Articles by Spencer Leech

Nissan has today uncovered its new-generation Juke, which brings a number of modernising enhancements to an otherwise familiar small SUV package.

Skoda has revealed a new trim level for its incoming Skoda Scala small car, which is expected to launch in Australia in the second quarter of 2020.

Mercedes-Benz has announced updates to its C-Class mid-sizer, which debuts an all-new plug-in hybrid variant, along with other range-wide revisions.

Italian digital designer Luca Serafini has imagined Ford’s upcoming Mustang electric SUV, which is expected to be officially revealed by the American brand before year’s end. Mr Serafini’s take on the Mustang-inspired crossover shows familiar styling cues from the high-performance Bullitt special edition, in a tall and muscular, coupe-style SUV package.The rendering is reminiscent of other ‘coupe SUVs’ like the BMW X4, Mercedes-AMG GLC Coupe and the Porsche Cayenne Coupe – the latter of which was sampled for this illustration.“ think Mustang lines are really interesting to experience many packages. So really curious I started playing,” said Mr Serafini.“This is my attempt at a Mustang Bullitt hyper SUV ... Mostly exaggerated Cayenne Coupe packaging with Mustang Bullitt design language.”Little is known about Ford’s electric SUV, although it is expected to be revealed towards the end of the year, and be released globally in 2020.Ford teased the new model late last year with an official design sketch, which depicted the iconic three-bar Mustang tail-lights, however, it did not give away the vehicle’s ride height and profile.It’s unknown what the vehicle will be called either, although Ford revived the ‘Mach 1’ moniker in an electric vehicle (EV) teaser campaign last year, which may be a hint.Fans of the brand have speculated that it may be called the Mach E, and will be designed to compete with the likes of the Tesla Model Y electric crossover.In October of last year, Ford released an image of what could be the first electrified Mustang model.The campaign ran the slogan ‘The Future is Built’, and showed a darkened image displaying a bright blue, illuminated Mustang logo on its nose.

Volkswagen has provided a glimpse at its new-generation Golf hatchback, releasing an official image of a camouflaged prototype.

Mercedes-Benz has revealed its new-generation GLE Coupe ahead of its public debut at the Frankfurt motor show next month, and Australian release in Q2, 2020.

Audi has revealed the fourth-generation RS6 Avant ahead of its public debut at the Frankfurt motor show next month.

Lexus Australia will launch its new ES300h F Sport in October, bringing edgier looks and enhanced performance to the hybrid sedan range.

Ford Australia will update its Ranger pick-up in December, with a boost to standard and optional equipment across the entire range.

BMW Group Australia will launch its four-door 8 Series Gran Coupe in the fourth quarter of 2019 with two variants – 840i and M850i xDrive. Pricing is set at $199,900 plus on-road costs for the rear-driven six-cylinder 840i, while the V8-powered M850i xDrive will top the range from $272,900. Both variants utilise an eight-speed automatic transmission and M chassis components including Integral Active Steering, an M Sport differential and adaptive suspension.The cabin is trimmed in Merino leather upholstery and hosts four sports seats for strong lateral support for passengers during cornering.As opposed to the two-door 8 Series Coupe and Convertible models that launched earlier this year, the Gran Coupe ups luggage space to 440 litres, with the possibility of further expansion by folding the rear seats.A strong list of interior technology features are fitted as standard including a 12.3-inch customisable instrument cluster and full colour head-up display.Infotainment is displayed on a central 10.25-inch touchscreen which can be operated in a number of ways including voice and gesture control.The interior also features a panoramic sunroof, active seat ventilation, a wireless smartphone charger, an M steering wheel, 16-speaker harman/kardon sound system and electric sunblinds. BMW’s Driver Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant Plus packages are also fitted as standard.On the outside, the 840i boasts metallic paintwork, BMW Laserlight head-lights, and 20-inch M light alloy wheels with runflat tyres, and large 374mm M Sport brakes.Stepping up to the M850i xDrive affords customers an upgraded M suspension system with Active Roll Stabilisation, unique 20-inch alloys with performance tyres, night vision with pedestrian recognition, a tyre pressure indicator and 395mm M Sport brakes. As reported, the BMW 840i Gran Coupe is powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo six-cylinder petrol engine tuned to the sound of 250kW and 500Nm, sending the vehicle from zero to 100km/h in 5.2 seconds. Meanwhile, the M850i xDrive Gran Coupe sports a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine that generates 390kW and 750Nm, allowing it to sprint from 0-100km/h in just 3.9 seconds.“We are excited to expand the range with the first-ever BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe, which combines engaging dynamic qualities and innovative driver assistance while also delivering enhanced practicality for everyday use,” said BMW Group Australia CEO Vikram Pawah.“It is the only model in its segment to be derived directly from a two-door sports car, making the 8 Series Gran Coupe the perfect blend of luxury and performance.”