34 January 2023 www.bahrainthismonth.com motoring news Two Bentley Baturs have begun real-world road trials across Europe. The first activity for one of the developments Batur’s – Car #0 – is an extensive 2,500-kilometre drive across Europe to simulate real world conditions. The limited series of just 18 examples are due to begin deliveries mid-2023 after completion and signoff of an extensive engineering programme. All 18 Batur examples have already been reserved, including several by customers from the Middle East -Bentley’s most successful market anywhere in the world for bespoke vehicles. More than 120 individual tests in all cover everything from the quality of the surface finish of the gold “organ stop” ventilation controls, to the new W12 engine hardware and software. Over 58 weeks of vehicle validation have been scheduled across the two pre-series cars, supplementing over 100 weeks of vehicle development already completed to validate the increased engine power, making the Batur the most powerful Bentley in history – with at least 740 PS. At the proving grounds, Batur Car #0 will begin seven weeks of durability work on handling tracks, mixed road conditions, high speed testing and abusive surface conditions. Once complete, another 7,500 kilometres of real-world driving will be undertaken before environmental testing commences. In just under four weeks the car will endure 600 hours of solar loading – equivalent to five years in an Arizona desert. This is particularly important for the new sustainable materials used in the exterior components, as an alternative to carbon fibre. Kia has announced details of a new, ultra-exclusive Stinger Tribute Edition. Limited to just 1,000 examples worldwide, the Tribute Edition pays homage to Kia’s high-performance vision, and celebrates the Stinger sedan’s significant contribution to the brand since its introduction in 2017. Building on the Stinger 3.3-litre twin-turbocharged V6 GT specification, the Stinger Tribute Edition elevates the striking sedan’s aesthetic appeal and sporting nature to a new level. In addition to the existing Ascot Green paint finish, customers are offered the choice of a new Moonscape matte gray paint hue. Further sophistication is provided by the black finish that adorns the sleek housing of the exterior mirrors, the arresting black Brembo brake calipers and the evocative 19-inch gloss black design wheels. Bespoke Terracotta brown leather enriches the sports seat, and extends to features such as the steering wheel, door side trim and door handles. A newly introduced wasp-shaped emblem is embedded into the headrest of the seats, signifying the razor-sharp response of its potent 3.3-litre twinturbocharged V6 gasoline engine. The application of a numbered door sill plate on the driver’s side provides authentication of exclusivity. Hyundai Motor Company has unveiled an EV-derived, futuristic design for its new generation KONA subcompact SUV. The upscaled model will be available in four variants, including allelectric (EV), hybrid electric (HEV), internal combustion engine (ICE) and sporty N Line, with a universal architecture for all and unique styling for each. The all-new KONA has evolved into a larger yet still urban-centric SUV with bolder styling that conveys a more dynamic road presence and driver-centric interior. The all-new KONA’s clean, distinctive nose characterises the front section’s pure volume, which contributes to the model’s smooth aerodynamic performance. The pure volume is highlighted by the stretched Seamless Horizon Lamp, which is pixelated on the EV variant, marking the first Hyundai model with a Pixelated Seamless Horizon Lamp that adds to the EV’s distinctive character. KONA’s use of Parametric Pixels also propagates a distinctive design element from Hyundai’s popular EV lineup. Inside, the second-row Curve-less Bench Seat reinforces KONA’s 21st century urban design aesthetic. This living space offers a unique experience with maximum usability, comfort and convenience. Behind the second row is a maximized cargo space. KIA’S EXCLUSIVE STINGER TRIBUTE EDITION BOLDER AND MORE DYNAMIC THE ALL-NEW HYUNDAI KONA: BENTLEY’S ULTIMATE GRAND TOURER BEGINS REAL-WORLD TESTING
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