Saturday, 21 December 2024

The New 2025 Honda Prelude

The night is falling and it brings new thoughts to mind, more specifically, what the future has in store for the automotive industry. Recently the news was reported about the possible new generation of the legendary Honda Prelude and with quite a warm feeling inside of me, I began to try to guess what it would be like.

In my childhood, my father had a beautiful, shiny car, a 1990 Premode from a Honda company founded in Japan. It’s interesting how I could tell by his car form and engine that he was a smooth, intelligent, and sophisticated man. I frequently found myself seated in the right-hand front passenger seat, star-struck by the car and the glorious ride as the speed through the urban setting. It is for this reason, therefore, that expectation for the new 2025 Honda Prelude is braced with a sense of prologue.

2025 Honda Prelude Hybrid 6
2025 Honda Prelude

Despite the fact that the official word from Honda is still lacking about the comeback of the Prelude, there are numerous reports about possible preparations for the creation of a new sports coupe. Although more on the car has yet to be revealed, we can look at the automaker’s latest releases to have an idea of what the new Prelude may import.

First of all, it is realistic to assume that the new Prelude will embody the liberal use of progressive and, moreover, ecological facilities. Honda has been in the hybrid and electric vehicle category and one would expect such a model in the 2025 model in order to meet a new sustainable car usage market. This could include a potent, yet efficient hybrid powertrain or a fully electric model as an option.

Apart from environmental solutions, the 2025 Prelude is expected to reflect the brand’s safety enhancement aspects. Safety has always been an area Honda has focused on, and it would make perfect sense to see the latest technology to protect drivers installed in this Prelude. Toy with collision avoidance systems today and lane-keeping assistance tomorrow, the new Prelude now has the potential to revamp safety in the market of sports cars.

2025 Honda Prelude Hybrid 4
2025 Honda Prelude

Much of the fun in owning a carburetor car is therefore felt when it comes to its performance. As true with tradition in the case of Preludes, the new model would have to provide an exciting driving experience to the drivers. They hypothesized it would feature an awesome engine, most likely a turbocharged 4-cylinder, to make sure that it would have spirited acceleration. The ride height would be adjustable in order to ensure comfort as well as offer the driver that extra advantage over other motorists on the road.

Of course, the design of the new Prelude is of equal importance as well as the car’s performance features. The 2025 model would bear the perfect proportions of the aerodynamic and sporty elements with contemporary hints of modernism. That is why it is possible to speak about personal visions; thinking of a car of such type, in my mind, I can easily visualize a car with spicy lines and as low as possible look, mixed with a rather sleek and rich color palette, which is rather appropriate for any kind of auto lover.

Lastly, as many of us probably eagerly await the release of the new main attraction of the 2025 Honda Prelude model, I can hopefully recall the time my father and I spent together in that ’90s version of the car. As such, I hope the new Prelude will excite the next generation, similar to before, knit the bond between a parent and their child, and build a future where driving is safe, sustainable, and exciting for all.

Until then, I’ll let my mind wander with these thoughts of the new 2025 model, specifically the Honda Prelude.

2025 Honda Prelude – Photo Gallery



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Road Tested: Saint Unbreakable Coretec armored motorcycle jeans

Saint Unbreakable Coretec armored motorcycle jeans reviewed
We’ve kept a close eye on Saint since they first hit the scene roughly a decade ago. The Australian gear company’s catalog has grown steadily over the years, but one product has remained core to their brand—riding jeans that are both stylish and protective.

Saint’s approach is to use high-tech fabrics with abrasion resistance baked in, producing single-layer garments rather than stacking regular denim over Kevlar. It makes their riding pants not only comfortable, but also stealthy enough to pass for casual wear. I’ve owned, worn, and ridden in several pairs of Saint motorcycle jeans, and they’ve all scored high.

Saint Unbreakable Coretec armored motorcycle jeans reviewed
The new Saint Unbreakable Coretec jeans epitomize this approach. At $385 [US] or $549 [Australian], Saint’s new premium denim is their most expensive—but it’s also their most protective, achieving a AAA CE safety rating. Saint sent me a pair in my regular size to see if they live up to the hype.

The Saint Unbreakable Coretec jeans get their name from the fabric that they employ; Coretec. It’s a composite material that uses a lycra core for flexibility, with an outer layer made of recycled cotton. Those two are woven together with UHMWPE (ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene)—a tough material that’s notable for its high tensile strength, impact resistance, and low friction coefficient.

