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Forza Motorsport Marks 20 Years With Major Game Update
Andrew Evans
May 06, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Brabus reveals 800hp G-Class: XL-800
How Verstappen outpaces McLaren in qualifying
Assetto Corsa Evo expands with new content
Audi reveals new A6 PHEV
Leclerc echoes Hamilton’s frustration with Ferrari strategy
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
The recently unveiled sixth-generation Audi A6 now includes a plug-in hybrid variant known as the e-hybrid quattro, complementing the petrol and diesel options introduced earlier. This model, available in both saloon and Avant formats, offers an electric-only range of 65 miles, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a total output of 295bhp as well as a 362hp variant in some markets.
Brabus has unveiled its latest extravagant creation, the XL-800, which is based on the Mercedes-AMG G63 and features a significantly upgraded 4.0-liter, twin-turbo V8 engine that delivers 788 horsepower. This model stands out not only for its impressive power and unique portal axles that enhance ground clearance but also for its extensive use of carbon fiber and a striking design, all priced starting at approximately €630,767.
Pirelli has introduced specialized P Zero R and P Zero Winter 2 tyres to complement the new hybrid 911 GTS, marking a significant milestone in their long-standing partnership with Porsche. These tyres, developed collaboratively to meet the unique requirements of the vehicle's innovative powertrain, enhance both performance and comfort across various driving conditions.
The latest iteration of the Jeep Compass has undergone a significant transformation, with a striking design, enhanced interior quality, and the introduction of an electric variant. With its new features and improved off-road capabilities, this model aims to strengthen Jeep's presence in the competitive European C-SUV market, which is rapidly shifting towards electrification.
The 2025 Chevy Silverado EV Work Truck has demonstrated an impressive real-world range of 539 miles on a single charge during an independent test, surpassing its EPA estimate and the previous record held by the GMC Sierra EV Denali. Requiring a substantial battery, the Silverado EV's efficiency remains relatively low compared to more streamlined electric vehicles, highlighting the ongoing challenge of balancing range and efficiency in larger trucks.
Ford's first-quarter earnings exceeded analysts' expectations, achieving a revenue of $40.7 billion and an adjusted earnings per share of $0.49, despite facing challenges from new auto tariffs. The company has decided to suspend its full-year guidance due to the uncertainty surrounding these tariffs, which it estimates will impose a significant financial burden.
Volkswagen Group experienced a marginal increase in vehicle sales during the first quarter of 2025, with deliveries rising by 1.4 percent year-over-year, yet the company faced a significant 37 percent decline in profits. The automaker attributes this downturn to the lower profit margins associated with its expanding electric vehicle segment, alongside other challenges such as slowing sales in China and workforce reductions.
UK car registrations have declined for the sixth time in seven months, with electric vehicle sales still lagging behind the targets set by the recent ZEV Mandate review. In April, just over 120,000 new cars were registered, reflecting a 10.4 percent drop compared to last year, while electric vehicles accounted for only one in five new registrations, falling short of the 2025 goals despite a slight increase in their numbers.
Tesla experienced another significant decline in sales across several European markets, with figures dropping by over 50% in April following a challenging first quarter and a disappointing 2024 overall. The company's diminishing market presence is attributed to increasing competition and changing consumer preferences, as buyers seek alternatives to Tesla's aging vehicle lineup.
MOTORSPORT
McLaren's recent dominance in race conditions, particularly with rear tire management, highlights its competitive edge, as evidenced by its impressive performance in the Miami GP. However, its struggles in qualifying, where Max Verstappen consistently outpaces its drivers, raise questions about the car's one-lap potential and the challenges faced by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri in maximizing its capabilities.
Lewis Hamilton's remarks about his team's strategic decisions highlighted concerns within Ferrari, with team-mate Charles Leclerc agreeing that their tactics jeopardized their against chasing cars. After being instructed to let Hamilton pass, Leclerc expressed frustration as he found himself under pressure from Carlos Sainz, ultimately questioning the effectiveness of the team's plan as he struggled to maintain pace.
Christian Horner has indicated that McLaren will face ongoing scrutiny as the leading team in Formula 1, especially following renewed allegations regarding the use of water-cooled tyres. Despite these claims, both the FIA and Pirelli have affirmed that any such practices would be easily identifiable, with McLaren's leadership challenging Red Bull to take action if they believe the MCL39 contravenes regulations.
