Koenigsegg Blogger: June 2016

Archive for June 2016

Ford GT40 Replica, Pagani Huayra BC, Next-Gen Rolls-Royce Phantom: Today’s Car News

Pagani Huayra BC teased ahead of 2016 Geneva Motor Show

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Ford Motor Company [NYSE:F] is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its historic win in the 24 Hours of Le Mans with the GT40 MkII by entering the car’s spiritual successor, the GT, in this year’s race. You can celebrate in your own way by snapping up one of 20 50th anniversary GT40 replicas built under license by Superformance. The car is simply stunning.

Pagani’s latest Huayra variant is called the BC. It’s set for a debut at March’s 2016 Geneva Motor Show but an undisguised version has already been spotted. Its key feature is an oversized and somewhat odd-looking rear spoiler.

Rolls-Royce has confirmed that the tester we recently spotted is still only a test mule for the automaker’s new platform and not an early prototype for the next-generation Phantom, as was previously thought. The first vehicle based on the new platform will arrive in early 2018.

You'll find all of these stories and more in today's car news, right here at Motor Authority.

Superformance Launches 50th Anniversary Ford GT40

Pagani Huayra BCLeaked

Next-Gen Rolls-Royce Phantom Spy Shots

2017 Smart ForTwoCabriolet First Drive

2016 Chevrolet Volt: Gas Mileage Review

Heavy Rain Mars 2016 Rolex 24 At Daytona Qualifying

2016 Lexus RXRecalled To Replace Faulty Airbags

Two Hemi Cuda Convertibles And A Dodge Charger Daytona Go Under The Hammer

Ford F-150 DieselWill Beat Ram EcoDiesel For Fuel Efficiency: Report

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Ford GT40 Replica, Pagani Huayra BC, Next-Gen Rolls-Royce Phantom: Today’s Car News

Pagani Huayra BC teased ahead of 2016 Geneva Motor Show

Enlarge Photo

You'll find all of these stories and more in today's car news, right here at Motor Authority.

Superformance Launches 50th Anniversary Ford GT40

Pagani Huayra BCLeaked

Next-Gen Rolls-Royce Phantom Spy Shots

2017 Smart ForTwoCabriolet First Drive

2016 Chevrolet Volt: Gas Mileage Review

Heavy Rain Mars 2016 Rolex 24 At Daytona Qualifying

2016 Lexus RXRecalled To Replace Faulty Airbags

Two Hemi Cuda Convertibles And A Dodge Charger Daytona Go Under The Hammer

Ford F-150 DieselWill Beat Ram EcoDiesel For Fuel Efficiency: Report

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Samantha Stosur, Matthew Barton into second round at Charleston

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The Subaru BRZ Isn't A Miata And That's A Good Thing: Video

The Subaru BRZ is a delightful little sports car that should be loved by all automotive enthusiasts.

that should be loved by all automotive enthusiasts. When it comes to the competition for the enthusiast dollar, however, it has a surprising uphill battle in front of it. That's due to the existence of the new ND Mazda MX-5 Miata. That car is the benchmark for relatively affordable plain-Jane rear-wheel-drive excitement. And that's for good reason, as the new Miata is a tremendous machine, and the Subaru BRZ is certainly no Miata. But that's a good thing.

ALSO SEE: Was The First Fast And Furious Movie Almost Called Redline?

Here's what you need to know about the BRZ and how it stacks up against the "always-the-answer" MX-5. The steering is sharper and has a more on-center feel. There's more room, and the backseat will accept a modern baby seat (ask me how I know). There's far less body roll during cornering, which lets the Subie feel more confident in sweeping turns. It also comes at a slightly lower price tag.

Miata fans will counter by saying their favorite car is lighter and quicker, and its styling is more adventurous. The claims about the weight and speed are true, as the Miata makes the 0-60 dash in significantly less time. The styling aspect, however, is always debatable and there is no one winner in that category.

MUST WATCH: Valet Takes Lamborghini Aventador For Joyride, And Of Course It Catches Fire

There is a winner overall though, and that's us...those who love driving. The fact that we can even have this debate is a great thing, and it means there are cars out there for people who want to shift their own gears, get sideways on occasion, and simply love the act of taking a car on a twisty road to nowhere in particular.

Let's hope the debate rages on.

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Rear-wheel-drive Opel GT concept debuts in Geneva: Live photos and video

Behold the new Opel GT.

Behold the new Opel GT. The car is a concept built in true sports car form, with lightweight construction, a rear-wheel-drive layout and a cabin with only the bare essentials. It’s not clear what platform the concept rides on but perhaps it’s the one being developed for the rear-wheel-drive compact sedan Cadillac bosses have been hinting at recently.

Opel won't put this particular concept into production, though. Opel explains that it built the concept to signal the sporty, youthful image the brand is seeking. It also advances the design language Opel first previewed with the Monza concept from 2013. The design reminds us of the old Smart Roadster, though it’s much prettier and distinctively Opel.

ALSO SEE: 2017 Porsche 718 Boxster Revealed With Four-Cylinder Engines: Video

For example, the red front tire pays homage to the Opel Motoclub 500 motorcycle from the 1920s. And the twin tailpipes, with the GT logo in the middle, alludes to the Opel Experimental GT concept of the 1965 Frankfurt Auto Show. That concept eventually went on to spawn the original Opel GT sports car just a few years later.

Scenes from Opel's history - the 1968 Opel GT

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Powering the new Opel GT concept is a turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine used in several production models. The engine is mounted in a front mid-ship position and directs power to the rear wheels via a six-speed sequential gearbox with paddle shifters, plus a limited-slip differential. The curb weight of this tiny two-seater is less than 2,200 pounds.

Peak output registers at 145 horsepower and 151 pound-feet torque, which delivers 0-62 mph acceleration in less than 8.0 seconds and a top speed of just over 130 mph. Not exactly exciting numbers but definitely adequate for sprinting around town.

One of the interesting innovations showcased on the concept is the window design. The glass is integrated with the doors, with a seamless transition from glass to painted surfaces. Access to the cabin is via a touchpad surface on the roof and doors hinged near the wheel arch to create a wider opening.

Opel GT concept, 2016 Geneva Motor Show

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The interior is styled to mirror the exterior, with the same combination of dominant silver with red and black accents. The instrument panel is made from brushed aluminum as a visual reminder of the GT's lightweight construction, and is also a structural member, Opel says.

A final innovation worth mentioning is the headlight system which features LED matrix technology, where the lights can be left with the high beams permanently on as a camera system detects other vehicles and blocks out part of the light path to prevent other drivers being dazzled.

For more from the Geneva Motor Show, visit our dedicated hub.

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Porsche Boxster And Cayman To Carry 718 Name From 2016

Porsche today announced that its mid-engine Boxster roadster and Cayman coupe will carry the 718 name when they undergo their mid-cycle update in 2016.

Porsche today announced that its mid-engine Boxster roadster and Cayman coupe will carry the 718 name when they undergo their mid-cycle update in 2016. The models will be called the 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman and both will use turbocharged four-cylinder engines, as previously confirmed.

We've already spied prototype versionsof both cars, and given the timing, the 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman should be 2017 models.

There is precedent for the 718 name with four-cylinder power. Porsche built the open-cockpit, mid-engine 718 from 1957 to 1962 as a successor to the 550. It competed in and won several races powered by a flat four-cylinder engine. There was a time when it was thought a spiritual successor to the original 718 could be launched as a new entry-level model positioned below the Boxster, but Porsche ruled out such a car. Instead, the Boxster and Cayman have become that spiritual successor.

DON'T MISS: 2016 Porsche Boxster Spyder First Drive

Porsche hasn't announced the power figures for the new 718 models, but the press release says that the cars will have equal power. Two engines are rumored, both turbocharged. A 2.0-liter flat-four is expected to produce 286 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while a 2.5-liter, likely slated for S models, should make 360 hp and 347 lb-ft of torque. Direct injection will help achieve those numbers, and Porsche is hinting that some type of hybrid technology may be offered as well. Porsche says that the 919 Hybrid race car "serves as a platform to further fundamental technology research for future production models–combining two different energy recovery systems with a 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine."

Porsche also says that the cars will share more similarities than ever, both visually and mechanically, and that the Boxster will be the more premium model. The current Cayman costs a little more than the Boxster, with the difference being $500 to $1,900, depending on the model. As for visual similarities, the latest Cayman GT4 and Boxster Spyder share front and rear fascias. We would expect the same of the rest of the lineup moving forward.

Timing and pricing for the new four-cylinder 718s hasn't been announced, but we'll keep you up to date as that information is released.

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Bob Hewitt expelled from International Tennis Hall of Fame in wake of rape conviction

Disgraced former grand slam doubles champion Bob Hewitt has been expelled from the International Tennis Hall of Fame due to his 2015 conviction for rape and sexual assault in South Africa.

Guilty: Bob Hewitt was convicted in a South African court.

Guilty: Bob Hewitt was convicted in a South African court. Photo: AP

The Australian-born Hewitt, 76, was sentenced to six years in prison last May after being found guilty of assaulting three underage girls he was coaching in South Africa during the 1980's and 1990's.