Saint Unbreakable Coretec armored motorcycle jeans reviewed
In the real world, that translates to a 14 oz denim that has the weighty vibe of selvage denim, but is less rigid, with a soft, brushed feel. I picked the Saint Unbreakable Coretec jeans in Saint’s straight fit (there’s a skinny option too), in my regular size, and they fit perfectly—with the caveat that they’re pretty long.

My size 40 jeans have an inseam of 35”, so turning them up is mandatory. Fit-wise, Saint’s straight cut sits loose without being overly baggy. The extra breathing room, plus the flexibility of the Coretec fabric, makes them supremely comfortable—both on and off the bike.

Saint Unbreakable Coretec armored motorcycle jeans reviewed
Ultra-thin D30 Ghost armor sits at the hips and the knees, offering CE Level 1 protection while being barely noticeable. That’s less protection than the Level 2 items in some of Saint’s other jeans, but the tradeoff is that the armor is light and malleable enough to be barely noticeable—without hurting the product’s overall AAA rating.

The pads are tucked into pockets made from a soft fabric that’s gentle against your skin, which is a boon for long days in the saddle. The knee pads were a little low for me on my first outing with the Unbreakable Coretec jeans—but I soon realized that there are two height options inside their pockets. A quick adjustment, and they’re now perfectly placed.

Saint Unbreakable Coretec armored motorcycle jeans reviewed
Aesthetically, the Saint Unbreakable Coretec jeans hit all the right notes. The denim is a dark, solid black—which should break in nicely if my other Saint jeans are any indication. There’s nothing fancy happening with the trimmings either—you get a standard five-pocket layout, with a few orange stitching highlights and minimal branding.

The only thing missing is a small detail that Saint has added to their Engineered model; a reflective strip inside the leg that reveals itself when you turn up the cuffs. It’s a small consideration, but it’s a great way to crank the safety aspect of these jeans up a notch. I’d add that the hefty denim seems like it’d feel toasty in extreme temperatures—but I haven’t worn them on a hot enough day to say for sure… yet.

Saint Unbreakable Coretec armored motorcycle jeans reviewed
Those notes aside, the Saint Unbreakable Coretec jeans’ biggest selling points are really style and comfort. I’m guilty of skimping on gear when it makes me feel constricted or when it makes me look like a squid. The fact that these jeans do neither, means that I’ll keep reaching for them, ride after ride.

Saint | Images by Wes Reyneke

Saint Unbreakable Coretec armored motorcycle jeans reviewed



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BMW N47 Engine N47D20 – Timing Chain Failure Problems, How to Fix, and Costs

Of course, there is evidence that the BMW N47 engine is a powerful and efficient engine. As is the case with any other engine in the market, the BMW N47 engine has its fair share of issues as well. The main problems that are characteristic for the N47 engine include the failure of the timing chain. In this article, we will take our usual predictive approach to outline when the timing chain failure issues occur in the BMW N47D20 engine, how to solve it, and the costs of fixing it.

The BMW N47D20 Engine

BMW N47 Engine N47D20
BMW N47 Engine N47D20

Timing chain failure has become common, but let’s discuss in details what makes the BMW N47D20 engine a subject of frequent breakdowns. The N47 is one of the BMW diesel engines family. The N47D20 is a 2.0 l engine, ‘D’ for diesel here refers to the type of fuel the engine uses. These engines have slowly made their way to the market because of their efficiency and soft road feel especially for BMW owners.

The Timing Chain

The timing chain is an usual element of practice in all different kinds of engines. Its main a role is to ensure that the crankshaft and camshaft rotate at appropriate times so that the engine operates properly. But as time passes, the timing chain will wear out or elongate causing various faults as we may find with timing chain failure.

Timing Chain Failure Problems

Oh and lots of other things when that magical timing chain goes south. Some of the most common symptoms of a failing timing chain include:

  1. They proposed the following challenges: starting the engine.
  2. Rough idling or stalling
  3. Reduced engine power
  4. Increased oil consumption
  5. Oil leaks
  6. Now the check engine light is illuminated
  7. Lack of fluidity or delay while moving forward

At its worst, a timing chain failure can lead to major engine problems if not rectified on time. Therefore, it is advisable that one seeks treatment once you realize you have any of the following symptoms.

How to Fix Timing Chain Failure in the BMW N47D20 Engine

When you already know that your BMW N47D20 engine has a faulty timing chain, the next question is how to solve it. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Inspect the Timing Chain

To begin with, the degree of the damage should be assessed through the examination of the timing chain. It can generally be accomplished with a timing light and a mechanic’s stethoscope called a dial indicator. If they appear to look like a chain that has been stretched out or broken in certain areas, then it will mean it needs to be replaced.

