GT GENERATION FOUR The new edition of the Bentley Continental GT is the brand's first model to feature the performance-oriented ultra-performance hybrid drivetrain. The V8 and electric motor together deliver 1000 Nm and 782 hp.
Editorial - 17 May 2024
Manufactured since 2002, the Continental GT is the second best-selling Bentley model worldwide. Now comes generation four as a performance hybrid.
The fourth-generation Bentley Continental GT, which will be unveiled in June, is the first model with the new ultra-performance hybrid drive. With a maximum torque of 1000 Nm and a peak output of 782 hp, the new model marks an important milestone for Bentley. Not only will it be the most powerful road car in Bentley's 105-year history, it will also be the most sustainable, capable of covering distances of up to 80 kilometers on electric power alone.
Most dynamic GT model However, the new model also offers active all-wheel drive as well as the latest chassis solutions and all-wheel steering, electronic limited slip differential, active roll stabilization and two-valve shock absorbers. Over the past 20 years, the Continental GT has broken speed records and won championships and endurance races around the world. Today, the Continental GT is the second most popular Bentley model after the Bentayga. At the beginning of next year, the 100,000th example of the now legendary grand tourer will be hand-built at the Dream Factory in Crewe, England.
FRONT- OR ALL-WHEEL DRIVE The new Suzuki Swift is now available for test drives at all specialist dealers. It will be launched immediately on the Swiss market as a special 1st Edition model in a limited edition of 1000 vehicles.
Editorial - 17 May 2024
The Suzuki Swift is an affordable new model with front-wheel or all-wheel drive.
In its fourth edition, the Suzuki Swift hatchback has evolved into an intelligent compact car with a clear design and all the latest safety features. As part of the Swiss launch, the new model is appearing in a 1st edition limited to 1000 units. In addition to the unmistakable exterior look with the sporty front trim and many exclusive decorative elements in the interior and exterior, the 1st Edition package also includes a 5-year warranty.
Two equipment options
The 1st Edition is available in the two equipment variants Compact+ and Compact Top. The car is powered by a 1.2-liter petrol engine with 82 hp, which transmits its power to the front wheels or all four wheels via a 5-speed manual gearbox or a continuously variable automatic transmission. Prices range from 22,490 (1st Edition Hybrid) to 26,990 francs (1st Edition Top Hybrid Allgrip).
IMOLA OPENING The Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup opens the new season this weekend at the GP of Emilia-Romagna. At the season opener, the boxer engines of the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup cars will largely run on synthetic fuel.
Editorial - 17 May 2024
The season opener of the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup can be followed on TV and on the Internet. It will also be driven with e-fuels.
Start of the season in Emilia-Romagna. The lights will turn green in Imola next Sunday, May 19, for the first round of the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup 2024. The calendar features eight races as part of the European Grand Prix. 24 drivers from eleven nations have signed up permanently for the 32nd Supercup season. Porsche Junior Alessandro Ghiretti returns to the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup as the 2023 Rookie Champion. The 22-year-old Frenchman's teammate at Team Schumacher CLRT is Larry ten Voorde, the two-time title winner from the Netherlands.
By contrast, a whole dozen young drivers will be competing in Porsche's top one-make cup for the first time. At the season opener in Imola, six guest entrants will face the permanently registered Supercup participants. The total of 30 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup cars will contest a sprint race over 14 laps or 68.726 kilometers on the Formula 1 circuit in Emilia-Romagna.
e-Fuels project with HIF Global
In 2024, the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup will run largely on fully synthetic e-fuels for the first time. The raw fuel comes from the Haru Oni pilot plant in Chile, which is operated by partner HIF Global. The final product enables a potentially almost CO2-neutral operation of the 911 GT3 Cup cars. A bio-based, semi-synthetic fuel mixture of the second generation was already used in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup in the three previous years.
As part of the Formula 1
In the new season, the Supercup will once again be held exclusively as part of Formula 1, with eight European Grand Prix on the calendar. The Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix kicks off the season. The finale will then take place in the Royal Park of Monza, also in Italy, from August 30 to September 1. In between, the teams will make stops in Monaco, Spielberg, Silverstone, Budapest, Spa-Francorchamps and Zandvoort.
