Unapologetic, uncompromising and built to win, Lotus has announced the development of the mighty Exige Race 380

• Race only version of sensational Exige Sport 380

• 375 hp and 410 Nm

• Weight cut to just 998 kg dry

• 0-60 mph in 3.2 secs

• Laps Hethel 1.5 seconds quicker than Exige Cup R

• Aerodynamic downforce boosted to 240 kg

Unapologetic, uncompromising and built to win, Lotus has announced the development of the mighty Exige Race 380 - the track-only sibling of what has been hailed as one of the marque’s most significant and sensational cars, the critically acclaimed Exige Sport 380.

Combining Lotus’ vehicle development skills with its motorsport pedigree, the class-leading competition car will set the pace when the first production cars reach owners in May 2017. 

As part of the current Exige’s development cycle, the Race 380 will become the race car of choice for teams as well as privateers for the 2017 / 2018 season.

Taking one of the world’s best supercars, the Exige Sport 380, the new model provides the ultimate in race-bred engineering and comes with a host of competition-focused components as standard.

Gearbox, suspension, aerodynamics and electrical systems are among the items that have been modified to reflect the car’s role but, despite the fact that the new Race model is not available in a road-legal specification, the majority of the original car’s configuration is retained, thanks to the Exige Sport 380’s highly advanced development.

Unveiled late last year, the Lotus Exige Sport 380 has proved to be one of Lotus’ most successful new models in recent years, with orders for the next four months’ production already allocated.

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus plc, commented: “The Lotus Exige Sport 380 is a real giant slayer on the road, and one of the quickest A to B supercars around. It gave us the ideal platform from which to develop the new Exige Race 380 - a peerless competition car designed to beat the best. By setting its weight below 1000kg, its power to weight is unsurpassed in its class. When lapping Hethel, it’s a phenomenal 1.5 seconds faster than the previous Exige Cup R - a massive performance gain. It’s an unparalleled race car that follows the philosophy of Colin Chapman and we can’t wait for customers to experience its capabilities.”

The Lotus Exige Race 380 in more detail

In keeping with its name, the new Exige Race 380 includes a wide range of competition-orientated options as standard, covering everything from drivetrain to driver information system – all designed to increase the car’s capabilities. Developed to be eligible for the world-wide Lotus Cup series and a number of clubman championships, this race car is every inch a winner.

Retaining the race-proven 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine, the Exige Race 380 boasts 375 hp at 6,700 rpm and 410 Nm (302 lbft) of torque at 5,000 rpm. However, in order to extract every ounce of performance, the car comes with an Xtrac 6-speed sequential transmission, oil cooler, and cassette-type plate limited slip differential, and is operated by carbon paddles located behind the steering wheel. Opting for the full exhaust system in titanium removes a further 10 kg from beyond the rear axle. Extremely quick off the line, the Exige Race 380 sprints from 0-60 in just 3.2 secs, and laps the Hethel track in an outstanding 1 minute 23.5 seconds - the fastest ever for an Exige.

Generating even more downforce from the car’s aerodynamics, the Race 380 produces a phenomenal 240 kg at 170 mph, thanks to some careful revisions. Vents are incorporated into the front bodywork and rear bumper to reduce pressure around the wheels and increase downforce; and a grille mounted at the rear aids air circulation through the engine bay. A new front splitter reduces pressure beneath the Exige, whilst the rear diffuser and larger and a straight-cut motorsport rear wing mounted to the bodywork helps modify airflow at the rear of the car.

Helping the Exige exploit its performance, the Race 380 employs Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres as standard (wider 215/45 ZR17 at the front; 265/35 ZR18 at the rear), renowned for their predictable handling and high grip, which are complemented by the car’s ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels. The same attention to detail has been applied to the brakes, with AP Racing forged, four-piston callipers and grooved two-piece brake disc providing the stopping power.

The Exige has long set the benchmark for handling and, to ensure it remains perfectly poised and agile, the Race 380 uses a revised suspension configuration, incorporating 2-way adjustable Öhlins dampers and adjustable front and rear anti-roll bars. This, together with the Lotus Traction Control System, where the amount of wheel slip can be adjusted by the driver from the cockpit, allows owners to fine tune the vehicle’s handling characteristics.