  1. Replace the Timing Chain

The BMW N47D20’s timing chain cannot be changed by do-it-yourselfers. It involves skills and techniques to which only professional mechanics should engage in when fixing cars. While changing the timing chain of your car, do not forget to replace the tensioner and guides associated with it.

  1. Check for Other Potential Issues

Following the repair of the timing chain, other components of the engine should also be checked because a failing timing chain could be due to other issues affecting the engine. This may involve inspecting the valve lifters, camshaft, and the variable valve timing system.

  1. Reset the ECM

For the best operation of the engine after replacing the timing chain and other components related to this system, the Engine Control Module should be reset. This can normally be achieved using a diagnostic tool.

Costs

Various costs will arise while repairing a timing chain failure in the BMW N47D20 and due to this, some of the cost factors that might be incurred include: It will cost between $2,000 and $4,000 on average to repair a faulty timing chain in your BMW N47D20 engine. These are meaning full to the extent, that it is the total cost of the required number of parts and the hours spent on assembling them.

However, this may not look like a big cost, but failure to address the problem in time may result in costly consequences in the future. However, such problems can be avoided by having a routine check and fixing them as soon as a problem arises, as it may cost you much later. Also, please change your engine oil every 10,000 km and not more! Often oil changes will help your engine run better and will be very healthy for your new timing chain kit.

Conclusion

Timing chain failure on the N47D20 is not a rare occurrence and getting the problem fixed can be expensive. Yet, as you become familiar with those symptoms, act quickly and let a professional mechanic do the task, then you can solve the problem with little effect on the functionality of your engine. Please bear in mind that, these are some of the issues that could arise due to negligence on regular services and timely repair, if maintained properly, your BMW N47D20 engine would stand the best chance of serving you for years to come. Also, please read our article regarding the reliability aspects of this engine here.

Thank you for reading this material and please follow us on social media and subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest news and updates from the automotive industry.



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Friday, 20 December 2024

Porsche 911 (992.2) – Release Date, Specs and Pricing Information

Our detailed overview of the updates on the 992.2 models from the 8-gen Porsche 911. This material will pique the interest of Porsche fans because it is like a dessert, yummy! Are you ready? 1, 2, 3… GO! Porsche 911 is the name of a car that has been legendary in the automobile market for more than half a century. I love this car because it deserves it.

Porsche has introduced the 992.2 generation of the 911 for the 2025 model year, which is the second significant update for the 992 line that started in 2019. Below, I will present you with detailed information regarding the second generation of the 992 lineup, including the release dates, along with the main characteristics and prices.

992.2 Carrera

Porsche 911 992.2 Carrera 1
2025 Porsche 911 992.2 Carrera

As for today, the 2025 Porsche basic model regarding the 911 (992.2) is the Carrera, depending on the turbocharged 4-cylinder 3.0-liter six-cylinder that generates 379 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant is bolted to a conventional eight-speed dual-clutch system, enabling fast shift and efficient acceleration.

The Carrera model is rear-wheel driven as a base form and the all-wheel drive system, known as 4, is an upgrade. This beauty accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.7s, this is a great acceleration, thanks to the more powerful engine and slick silhouette of this car.

Concerning the handling, the Carrera uses Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) which controls the damping characteristics of the shocks depending on road conditions and type of driving. The adjustable 19-inch wheels are fashionable wheels that were developed with special regard to both handling and comfort.

However, the new Carrera features a variety of technological elements that enhance the car’s drive. You can see that the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) is located on the standard 10.9 inch touch screen display; with it, you can control navigation, and entertainment, and connect to a smartphone very easily. The Porsche Connect Plus system offers real-time traffic information and live navigation, as well as access to a variety of web services.

Regarding the car’s exterior design, the 992.2 Carrera features a sleek design ( very sexy! ) that is conceptually based on contemporary Porsche 911s but with several additional aerodynamic touches. Also, standard LED headlights and taillights are accompanied by the new front bumper with a larger air intake in the lower section, great!

Release Date: The 2025 Porsche 911 (992.2) Carrera was released on May 28, 2024; and it is priced at $120,150 for the rear-wheel drive, respectively $127,150 for the all-wheel drive.

992.2 Carrera – Photo Gallery

992.2 Carrera S

Above the Carrera in the 2025 Porsche 911 (992.2) series, the Carrera S jumps up a step and offers slightly more power and handling. The 3.0L turbocharged six cylinder should make around 500 horsepower. The reason for this power upgrade is a bigger turbocharger, increased boost capabilities from the engine mapping and, yes, an intercooler.