TIMELESS DESIGN Jeep and Marathon Watch have joined forces to present the new "Jeep x Marathon" collection. These "Swiss made" watches combine the rich history of both brands and honor their contribution to the Allied Forces since 1941.
Editorial - 17 May 2024
The new Jeep x Marathon collection showcases its rugged and elegant aesthetic, inspired by the military origins of both brands.
The watches of the "Jeep x Marathon" collaboration embody the resilience of both companies and reflect their common roots. Inspired by the legendary Willys MB and Jeep Wrangler Rubicon vehicles, this series represents a culture of functional design and recalls the beginnings of both brands.
General purpose
Another link between the two brands is the military "General Purpose" specification. In 1941, Willys-Overland was awarded a contract with the US Army to supply four-wheel drive reconnaissance vehicles. At the same time, Marathon Watch began manufacturing timekeeping instruments for the infantry of the Allied Forces. This tradition continues in the current collection, which is still known as "General Purpose".
Officer's series
The Officer's Series modernizes the original World War II Marathon dial with typographic elements from the Jeep Wrangler 1941 Limited Edition. The models feature a 316L steel case with Parkerization for reflection reduction and corrosion resistance. Available in mechanical and quartz versions, these watches offer low-light readability with MaraGlo illumination and come with a three-piece Crazy Horse leather strap set.
Search and Rescue (SAR) series
The SAR series combines the military look with unmistakable Jeep and Marathon elements. Available in automatic and quartz versions, both models feature the characteristic "red line" 15-minute countdown and typographic elements of the Jeep Wrangler 1941 Limited Edition. With a water resistance of 300 meters and a unidirectional 60-minute rotating diver's bezel, these watches are illuminated with tritium gas tubes and MaraGlo technology. The cases are engraved with Jeep and Willys symbols.
A look at the details
The case backs bear the motto "Go Anywhere Do Anything" as well as all the technical details. Each watch has an individual serial number and the "Jeep x Marathon" logo. The timepieces are supplied in a limited edition tin box.
The future of watchmaking
The "Jeep x Marathon" collection shows how tradition and innovation can go hand in hand. These timepieces are not only a tribute to the past, but also a sign of the future of watchmaking. Available at marathonwatch.com, they are a must for collectors and enthusiasts of both brands.
OFFROAD CLASSIC The G-Class from Mercedes appears in a new edition. Under the only slightly modified body, the off-road legend is now available with a fully electric drivetrain in addition to the conventional ones.
Stephan Hauri - 16 May 2024
With the 2024 G-Class, a Mercedes icon is rolling off-road in a new edition. The body shape, which has remained almost unchanged for 45 years, has been retained. Right-angled shapes define the silhouette, rustic doors facilitate access and the high ground clearance forms the basis for exceptional off-road characteristics. The spare wheel on the rear door and the mounted indicators have also been retained.
Even though many G-Class models are never driven off-road, the new edition once again boasts impressive off-road characteristics.
With the MBUX infotainment system, however, the G-Class is now significantly more digital. The standard equipment also includes augmented reality navigation, which superimposes graphic information on the display into live images from the front camera. In addition, the off-road cockpit on the displays provides a good overview of the important information for driving off-road, and the 'Transparent hood' function allows a virtual view under the front of the vehicle.
All-electric off-road
The G 580 EQ made a particularly strong impression during the first G-Class test drives. The electric version adopts the torsion-resistant ladder-type frame of the combustion models and places a 116 kWh battery in between, which enables ranges of up to 473 kilometers. Protection against knocks and scratches off-road is provided by a 2.6 centimeter thick plate made of carbon composite material, which is attached to the ladder frame under the battery.
The all-electric G is powered by four individual motors, which together deliver a maximum output of 432 kW (587 hp) and a maximum torque of 1164 Nm.