Fernando Alonso believes that unpredictable race conditions could provide him with a chance to break his streak of races without scoring points in the 2025 F1 season. After finishing 15th in Miami, he faces the risk of matching his record for the longest point-less start to a season unless he secures points in the upcoming Imola race.
Liam Lawson has expressed disappointment with his recent performances since rejoining Racing Bulls, describing the experience as quite challenging. After facing setbacks in Miami, including a penalty and a collision on the first lap, he acknowledged the difficulty of achieving consistent results despite feeling comfortable and competitive in the car.
Alpine appears poised to replace Jack Doohan with Franco Colapinto, a shift that many anticipated given the challenges Doohan faced during his brief tenure in Formula 1. This decision, while not officially confirmed, seems driven by a combination of internal team dynamics, external funding pressures, and Doohan's inability to deliver consistent performance early in the season.
Audi has made significant changes to its Formula 1 management for the second time in under a year as it prepares for its debut in the upcoming season. Mattia Binotto has been appointed to lead the F1 project, while Adam Baker has departed, and the restructuring aims to clarify the roles within the engine and chassis divisions.
Porsche Cars North America has been designated as the official automotive partner for WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California, enhancing its long-standing connection with the venue that hosts the Rennsport Reunion. In addition to its sponsorship, Porsche plans to establish a driving center at the track by 2026, offering a range of driving courses aimed at enthusiasts of all skill levels.
FUN STUFF
Kunos Simulazioni has announced that the second significant update for the Early Access version of Assetto Corsa EVO will be released on May 7 at 1400 UTC, featuring an expanded offering of content. This update will introduce seven new vehicles, including models from Alfa Romeo and Porsche, and two additional tracks, Circuit of The Americas and Donington Park, while also enhancing gameplay with new features such as customizable single-player race weekends and improved replay tools.
In May 2025, Forza Motorsport celebrates its 20th anniversary with the release of Update 20, a substantial update that introduces the highly anticipated Fujimi Kaido track and a variety of new vehicles and gameplay features. Players can engage in special events, including the 20th Anniversary Tour, which highlights iconic cars from the franchise's history, alongside numerous multiplayer challenges and rewards.
This year, Tomica celebrates its 55th anniversary by collaborating with designers from five major automakers to create unique graphics for select diecast models along with a single full-sized example of each. Featured vehicles include the Nissan RZ34 Fairlady Z, Toyota A90 GR Supra GT4 Evo, Mitsubishi Delica Mini, Suzuki Jimny, and Honda FL5 Civic Type R, each sporting distinct designs that reflect their brands' identities and appeal to both collectors and younger audiences.
Shuhei Yoshida, the former head of Sony Interactive Entertainment Worldwide Studios, recounted the initial hurdles faced during the creation of the original Gran Turismo, highlighting how its developer, Kazunori Yamauchi, initially aimed for an overly realistic driving experience. After observing players struggle with the game's difficulty, Yoshida played a key role in guiding adjustments that ultimately shaped the title into a groundbreaking success in the racing genre.
A McLaren Senna GTR, originally designed for track use and adapted for road legality by specialist tuner Lanzante, is listed for sale in the UK for an undisclosed price. The conversion work, which required implementing mandatory safety features as well as some adjustments to permit regular road use such as a nose-lift system, was estimated to cost £230,000, likely enhancing the price beyond the seven-figures that the Senna GTR regularly commands.
Despite plans for redeveloping California’s Auto Club Speedway into a short-track racing venue, the site is returning to industrial use with two giant warehouses now sitting atop the former first two turns. Though the grandstands, paddock garages, and start/finish all remain untouched, and further demolition looks to have ceased, the chance of racing returning to the venue in any form now looks slim.
Frustrated Owner is $60,000 Out Of Pocket After Van Spends Two Years Trapped in Parking Stacker: BBC
A multi-story parking facility in London has left numerous vehicle owners in limbo for over two years due to a malfunctioning stacker that trapped up to 40 cars, including a Vauxhall electric van owned by Mark Lucas. Although repairs were completed in March, Lucas only recently retrieved his vehicle, highlighting ongoing concerns about the accountability of the involved companies and the financial burden placed on affected owners.
With the right modifications, even a compact vehicle like the Honda Fit can be transformed into a capable off-roader, as demonstrated by Danny Duncan's heavily modified 2017 model. Following an accident involving a Polaris RZR, builder Mike Masse undertook a project to swap the Fit's components with those of the RZR, resulting in a unique vehicle that possesses impressive off-road performance despite some unfinished aspects.
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