The range-topping model borrows the familiar 6.2-litre supercharged HEMI V8 from the Ram 1500 TRX, complete with a twin-screw supercharger. Output stands at 777 horsepower (579 kW) and 921 Nm (680 lb-ft) of torque.

Despite sharing the same engine as the TRX, Ram says the new Rumble Bee SRT is even quicker. The truck reportedly sprints from 0 to 97 km/h (60 mph) in just 3.4 seconds before completing the quarter mile in 11.6 seconds at 187 km/h (116 mph). That would make it quicker than cars such as the Ford Mustang GT and even the BMW M3 in a straight line.

Buyers wanting something slightly less unhinged can opt for the naturally aspirated 6.4-litre HEMI V8 in the Rumble Bee 392. There is also a more accessible 5.7-litre HEMI V8 producing 395 horsepower (294 kW).

Every version of the Rumble Bee comes equipped with a dedicated Track Mode, which recalibrates the engine, transmission, steering, suspension and throttle response for more aggressive driving. On SRT models, the system also lowers the air suspension to its most aggressive setting.

Launch Control is standard on both the SRT and 392 derivatives, helping optimise traction, torque delivery and shift timing during hard launches. Drivers simply engage the system through a dedicated button and follow prompts displayed on the fully digital instrument cluster.

Ram also shortened the wheelbase by 330 mm (13 inches) and strengthened the chassis structure to improve agility and responsiveness. The optional four-corner air suspension setup, which comes standard on the SRT, is designed to improve stability and cornering precision. Standard wheel fitment includes lightweight 22-inch aluminium alloys wrapped in 285/45R22 Pirelli all-season performance tyres.

Customers choosing the SRT or the optional 392 Track Pack can also spec wider 325/40R22 Goodyear all-season tyres. With that setup, Ram claims the truck can hit a top speed of 274 km/h (170 mph), making it the fastest combustion-powered production pickup ever created.

Braking hardware is equally serious. Massive Brembo six-piston front calipers clamp onto 14.6-inch rotors, while the rear setup uses single-piston calipers. Ram says the Rumble Bee features the largest brake rotors currently available in its segment.

The flagship SRT model also focuses heavily on cabin technology and audio quality. It receives a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system complete with Active Noise Cancellation for those rare occasions when occupants may want a break from the supercharged V8 soundtrack.

Production of the new Rumble Bee will take place at Ram’s Saltillo facility in Mexico. Sales are expected to begin with the 5.7-litre HEMI model later this year, while the more powerful 392 and SRT versions are scheduled to during the first half of 2027.

The post 777 HP (579 kW) Ram 1500 Rumble Bee SRT Becomes Fastest Production Pickup Truck appeared first on Zero2Turbo.

After making its global debut under the Chery Group umbrella, the new iCAUR 03T has officially been launched in South Africa as the brand’s latest electric SUV offering. Sitting above the V23 in the local range, the newcomer will be offered in both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, giving buyers a choice between efficiency-focused motoring and a more performance-oriented setup.

The design leans heavily into the rugged SUV theme with a boxy silhouette, muscular wheel arches and upright proportions that give it a strong road presence. Slim LED lighting signatures and cleaner body surfacing help modernise the look, while the body itself uses an all-aluminium multi-cavity cage construction designed to improve durability and reduce weight. According to iCAUR, this structure can resist corrosion for up to 30 years while trimming weight by over 30%, helping improve efficiency by around 3%. A panoramic glass roof, along with LED headlights and taillights, completes the exterior package.

South African buyers will be able to choose from five exterior finishes:

• Khaki White
• Carbon Crystal Black
• Cyan Grey
• Starlight Silver
• Toronto Red

Powering the entry-level 03T 2WD is a single electric motor mounted at the rear axle, paired with a 65.69 kWh battery pack. This setup produces 135 kW and 220 Nm, allowing the SUV to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.5 seconds before topping out at 150 km/h (93 mph).