The Exige Race 380 features a full, integrated roll cage, lightweight FIA Carbon driver seat (HANS compatible) and a six-point harness, as well as ultra-lightweight polycarbonate side windows, competition specification fire extinguisher, battery isolator and front and rear motorsport towing eyes. An ultra-lightweight carbon fibre motorsport specific louvered tailgate panel is fitted over the engine and carbon fibre air intake pods are fitted to either side of the car forward of the rear wheels. As with other race cars in the Lotus range, headlamps are replaced by matt black covers and airbags are not included in the specification.

Helping the driver stay on pace, the new Exige Race 380’s colour TFT instrument cluster offers numerous user customisable and programmable screen configurations. Incorporating a track data logger and GPS unit, owners have the opportunity to upgrade this logger with professional data analysis software.

As well as being designed to win, the Exige Race 380 looks exceptional and retains many of the hand-made carbon-fibre components from the Exige Sport 380 including the front inspection cover, hard top and diffuser surround.

The Exige Race 380 is available to order now, priced £99,500 excluding VAT.

NAIAS - Mercedes launches the updated GLA Sports Utility Vehcile at this years North American Show.

• Compact SUV refreshed with expressive design and updated equipment

The newly redesigned GLA is starting the 2018 model year with targeted visual accentuation in the interior and exterior design and updated equipment. This sees the look of the compact SUV gaining a significantly more powerful design. 

At the pinnacle of the model series is the Mercedes-AMG GLA45, with an especially sporty host of equipment being offered by the AMG Performance Studio Package. 

The GLA will have its world premiere on January 8, 2017 at the North American International Auto Show NAIAS in Detroit.

The GLA was presented for the first time in 2013 and has since become a model of success in a segment it has shaped and redefined. 

The GLA is characterized by its sportily dynamic design and light-footed handling. As the first compact SUV from Mercedes-Benz, it brought a breath of fresh air to its market segment and established itself there as a major player.

With seven model series (GLA, GLC, GLC Coupe, GLE, GLE Coupe, GLS and G), Mercedes-Benz boasts the broadest SUV range of all the European premium manufacturers and thus meets all the individual mobility requirements of its customers.

Expressive design, technical performance

An expressive design with a clear SUV character and technical performance remain the most significant reason to buy the GLA for most customers.

Customers have a choice of an off-road comfort suspension (optional) which raises the body by 30 millimeters, resulting in improved off-road capability, a higher seat position and striking off-roader looks.

Modified bumpers, new wheel designs and the new attractive color "Canyon Beige" characterize the 2018 model at first glance. The GLA thus visually underlines its SUV genes to an even greater extent than before. The previously-optional bi-xenon headlamps have made way for efficient LED headlamps characterized by a color temperature similar to daylight.

Valuable Interior and Exterior Upgrades

The attractively styled interior of the GLA with high-quality materials and excellent workmanship is enhanced by new seat covers and trim parts as well as chromed control panels. The free-standing 8-inch media display is slim and is easily legible, as are the new gauges with red needles. The controls for switches on the electric seat adjustment in the doors have been given small yet effective highlights in silver chrome - and the stowage compartment in the center console is also surrounded by a chrome frame. In addition, the air conditioning vent rings are more strongly accentuated and thus underscore the harmonious SUV touch in the interior.

Exclusively available in this market segment, the 360-degree camera records the direct surroundings of the car, which are either shown as a full-image depiction or in seven different split-screen views on the media display. Among them is also a virtual top view of the car - produced from the data of four cameras: front, reversing and one camera in each of the exterior mirrors.

The Interior Package, with standard sports seats, remains optionally available and is aimed at the particularly sporty customer.

The Night Package offering includes 19-inch AMG wheels and black window trim, exterior mirrors, roof rails, exhaust tips and exterior accents that underscores the sporty look of the GLA.

Spot on: LED light turns night into day

Available optionally on the GLA250 and standard on the AMG GLA45, LED High Performance headlamps replace the currently available bi-xenon headlamps.

Alongside brilliant illumination, these headlamps are characterized by a color temperature similar to daylight and relieve the strain on the eyes when driving at night. The energy consumption is also lower: around 60 percent less than xenon and approximately 70 percent less than halogen. The low-beam headlamps work with LED projector-beam technology and the high beam with LED reflector technology. Indicators, daytime running lamps and position light are designed as

multifunctional fiber-optic cables and enable an unmistakable style through higher degrees of design freedom. For added convenience, changing a bulb is no longer necessary over the entire lifetime of the car.