The drive torque can be distributed fully variably to all four wheels. This enables the electric G-Class to drive confidently uphill and downhill, even on the most difficult terrain. In addition, special driving functions are made possible in conjunction with the off-road reduction. With G-Turn, for example, it is possible to turn the vehicle on loose ground almost on the spot. The two wheels on one side then turn forwards and the opposite wheels turn backwards. With the G-Steering function, a significantly smaller turning circle can also be achieved in tight bends, and thanks to the off-road crawling function in three speed levels, the electric drive can master the trickiest sections of off-road terrain independently. The driver can then concentrate fully on steering.
Conventional drives too
Those who continue to rely on combustion models have the choice between diesel and petrol engines, both with 48-volt mild hybridization. The G 450 d and G 500 models deliver maximum outputs of 367 and 449 hp from six cylinders and three liters of displacement, as well as off-road-friendly maximum torques of 750 and 560 Nm. In terms of performance level and driving experience, the Mercedes-AMG G 63 is a step above, relying on a turbocharged 4-liter V8 and delivering 850 Nm and 585 hp of drive power for sports car-like performance. In the G 63, the Active Ride Control suspension with active roll stabilization and adaptive adjustable damping ensures optimized driving dynamics and even more comfort. With a length of 4.87 meters and a weight of 2640 kilograms, it is around five centimeters longer and more than 100 kilograms heavier than the G 450 d and G 500. Compared to the G 580 EQ, however, it is more than 400 kilograms lighter.
Prices for the new G-Class start at 150,900 (G 450 d) and 161,900 francs (G 500), with the G63 starting at 234,900 francs. The base price of 162,900 Swiss francs for the G580 EQ electric variant seems downright modest, but the special Edition One model with a wealth of additional equipment costs as much as 210,800 Swiss francs.
THE CARS OF THE PROMINENCE At the top event London Concours 2024, automotive beauties from music and film stars of the 1960s will be presented at the beginning of June. Among others, Steve McQueen's Dune Buggy and Eric Clapton's Ferrari.
Editorial - 16 May 2024
At the London Concours 2024, automotive highlights from the celebrities of the 1960s will be presented on Carnaby Street.
In the 1960s, rock stars and film actors were particularly fond of presenting themselves together with automotive gems. As part of the Carnaby Street Class, the high-class summer event London Concours on June 4-6 will showcase a whole range of cars from the chic crowd of the time. One example of the stars' unusual vehicles is the Dune Buggy from Meyers Manx, which was based on the VW Beetle. Steve McQueen drove this car, which was equipped with a Chevy Corvair boxer engine, in the film 'The Thomas Crown Affair'.
Clapton in the Ferrari
Eric Clapton, guitarist of the great 60s bands Yardbirds and Cream, drove a Ferrari 365 GTC Berlinetta that he had bought from Beatle George Harrison. Under the long hood is a 4.4-liter V12 engine with 320 hp. An Aston Martin DB6 Coupé was not only driven by Paul McCartney and Mick Jagger, but also by model Twiggy and actor Peter Sellers.
Singer Shirley Bassey and Tim Hauser from Manhattan Transfer opted for the convertible Mercedes 190 SL, while actress and writer Jackie Collins preferred the Ford Mustang.
Top dog Rolls-Royce
The 1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud, which appeared at the London Concours 2024, was also often to be found in Carnaby Street and on the Kings Road - not in such psychedelic paintwork as John Lennon's Phantom V, but also with a 6.2-liter V8 and automatic transmission.
Andrew Evans, Managing Director of the London Concours, says: "The cars of the rich and famous that we showcase at the London Concours on Carnaby Street are a fascinating throwback to the great days of innovation and optimism. London Concours 2024 is another opportunity to pay homage to the car."
COMMONWEALTHY APPEARANCE Porsche is continuing its non-profit initiative Racing for Charity in 2024. The Porsche Penske Motorsport works team will compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans on June 15 and 16 with three Porsche 963s.
Editorial - 16 May 2024
With the Racing for Charity initiative, Porsche 2023 achieved first place in the Sustainable Endurance Award of the Le Mans organizer Automobile Club de l'Ouest.
Porsche has always seen itself as part of society and accepts its responsibility accordingly. As in the previous year, the three Porsche 963 hybrid racing cars will therefore be on the road on June 15/16 in the spirit of sporting success and also for a good cause. At the 92nd edition of the endurance classic in France, Porsche will donate 750 euros for each lap driven. The total amount raised by Racing for Charity will then be distributed to three charitable initiatives for the benefit of seriously ill children.