The more potent AWD derivative features a dual-motor arrangement producing a combined 205 kW and 385 Nm. It shares the same 150 km/h (93 mph) top speed but cuts the 0 to 100 km/h time down to just 6.5 seconds. This model also receives a slightly larger 69.77 kWh battery pack.

Both variants ride on 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 245/55 tyres, with MacPherson front suspension and a rear multi-link setup tasked with balancing comfort and handling. Ventilated front discs and rear disc brakes are standard across the range.

Range figures are quoted at 431 km for the 2WD and 436 km for the AWD based on the NEDC cycle. Energy consumption is rated at 18.3 kWh/100 km for the rear-wheel-drive model and 19.9 kWh/100 km for the AWD. Fast charging capability allows both derivatives to recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes using a DC charger.

Driving modes vary depending on specification. The 2WD receives Eco, Normal, Sport and Custom modes, while the AWD expands this with Slippery, Beach, Muddy, Bumpy and All-Road settings for more varied terrain conditions.

Inside, the 03T offers seating for five passengers across a 2,715 mm wheelbase. Boot capacity stands at 450 litres, while folding the 60:40 split rear seats increases total cargo space to 1,238 litres. There is also an additional 40-litre rear storage compartment.

Standard equipment on the 2WD includes climate control, black leather upholstery, ambient lighting, heated and ventilated front seats, and four-way power lumbar adjustment for the driver. AWD models add front seat massage functionality and an electrically adjustable passenger leg rest.

Technology is centred around a 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. An eight-speaker audio system is fitted to the 2WD, while the AWD upgrades to a 12-speaker Infinity setup. Voice control, three USB ports, a USB-C connection and a 50-watt wireless charger are all included.

Safety equipment is extensive, with six airbags, stability control, traction control, EBA, front and rear parking sensors and a 540-degree surround-view camera system all standard. Advanced driver assistance systems include adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist recognition, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, traffic jam assist, front and reverse collision warnings, and door opening alerts.

Shannon Gahagan, National Brand and Marketing Manager at iCAUR South Africa and OMODA & JAECOO South Africa, said the new SUV reflects the brand’s goal of blending distinctive styling with everyday practicality, comfort and advanced electric mobility.

South African Pricing for the iCAUR 03T

iCAUR 03T 2WD – R639,900
iCAUR 03T AWD – R699,900

The iCAUR 03T officially arrives in South African dealerships from 28 May 2026. Both derivatives are sold with an eight-year/200,000 km vehicle warranty, an eight-year/160,000 km battery warranty for the first owner, a five-year/100,000 km service plan, and roadside assistance coverage for eight years or 200,000 km.

The post iCAUR 03T Officially Launched In South Africa With Up To 275 HP (205 kW) appeared first on Zero2Turbo.

Mercedes-AMG has finally revealed the production version of its long-anticipated all-electric AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, confirming that Affalterbach is still fully committed to high-performance EVs despite several manufacturers starting to scale back their electric ambitions. The newcomer effectively replaces the previous AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, which was previously offered with a twin-turbocharged V8 hybrid producing as much as 831 hp (620 kW).

Built on the dedicated AMG.EA platform, the new four-door performance EV takes heavy inspiration from the dramatic Concept AMG GT XX shown last year. While the final production model has toned things down slightly, it still looks aggressive and unconventional enough to divide opinion when it eventually hits the road.

Mercedes-AMG is targeting rivals such as the Porsche Taycan and Audi e-tron GT, although the styling approach is very different to both. Where the Porsche and Audi lean into sleek proportions, the AMG takes on a far more exaggerated and muscular silhouette. However, AMG’s focus appears to have been less about elegance and more about delivering an EV that still feels unmistakably AMG from the driver’s seat.

At the heart of the car sits a massive 106 kWh battery pack paired with an 800-volt electrical system and three axial-flux electric motors. Performance figures are predictably outrageous. The flagship GT 63 4Matic+ develops 1,153 hp (860 kW) and up to 2,000 Nm (1,475 lb-ft) of torque when launch control is activated. A slightly less extreme GT 55 variant will also join the range, offering up to 805 hp (600 kW).