"The expulsion is a result of a conviction against Hewitt on two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault," the Hall of Fame said in a statement on Wednesday.

"The conviction was issued by a South African court in March 2015, and the appellate courts have now denied the right to further appeals of the conviction."

The allegations first surfaced in 2011.

Hewitt was inducted in 1992 and was indefinitely suspended from the Newport, Rhode Island-based Hall of Fame in 2012.

Upon his suspension, Hewitt's plaque and all references to him at the Hall of Fame were removed.

Hewitt was a doubles and mixed doubles champion at all four grand slam events, winning seven Wimbledon titles.

He also reached the semi-finals of the men's singles at the Australian Open three times, and won the Davis Cup with South Africa in 1974.

Reuters

Scion Axed, Most Models To Become Toyotas: Official

Toyota confirmed today that its Scion brand will be axed.

Scion C-HR Concept

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Toyota confirmed today that its Scion brand will be axed. All existing Scions apart from the tC coupe will become Toyotas. The changeover will take place once the first 2017 models start arriving, currently scheduled for this August.

This means cars like the FR-S sports car, iA sedan and iM 5-door hatchback will soon be Toyotas. It also means that the upcoming subcompact crossover previewed recently by the Scion C-HR conceptwill also be a Toyota.

ALSO SEE: Cadillac Unlikely To Renew ELR

With annual sales for the past three years hovering around 60,000 units, today's announcement doesn’t come as a complete surprise. But the experiment wasn't a total failure, as Toyota Motor North America CEO Jim Lentz explained.

“This isn’t a step backward for Scion; it’s a leap forward for Toyota,” he said. “I was there when we established Scion and our goal was to make Toyota and our dealers stronger by learning how to better attract and engage young customers.”

READ: Toyota To Suspend Japanese Production Due To Blast At Steel Supplier

Scion was established in 2003 to be Toyota’s youth brand and it certainly achieved that thanks to an average customer age of 36, which we're told is the youngest in the industry.

It’s not clear what will happen to Scion’s 1,004 dealers. Toyota says it will work closely with them to deal with the change. Customers need not worry, as the service and repair process will be unaffected. They will simply be able to visit service departments at Toyota dealers.

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2016 Cadillac CT6 first drive review

Cadillac has a problem.

Cadillac has a problem. Over the past few years it has developed and delivered a pair of sedans—the ATS and CTS—that are as good as or better than anything Europe has to offer. And yet, car sales were down last year and those cars really haven’t put a dent in the sales of the class leaders. For instance, Cadillac sold 26,873 ATS sedans and coupes last year compared to some 140,000 BMW 3- and 4-Series models. The CTS did a bit better on a percentage basis, as Cadillac churned 19,485 examples of its mid-size sport sedan compared to about 50,000 Mercedes E-Classes.

So what’s a brand that wants to prove it delivers top-notch luxury to do? Well, keep plugging away and keep building great cars.

ALSO SEE: 2018 Maserati Quattroporte Spy Shots

Cadillac’s latest offering to take on Europe’s best is the 2016 CT6 full-size sedan, which is arriving in March. A new flagship model for the brand, the CT6 is actually a “tweener.” It’s sized like the BMW 7-Series, which makes it about four-to-five inches shorter than the Audi A8 and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and priced more like the smaller Audi A6, BMW 5-Series, and Mercedes E-Class.

We recently headed to Los Angeles to see if the CT6 has the chops to rival those revered cars.

A Cadillac experience

This wasn’t a typical press trip. Cadillac provided a curated experience along the lines of a day in the life of a prospective buyer. It started with a lunch at a chic downtown Italian restaurant, followed by a quick $14 drink at a rooftop bar that I was far too uncool to patronize. For every attractive woman in the place there was a twenty-something guy with a man bun, knit cap, or decorative neck scarf. The first day ended with dinner in an artist’s studio. You know, like the typical Cadillac owner might schedule for any given Wednesday night.

2016 Cadillac CT6

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2016 Cadillac CT6

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2016 Cadillac CT6

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DON'T MISS: Cadillac Details New CT6’s Multi-Material Construction

However, I have a couple of complaints that I wouldn’t have in the German cars. The seat belt receptacles sit too low, making them hard to find when you try to buckle in, especially with the center console down. The middle seating position is extremely unfriendly, as the outboard seats are practically buckets and the middle occupant has to sit on a perch and deal with the transmission tunnel. And, though minor, the rear doors should have automatic closers. On several occasions, greeters had to shut the door more than once to get it to fully latch. That doesn’t happen in an S-Class.

French Open 2016: Novak Djokovic's red clay bid starts in Monte Carlo

Monaco Novak Djokovic's bid to finally master clay and win the elusive French Open title starts with his title defence at the Monte Carlo Masters, where Rafael Nadal once crushed the competition.

Novak Djokovic: Optimistic that this could be his year to conquer the French Open.

Novak Djokovic: Optimistic that this could be his year to conquer the French Open. Photo: Getty Images

The top-ranked Serb has won 11 grand slams but the French Open continues to elude him, having lost the final to Stan Wawrinka at Roland Garros last year and twice to Nadal.

"I don't like the word 'obsession' because it doesn't come from the right emotion," Djokovic said.

"But of course being the only grand slam I haven't won gives me even more incentive to give my best there this year."

Few would bet against Djokovic winning in Paris given his red-hot form but part of his renowned discipline involves stopping from looking that far ahead.

Nadal, who lost to Djokovic in the Monte Carlo semi-finals last year, won eight straight titles there from 2005-12 until Djokovic ended the Spaniard's run in the 2013 final.

Winning Monte Carlo was always the springboard that led to victory in Paris, and he thinks it will be tough to stop Djokovic doing the same.

Since beating Djokovic in the 2013 US Open final, Nadal has lost 10 of their 11 meetings - the only win in that time coming when he beat Djokovic in the French Open final two years ago.

"He's going to be the favourite for every tournament [until] somebody shows something different," Nadal said.

"He is [playing] with an unbelievable dynamic."

Since 2015, Djokovic has reached 19 finals in 21 tournaments, winning 15 and losing four finals.

In late February, he lost to Spaniard Feliciano Lopez in the Dubai quarter-finals - where Djokovic retired with an eye infection after losing the first set.

That leaves big-serving Croat Ivo Karolovic as the only other to beat him outside of a final in that time, winning a hard-fought quarter-final on outdoor hard courts in Doha, Qatar, in January 2015.

Djokovic's recent win at the Miami Masters was a record 28th in Masters - one more than Nadal - and saw him equal Andre Agassi's six titles in Miami as well as clinching the Indian Wells-Miami double for a third successive year.

"From one side, yes, I am pleasantly surprised with what I have achieved in last two years," Djokovic said.

"From the other side, I've always expected myself to be at this level. Everybody peaks at different stages of their careers and for me it's right now."

Ferrari first to test Halo cockpit protection in F1

2016 Ferrari Formula One car equipped with Halo cockpit protection

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Official testing for the 2016 Formula One World Championship is still underway in Barcelona, Spain, and today Ferrari [NYSE:RACE] decided to shake things up a little by trialing a new cockpit protection system dubbed the Halo. Pictured above is Kimi Räikkönen in Ferrari’s 2016-spec car, the SF16-H, fitted with the system.

The Halo is one of the solutions organizers are considering to improve the safety of F1 and could be introduced as early as next season. It consists of a tubular carbon structure mounted over the cockpit that can protect the driver from any potential debris that might be flung his way. Just such an accident caused the death of Indycar driver Justin Wilsonlast year.

The Halo system was originally developed by Mercedes AMG. Because of the proximity of the central strut to the driver, it should have little effect on visibility. A less popular solution also being looked at is a jet fighter-style canopy.

Testing for the new season of F1 has been going smoothly for most teams. Ferrari suffered from some reliability issues earlier on but those issues seem to be sorted, with Räikkönen setting the fastest time today. America’s Haas suffered some issues with its Ferrari-sourced powertrain, with its driver Esteban Gutierrez missing out on some crucial testing this week. Fortunately Haas’ other driver Romain Grosjean was out on the track today, though he posted the second slowest time.

There’s now just a few weeks to go until the first race of the season in Melbourne, Australia on March 20.

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Sloane Stephens beats Elena Vesnina in Charleston final

American seventh seed Sloane Stephens captured her third title of 2016 by defeating Russian qualifier Elena Vesnina 7-6(4), 6-2 in the final of the Volvo Car Open clay court event in South Carolina on Sunday.

Sloane Stephens kisses the trophy.

Sloane Stephens kisses the trophy. Photo: AP

The 23-year-old American raced out to a 5-2 lead before Vesnina, the 2011 Charleston finalist, used a slew of winners to win four consecutive games before moving within one point of winning the opening set.

Stephens, however, held her nerve producing some of her best tennis in the tiebreak before cruising through the second set.

"I just said to myself, 'You have to fight for every point and compete'. She's a great player, so I knew I had to stay in every point," said Stephens.

"When I got a couple of opportunities, I took them, so that was great."