Increased aerodynamics

With the GLA model series, Mercedes-Benz further impresses where aerodynamic quality is concerned. The good flow characteristics, which contribute decisively to the low fuel consumption in everyday conditions and a pleasantly discreet noise level even at higher speeds, was achieved through a multitude of aerodynamic optimizations in the high-speed wind tunnel in Sindelfingen. These include a low A- pillar step with corresponding A-pillar geometry and aerodynamically optimized exterior mirror housings. The generously sized trim on the main floor, an additional trim in the center section of the rear axle and even an aerodynamically optimized rear silencer with a connected diffuser further improve the flow of air beneath the underbody. An elaborate roof spoiler lip, specially shaped tail lights plus discreet side rear spoilers also ensure that the air flow at the tail end is aerodynamically optimal.

Safety first: autonomous braking and drowsiness warnings

Vehicle safety is the top priority at Mercedes-Benz. The GLA offers "Active Brake Assist" as standard: it warns the driver if there is not sufficient distance to the vehicle in front and if required, delivers situation-appropriate braking. If the system detects that the driver is reacting too late, it initiates autonomous braking in order to prevent the collision or minimize the consequences. The GLA is also standard- equipped with "ATTENTION ASSIST," which can detect typical signs of drowsiness via the steering behavior and warn the driver.

More comfort in the end

The rear compartment of the GLA was also the focus of the engineers' attention, and they have integrated new features here: with the optional extra HANDS-FREE ACCESS, exclusive in this segment, the trunk can be opened and closed with a foot movement, without using one’s hands. The procedure can be completed at any time and any potential obstacles stop the process immediately.

The new Mercedes-AMG GLA45 

Mercedes-AMG is continuing its model initiative with full steam ahead and is enhancing the GLA45 both visually and technically. With intelligent aerodynamic measures like a restyled front bumper and spoiler lip on the roof spoiler it was possible to increase driving dynamics and driving stability, while simultaneously reducing wind resistance.

The distinguishing design feature of the new Mercedes-AMG GLA45 is the sharpened front section. The front bumper was given an even more dynamic shape, new air intake grilles, a front splitter insert in silver chrome plus flics in high-gloss black.

These guide the cooling air flows to the vehicle radiators even more effectively. Some earlier optional extras like the LED High Performance headlamps are now part of the standard host of equipment. The twin louver on the AMG Twin Blade radiator grille is now in silver chrome, as are the inserts in the side sill panels. As an additional option a multi-spoke 20-inch light-alloy wheel is available for selection in two color variants: painted matte black with high-sheen rim flange or painted titanium grey with a high- sheen finish.

Eye-catching features at the tail end are the new diffuser insert in the rear bumper, the trim in silver chrome and the new spoiler lip on the roof spoiler which help to improve the driving dynamics of the new GLA45.

Fine interior with exclusive touches

The interior has been similarly upgraded. The dashboard is covered as standard with MB-Tex and has been given exclusive highlights with red contrast topstitching.

A further highlight is the generously sized trim, extending over virtually the entire width of the car: its fundamental structure is printed matte with a high-gloss surface and it bears AMG lettering. It is available in black/red (standard) or in black/silver depending on the choice of upholstery).

The instrument cluster has been given a new number design, new gauge needles with a black needle center and the chrome frame around the gear also ensure a sporty cockpit experience.

Further options for comfort and sport 

The new equipment items optionally available include, among other features, a 360- degree camera. With the aid of four networked cameras, this system facilitates parking and maneuvering with a realistic surround view. The car and its surroundings can be depicted in the media display from a birds-eye view, and obstacles beneath the window line are also visible for the driver.

Extremely agile, handcrafted 2.0L turbo engine

With a maximum output of 375 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque, the Mercedes-AMG GLA45 is among the most powerful cars in its segment. A speed of zero to 60 mph is achieved from standstill after just 4.3 seconds. The extremely agile Handcrafted AMG 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine blends thrilling performance and the exemplary efficiency with a further best: the power-to-swept-volume ratio of 187.5 hp marks a record for a series engine with four cylinders – it raises the AMG engine to the level of thoroughbred super sports cars.

One of the high-tech components of the four-cylinder turbo engine is the spray- guided direct petrol injection. Piezo injectors centrally located in the four combustion chambers inject the fuel at a pressure of up to 200 bar. The combination of multiple fuel injection and multi-spark ignition improves fuel economy and significantly increases thermodynamic efficiency, leading to low exhaust emissions. The twin-scroll turbocharger and maximum dethrottling of the exhaust system improve the charge pressure build-up, and therefore the engine's response to the accelerator.