Acceleration numbers are deep into hypercar territory. Mercedes-AMG claims the GT 63 can hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 2.1 seconds with rollout included, or 2.4 seconds without it. It continues to 200 km/h (124 mph) in 6.8 seconds and, with the optional Driver’s Package fitted, will reach a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). Despite the insane performance, both variants tip the scales at a hefty 2,460 kg.

Charging technology is another major talking point. Thanks to support for DC charging speeds of up to 600 kW, the battery can charge from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 11 minutes. Mercedes-AMG also says drivers can recover around 460 km (285 miles) of range in just 10 minutes under ideal conditions. Maximum claimed driving range stands at up to 696 km (432 miles) for the GT 63 and 700 km (435 miles) for the GT 55.

AMG has also packed the car with a range of technologies aimed at making it feel more engaging than a typical EV. A new Response Control switch adjusts drivetrain responsiveness, while the Agility Control system actively alters the car’s cornering characteristics through variable torque distribution. Drivers can also select between nine different traction control levels.

One of the more interesting additions is the AMGFORCE S+ system, which attempts to recreate the emotional character of AMG’s V8 models. It generates simulated V8 engine sounds inspired by the AMG GT R and works alongside an artificial gearshift system similar to what Hyundai introduced in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. Seven drive modes will be available, including Comfort, Sport, Race, Slippery, Eco, Individual and AMGFORCE Sport+.

The chassis setup is equally serious. Standard equipment includes AMG Active Ride Control air suspension with semi-active roll stabilization, adaptive rebound and compression damping, and rear-wheel steering. The rear wheels turn opposite to the fronts at speeds up to 80 km/h (50 mph) before turning in the same direction at higher speeds to improve stability. Braking hardware consists of carbon-ceramic discs up front and steel brakes at the rear.

Inside, the new electric AMG is a major departure from the outgoing combustion-powered model. The cabin features a large 14-inch infotainment screen, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and an optional 14-inch passenger display. Carbon fibre trim is used extensively throughout the interior, while ambient lighting and the Sky Control panoramic glass roof add to the futuristic atmosphere. The roof itself can display different colour effects depending on the selected settings.

Mercedes-AMG has not yet confirmed official pricing, although the company says the new EV range will be positioned similarly to equivalent predecessor models. That likely means pricing comfortably north of the previous V8-powered AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, which already carried a substantial premium in many markets.

The post Mercedes-AMG Reveals 1,153 HP (860 kW) Electric GT 4-Door Coupe appeared first on Zero2Turbo.

Porsche has introduced a highly exclusive version of the 911 Turbo S aimed at collectors in the Middle East, and only 20 examples will ever be produced. Known as the Porsche 911 Turbo S Sadu Edition, the special model celebrates 70 years since the German brand first entered the Middle Eastern market.

The story dates back to 1956 when Porsche delivered a 356 Cabriolet to Kuwait, marking the beginning of its presence in the region. Seven decades later, Porsche Middle East and Africa is commemorating the milestone with one of the most distinctive Turbo S models seen in recent years.

The exterior is finished in a classic Cremewhite paint scheme paired with black SportDesign accents and subtle gold detailing. A unique Sadu-inspired graphic package runs along the lower section of the car, taking inspiration from traditional Bedouin weaving patterns commonly found across the Gulf region. Gold badging and Sport Classic wheels further separate the Sadu Edition from a standard Turbo S.

Inside, Porsche has gone all out with bespoke detailing. The cabin combines Black and Bordeaux Red leather with custom Sadu textile inserts used throughout the seats and interior trim. Exclusive embroidery, unique door sill plates and commemorative badging reinforce the car’s limited-production status.