The win marked the fourth career WTA title for an in-form Stephens, who has been close to her best for nearly a year after winning her maiden title in Washington last August followed by wins this year in Auckland and Acapulco.

Stephens, who was 1-5 in Charleston before this week, had two straight-set wins to open the tournament and then saved a match point against rising Russian teen Daria Kasatkina in the quarter-finals.

She faced defending champion Angelique Kerber in the semi-finals where she had a 6-1, 3-0 lead before the top-seeded German retired with a viral illness.

Vesnina had caught fire on the unique green clay courts of Charleston where she arrived as the world number 85 and having won two matches in the qualifying.

En route to becoming the first qualifier to make the Charleston final in the tournament's 44 years, Vesnina upset Switzerland's Belinda Bencic in the second round and Italy's Sara Errani in the semis.

Reuters

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Casey Dellacqua set to play in Fed Cup after six-month recovery from concussion

Casey Dellacqua is ready to compete in this weekend's Fed Cup, after spending six months in recovery following a freak accident.

Casey Dellacqua at Wimbledon last year, before her accident.

Casey Dellacqua at Wimbledon last year, before her accident. Photo: Getty Images

Dellacqua told SEN she was on court in October when she fell and hit her head.

I was in a constant cloud of drowsiness, I couldn't remember things, I was doing testing with my doctor every couple of days.

The 31-year-old had been losing a match in China but had fought back and had match point.

"I was just really desperate to win and was chasing a ball and fell over my feet and couldn't get my hands down," she said.

Dellacqua said she suffered a concussion and could not remember much of the following 15 minutes but had thought she would be able to recover quickly. However her symptoms continued and she missed the Australian summer of tennis.

"I was in a constant cloud of drowsiness, I couldn't remember things, I was doing testing with my doctor every couple of days," she said on Tuesday.

"I had pretty much a consistent headache, I couldn't sleep, it was actually really bad."

Dellacqua said her recovery required a lot of rest and very little else.

She recently began playing doubles matches but did not feel ready for the demands of singles tennis.

Australia will play the US in the Fed Cup in Brisbane this weekend with the aim of rejoining the world group – made up of the best eight countries.

Dellacqua said the team, which also included Samantha Stosur, Daria Gavrilova and Arina Rodionova, was strong.

"Our new addition, Dasha (Gavrilova), is a huge plus for us in terms of singles," she said.

"Sam's been a trooper for for us in singles over the years ... it's nice that she's got someone else to take a bit of the pressure off her."

Friend Ash Barty recently returned to tennis after a stint in competitive cricket.

Dellacqua said Barty needed time away from the sport but tennis was her "true calling."

2010 Geneva Motor Show Preview: 2011 Koenigsegg Agera

Koenigsegg is celebrating 15 years of manufacturing exclusive speeders with the unveiling of the new Agera supercar, which is destined to make its world debut next week at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show.

The new model is based on the regular CC but infused with new design elements and an uprated powertrain. Its name, Agera, in Swedish translates to the verb "to act" and was picked because it symbolizes the Koenigsegg philosophy--that is, always improving its cars and pushing its designs to the limits.

Taking the basic Agera body, Koenigsegg’s designers have made the front of the car as wide as the rear to improve balance and minimize body roll during cornering. The car has also been fitted with new ventilated and cross-drilled ceramic brakes and a special traction control system with an auto adapt functionality for different road conditions and driving styles.

The big question remains: how much power is lurking under the Agera’s carbon-fiber hood? Thanks to optimized breathing and more boost pressure from the engine’s forced induction system, power is now rated at 910 horsepower and 811 pound-feet of torque. Best of all, there's more than 737 pound-feet of torque from as low as 2,680 rpm and this is sustained all the way up to 6,100 rpm.

The interior of the CC has also been completely redesigned for application in the Agera. One of the highlights is a new type of ambient lighting called “Ghost Lights” where illumination shines through the car’s billet aluminum buttons and surfaces by way of invisible nanotubes. There’s also a new carbon-fiber center console with a multi-info cluster and single dial controller for everything from basic functionality, a G force meter, power meters, navigation, music, lap-timer or compasses.

The Agera on show in Geneva next week will be a pre-production model. Development and testing will continue for a further six months and will include the efforts of tire manufacturer Michelin, which is working on a specific tire design for the car.

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2014 Ford Fiesta ST First Drive

The idea of packing a very powerful engine into a very small car—especially a car originally designed with frugality in mind—isn’t by any means a new formula.

The idea of packing a very powerful engine into a very small car—especially a car originally designed with frugality in mind—isn’t by any means a new formula. It’s been done over and over again, over decades, to spice up lineups and add bragging rights. And while some transcendent models like the Volkswagen GTI, Honda Civic Si, and Mazdaspeed3 have rightly earned that halo over the years, we can think of plenty that were duds.

The Ford Focus ST has fast joined the ranks of those halo models—well-conceived in every way, and truly better than the sum of its parts. But now just below (or beside) the Focus ST slots a 2014 Ford Fiesta ST that somehow sets our hot-hatch heartbeat aflutter. Maybe more so than the Focus ST.

That’s right. The Fiesta ST has neither a such a boast-worthy power-to-weight ratio nor quite as many engineering tricks up its sleeve, but it ends up offering more seat-of-the-pants, go-fast thrills—enough to pull people away from the likes of the Fiat 500 Abarth, MINI Cooper S, and Hyundai Veloster Turbo...and possibly even the larger Focus ST.

And here we were in mountainous Southern France—fittingly, tackling some of the same serious driving roads, like part of the Route Napoleon, that we did with the Focus ST nearly a year ago. As with the Focus ST, we were only there to get an advance drive—a taste—of this European-engineered little wonder, which is coming to the U.S. in just a few months.

Ford's smallest car, packed with EcoBoost

First off, back to that familiar idea: The powerful engine is the new EcoBoost 1.6-liter, with turbocharging, direct injection, and variable valve timing—the same one that we’ve enjoyed in the mid-size Ford Fusion, TCC’s 2013 Best Car To Buy) and the Ford Escape.

In the Fiesta ST the engine makes 180 hp (two more than in the Fusion and Escape) and 177 pound-feet. Yet it makes a peak 197 hp (and 214 lb-ft) in 20-second bursts, thanks to a special overboost mode (making peak boost more than 21 psi, versus 20.3 otherwise. Simply back off the accelerator briefly, and you earn another 20 seconds.

The engine grumbles a bit below 1,300 rpm, but then just past 1,600 rpm hits its stride, churning out the torque all the way up to nearly 6,000, when the torque plateau thins out. This is an engine that loves to be revved in the 3,500- to 5,500-rpm range, where you reap the most benefit from the turbos, it seems.

What makes that engine so effective in those larger vehicles is its accessible torque. Yet here it’s in a car that’s about 700 pounds lighter than the Fusion and nearly 1,000 lighter than the Escape. So to help deliver that through the wheels in a controlled fashion—especially out of low-speed corners or on rough surfaces—the Fiesta ST gets an eTVC (torque vectoring) system that helps reduce understeer and hold traction by braking the inside front wheel. Separately, the stability control system has a full-off mode, along with a wheel-slip mode for intervention only during all-out hoonage.

The only piece of Focus ST hardware (or shall we say software) lacking in the Fiesta ST is the larger model's torque-steer compensation (with the stability and torque-vectoring system talking to the steering); as it is, some torque steer is noticeable in this car, but definitely not an issue provided you keep your hands on the wheel while driving with your right foot to the floor.

Flat and composed, yet a little sharper

Suspension-wise, Ford hasn't changed the fundamentals from what's offered in more pedestrian Fiestas. That's alright, as we already thought that the Fiesta is one of the best-handling—or at least best-steering—budget subcompacts on the market. But here, springs are stiffer, dampers are recalibrated, and the car's center of gravity has been lowered by more than a half inch. Add in modified front steering knuckle, a little more negative camber, and a revised rear twist-beam layout—with more roll stiffness—the ST feels far more flat and composed in corners than we'd expect.

Lincoln's new 400-hp MKZ priced from $43,575

If Ford Motor Company [NYSE:F] is finally getting serious about its Lincoln division, there's no better better indication of that than its newly-priced 2017 MKZ , which will list from $43,575, including destination, when equipped with the headline-grabbing 400-horsepower variant of its 3.0-liter V-6 engine.

The most powerful Lincoln ever built, this veritable hot rod of a four-door sedan is based on the existing car but has been thoroughly upgraded inside and out. Visually, its biggest cue is the brand's new signature grille, while interior changes are more detail-oriented than big picture.

That 3.0-liter V-6 is based on the automaker's 2.7-liter EcoBoost unit. Buyers less interested in winning drag strip races can opt for a 2.0-liter four-cylinder rated at 245 hp. The 400-pony engine commands a $4,000 premium, reports. The only way to opt for the V-6 is to add all-wheel-drive, although an available Driver's Pack option group includes the Ford Focus RS's torque-vectoring rear differential, which should give the big Lincoln more decidedly sport-oriented ride-and-handling characteristics to go with its 400 hp.

