Hyundai IONIQ 5 N-Line design leaked ahead of reveal

and combines on-road refnement with off-road performance.

The GX is equipped with double-wishbone front and four-link rigid rear suspension systems, adaptive dampers, full-time 4x4, a locking centre differential, and a two-speed transfer case. The fagship Overtrail variant offers enhanced off-road capability with features such as the E-KDSS detachable rollbar and Multi-Terrain Select drive mode system.

The GX will be available in fve-, six-, and sevenseat confgurations. The six-seater option replaces the second-row bench with a pair of captain’s chairs, similar to the top-spec LX Ultra Luxury. More details regarding pricing and specifcations for the 2024 Lexus GX will be announced closer to its launch date.

BY JEFF GIBBS

Ahead of its global debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 5 N was leaked due to an inadvertent publication of an offcial video by Hyundai. Although the video was swiftly taken down, screenshots captured by internet sleuths revealed the high-performance electric vehicle (EV) with its aggressive design modifcations.

The IONIQ 5 N stands out with its lower and wider stance compared to the mainstream counterparts. It features body-coloured wheel-arch extensions, a unique black front fascia, a matching rear bumper, red trim highlights, large-diameter N-spec alloy wheels, and a roof spoiler. The exterior is fnished in the signature Performance Blue paintwork. The sporty theme continues in the interior, which showcases an N-spec multi-function steering wheel and dual 12.3-inch digital screens displaying N-specifc displays. The steering wheel appears to be a new design exclusive to the IONIQ 5 N, featuring a chunkier hub with an unmistakable N badge and a different button layout. Physical buttons replace the haptic controls found in the standard IONIQ 5, likely for better usability during spirited driving. The drive mode button has been relocated, and there are two N drive mode expected to be the most powerful Hyundai model to date and could potentially surpass the Kia EV6 GT as the most powerful vehicle within the Hyundai Motor Group. Rumours suggest a power output of around 450kW from its dual-motor battery-electric drivetrain. buttons, along with a red button that likely activates the N equivalent of Boost mode.

Exact power and performance fgures won’t be published until the IONIQ 5 N breaks cover offcially but we do know it will hit 100km/h in less than four seconds and be good for a top speed of about 260km/h, as per the EV6 GT.

Additional interior changes include a redesigned centre console,

Hyundai has emphasized the IONIQ 5 N’s track capabilities and has detailed specifc systems for track performance. The EV will feature a drift mode, as well as Sprint and Endurance drive modes that optimize energy use for maximum

Performance Blue stitching, trim highlights, ambient lighting, and bucket seats (partially visible on the driver’s side).

The IONIQ 5 N is attack or extended track range. Notably, the IONIQ 5 N will be equipped with 400mm brake rotors, the largest ever ftted to a production Hyundai vehicle.

BY JEFF GIBBS

The Suzuki Hayabusa is an iconic performance bike that was frst introduced in 1998 and has since gained a strong following worldwide.

Suzuki recently unveiled the 25th anniversary edition of the Hayabusa, featuring a distinctive orange and black-based body colour scheme. The special edition model comes with several unique features, including special colours for the drive chain adjuster and front brake disk inner. Original engravings have been added to the muffer body and drive chain, and the tank features a three-dimensional “SUZUKI” logo along with a 25th anniversary emblem. The single-seat cowl is also included as standard equipment.

The frst-generation Hayabusa made its debut at Intermot in Germany in 1998 as the “Hayabusa (GSX1300R)” and went on sale in Europe and North America the following year. It was known for its “Ultimate Sport” concept, combining high power and handling performance with aerodynamic styling.

The second-generation Hayabusa, released in 2007, increased the

25th anniversary Suzuki Hayabusa announced

displacement from 1,299cm³ to 1,340cm³ It maintained the powerful performance of its predecessor and introduced the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS), allowing adjustable output characteristics.

In 2021, Suzuki introduced the thirdgeneration Hayabusa with signifcant improvements to the engine, chassis, and electronic controls. The latest model features the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S), which includes traction control and a bi-directional quick shift, enhancing the bike’s power and

Ducati new-look SuperSport 950 S

controllability.

Suzuki Motor Corporation President, Mr. Toshihiro Suzuki, expressed gratitude for the Hayabusa’s 25th anniversary and the continuous support from fans worldwide. He mentioned that the Suzuki team has developed the best model to date and emphasized that the Hayabusa will continue to evolve.

For more information about the limited edition 25th anniversary Hayabusa, it is recommended to contact your local Suzuki dealer.

Ducati has introduced a new “Stripe Livery” colour scheme for their entry-level sportsbike, the SuperSport 950 S. It will be available as an option alongside the traditional Ducati Red.

The Stripe Livery was launched in Europe in June and is expected to arrive in Australia later this year, with orders already being accepted.

The Stripe Livery features an Iceberg White base with grey and Ducati Red bands running from the front mudguard to the fairing. The upper red stripe aligns with the red trellis frame and showcases the “Supersport” name, while the grey band displays the “950 S” identifcation.

The SuperSport 950 S retains its distinct visual features, such as the pillion seat cover, bare metal lowers for the forks, and gloss black wheels with red “tags.” Design elements, including the Panigale V4-inspired headlights, remain unchanged. Powered by a Testastretta 937cc twin-cylinder engine, the SuperSport 950 S delivers 81kW (110hp) at 9000rpm and 93Nm (69lb/ft) at 6500rpm.

The liquid-cooled engine is equipped with Desmodromic technology and paired with a six-speed gearbox featuring a slipper clutch and Ducati Quick Shift up/ down quickshifter. In terms of suspension, the SuperSport 950 S benefts from upgraded fully-adjustable Öhlins units at the front and rear, replacing the Marzocchi/Sachs combination found on the regular 950.

Standard features of the SuperSport 950 S include 17-inch light alloy wheels, Pirelli Diablo Rosso III tyres, Brembo brakes, Bosch Cornering ABS, a fullcolour 4.3-inch TFT instrumentation, Ducati Multimedia System, selectable power modes and riding modes, Ducati Traction Control EVO, Ducati Wheelie Control EVO, an anti-theft system, a 16-litre fuel tank, and an 810mm seat height. Priced at $24,500 ride away, the SuperSport 950 S is slightly more expensive than the SuperSport 950 due to the inclusion of Öhlins equipment. To obtain more information, confrm pricing, and place an order for the SuperSport 950 S in Stripe Livery, interested customers are advised to contact their local Ducati dealer.