2025 Porsche 911 Carrera S 1
2025 Porsche 911 992.2 Carrera S

As things stand now, we have no idea what transmissions will be offered on the “S” version, but I hope we will have a manual available, as they do on the “T” version.

The Carrera S is the car most changed relative to the Carrera, and offers Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) which works 10 millimeters lower than the Carrera. Also, it comes with splendid 20-inch alloy wheels.

The Carrera S will also include the vehicle manufacturer’s all wheel system known as “4” which helps improve control and traction in multiple driving modes.

Release Date: Due to be launched in 2025, the 2025 Porsche 911 (992.2) Carrera S will start at $125,000.

992.2 Carrera S – Photo Gallery

992.2 Carrera T

The Carrera T is the sports version of the Carrera model that has been specifically designed with the purpose to be lighter and optimized for the track. The T model also has pronounced changes in the suspension setting with higher springs and anti-roll bars and lighter alloy wheels with sporty rubber. Also, the T variant has a manual type of transmission fitted as standard, a feature that remains rare in the current market for automobiles.

Porsche 911 992.2 Carrera T Exterior Design
2025 Porsche 911 992.2 Carrera T

Unveiled shortly after the GT3, Porsche introduced what many view as an entry-level alternative to the GT3—the 992.2 Carrera T, where the “T” stands for Touring. At a time when most sports car manufacturers have abandoned manual transmissions, this model is exclusively available with a manual shift. I really love that some brands still offer manual options for their cars. I respect these manufacturers because they love their customers and fans.

The PDK option has been eliminated, replaced with a 6-speed manual featuring a stylish matte walnut shift knob. While this transmission isn’t entirely new—borrowing the first six gears from the previous 7-speed—it retains the auto-blip function for those refining their rev-matching technique. This manual-only setup significantly enhances the T’s appeal.

Porsche 911 992.2 Carrera T Interior Design
Porsche 911 992.2 Carrera T – Manual Transmission Only

Regarding the performance of this “T” version, it boasts the 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six engine that has been upgraded from 379 to 388 horsepower. And, you know that these ponies are very angry. Right? The acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is possible in 4.3 seconds and the “T” has a top speed of 294kmh.

Does it drive well? Let’s see. In the handling department, the Carrera T should be the most visible and the driving experience has been improved by additions like standard rear-axle steering, updated anti-roll bars, and a modified Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system.

Release Date: The 2025 Porsche 911 (992.2) Carrera T was released on October 29, 2024, and its starting price is set at $130,000.

992.2 Carrera T – Photo Gallery

992.2 Carrera GTS

The new 2025 Porsche 911 (992.2 range) positions the GTS a step above the Carrera, in its model roster. A turbocharged 3.0-litre six cylinder engine, which makes 532 horsepower, is used to power the Carrera GTS, a big improvement from the standard Carrera that has only 379 horsepower. It draws the extra power through changes to cooling system of the engine, exhaust and computer programming modifications.

Porsche 911 992.2 Carrera GTS 2
2025 Porsche 911 992.2 Carrera GTS

As well as the extra horsepower, the Carrera GTS also has the Porsche Active Aerodynamics system that alters the angle of the front spoiler and rear wing and tail. The suspension is 10mm lower than the Carrera, and a Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) will help the car stop and cool down.

Rear wheel or all wheel drive options with the latter featuring Porsche’s innovative Torque Vectoring Plus, as standard. The car’s GTS version features standard adaptive suspension, 20 inch alloy wheels, and a rear steering axle.

The look of the Carrera GTS on the outside was sharpened up by designers, including a larger front air intake, a more pronounced front apron, new rear spoiler and new diffuser. The ‘GTS’ logo was set off at the back of the car, as was the centrally located exhaust system.

Release Date: The 2025 Porsche 911 (992.2) Carrera GTS was released on May 28, 2024. The cost of the 2025 Carrera GTS starts at $129,150 for the RWD variant, respectively $133,150 for the 4WD variant.

992.2 Carrera GTS – Photo Gallery

992.2 Carrera GT3 / GT3 Touring

October 2024 saw the latest release of Porsche 911 (992.2) GT3 and GT3 Touring: the cars that are perfect for the best driving experience with the power of a naturally aspirated 4.0 liter, six cylinder engine producing 502 horsepower. This engine has a flat type crankshaft, and the bore and stirke are larger than the previous models in order to improve performance and engine revving facility.