The 400 pony club remains pretty exclusive, at least in the luxury sedan segment. Dodge and Chevrolet offer the Charger R/T Scat Pack and SS, respectively, with over 400 ponies, while the smaller Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400now nets the same output and is definitely worth a look.

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Jay Leno Drives Rare Jaguar XJ220 Supercar: Video

It might be hard to imagine today but at one point Jaguar had a supercar in its lineup that was not only the fastest car in production but also the record holder at the Nürburgring.

It might be hard to imagine today but at one point Jaguar had a supercar in its lineup that was not only the fastest car in production but also the record holder at the Nürburgring. The reason why it’s hard to imagine today is that the car was offered almost three decades ago and there hasn’t been anything even close to it from Jaguar ever since.

ALSO SEE: Abandoned Ferrari Enzo... Still Abandoned In Dubai

We are, of course, talking about the Jaguar XJ220, which is featured in the latest episode of Jay Leno’s Garage and to this day remains one of the most misunderstood supercars ever built. Part of the reason is Jaguar’s mistake of promising the car with a V-12 than launching it with a V-6.

No performance was lost, with the V-6 thanks to a turbocharging system spitting out an impressive 542 horsepower, but a lot of buyers that had placed deposits were turned off and canceled their orders. In the end, Jaguar only built a few hundred examples, though allegedly the company had around 1,500 deposits. Today, there is just a handful left in the country, making the XJ220 one of the rarest cars money can buy.

CHECK OUT: Ferrari Enzo Wrecked In Infamous 2006 Crash Sold For $1.75M

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Tennis: Bernard Tomic to resume after wrist injury, while Nick Kyrgios takes a pre-French Open break

Bernard Tomic will return to tournament play via a wildcard entry into next week's ATP tournament in Bucharest, as he starts his claycourt build-up to next month's French Open after an extended injury break on the Gold Coast.

Bernard Tomic: Set to resume from a wrist injury.

Bernard Tomic: Set to resume from a wrist injury. Photo: AP

The Australian No.2, who is ranked one spot behind Nick Kyrgios at 21st in the world, has not played since retiring with wrist problems while trailing Milos Raonic 6-2, 3-0 just 36 minutes into their third-round match at the Masters 1000 event in Indian Wells a month ago.

With the 28-draw BRD Nastase Tiriac Trophy on the lowest of the ATP Tour's three tiers, and the richer Barcelona Open scheduled during the same week, Tomic is expected to be the top seed ahead of veteran Croat Ivo Karlovic in Bucharest.

Clay is the flat-hitting Queenslander's least preferred surface, with each of his three career singles titles having come on hardcourts, and his grand slam breakthrough hosted by Wimbledon's grass in 2011. This week Tomic has started hitting under the guidance of Tennis Australia coach Ben Mathias in a Southport training group completed by Davis Cup teammates Sam Groth and a rehabilitating Thanasi Kokkinakis. Groth will also return to competition next week, while Kokkinakis has set a major comeback date from shoulder surgery as the French Open at best and Wimbledon at worst.

Tomic had been playing with right wrist soreness since his fourth-round loss to Andy Murray at January's Australian Open, including the controversial Davis Cup tie against the US at Kooyong in which he suggested Kyrgios had faked an illness to avoid playing, while he soldiered on and lost the fourth rubber in four sets to John Isner. But, after a stoush that escalated when Kyrgios responded caustically on social media, the pair were seen practising together in Indian Wells, where there appeared to be no lingering ill-feeling.

The Tomic wrist problem, which affects his serve in particular, will not require surgery, and the 23-year-old will complete his Roland Garros preparation with consecutive tournaments in Istanbul, Madrid and Rome, according to his agent at Starwing Sports, Nicolas Lemperin.

Kyrgios, who displaced Tomic as the national No.1 after reaching his first Masters-level semi-final in Miami a fortnight ago, is not scheduled to play again until the Madrid Masters from May 2.

2017 BMW M760i xDrive V12 Excellence: A Sleeper Super Sedan

BMW recently unveiled an M Performance version of its 7-Series flagship that came with a V-12 engine and an M760i xDrive title .

. It also came with a sporty body kit and a host of M-badged performance upgrades.

However, BMW understands that some, slightly more conservative buyers may desire the performance of the V-12 super sedan in a more discrete package, the proverbial iron fist in a velvet glove. That’s why the automaker has now unveiled the M760i xDrive V12 Excellence.

The car features the same mechanical package as the M760i xDrive but comes with a standard set of bumpers accented with additional chrome. The car also comes with a trunk lid that only features badges that indicate it’s a V-12 model with all-wheel drive. It's a similar story in the cabin where sheer opulence wins over sporty trim.

2017 BMW M760i xDrive V12 Excellence

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All M760i xDrive models feature a twin-turbocharged 6.6-liter V-12 that delivers an estimated 600 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a recalibrated version of the 7-Series’ eight-speed automatic, the engine rockets the big sedan from 0-62 mph in 3.9 seconds. Top speed is capped at 155 mph.

Unfortunately, the V-12 adds some serious mass, with the curb weight of the M760i xDrive coming in at 4,806 lb. Thus, the sportiest option in the 7-Series lineup is likely to be the BMW Alpina B7 xDrive. It has a smaller and lighter V-8 but the same 600 hp and 590 lb-ft output.

The M760i xDrive reaches showrooms in the United States in early 2017. BMW is yet to confirm if the M760i xDrive V12 Excellence will join it. The Alpina B7 xDrive will arrive this fall.

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2018 Lexus LC Hybrid, 2017 Porsche 911 R, New Mercedes Diesel: Car News Headlines

The hybrid version of the new Lexus LC coupe, the LC 500h, will make its world debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show.

2018 Lexus LC 500h

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The hybrid version of the new Lexus LC coupe, the LC 500h, will make its world debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. Over the weekend we got our first look at the car and learned that it will feature a next-generation hybrid setup called the Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System.

Another car that's thought to be debuting in Geneva is a Porsche 911 R, new spy shots of which have surfaced. It’s a homage to the 911 R homologation special from 50 years ago and like the original will likely be built in limited numbers.

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the first member of its next-generation diesel family. The engine is lighter, more efficient and more powerful than the unit it replaces and may finally see Mercedes offer a diesel option in some of its compact cars in the United States.

You'll find all of these stories and more in today's car news, right here at Motor Authority.

2018 Lexus LC 500hTo Debut At 2016 Geneva Motor Show

2017 Porsche 911 R Spy Shots

Mercedes Unveils Next-Generation Four-Cylinder Diesel

Nearly 20 PercentOf U.S. Cars Are Under Recall: Study

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage SedanUnveiled At Toronto Auto Show

Aston Martin To Replace Vantage And Vanquish By 2018: Report

Did Dieselgate WoesForce Volkswagen Into Takata Recall?

Jay Leno Drives Rare Jaguar XJ220 Supercar: Video

Tesla Adds Safety ProvisionsTo Summon Self-Driving Feature

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2017 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet Teased

Mercedes-Benz’s latest C-Class is a major leap in performance, dynamics and styling over the outgoing generation so it’s not surprising that execs are planning to add more models to the range.

2017 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet teaser

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Mercedes-Benz’s latest C-Class is a major leap in performance, dynamics and styling over the outgoing generation so it’s not surprising that execs are planning to add more models to the range. One of these is a new convertible that Mercedes has teased ahead of a likely debut at next month’s 2016 Geneva Motor Show.

Don’t expect any major surprises. The car, which will be called a C-Class Cabriolet, will closely resemble the latest C-Class Coupebut instead of sporting a fixed roof will come with an automated folding soft-top. We’ve already spied some barely disguised prototypes, and from what we’ve seen the car is shaping up to be a very handsome package.

As we saw with the C-Class Coupe, the C-Class Cabrio will offer multiple powertrain options.

2017 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet spy shots - Image via S. Baldauf/SB-Medien

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2017 Mercedes-AMG C43 Cabriolet spy shots - Image via S. Baldauf/SB-Medien

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2017 Mercedes-AMG C63 Cabriolet spy shots - Image via S. Baldauf/SB-Medien

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In the United States, expect the car to come with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder in base C300 trim. Above this should sit a Mercedes-AMG C43powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 and at the top of the range should be the Mercedes-AMG C63with a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8.

Key rivals for the C-Class Cabrio will be the Audi A5 Cabrio, BMW 4-Series Convertible, Infiniti Q60 Convertible, and an expected drop-top Cadillac ATS.

We should have more details soon as the Geneva Motor Show starts March 1. For more of our coverage on the show, head to our dedicated hub.

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Fed Cup 2016: Daria Gavrilova's wild ride to an Australian Fed Cup debut

The Australian Open was still in session when its break-out local star, Daria Gavrilova, briefly resumed what she calls her "normal life".

Daria Gavrilova during practice.

Daria Gavrilova during practice. Photo: Getty Images

The Australian Open was still in session when its break-out local star, Daria Gavrilova, briefly resumed what she calls her "normal life". Still without a driver's licence, she went back to catching trams around her adopted home town, and occasionally collected her housemate's son from primary school, where her newly-recognisable presence did not go unnoticed.