While the styling is unique, the performance remains every bit as extreme as the standard facelifted 992.2 Turbo S. Power comes from Porsche’s updated T-Hybrid-assisted flat-six drivetrain producing 701 hp (523 kW) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque.

With just 20 units planned, the chances of spotting one outside the Middle East will be incredibly slim. For collectors in the region though, it represents a rare mix of Porsche performance and local cultural influence wrapped into one seriously exclusive package.

The post New Porsche 911 Turbo S Sadu Edition Celebrates 70 Years In The Middle East appeared first on Zero2Turbo.

Almost 10 years after it first arrived on the scene, the 991.2-generation Porsche 911 GT2 RS is still proving why it remains one of the most brutal road-going 911s ever made. The latest example comes from Road Atlanta, where a Manthey-equipped GT2 RS has just claimed another production car lap record, this time taking the crown away from the immensely potent Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.

Porsche has built a reputation for dominating Road Atlanta in recent years, with models like the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid and Cayenne Turbo GT previously topping their respective categories. During the latest record attempt, a 2019 Porsche 911 GT2 RS fitted with the Manthey Performance Kit and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R N0 tyres stormed around the circuit in 1:22.649, narrowly beating the Corvette ZR1’s 1:22.82 benchmark.

This is not unfamiliar territory for the GT2 RS either. Back in 2019, the car already set a production vehicle lap record at the same track with a 1:24.88 time. However, that earlier run was completed without the aggressive aerodynamic upgrades offered through the Manthey package.

Porsche didn’t stop there. A 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 RS equipped with the Manthey Kit also established a new naturally aspirated production-car lap record after clocking a rapid 1:23.932. That represents a massive improvement over the previous-generation GT3 RS, which managed a 1:26.24 lap around the same circuit.

Following closely behind was the updated 992.2-generation Porsche 911 GT3 with its own Manthey upgrades. Although it does not feature the same extreme aero setup as the GT3 RS, it still delivered a seriously impressive 1:24.639 lap time.

Even years after its debut, the GT2 RS continues to hold its place as the quickest production Porsche 911 ever built. What makes the achievement even more remarkable is the fact that it managed to outperform the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, a car packing 1,064 horsepower (793 kW) and only introduced last year. Around the Nürburgring Nordschleife, the GT2 RS Manthey still ranks as the third-fastest production car ever recorded, sitting behind only the Mercedes-AMG One and the Ford Mustang GTD Competition.

The post Porsche 911 GT2 RS Manthey Beats Corvette ZR1 To New Road Atlanta Record appeared first on Zero2Turbo.

Australian carbon wheel specialist Carbon Revolution is facing a major financial crisis after recording losses of roughly US$347 million (around R6 billion) over the past four years, according to findings from independent accounting firm McGrathNicol. The report also states the company has effectively been insolvent since December 2025, with high production costs in Australia playing a major role in the situation.

The Geelong-based manufacturer built its reputation by supplying lightweight carbon-fibre wheels to major brands including Ferrari, Lamborghini, Jaguar Land Rover and Ford. However, maintaining manufacturing operations in Australia reportedly became increasingly expensive, especially given that many of its largest customers are located overseas.

Following mounting financial pressure, the company entered administration in March 2026, with McGrathNicol appointed to oversee restructuring efforts. Despite the turmoil, Carbon Revolution still employs around 350 staff members in Australia.

The administrator’s report pointed to severe operating losses, persistent cash burn and the inability to secure enough wheel production contracts to reach sustainable profitability. It also highlighted Australia’s manufacturing costs as significantly higher than competing regions, further damaging the company’s ability to remain competitive globally.

Founded in 2007, Carbon Revolution became internationally recognised after developing the world’s first one-piece carbon-fibre wheel for production vehicles. The wheels are claimed to be as much as 40 percent lighter than conventional alloy alternatives, offering benefits in handling, ride quality and efficiency.

In recent years though, the company was reportedly hit by several cancelled programmes linked to electric vehicles. Many EV projects prioritised lightweight components to improve driving range, and when manufacturers scaled back or delayed those plans, Carbon Revolution lost key opportunities.

