Mercedes-AMG is building an SUV

We have watched, and listened, in awe as SUVs bearing the badge of AMG have roared past us. However, it is the first time in its 57-year history that Mercedes-AMG is creating an SUV entirely inhouse. Approriate titled “Born in Affalterbach”, the off-roader is being built on proprietary AMG.EA electric high-performance platform. Initial test drives are expected as closes as the coming winter.

It was more than 25 years ago that the performance and sports car brand of Mercedes pioneered the astonishingly powerful world of performance SUVs with the ML 55 AMG. Today, Mercedes‑AMG boasts six SUV model lines, including GLA, GLB, GLC, GLE, GLS, and EQE SUV. The iconic Geländewagen Mercedes‑AMG G 63 (energy consumption combined: 15.7‑14.7L/100 km | CO₂ emissions combined: 358‒335 g/km | CO₂ class: G) is the most loved and admired among the performance-driven range.

This full-size SUV will be the second model built on the all-electric AMG.EA high-performance platform and the first time Mercedes‑AMG is designing the entire vehicle architecture on its own. The first model is still under testing at the moment. “Our new high-performance architecture follows a clear philosophy: ‘AMG First, EV Second’. This means that the vehicles not only excel as electric vehicles but also embody the core AMG qualities of emotion and performance,” stated Michael Schiebe, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑AMG GmbH and Head of the Mercedes‑Benz G‑Class & Mercedes‑Maybach divisions.

Bentley Continental GT Speed fourth generation arrives

Bentley Emirates, exclusively represented by Al Habtoor Motors in the UAE, announces the arrival of The fourth-generation Continental GT Speed has arrived in the UAE, at Bentley Emirates showrooms of Al Habtoor Motors. The most powerful roadgoing Bentley ever created, the new Continental GT Speed delivers a fiery performance driven by a 771 hp Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain, achieving a top speed of 335 km/h. The 4.0-litre V8 engine works in harmony with a 187 hp electric motor, blending the thrill of reaching 0-100 kmph in just 3.1 seconds, while enjoying up to 81 km of electric-powered range. The new Bentley Continental GT Speed marks a unique combination of performance and sustainability in one luxurious package.

The modern exterior is marked by features like single headlamps, the first of its kind since the 1950s. The new state-of-the-art Performance Active Chassis with Active All-Wheel Drive, all-wheel steering, and the electronic limited slip differential, paired with a 50:50 weight distribution, provide unparalleled handling prowess, grip and control, while delivering the exceptional ride comfort of a Bentley. Inside, the redesigned cabin introduces wellness seat technology, three-dimensional leather textures, and enhanced air ionisation systems to elevate comfort. The Bentley Continental GT Speed is handcrafted at Crewe, England, and will be available as coupe and convertible models.

Third Edition of International Off-Road Day on November 17

Around 200 off-road enthusiasts will gather at X Quarry Off-Road Park in Mleiha, Sharjah’s magnificent desert area to mark the third edition of the International Off-Road Day on November 17, 2024. The event is initiated by the Off-Road Zone, a company specialized in providing spare parts and services for Jeep and 4X4 cars.  They participants have been invited as part of the ‘OffRoad-Zone’ network, boasting around 800 members across the UAE. The event will see participants progressing in groups through the park, rough terrains and various obstacles as briefed by the organisers.

Hakob Harutyunyan, CEO of Off-Road Zone, commented: “This event is more than just a sporting activity; it symbolizes the significance of the desert in Emirati culture, where the spirit of challenge and determination to achieve goals comes to life. It also fosters joy and happiness, bringing together families and friends in an atmosphere full of excitement, creating lasting memories.”

BFGoodrich® Tires Unveils tougher KO3

The latest innovation from BFGoodrich Tires, known for revolutionary advancement in all-terrain tires, is the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 tire. It is available at BFGoodrich authorized stores in the UAE, KSA, and Oman from this month. Building on the global success of the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2, the new tire is made to elevate off-road performance with enhanced traction, toughness and treadwear. It will be gradually made available across the MENA region, with over 100 additional sizes introduced globally across two years, starting early next year.

• Treadwear: New tread pattern and all-terrain tread compound to provide durability and longevity, even on gravel. Its optimized footprint and full-depth locking 3D sipes are designed to ensure even wear over time.
• Toughness: Developed using CoreGard Technology from Baja racing, the KO3 tire offers excellent sidewall toughness. The Advanced Deflection Design prevents sticks and stones from snagging or splitting the sidewall.

• Traction: The KO3 excels in tough off-road conditions, with serrated shoulder designs and Mud-Phobic Bars that boost traction on loose, uneven surfaces.

Harkesh Jaggi, Vice-President, Sales & Marketing for Michelin Middle East & North Africa, commented: “The All-Terrain T/A KO3 is an exciting addition for drivers in the Middle East. Built for the region’s diverse driving conditions, it offers enhanced toughness and reliability, ensuring that drivers can tackle both off-road challenges and everyday roads with confidence.”