"They kind of just said: 'Well done on Oz Open' and I think they all enjoyed watching me," said Gavrilova, who became the tournament's darling en route to an turbulent fourth-round loss on Rod Laver Arena. "I got a few compliments, 'we're so happy that you're here and representing Australia', so it was really nice."

Yet what came next was not all about adoring crowds requesting hugs and selfies, prime-time stadium courts and beaming post-match interviews, as Gavrilova discovered soon enough. Jumping off the tram and back onto the WTA circuit for back-to-back tournaments in Dubai and Doha, the world No.33 won just one match between heavy losses to Ana Ivanovic and then Caroline Wozniacki.

Just as she was emotionally fried during her Melbourne Park meltdown when a debut grand slam quarter-final beckoned after a 6-0 first set against 10th seed Carla Suarez Navarro, Gavrilova admits she struggled initially to adjust to life-after-January, when a glorious Hopman Cup partnership with Nick Kyrgios was the attention-grabbing entree.

"I think in the Middle East I was kind of feeling 'oh, it's completely different', and maybe I wasn't too ready to play there," says Dasha, as she is known. "I was still a bit exhausted, and I think I was still back in Australia, to be honest. I was in the Middle East, but my head was back in Melbourne.

"But I learnt from that, I guess. Everything is still new for me. Last year I almost lost first round at every grand slam and I would say that's because I was unexperienced (sic) and I treated grand slams differently, I was freaking out thinking, 'oh they're the biggest tournaments of your life, you'd better do well'. So right now for the next few years I think I will still learn a lot - a lot about myself, and about players and, I guess, the tour."

The 22-year-old has sensed increased respect from her peers, but also their greater eagerness to beat her, and more knowledge of her game. Which is fine. Motivating.Just another challenge. But particular lessons, however painful, were taken from the Suarez Navarro implosion, which followed such controlled earlier-round performances from a feisty, demonstrative player whose emotional equilibrium has never been her greatest strength.

"I think I was just really mentally exhausted and couldn't help myself out there, and I think next time if I'm feeling like that and getting frustrated with myself I hope I have some tricks to do!" Gavrilova said laughing. "The main thing is I will tell myself to stop and be in the moment, so hopefully I can do that."

Having split with travelling co-coach Craig Tyzzer in favour of as much time as possible with long-time mentor Nicole Pratt, the now 39th-ranked Gavrilova took more positives away from the recent US hardcourt swing, as well as last week's Charleston tournament on green clay, in which she fell to eventual champion Sloane Stephens in the third round.

While other recent losses have been to lesser lights such as Magdalena Rybarikova, Zarina Diyas and Alison Riske, the 166-centimetre Gavrilova says numbers can be misleading. "It's not easy and especially for me I can't just hit winners all the time, so I spend as much energy beating a top 10 player or a player who is ranked 300. Also right now, in tennis the gap is not huge, it's very competitive, so what you see on the paper is not usually what you get."

More happily, it was also in Miami where, after a practice session with Pratt, she learnt via the International Tennis Federation website of her successful appeal to be permitted to represent Australia in the Fed Cup, starting with this weekend's world group play-off tie against the US in Brisbane.

The ITF board exempted Russian-born Gavrilova from a rule change requiring players to have been local citizens for two years in order to play in Fed Cup or Olympic competition, on the basis that her application - approved last December - was already in train, and that, unlike Ajla Tomljanovic, for example, she had not previously played for her birth country.

"I think we had a pretty strong case. I've been living in Australia for two years now and before that, when I turned 18, I made a decision to come to Australia," she says. "I was super-excited when I heard the news. It was the last news, but the good news.

"Then Alicia [Molik] gave me a call about three weeks ago and asked me if I was available for the Fed Cup, so that's how it all happened and now I'm here getting ready with the girls and we're all feeling pretty good, loving the clay and can't wait for the weekend."

Australia's 50th Fed Cup player delivered the traditional "rookie speech" at Thursday's team dinner - joking about Molik's casual invitation for a weekend away in Brisbane, giving heartfelt thanks to Pratt and conditioning guru Stefano Barsacchi, and declaring her decision to emigrate was the best she has made - before Friday's draw pitted her first-up against US No.1 Madison Keys on Pat Rafter Arena.

A semi-finalist in Rome last year, Gavrilova regards clay as her best surface but has not played against Keys, a 2015 Australian Open semi-finalist, since an Orange Bowl loss in their early teenage days. Australian No.1 Sam Stosur will follow against world No.57 Christina McHale, with the reverse singles and doubles scheduled for Sunday.

Gavrilova expects to be nervous before her maiden appearance, but is sure to be proud, and will certainly be vocal, having learnt the national anthem when she decided to make Australia home. So to the next chapter in the engaging story of a player who was barely known here a year ago, but whose wild ride through January and beyond was not confined to the No.12 tram.

FED CUP WORLD GROUP PLAY-OFF

Australia v US, Brisbane, April 16-17

Surface: outdoor red clay

Playing for: a place in the eight-team world group for 2017

Head-to-head: Australia 5, US 8

Last played: 1985. US 2 d Australia 1 in world group semi-final in Japan

Saturday, 11am: Daria Gavrilova (AUS, singles ranking No.39) v Madison Keys (US, #25)

followed by

Samantha Stosur (AUS, #26) v Christina McHale (US, #57)

Sunday, 11am: Stosur v Keys

followed by

Gavrilova v McHale

followed by

Stosur/Casey Dellacqua v Bethanie Mattek-Sands/CoCo Vandeweghe

Fed Cup 2106: Sam Stosur hopes for a happy Fed Cup homecoming

Queenslander Sam Stosur has rarely made two annual playing trips to her state of origin, and recent results would suggest one visit has been more than enough.

Fed Cup captain Alicia Molik advises Daria Gavrilova during an Australian Fed Cup practice session in Brisbane.

Fed Cup captain Alicia Molik advises Daria Gavrilova during an Australian Fed Cup practice session in Brisbane. Photo: Getty Images

But her recurring struggles on the Brisbane International's hardcourts are one thing, and Stosur is hoping this weekend's Fed Cup tie on purpose-built clay will be different.

The Australian No.1 is at her best on the surface that hosted her first grand slam final, in 2010 at Roland Garros, and she also enjoyed one of her finer representative moments in this year's first-round world group II defeat of Slovakia in Bratislava.

With Daria Gavrilova ruled ineligible, Stosur won both her singles points before teaming with Casey Dellacqua to clinch the live fifth doubles rubber in three sets.

The 3-2 victory qualified Australia for the world group play-off against a US team missing the Williams sisters and Sloane Stephens, but boasting good depth and versatility, plus an in-form doubles pair that includes CoCo Vandeweghe, a Stosur singles nemesis.

US captain Mary Jo Fernandez was giving little away before Friday's draw, but 36th-ranked Vandeweghe would take in a 3-1 advantage over Australia's singles spearhead if selected.

"You have to look at the match-ups, the surface, physically how everybody's doing," Fernandez said.

"I mean, the good news from my team is everybody can play singles and everybody can play doubles. So there's a lot of options. So we just have to see on the day who's playing the best, what the records head to head are, and go from there."

Alicia Molik's Australian line-up appears more certain, with Russian-born Gavrilova – the best-performing local woman at this year's Australian Open, with a breakout fourth-round appearance – set to make her debut in Saturday's singles, and Stosur again likely to play three rubbers if required.

The US, history's most successful Fed Cup nation, has won six of the past seven ties and eight of 13 overall against Australia, whose seven titles place them third behind the Czech Republic.

"It's nice to be able to come back and play here a second time in the year – it doesn't happen very often and yeah, very different being on a claycourt now too," said Stosur, the Gold Coast native now based in Sydney when in Australia and in Florida when not.

"So it's just a quick trip home, but hopefully it's going to be a good one."

Stosur has not won more than two consecutive singles matches in a season that started – surprise – with a first-round exit on Pat Rafter Arena, but, like new teammate Gavrilova, she reached the last 16 last week on green clay in Charleston, where Bethanie Mattek-Sands – the lowest-ranked of the four Americans in singles but the world No.3 in doubles – reached the final.

"Regardless of whether Serena and Venus are here, they've still got a very strong side and all their players are ranked, I think, in the top 60 anyway, and … they've got a quality doubles team as well," said Stosur, who owns a 36-15 Fed Cup record from 28 ties since 2003.

"On paper, it's still a tough team and I think we're pretty evenly matched actually, so I'm sure it's going to be a really close weekend."

2018 Lexus LC 500h: First Details On Multi Stage Hybrid Tech

Lexus recently confirmed that the hybrid version of its stunning LC coupe, the LC 500h, would be shown for the first time at next month’s 2016 Geneva Motor Show.

Lexus recently confirmed that the hybrid version of its stunning LC coupe, the LC 500h, would be shown for the first time at next month’s 2016 Geneva Motor Show. Today the automaker released the first details on the hybrid technology that features in the car, known as the Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System.