Although revenue climbed by 87 percent to US$47.3 million during the 12 months ending June 2024, the business still accumulated losses exceeding US$146 million during that period alone.

Despite the administration process, Carbon Revolution previously stated that Australian operations would continue uninterrupted, with production schedules maintained, deliveries proceeding as planned and development work on future products still underway.

The company also expressed confidence earlier this year that a restructured version of the business could emerge during the second quarter of 2026 with stronger financial backing and a clearer strategic direction.

The post Australian Carbon Fibre Wheel Maker Records R6 Billion Losses appeared first on Zero2Turbo.

Xiaomi is continuing its push into the high-performance EV space and the latest milestone comes from the Nürburgring Nordschleife, where the new Xiaomi YU7 GT has officially become the fastest production SUV around the legendary German circuit. The electric SUV completed a lap in 7:34.931, edging out some serious performance heavyweights in the process.

The new benchmark puts the YU7 GT ahead of the Audi RS Q8 Performance, which recorded a 7:36.698 lap in 2024, while the Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT Coupé previously managed a 7:38.925 run back in 2021.

Xiaomi also confirmed that its lead development driver, Ren Zhoucan, became the first Chinese driver to receive official Nürburgring lap certification through the programme linked to the record attempt.

The timing of the announcement is no coincidence either. Xiaomi will officially reveal the YU7 GT in China on May 21, with company founder and CEO Lei Jun previously describing the model as a “pure-blood GT” SUV engineered with a strong focus on outright performance.

While Xiaomi has yet to publish all of the technical details surrounding the Nürburgring test vehicle, the Nordschleife remains one of the toughest proving grounds in the automotive world and a place manufacturers use to validate everything from chassis balance to high-speed durability.

The YU7 GT’s record follows Xiaomi’s aggressive Nürburgring campaign that started with the SU7 Ultra sedan. Earlier in 2025, the SU7 Ultra claimed the production EV lap record at the circuit before later setting an astonishing 6:22.091 time, placing it among the fastest production-based cars ever recorded at the track.

The YU7 GT produces up to 990 hp (738 kW) and Xiaomi claims a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). Range is rated at 705 km on the CLTC cycle thanks to a large 101.7 kWh battery pack.

Power comes from a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system delivering 288 kW (386 hp) to the front axle and 450 kW (604 hp) to the rear.

Handling upgrades appear equally serious. The SUV uses Xiaomi’s Jialong Chassis Master Edition setup, developed and fine-tuned at the Nürburgring. It features dual-valve CDC dampers with independent rebound and compression control, dual-chamber air suspension with adjustable ride height and stiffness, plus an electronic limited-slip differential capable of rapidly distributing torque between the rear wheels.

The post Xiaomi YU7 GT Becomes Fastest SUV Ever Around Nürburgring appeared first on Zero2Turbo.

Founded in 1977 by Bodo Buschmann and Klaus Brackmann, Brabus began life as a specialist tuner focused largely on Mercedes-Benz products. Fast forward nearly five decades and the German outfit has evolved into a full-blown manufacturer known for producing some of the most extreme high-performance road cars on the planet. With its 50th anniversary approaching next year, the celebrations have already kicked off with the reveal of a very special machine called the Bodo.

Named in honour of late founder Bodo Buschmann, who passed away in 2018, the project feels exactly like the kind of outrageous creation he would have approved of. Under the leadership of his son Constantin Buschmann, Brabus continues pushing the same philosophy that made the company famous in the first place: massive power, dramatic styling and unapologetic excess.

Although Brabus built its reputation modifying Mercedes-Benz products, the company has steadily expanded into other luxury and performance brands over the years. Alongside past projects based on Smart models, Brabus now reworks vehicles from Bentley, Porsche, Land Rover, Lamborghini and Aston Martin through its Startech division. It has even ventured into motorcycles and marine projects.