Porsche 911 992.2 Carrera GT3 1
2025 Porsche 911 992.2 Carrera GT3

Another bit regarding the new GT3 is that it has an engine with a dry-sump oiling system and a rear mounted gearbox. Acceleration is 3.2s from 0 to 100 km/h for the GT3 and 3.7s if you have the Touring version. Both models can be configured with a manual transmission as well.

They sport a coilover setup and a fixed rear wing than the Carrera GTS, and promise extra downforce. Both variants are equipped as standard with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), which in turn has been optimized for the GT3 variants. The following features are standard across the range: featuring the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), plus rear-axle steering for even greater agility.

The GT3 and GT3 Touring use 20-inch center locking wheels; the GT3 has black protective film on the front lip spoilers and the GT3 Touring gets a more traditional front bumper setup. Very nice details.

Release Date: The 2025 Porsche 911 (992.2) Carrera GT3 and GT3 Touring were released on October 18, 2024, and their starting prices are around $145,150 for the rear-wheel-drive vehicle and $149,150 for the all-wheel-drive variant.

992.2 Carrera GT3 – Photo Gallery

992.2 Carrera Turbo / Turbo S

The highest trim level for the 2025 Porsche 911 (992.2) will be the Carrera Turbo and Carrera Turbo S which will deliver even higher power output than other Carrera 911 models.

Porsche 911 992.2 Carrera Turbo Turbo S
2025 Porsche 911 992.2 Carrera Turbo

While the current generation of models is already impressive, the Turbo variants will boast various performance enhancements with the Porsche Active Aerodynamics system controlling the extent of the front spoiler and rear wing to maximize downforce and so on. The adaptive suspension will also be tuned for the Turbo variants it will be as comfortable as a normal car as well as being as quick as it would suggest.

The future 992.2 Turbo cars series will include lighter modifications borrowing profound know-hows from the 992 GT3, and stressing the novelty and classy appearances simultaneously. It also appears that a new model will be included in the 992 lineup, the 992.2 Turbo Touring, which, like the Carrera, will have an active rear spoiler and lightweight wheels from the Sport Classic.

The side air intake has been concealed for some time now, although spy pictures suggest the reality to be a lot more sinister – a turbocharged one at that. The interior will be finer with pretensions to high-tech interior design and ergonomics at their highest level.

Concerning power, the forthcoming 992.2 Turbo versions ought to build on their baseline performance results. Some new elements that were introduced in the recently presented 992.2 Carrera GTS, probably, will be incorporated into the Turbo family, which means only one thing – even higher indicators of the car’s speed during the lap.

The 3.6-liter hybrid engine from the GTS is expected to be applied in the Turbo S and Touring versions, with the electric motor’s power possibly being greater than the GTS. On the other hand, the standard Turbo may get a new 3.8-liter engine with an RWD option and even a manual gearbox which should also return, by word of mouth. But as to the future of the Turbo S, it is postulated that it will stick with PDK and AWD for its highest level of performance.

The model receiving the manual transmission is not expected to have a hybrid due to compatibility constraints with the T-Hybrid system. The assembly of the new 992.2 Turbo and Turbo S models is planned for 2025 and will be available for sale in 2026.

Release Date: The 2025 Porsche 911 (992.2) Carrera model’s base derivative costs $130,000, while the Carrera Turbo and Turbo S models will have a price of around $165,000 – $200,000. Both models are set to be launched in mid-2025.

992.2 Carrera Turbo / Turbo S – Photo Gallery

992.2 Carrera GT3 RS

Porsche 911 992.2 Carrera GT3 RS
Porsche 911 992.2 Carrera GT3 RS

The new 2025 Porsche 911 (992.2) Carrera GT3 RS takes the power and sportiness of the GT3 and the comfort and elegance of the Carrera. Carrera … what a sexy name! Sexy name, sexy design! And for this model, the vehicle is expected to come closest to driving as that powertrain will power it with about 520hp from a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter six cylinder engine.

What will you get as standard? The Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes, adaptive suspension, and rear-axle steering will also be included in the Porsche GT3 RS. I believe this RS version will receive the touch of electrification, what do you think about this aspect? Please let us know in the comments below.

Release Date: The 2025 Porsche 911 (992.2) Carrera GT3 RS is expected to cost over $245,000, and the release date is set for 2025.

Stay connected to AutoMotorblog for the latest news and updates from the automotive industry.

992.2 Carrera GT3 RS – Photo Gallery



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