The system is an evolution of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system introduced roughly one decade ago and is said to be specifically designed for performance vehicles. It has both an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (E-CVT) plus a conventional, multi-gear transmission.

ALSO SEE: 2017 Volvo V90: Svelte Swedish Station Wagon Makes Debut

The E-CVT is common to many Toyota brand hybrids and essentially pairs an electric motor with a planetary gearset, allowing for infinite gear ratios. And by constantly analyzing vehicle speed, road conditions, engine power and driver input, the E-CVT can thus select the most efficient gear ratio for any moment and constantly adjust itself as conditions change. The downside is that it can feel dull as the acceleration or deceleration is seamless due to less fluctuation in engine revs and the lack of shift feel.

2018 Lexus LC 500h

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With the LC 500h, the goal for engineers was to create a hybrid with a more sporting and engaging driving experience. They achieved this by more closely aligning engine speed with throttle inputs and adding a conventional automatic transmission to the mix, in this case a four-speeder. In the LC 500h, a 3.5-liter V-6 sits up front and is paired with an electric motor located within the E-CVT. At the rear of the E-CVT is a four-speed automatic. Drive is to the rear wheels only.

CHECK OUT: Nut Drives His Lamborghini Sesto Elemento On The Street: Video

The Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System also features an M mode, but it has nothing to do with the BMW M division. Instead, this allows the driver to manually control the gear shifts—a first for a Lexus hybrid. A lithium-ion battery is used to hold charge.

2018 Lexus LC 500h

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As previously reported, The LC is based on the new GA-L modular rear-wheel-drive platform that will eventually underpin most of the Lexus lineup of cars. In addition to the new Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System, the platform brings numerous advanced technologies to the table. The list includes a 10-speed automatic transmission (for non-hybrids), carbon fiber construction and new joining techniques.

The interior of the LC is seriously swanky, as you’ll see in the official shots. The quality and finish of upholstery, hand-stitched leather center console and dash pad, and drape forming Alcantara door trim, reflect a level of craftsmanship and attention to detail normally reserved for models from Rolls-Royce. There’s also the latest tech such as a digital instrument cluster, a touchpad interface, and Lexus’ next-generation infotainment system.

The LC is due in showrooms next year, as a 2018 model. We look forward to learning more about this fascinating coupe once it makes its debut in Geneva. The show starts March 1 but in the meantime you can learn about some of the other vehicles appearing by visiting our dedicated hub.

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2017 Mercedes-AMG GT R spy shots

These are the latest spy shots of the upcoming track-focused Mercedes-AMG GT designed to rival the likes of Aston Martin’s Vantage GT12, the Porsche 911 GT3 and the more mainstream Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and Nissan GT-R NISMO models.

designed to rival the likes of Aston Martin’s Vantage GT12, the Porsche 911 GT3 and the more mainstream Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and Nissan GT-R NISMO models. The aggressive front splitter, front canards, fixed rear wing and slightly wider fenders hint at the dialed-up performance of the car, though it won’t be badged a “Black Series”, as that particular model will be coming later in the GT’s life cycle. Instead, this one is expected to be called a GT R.

Its development has been linked closely with work done on the Mercedes-AMG GT3 race car(shown below), so expect power to be dialed up, weight to be reduced and the suspension to be stiffened substantially. Boosting output should be easy as the GT’s new twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 has much greater potential than the current GT S variant’s 503 horsepower. A figure of 550 hp is likely.

Dropping weight will be more difficult as engineers already went to great lengths to get the GT S variant’s weight down to approximately 3,460 pounds. To further reduce this, more exotic materials including carbon fiber will need to be utilized, and we should also see some of the standard car’s amenities deleted. The resultant weight savings should be between 176 and 220 pounds.

2016 Mercedes-AMG GT3 race car, 2015 Geneva Motor Show

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Bigger wheels, tires and brakes will also likely make the cut, and we could see some changes to the GT’s seven-speed dual-clutch transmission implemented for track duty.

With the boost in power and the lighter weight, the car’s 0-60 mph time could drop to 3.6 seconds or even lower, down from 3.7 seconds in the GT S. Top speed will likely remain at 193 mph as most of the aero aids are likely to be focused on producing downforce, which usually comes at the cost of more drag. In a previous interview, Mercedes-AMG chief Tobias Moers said the new track-focused GT should cut 10 seconds from the standard GT’s Nürburgring lap time which he said was 7:30, achieved using regular tires and not the special compounds other manufactures often use for setting lap times.

A debut is expected this summer, possibly at the 2016 Goodwood Festival of Speed in June. We should see the car reach showrooms shortly after, as a 2017 model.

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Rafael Nadal to face Andy Murray in Monte Carlo Masters semifinal

Rafael Nadal has showed traces of his classic clay-court form as eight-time winner of the Monte Carlo Masters to hammer French Open champion Stan Wawrinka 6-1 6-4 in a one-sided quarter-final.

Clay king: Spain's Rafael Nadal plays a return shot at the Masters.

Clay king: Spain's Rafael Nadal plays a return shot at the Masters. Photo: AP

It took the Spanish fifth seed just 77 minutes to impose his game on the Swiss, who cracked a racquet gracefully over his knee during a month of frustration in the fifth game as he lost the opening set in a quick 26 minutes on Friday.

Things went little better for Wawrinka in the second set as he went down to defeat with 29 unforced errors, losing serve four times.

Rafa showdown: Andy Murray of Scotland.

Rafa showdown: Andy Murray of Scotland. Photo: AP

The victory puts Nadal into a third career Monte Carlo semi-final against Andy Murray after the second seed crushed injured Milos Raonic 6-2 6-0.

Nadal denied Murray in the 2009 and 2011 semis and has won three of their past four matches dating to 2014.

Four-time finalist Roger Federer was bidding for the final four as his return from early February knee surgery continues on course during his first week back on court.

The third seed was facing Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, seeded eighth. In the last of the quarter-finals, French 13th seed Gael Monfils was playing Spaniard Marcel Granollers.

Murray's outcome against 10th seed Raonic was never in doubt, with the Canadian nursing a leg muscle injury which has flared up this week.

Murray said he finally played a decent match after scrapping through two less than satisfying efforts in the previous few days.

"I've played a lot of tennis, though it has all not been of the highest quality," said the 28-year-old.

"I've been able to learn from my previous matches. Today I served one of my best matches.

"Milos was not at his best, he can certainly serve better than today.

"I'm looking forward to the semi-finals."

Raonic, usually noted for his big serve, was held to nil aces in the contest.

Murray improved to 5-3 as the Scotsman tries to back up the best clay season of his career from 2015 when he won his first two clay titles in Munich and Madrid.

DPA

Monte Carlo Masters: Roger Federer knocked out by Jo-Wilfried Tsonga

Roger Federer was knocked out of the Monte Carlo Masters when he slumped to a 3-6, 6-2, 7-5 defeat by local favourite Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the quarter-finals on Friday.

Swiss Roger Federer plays a return to France's Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.

Swiss Roger Federer plays a return to France's Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. Photo: AP

The Swiss third seed, back in action this week after a 10-week lay-off, started brightly as he breezed through the opening set but Tsonga, targeting Federer's forehand, played tighter and levelled with a strong display in the second.

The Frenchman broke in the 11th game of the decider with a passing shot winner and he closed it out on serve on his first match point to set up a meeting with compatriot Gael Monfils, who beat Spain's Marcel Granollers 6-2, 6-4.

Earlier, there were glimpses of the formidable Rafa Nadal as the eight-time champion swept aside French Open winner Stan Wawrinka 6-1, 6-4.

The Spaniard, who set a tournament record of 46 wins in a row in the principality from 2005 to 2013 when he finished runner-up, will take on Andy Murray for a place in the final.

World No.2 Murray raced into last four with a 6-2, 6-0 demolition of Canadian Milos Raonic.

Opening proceedings on centre court, the Briton, who struggled in the previous round, was never bothered by 10th seed Raonic in a one-sided match.

Murray, who hit 19 winners and did not face single break point, was beaten twice by Nadal in the semi-finals of the first claycourt Masters of the season.

The fifth-seeded Nadal, who broke decisively in the ninth game of the second set, has yet to win a title this year.

"It's exactly what I need, it's what I'm looking for, it gives me confidence," Nadal said.

Reuters

VW adds Limited Edition to Golf SportWagen lineup

Volkswagen has added a new trim level to its Golf SportWagen lineup - the Limited Edition.

2016 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen Limited Edition

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Volkswagen has added a new trim level to its Golf SportWagen lineup - the Limited Edition. Based on the entry-level Golf Sportwagen S, the Limited Edition brings with it such niceties as a power panoramic moonroof and 17-inch alloy wheels and a host of safety equipment not otherwise available at this price point.

The model will list from $24,995 when it hits dealer lots in the next few weeks.

Notably, the Limited Edition brings with it some elements of the Driver Assistance package that is optional on SE and higher trims. The Limited Edition adds the package's adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with autonomous emergency braking, and a blind spot monitor, but does not include its parking assistance features.