Instead of choosing a Mercedes-AMG platform for this tribute model, Brabus selected the Aston Martin Vanquish as the starting point. From there, the grand tourer underwent such extensive changes that it barely resembles the original donor car anymore.

While the core structure still comes from Aston Martin, almost every visible surface has been redesigned by Brabus. The bodywork has been replaced with aggressive carbon fibre panels, giving the car a far more dramatic and muscular appearance while still maintaining a level of elegance expected from a high-end GT machine. Inside, traces of Aston Martin remain, but Brabus has added enough bespoke detailing and trim upgrades to create a cabin with its own distinct identity.

The chassis also received major revisions. Suspension duties are handled by a custom setup developed together with KW, using double-wishbone and multi-link configurations to better cope with the enormous power increase.

Under the bonnet sits Aston Martin’s familiar 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12, but the numbers are on an entirely different level now. Output jumps from 824 hp (614 kW) and 1,000 Nm Nm (737 lb-ft) to a staggering 986 hp (735 kW) and 1,200 Nm (885 lb-ft). Even more outrageous is the fact that all of that power is still sent exclusively to the rear wheels.

Given those figures, braking performance becomes just as important as acceleration. The Bodo uses massive carbon ceramic brakes measuring 409 mm up front and 358 mm at the rear. There is also an active rear wing that automatically deploys at roughly 145 km/h (90 mph).

Brabus says the Bodo can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in exactly 3.0 seconds, although putting nearly 735 kW through the rear axle alone will likely require a delicate right foot. The car is also capable of reaching 300 km/h (186 mph) in 23.9 seconds before eventually topping out at an electronically limited 359 km/h (223 mph). Without the limiter, the true top speed would likely be even more outrageous.

Production will be capped at just 77 examples, referencing the year Brabus was founded. Each vehicle will be built to order, making exclusivity a major part of the package.

Pricing starts at €1,000,000 before personalisation options are added.

The post Brabus Unveils 735 kW Aston Martin-Based Bodo Hyper GT appeared first on Zero2Turbo.

American car enthusiasts often get painted with the same lazy stereotype, but the reality is quite different. If anything, the continued survival of the manual gearbox in modern performance cars is proof that there is still strong demand from drivers who actually enjoy being involved behind the wheel. BMW has clearly taken note, because the new 2027 BMW M3 CS Handschalter arrives as a lightweight, hardcore M3 CS that swaps paddles for a proper six-speed manual transmission.

The name “Handschalter” roughly translates to “manual shifter” in German, and interestingly, this is the very first time BMW has paired the CS treatment with a manual gearbox. The model will only be sold in North America, making it one of the more unusual region-specific M cars in recent memory.

Under the bonnet sits BMW’s familiar 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged straight-six, delivering 473 hp (353 kW) and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) exclusively to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox and electronically controlled limited-slip differential.

If you are wondering why BMW did not use the more powerful 550 hp (410 kW) engine from the regular M3 CS, the answer is fairly simple. According to BMW, the manual transmission is already operating near its limits with the lower output setup. Even so, performance should still be properly rapid. BMW claims the car will sprint from 0 to 96 km/h (60 mph) in 3.8 seconds, or 4.1 seconds without rollout included in the timing.

The recipe combines components pulled from several different modern M products. The weight-saving programme mirrors other CS models with extensive use of carbon fibre throughout the car, including the roof, front splitter, boot lid, seat backs and centre console. It also borrows engine mounts from the BMW M4 CSL, suspension springs from the BMW M2 CS, and the titanium exhaust setup and dampers from the standard M3 CS.

Although some suspension hardware is shared, BMW says the Handschalter receives its own bespoke chassis calibration. Removing the all-wheel-drive hardware allowed engineers to lower the ride height by nearly 6 mm, helping reduce the centre of gravity and sharpen the handling characteristics further. Revised camber settings, unique electronic damper tuning and specific rear differential calibration are also part of the package.

