06/04/2025

MOTORING XVI ON SUNDAY APRIL 6, 2025

air motoring excellence. Enter 2025, Aston Martin has officially revealed the highly anticipated Vanquish Volante, marking the latest evolution of the iconic Volante lineage. At the heart of the Vanquish Volante lies Aston Martin’s new 5.2-litre twin turbocharged V12 engine, delivering a staggering 835PS and 1000Nm of torque. Despite its convertible form, the Vanquish Volante retains the coupe’s dynamic precision and agility, offering uncompromising Aston Martin’s ultimate GT

MITSUBISHI CORPORATION has confirmed its participation in the upcoming 2025 Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR), with Team Mitsubishi Ralliart set to compete in the gruelling event using a specially modified Triton pickup truck. The rally, which will take place this August, will span across Thailand and Cambodia, marking the event’s 30th anniversary with an extended course and tougher conditions. The updated Triton rally car, built to T1 cross-country specifications, was unveiled this week at the 46th Bangkok International Motor Show. Featuring a striking MOTORS new livery, the vehicle has been upgraded with improved engine durability, refined chassis tuning, and additional enhancements designed to boost its endurance and competitiveness. Team Mitsubishi Ralliart has set its sights on reclaiming the AXCR title, which it last won in 2022. In the 2024 AXCR, Mitsubishi entered four Tritons, which showcased improved handling and performance to compete against high-displacement rivals. Thai driver Chayapon Yotha had taken the overall lead by Leg 4, securing a significant 20-minute advantage. However, an engine failure forced him to retire, dashing ASTON MARTIN has a rich history of producing stunning convertibles that blend luxury, performance, and timeless design. The marque introduced its first open-top model, the DB2 Drophead CoupE, in the early 1950s, setting the stage for a lineage of elegant and powerful roadsters. Over the decades, Aston Martin has refined its convertible offerings, from the iconic DB5 Volante of the 1960s to modern masterpieces like the Vantage Roadster and DBS Volante. Each model embodies the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and driving exhilaration, making Aston Martin convertibles a symbol of prestige and open

performance.

Staying true to Aston Martin’s design ethos, the Vanquish Volante features a sleek and muscular stance, accentuated by

signature

aerodynamic elements. The car retains the dramatic front end styling of the coupe, including F1 inspired thermos louvres for efficient cooling. At the rear, a distinctive Kamm tail and floating ‘Shield’ design enhance

aerodynamics and aesthetics. The frameless door mirrors and flush-fit door handles contribute to the vehicle’s seamless, sculpted profile. Triton pickup for AXCR 2025 Mitsubishi Ralliart gears up for rally with enhanced truck

mechanical failure. He emphasised that the team has worked to enhance the truck’s durability and reliability, ensuring it can sustain peak performance throughout the rally’s increased distance and intensity. The team is determined to secure its first overall victory in three years. The AXCR is the largest cross-country rally in the Asean region, and its 30th edition promises to be one of the most challenging yet. The event will begin with a ceremonial start on Aug 8 in Pattaya, Thailand, before the competition officially commences on Aug 9.

focused on further refining the Triton’s durability and overall performance to withstand the extended rally conditions, which will feature mountainous terrains, dense forests, and river crossings. Team director Hiroshi Masuoka expressed confidence in the Triton’s potential, reflecting on last year’s strong performance before the unfortunate

the team’s championship hopes. For the 2025 edition, the rally will be even more demanding, increasing from six to eight days and covering approximately 2,500km – an additional 500km compared to last year. Mitsubishi h a s

The rally will take competitors north to Nakhon Ratchasima, then south to Chanthaburi, before crossing into Cambodia on Aug 14. The gruelling journey will conclude in Phnom Penh on Aug 16. With an extended course featuring a mix of rough terrains, river crossings, and dense forests, AXCR 2025 will push both drivers and machines to their limits. Mitsubishi Motors and Team

Mitsubishi Ralliart are ready to take on the challenge, with their sights set firmly on reclaiming the championship title.

Upgraded Supra RZ Grade, Limited A90 launched

TOYOTA GAZOO RACING (TGR) has officially launched a partially upgraded version of the Supra RZ Grade, now available at Toyota dealerships across Japan. In addition, the company has opened the lottery for the highly anticipated special-edition Supra A90 Final Edition, limited to just 150 units in Japan. The lottery runs until April 13, with winners set to be announced on May 9. RZ Grade The latest updates to the Supra RZ Grade focus on enhancing its driving experience, making it more integrated and enjoyable on city streets, winding roads, and racing circuits. Toyota has improved braking

strengthened body structure, and a KW suspension system – a favourite among racing enthusiasts. The car is also equipped with high-performance tyres, further refining its high-speed stability and responsiveness. The 3.0-litre turbocharged engine now delivers 441PS and 571Nm of torque, a significant increase from the standard model. Enhancements to the intake system, including the removal of the resonator and optimised pipe routing, improve airflow. Both the upgraded Supra RZ Grade and the exclusive A90 Final Edition will be showcased at the 2025 Autobacs Super GT Round 1, held at the Okayama International Circuit on April 12 and 13.

performance for greater safety, increased the body’s rigidity, and refined the suspension and chassis tuning. Aerodynamic improvements have also been introduced to boost handling and stability. The Supra returned to production in 2019 after a 17-year hiatus. Since its reintroduction, the car has undergone periodic updates, with enhancements in 2020 and 2022. This latest iteration of the RZ Grade builds on that legacy, introducing a more refined driving experience while maintaining the car’s signature performance characteristics. A90 Final Edition The A90 Final Edition represents the pinnacle of the current-generation Supra, offering significant performance upgrades as a tribute to loyal fans. This special-edition model features increased engine power and torque, upgraded braking components, a