Other additional standard equipment over the entry-level model includes heated seats and windshield washer nozzles, chrome window trim, leatherette upholstery (in place of cloth trim), and a six-speed automatic gearbox. A Limited Edition badge is festooned to each front fender.

Not surprisingly, the Golf SportWagen Special Edition, like the rest of the automaker's Golf lineup, is not available with a turbodiesel engine at the moment.

All told, the Limited Edition adds $1,450 to the price of the base S, which represents a pretty solid value proposition.

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Zenvo TS1 supercar, 2017 Mercedes-AMG GT R, 2017 Lincoln MKZ: Today’s Car News

Danish firm Zenvo has unveiled a new supercar called the TS1.

Zenvo TSR

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Danish firm Zenvo has unveiled a new supercar called the TS1. The car is an evolution of the firm’s previous ST1 but has a new engine, new interior and, we’re told, improved performance. The car also has a hardcore version designed strictly for track use.

Mercedes-AMG is close to completing development work on its hardcore version of the GT sports car. The new model is expected to be badged a GT R and we hear it will be unveiled in June.

For the 2017 model year, the Lincoln MKZ adopts a new look and a new 400-horsepower powertrain. The car has just been priced which means we should see it in showrooms soon.

You'll find all of these stories and more in today's car news, right here at Motor Authority.

Zenvo launches TS1 supercarat 2016 Geneva Motor Show: Live photos and video

2017 Mercedes-AMG GT R Spy Shots

Lincoln's new 400-hp MKZpriced from $43,575

FCA's Sergio Marchionne wants to help Apple make electric cars

German shareholders sue VW over diesel emissions scandal

Opel bossinadvertently confirms European-sourced Holden Commodore

Most Americans afraid of autonomous cars, even though many already drive them

Goodyear thinks outside the circlewith levitating, sphere-shaped tire: Video

Charger, charger, on the wall, who's the prettiest plug of all?

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Danish firm Zenvo Automotive unveils 1,100-hp ST1 supercar

The Danes are better known for their stunning architectural and cutting-edge product design, but now a Danish firm has turned its hand to the task of designing a supercar, and the result is the Zenvo ST1.

Powered by a turbo/supercharged V8 engine rated at 1,104hp (823kW) and a massive 1,056lb-ft (1,430nm), the car's designers claim 0-62mph (100km/h) acceleration in just 3.0 seconds, an electronically limited top speed of 232mph (375km/h) and a power-to-weight ratio of 802hp/tonne. The impressive performance comes despite RWD-only drive and a six-speed manual transmission as the only option.

Fuel consumption and emissions figures haven't yet been released, but don't expect it to be a green overachiever.

At the front 19x9.5in wheels are wrapped with 255/35 Michelin rubber, while the rears get 20x12.5in wheels and 335/30 shoes to help put all that power to the ground. Despite the huge power and big alloy wheels, the car is surprisingly small, at just 15.3ft (4.66m) long, 6.7ft (2.04m) wide, and 3.9ft (1.19m) tall and weighs just over 3,020lb (1,376kg) thanks to carbon fiber body panels.

Unlike some small-firm supercars, the Zenvo ST1 takes luxurious accommodation as seriously as performance, offering everything from keyless entry to satellite navigation and power telescoping steering wheel as standard equipment. Even the leather-and-alcantara racing seats are electrically adjustable.

No word has yet been released on pricing of the car, but Zenvo has clear series production plans, set to start in 2009. Only 15 of the cars will be built, each assembled by hand, but given the car's dramatic styling and impressive power figures, it's likely to find a niche among the small crowd of supercar buyers.

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A Jeep rolls deep, model mayhem and more: This Week On The Forums

"Nazi" and "cocaine" aren't great PR buzzwords.

This Week on the Forums: 03.04.2016

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"Nazi" and "cocaine" aren't great PR buzzwords. That said, bad press is all relative.

So, in comparison to the myriad horrific stories detailing the behavior of Catholic priests, a BBC News story about how Father Stephen Crossan was recorded snorting cocaine in a room full of Third Reich relics is almost refreshing in its unsavory nature. Unsurprisingly, Crossan's recent request for a leave of absence was granted.

Sneaking communion wine? That's quaint. Here's what else happened this week:

Folks on FordTrucks love diesel as much as they love America and apple pie. So the prospect of an oil-burning F-150 is one enticing prospect. But is this writer making promises the Blue Oval won't keep? Blurred out license plates are as common as trolls and porn online. But is it necessary? One member on CorvetteForum asked his brethren why it's so common, and their answers totally run the gamut. Most people in the press haven't gotten a chance to test Coventry's new 3-Series fighter. Of course, some of the brand's super fans have already gotten a taste, as this JaguarForums thread will attest. What various cars would look like if they were supermodels is an interesting question, and one the fans onhave embraced wholeheartedly. Honestly? We think lowrider girl wins the day. The Jeep Wrangler is a pretty sturdy piece of kit, though repeatedly rolling one isn't going to do the venerable off-roader any huge favors. Just check out what happened to thismember's ride.

Hit the links to get the full story. And tune in next week for more news from the forums!

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Hennessey's new 1,000-hp Chevy Camaro is wickedly fast

With 1,000 horsepower, the 2016 Camaro SS Hennessey HPE1000 Supercharged Upgrade will no doubt be blindingly fast in a straight line.

2016 Camaro SS Hennessey HPE1000 Supercharged Upgrade

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Texas tuner John Hennessey has turned his sights on the new Chevrolet Camaro, more than doubling the factory-build Camaro SS's 455-horsepower output.

With 1,000 horsepower, the 2016 Camaro SS Hennessey HPE1000 Supercharged Upgrade will no doubt be blindingly fast in a straight line. It's worth noting that Hennessey is confident enough in the HPE1000 package that it offers a one-year, 12,000-mile warranty.

The package starts with a standard Camaro SS with the LT1 V-8 engine that's stroked to 416 cubic inches. Custom forged aluminum pistons and an 11.5:1 compression ratio cope with the high-flow supercharger bolted to the motor. A host of other upgrades round out the package, including stainless-steel long-tube headers and a meaty exhaust system. The package can be ordered with either the stock automatic or manual gearboxes.

Hennessey's tech team installs a new engine management system and owners receive a before-and-after dyno graph report showing, in print, just what they've bought.

The 1,000 horsepower—measured at the engine—peaks at 6,800 rpm, while the upgrade boosts torque to 887 pound-feet at 4,200 rpm. That's a little less power than the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat that Hennessey modifies, but the Camaro is also lighter.

Signed and numbered badges and a certificate of authenticity are included.

The price tag for all that power is $65,000. That's on top of the initial purchase price of the Camaro SS of your choice.

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Fed Cup 2016: No room left for error as Aussies trail 2-0 against US in world group play-off

Brisbane: The new and old of Australian women's tennis must combine for a perfect Fed Cup Sunday if the on-the-ropes hosts are to turn a 0-2 deficit into an unlikely victory in the world group play-off against the US, with captain Alicia Molik backing her vanquished singles duo to return and force a deciding fifth doubles rubber.

Sam Stosur plays a forehand during her loss to American Christina McHale in the Fed Cup.

Sam Stosur plays a forehand during her loss to American Christina McHale in the Fed Cup. Photo: Getty Images

"No question we'd prefer to be at one-all at worst, but it is what it is, and we have been there before, we know the feeling. It is about regrouping and I think believing and trusting ourselves tomorrow," Molik said after opening day losses to debutante Daria Gavrilova and veteran Sam Stosur - the latter also set to combine in doubles with Casey Dellacqua should the tie go the distance.

"[The Americans'] confidence is going to be sky high, but I think Dasha and Sam can rise to the level tomorrow. No question Sam's disappointed about today, but it's an enormous task for us. I think one positive is when we get it to the doubles, and when it boils down to the doubles, we won our live rubber [in the previous tie in Slovakia], so I have full trust in our doubles team when we get that far, not if.

"That's my plan for tomorrow. But it's about Dasha and Sam continuing to do what makes them great players on the singles court and really backing themselves."

Gavrilova was overpowered 6-4, 6-2 and 28 winners to four by US No.1 Madison Keys in her first match for her adopted nation, in an opening result that came as no great surprise. More critical was Stosur's 3-6, 6-1, 7-5 loss to 57th-ranked Christina McHale, the Queenslander having lost her way badly in the second set before making a contest of a roller-coaster third.

Stosur was unbeaten in four previous matches against McHale, who vindicated captain Mary Jo Fernandez's surprise decision to select her ahead of CoCo Vandeweghe by claiming her first Fed Cup victory since 2012. Stosur has still won just seven matches in Brisbane in the eight-year life of its Tennyson tennis complex, although this was the first she had played in her home state on purpose-built clay.

"I played well for the most part - unfortunately got a couple of short balls in that game at five-all and kind of screwed 'em all up, so that was unfortunately not the way to end the match," said Stosur, who was confident she could recover emotionally for the first reverse singles against the big-hitting Keys, ranked one place above her at 25th.

"I've got a great team around me so we'll do everything that we need to do and I'll be prepared for that match at 11 o'clock, for sure. We all know that Dash and I are probably going to be a little bit down tonight and a little bit disappointed, but we've got no choice but to come back tomorrow and do it all over again."