Buyers will still be able to spec a few additional extras, including carbon ceramic brakes, a front strut brace and track-focused tyres. At the same time, BMW has not stripped away every comfort feature, with options such as a head-up display and powered tailgate still available.

Initial impressions from those who have already sampled the car around Willow Springs suggest the manual gearbox retains BMW’s familiar long clutch travel and mechanical, slightly notchy shift action. That combination has become something of a trademark for modern BMW manuals, even if opinions remain divided on whether it is charming or old-school.

Pricing in the United States starts at $108,450 and BMW will reportedly build fewer than 1,000 examples. Production has already started in Germany, with the first deliveries expected in North America later this year.

The post America Only BMW M3 CS Handschalter Packs A Six-Speed Manual appeared first on Zero2Turbo.

Following BMW’s acquisition of the Alpina brand rights at the start of 2026, the German marque has now unveiled the striking new Vision BMW ALPINA concept at the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. The dramatic V8-powered coupe previews what the future of Alpina will look like under BMW’s control, while also hinting at the possible return of the 8 Series formula.

Penned under the direction of Adrian van Hooydonk and Maximilian Missoni, the concept stretches over 5.2 metres long, making it only slightly shorter than the current BMW 7 Series. The proportions are pure grand tourer, blending classic Alpina styling cues with a more modern luxury-focused identity.

One of the most obvious throwbacks is the reinterpretation of the famous 1973 Alpina B7 sharknose front end. BMW says a flowing visual line runs from the nose all the way to the rear, creating a more elegant and elongated silhouette. Alpina’s iconic side graphics also survive the transition into the modern era, now applied beneath the lacquer finish. Buyers will still be able to delete them if they prefer a cleaner appearance, while optional two-tone paintwork introduces a more traditional coachline effect separating the colours.

Missoni explained that the design team focused heavily on preserving the understated confidence and effortless performance character that defined classic Alpina models. According to him, this is more than just a design exercise and should instead be viewed as a clear indication of where the brand is headed.

The front grille adopts BMW’s latest illuminated surround treatment but has been designed in a way that could visually work with either combustion or electrified powertrains in future. Around the back, slimmer L-shaped taillights mirror current BMW themes, while the signature quad exhaust setup confirms this concept still relies on internal combustion power.

BMW has also modernised the Alpina logo. The familiar throttle body and crankshaft remain, although the old red-and-blue crest has been replaced by a monochrome finish for a cleaner and more contemporary appearance. Traditional multi-spoke Alpina wheels also remain part of the formula, with the concept wearing massive 22-inch front and 23-inch rear alloys.

Official technical details remain scarce, but BMW has confirmed the concept uses a V8 engine. Industry expectations point toward the familiar 4.4-litre twin-turbo hybrid V8 from the latest BMW M5, potentially producing around 800 horsepower and sending power to all four wheels through BMW’s xDrive system.

BMW says future Alpina products will follow a “speed not sport” philosophy. While performance will remain a major focus, the brand will be clearly separated from BMW M cars by prioritising effortless high-speed cruising and luxury over outright track aggression. Alpina vice president Oliver Viellechner noted that production models capable of exceeding 300 km/h (186 mph) are entirely realistic. He also confirmed that Alpina’s signature Comfort+ mode will evolve further and may even become the standard startup drive mode in future vehicles.

The interior strategy will also shift more heavily toward bespoke craftsmanship. BMW plans to reduce cheaper plastic surfaces while expanding the use of premium leather finishes and customisation options. The retail experience itself is expected to move closer to the Rolls-Royce approach rather than a traditional BMW dealership environment.

The Vision BMW Alpina concept also strongly suggests a new flagship two-door BMW is on the horizon. While the current BMW lineup no longer includes an 8 Series, this concept’s four-seat GT proportions make it increasingly likely that a spiritual successor is already in development.

The post BMW Reveals Vision Alpina Concept With Hybrid V8 Power appeared first on Zero2Turbo.