Dr. Sebastian Rudolph (Chairman of the Board of the Ferry Porsche Foundation)
Three organizations
As in 2023, the proceeds will go to the three organizations Kinderherzen retten e.V., Interplast Germany e.V. and the Ferry Porsche Foundation. Last year, at the 100th anniversary of the world's biggest endurance race and the 75th birthday of the Porsche brand, the three hybrid racing cars of the Porsche Penske Motorsport works team completed a total of 733 laps. This resulted in a donation of 549,750 euros, which the sports car manufacturer topped up to 911,000 euros shortly afterwards.
Manar (5 years old) from Syria
Grateful recipients
"Many thanks to Porsche for making us part of Racing for Charity with our work at Interplast Germany. Thanks to the generous donation, we were able to treat numerous children in Africa, Asia and South America last year," summarizes Professor Jürgen Dolderer, board member of Interplast Germany e.V. Founded in 1980, the association helps young patients in developing countries with congenital or acquired defects through plastic surgery operations. Sebastian Rudolph, Chairman of the Board of the Ferry Porsche Foundation, explains: "We are delighted to be involved again this year. We used last year's donation to support seriously ill children and their families. Our aim was to awaken a zest for life in difficult times and offer time-outs, rays of hope and companionship for those affected."
WORLD PREMIERE: Volkswagen has presented the new ID.3 Pro S - an electric vehicle that impresses with numerous improvements.
Editorial - 15 May 2024
The Volkswagen ID.3 Pro S with new 12.9-inch touchscreen, self-explanatory menu structure and the integrated voice assistants IDA and "ChatGPT".
The ID.3 Pro S offers impressive technical innovations. A powerful electric motor with up to 170 kW ensures a range of up to 559 kilometers (WLTP). The DC charging power has been increased to 175 kW, which significantly shortens charging times.
Design and personalization
The ID.3 Pro S impresses with its modern and user-friendly design. A larger 12.9-inch touchscreen and an optimized menu ensure greater ease of use. A new voice assistant, IDA, has also been integrated, making it even easier to use.
New infotainment and "ChatGPT"
The ID.3 series has been given a modernized cockpit with a 12.9-inch touchscreen and a self-explanatory menu structure. The further developed multifunction steering wheel enables simplified operation. The selector lever has been designed separately as a steering column lever, similar to the ID.7. Illuminated touch sliders below the display control the temperature and volume. The new IDA voice assistant can operate vehicle functions and answer questions using natural language and online databases such as Wikipedia. The integration of "ChatGPT" is also a highlight of the new generation of infotainment systems.
Innovative assistance systems
The ID.3 Pro S comes with modern assistance systems such as ACC, Front Assist, Lane Assist and the Car2X local hazard warning system as standard. Advanced systems such as Travel Assist with swarm data usage, Park Assist Plus with memory function and a remote function for remote-controlled parking via smartphone app are available as options. Another new feature is the exit warning system, which warns the driver before the doors are opened when a vehicle is approaching.
Wellness app and sound system
The newly developed "Wellness App" ensures a greater sense of well-being while driving. It uses features such as ambient lighting, sound and climate control with customizable modes such as "Fresh Up" and "Calm Down". In addition, the optional 480-watt sound system from Harman Kardon offers four preconfigured sound settings and an individual sound setting.
Tradition and future
With the new ID.3 Pro S, Volkswagen is continuing its tradition of developing pioneering and innovative vehicles. The ID.3 combines state-of-the-art technology with high efficiency and sets new standards in the field of electric mobility. With the new ID.3 Pro S, Volkswagen is once again demonstrating its innovative strength in the field of electric mobility. The model offers a perfect blend of performance, design and advanced technology, setting new standards. The ID.3 Pro S stands out with its unique combination of functionality and comfort. The special Pro S UNITED model offers additional equipment and is available for CHF 42,500.
WORLD PREMIERE Opel has introduced the newest member of its SUV family - the new Opel Frontera. This model combines impressive versatility and innovative technology and was recently unveiled at a spectacular premiere in Istanbul.