Gavrilova, meanwhile, was determined to learn from her first Fed Cup match, having only been cleared to play for Australia when her appeal to the International Tennis Federation was upheld last month. The Williams sisters and Sloane Stephens are missing from the US team, but Keys proved herself a worthy spearhead.

"I expected a big ball, but she played really well, she was pretty much on from the first point and she showed it even in the five minute warm-up that she wanted it, so all credit to her," said the world No.39. "I created some opportunities for myself, but didn't convert them."

There is no time to mope, however, before a potential match-up with McHale that would appear to suit the relatively underpowered Gavrilova considerably better. "I think we play a bit similar, to be honest. She's a great competitor and she makes a lot of balls back and she doesn't hit as big as Madison," the adopted Victorian said. "But I beat her last year in Rome, so I know how to play her pretty well.

"Tomorrow is a new day and it's a team event so we're all supporting each other and I can't be down, [or] the teammates are not going to be happy with me ... I think now that I've played one match it's definitely going to help me tomorrow, I will feel more settled and I will know what to expect."

Fernandez was pleased but not complacent. "You still have to win the next one, and it's not going to be easy. Every match is close. You can make a case for each team, in every match. So, for sure, [a win in the tie] is closer, but it's nowhere near the finish line yet."

Linda Pearce travelled with the assistance of the Fed Cup Foundation and Tennis Australia.

Tesla sends out invites for Model 3 debut on March 31

Tesla will also begin accepting orders at its retail stores on March 31 and the online ordering banks will open up the next day.

2016 Tesla Model S

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Tesla Motors' [NSDQ:TSLA] long-anticipated Model 3 electric carwill be formally shown on March 31 at an event in Los Angeles.

The electric car, which is supposed to check in at around $35,000 and boast a 200-mile range, is intended for a much wider audience than Tesla's more premium Model S and Model X.

While Tesla has largely been tight-lipped about the Model 3, we do knowthat it will go into productioneither late this year or early next year. That's more than a year later than Tesla originally estimated. Rumors indicate that it will look like a downsized version of the Model S.

The event will be held near L.A.'s International Airport in the evening (local time), according to invites posted to the(via. Few other details have been released.

It's not clear just how much of the Model 3 will be revealed. CEO Elon Musk has said that most details about the car will be kept secret until it draws closer to the on-sale date.

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Fed Cup 2016: Aussies trail 2-0 against US in world group play-off

Brisbane: A depleted US team have taken a 2-0 advantage over a full-strength Australian line-up in the Fed Cup world group play-off, Madison Keys spoiling Daria Gavrilova's debut on Pat Rafter Arena, and Sam Stosur's Queensland homecoming ruined in three sets by Christina McHale.

Fed Cup Captain Alicia Molik gives advice to Daria Gavrilova during an Australian Fed Cup practice session.

Fed Cup Captain Alicia Molik gives advice to Daria Gavrilova during an Australian Fed Cup practice session. Photo: Getty Images

If Gavrilova's 6-4, 6-2 loss to the US No.1 was no real surprise, then Stosur's 3-6, 6-1, 7-5 defeat to the 57th-ranked McHale completed a disappointingday for the hosts on their purpose-built claycourt at Pat Rafter Arena.

Stosur's second set disintegration allowed McHale back into a match in which she was a surprise selection ahead of teammate CoCo Vandeweghe, but Mary Jo Fernandez's choice proved to be a masterstroke. The Australians must now all three matches on Sunday to clinch the tie - and a berth in the eight-nation world group next year. Stosur, ranked 26th, and Keys, 25th lead-off with the first reverse singles.

Daria Gavrilova during practice.

Daria Gavrilova during practice. Photo: Getty Images

Russian-born Gavrilova, whose appeal to the ITF to be able to represent her adopted nation was upheld in March, slotted straight in as Australian captain Alicia Molik's singles No.2, but was overpowered by the opposition No.1, an Australian open semi-finalist in 2015.

Grass is Keys' preferred surface, while Gavrilova considers herself best on clay, the surface custom-laid here at Australia's request. The pair had never played as professionals, having met only once at junior level at Florida's orange bowl, but this match was always on Keys' free-swinging racquet.

It lasted 77 minutes, Keys hitting 14 winners to two in each set, the majority off the forehand side. Gavrilova has dogged retrieving skills, but was simply overwhelmed by the force of the American's game.

"I expected a big ball, but she played really well, she was pretty much on from the first point and she showed it even in the five minute warm-up that she wanted it, so all credit to her," the world No.39 said of Keys. "I created some opportunites for myself, but didn't convert them.

"I think I adjusted a bit to her game in the second set and maybe was respecting her big ball too much, and started looking and playing higher balls a bit too often and just wasn't aggressive enough in the second set.

"Tomorrow is a new day and it's a team event so we're all supporting each other and I can't be down, (or) the teammates are not going to be happy with me."

Stosur, too, will need to pay far better on Sunday, her performance blighted by 44 unforced errors and some wild mishits, McHale far steadier and more consistent against a player she had not beaten in four previous attempts.

The former US Open champion has also been selected to partner Casey Dellacqua in the doubles should there be a live fifth rubber. That is now a far less likely scenario than it might have been.

Linda Pearce travelled with the assistance of the Fed Cup Foundation and Tennis Australia.

Purists Rejoice: The 2017 Jaguar XE Will Get A Manual Option

It's a bit disheartening to think that the fact a slick sport sedan like the Jaguar XE will come with a manual option is news—but that doesn't make it any less welcome.

At this point, it appears the six-speed stick will only be offered on models with the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, with the range-topping supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 models getting an eight-speed ZF automatic. Offering the manual only on models equipped with the smallest engine would be consistent with the British brand's XF lineup, where the 5.0-liter V-8 is only available with the automatic.

ALSO SEE: 2017 Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe First Drive

At this point, no power figures are available for the force-fed four-pot, but we expect to see a figure somewhere around 250 horsepower, which would put it on par with its chief rival, the BMW 335i. And while it would be great to see the V-6 with a third-pedal option, we think the fun factor will more than make up for the power deficit.

Of course, what the take rate on manual XEs will be is anyone guess. But given that less than 20 percent of XF buyers opt for a stick, we can't imagine it'll be too high—which makes it even better that Jaguar is catering to purists. Look for manual models to arrive in mid-2016, following the XE's spring arrival in U.S. showrooms.

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2016 Smart ForTwo Brabus Spy Shots

Smart recently took the covers off its third-generation ForTwo minicar , which is set to arrive in local showrooms next year as a 2016 model.

, which is set to arrive in local showrooms next year as a 2016 model. Now we have the first spy shots of a prototype wearing some performance upgrades being developed by famous Mercedes-Benz tuner Brabus.

The bumpers on this prototype are unique and much sportier than the set fitted to the regular 2016 ForTwo. If you look closely you’ll notice a new front splitter as well as some taped-over sections on the rear bumper. A sporty dual-exhaust tip design can also be found at the rear.

Similar modifications featured on the previous-generation ForTwo Brabus. Using the previous car as a guide, other mods we can expect are larger wheels, uprated suspension and unique color options.

No modifications are expected for the powertrain, which means the ForTwo Brabus sold in the U.S. should stick with the standard car’s turbocharged 0.9-liter three-cylinder engine rated at 90 horsepower and 100 pound-feet of torque. Further down the track an electric version of the new ForTwo should be launched, and this too will receive the Brabus treatment, as should the larger ForFour.

Look for a debut of the new Smart ForTwo Brabus next year.

Note, the ForTwo’s Renault Twingo sibling is also about to spawn a new performance variant. Prototypes for this car can be seen here.

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Stick shift to reappear on next Porsche 911 GT3

The German automaker told Britain's Autocar that the six-speed manual transmission from the 911 R that debuted at this week's 2016 Geneva Motor Show will be available as an option on its next 911 GT3.

2017 Porsche 911 R leaked

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Lamborghini might be scrapping clutch pedals, but Porsche says that manual transmissions will stick around at least a little longer.

that debuted at this week's 2016 Geneva Motor Show will be available as an option on its next 911 GT3. The 911 R, an homage to its 1967 namesake, is essentially a stripped-out, back-to-basics 911. The confirmation came from none other than Andreas Preuninger, the engineer known as "Mr. GT3".

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Porsche's current 911 GT3 can only be ordered with the company's PDK dual-clutch transmission. That transmission allows for faster shifts, but enthusiasts have long lamented that even the best automated unit lacks some of the tactile and traditional feel of a true manual.

The decidedly hardcore, track-oriented GT3 RSwill remain PDK-only in its next generation, however.

CHECK OUT: Koenigsegg Regera revealed in production trim, will hit 186 mph in 10.9 seconds: Live photos

Notably, Preuninger also told the Brit publication that the GT3 will remain naturally-aspirated "for the foreseeable future."

Porsche hasn't released any information on the next GT3, but our spies did manage to nab a mildly-camouflaged versionabout a month ago. Note, we're talking an updated version here and not a complete redesign.

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