On the road the turbocharged, Handcrafted AMG 2.0L four-cylinder engine thrills with extremely fast responses to accelerator movements, high torque, enormous flexibility and an emotional engine note. The exhaust system features an automatically controlled exhaust flap as standard. The intensity of the engine note changes according to the currently active AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving mode.

With the optional AMG Performance Exhaust System® the sound is even sportier through the modified structure of the muffler system and it thus intensifies the emotively appealing sound experience. It can be regulated via selection of the drive program or via a switch. In the interior the impressive sound can be experienced even more intensely at the touch of a button through the more powerful intake noise of the engine.

Shorter ratios: the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sport transmission 

The agile and dynamic power transfer is assisted by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7- speed sports transmission. Thanks to shorter ratios selected in gears three to seven, the driver senses an even more appealing acceleration experience in all speed ranges. Together with optimized response and shift times, the closer ratio spread ensures better transitions when upshifting.

Best traction as standard: AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive

For optimum traction even in poor road surface conditions, the standard all-wheel drive AMG Performance 4MATIC system transfers the drive power to all wheels. The torque is steplessly and variably distributed to the front and rear axle. This configuration results in an optimum ratio of sportiness, efficiency and traction to match the driving situation. A multiple-disc clutch integrated in the rear axle differential with AMG-specific control passes on the engine torque to the rear wheels should the front wheels lose traction. The spectrum ranges from purely front-wheel drive to a 50:50 ratio for the front and rear wheels.

The AMG Performance Studio Package celebrates success of the AMG compact cars

With the CLA45 and GLA45 models, Mercedes-AMG has tapped into new customer groups and spurred on the success of the sports car and performance brand.

Mercedes-AMG is now celebrating the best-sellers with an exclusive AMG Performance Studio Package, which is available on the CLA45 and GLA45 and includes a particularly sporty host of equipment.

The special models equipped with this package are painted exclusively in Night Black or Cosmos Black and with their unique combination of Matte Graphite Grey and Yellow sections they are immediately identifiable. The exclusive impression is underscored by the light-alloy wheels in Matte Black with Yellow rim flanges and the black painted AMG twin louver in the radiator grille. Yellow highlights characterize the front bumper, exterior mirror housings, inserts in the side skirts, rear diffuser and rear wing on the GLA45.

The special character is additionally emphasized by the AMG sport stripes in Matte Graphite Grey (foiled) on the hood, roof, trunk lid and sides of the car.

High-quality interior with yellow highlights 

The interior is also characterized by the extensive appointments and yellow touches. The AMG Performance Seats in MB-Tex /DINAMICA microfiber also sport yellow trim, as do the AMG DINAMICA Performance Steering Wheel, rear bench seat, dashboard, beltlines (only on CLA45) and armrests. Further highlights include door sill panels in Graphite Grey with a yellow AMG logo, floor mats with yellow edging, AMG logo in yellow, plus yellow air outlets.

The extensive standard equipment of the AMG Performance Studio Package includes the AMG Aerodynamics Package, AMG Night Package, AMG DINAMICA Performance Steering Wheel with a yellow 12 o'clock marking with an "AMG Edition" badge and yellow contrast topstitching among other features.

Technical data at a glance:

	Mercedes-Benz GLA250	Mercedes-Benz GLA250 4MATIC	Mercedes-AMG GLA45
Engine	2.0L inline-4 turbo	2.0L inline-4 turbo	Handcrafted AMG 2.0L inline-4 turbo
Displacement	1,991 cc	1,991 cc	1,991 cc
Output	208 hp @ 5,500 rpm	208 hp @ 5,500 rpm	375 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Peak torque	258 lb-ft @ 1,250–4,000	258 lb-ft @ 1,250–4,000	350 lb-ft @ 2,250-5,000 rpm
Drive system	Front Wheel Drive	Variable All-Wheel Drive	Variable all-wheel drive AMG Performance 4MATIC with variable torque distribution
Transmission	7-speed DCT dual-clutch transmission	7-speed DCT dual-clutch transmission	AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sport transmission
Acceleration 0–60 mph (sec)	7.2	7.1	4.3
Top speed (mph)	130*	130*	*155 (167 with AMG Dynamic Plus Pkg.)

*electronically limited

The refreshed 2018 GLA will celebrate its World Premiere at the 2017 North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January, and will go on sale in the

U.S. in summer 2017