Editorial - 15 May 2024
The new Opel Frontera offers two advanced drive options that ensure both performance and efficiency. The all-electric Frontera Electric impresses with an emission-free range of over 300 kilometers, ideal for daily use and longer journeys. The hybrid drive combines a 1.2-liter turbo petrol engine with an electric motor, offering an optimal balance between performance and fuel efficiency. Thanks to the 48-volt technology and the electrified six-speed dual-clutch transmission, the hybrid significantly reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to conventional combustion engines. Both powertrains provide a powerful, comfortable and environmentally friendly ride, making the Opel Frontera the ideal choice for modern mobility.
World premiere in Istanbul: Opel CEO Florian Huettl presents the new Frontera.
Design and personalization
The world premiere of the Frontera offered visitors the opportunity to experience the diverse design options up close. The new Frontera impresses with its robust yet elegant appearance. The striking design is underlined by the new Opel lightning bolt in the center of the Opel Vizor face and prominent wheel arches and sills. Inside, passengers can expect a modern cockpit with two 10-inch widescreens and many practical features that guarantee maximum comfort and user-friendliness.
Historical significance
The Frontera joins a long tradition of innovative and versatile models from Opel. It combines the off-road capability and robustness of earlier Frontera models with the modern technology and comfort that fans expect from Opel.
Model legends
As the successor to the previous Frontera models, the new Frontera offers a unique balance of functionality and comfort. With features tailored directly to the needs of modern families and outdoor enthusiasts, including a spacious interior and optional seven-seater configuration, the Frontera sets new standards in its class.
New Frontera Electric will start at around 29,000 euros, new Frontera Hybrid with 48-volt technology at around 24,000 euros. Prices in Switzerland will be available soon.
REFRESHED CLASSIC The Škoda Octavia, the heart of the brand, presents itself in a revised design and with state-of-the-art technology.
Editorial - 15 May 2024
Škoda's bestseller, which has been impressing with its reliability and innovation for years, is now setting new standards in comfort and efficiency.
Style and technology combined
The new Škoda Octavia offers an impressive range of engines that perfectly combine performance and efficiency. There is a choice of powerful TSI petrol engines (110-245 PS), economical TDI diesel engines (115-200 PS) and innovative hybrid drives. The e-TEC mild hybrid combines a 1.5 TSI engine with a 48-volt system for lower fuel consumption and emissions. The Octavia iV plug-in hybrid offers an electric range of up to 60 km and a total output of 204 hp. This modern drive range makes the Octavia fit for all requirements of contemporary mobility.
A driving experience in a class of its own
With the new Octavia, drivers experience maximum comfort and safety. The interior has been completely redesigned and now offers a digital cockpit and a high-resolution infotainment system. Thanks to the improved ergonomics and high-quality materials, every journey is a pleasure.
For lovers of the brand
The Škoda Octavia is not only a reliable family car, but also a symbol of the Škoda brand's innovative strength and tradition. "The new Octavia combines timeless elegance with modern technology, setting new standards in its class," says Bernhard Maier, Chairman of the Board of Škoda Auto a.s.
Advanced platform
The new Octavia is based on the Volkswagen Group's MQB platform, which is renowned for its outstanding driving dynamics and flexibility. The adaptive chassis and aerodynamically optimized body elements ensure precise and responsive handling, both in the city and on the freeway.
A look at the details
In addition to its impressive performance, the Octavia also impresses with its environmentally friendly characteristics. The new drives reduce CO2 emissions and offer improved fuel efficiency at the same time. With the Škoda Octavia, you are opting for a vehicle that not only shines with its performance, but also with its sustainability.
Into the future with the Octavia
The Škoda Octavia remains an indispensable part of the Škoda model range and a trailblazer for future developments. With state-of-the-art technology and a contemporary design, it remains the benchmark in its class and delights both long-time fans and new customers. With the new Octavia, Škoda proves once again that tradition and innovation can go hand in hand. The classic reinvents itself while remaining true to its heritage - a vehicle that offers the perfect solution for every requirement.