Piloti Ferrari 296 Speciale Debuts
In a spectacular reveal on the eve of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Ferrari introduced the 296 Speciale in the Piloti Ferrari configuration — the latest masterpiece of Ferrari’s Tailor Made programme. This exclusive model pays tribute to Ferrari's triumphs in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), celebrating both the team's success and the passion of Ferrari client-racing drivers. The official debut took place at the legendary Circuit de la Sarthe, where the historic endurance race is set to unfold this weekend.
The Piloti Ferrari 296 Speciale is a unique configuration, created exclusively for Ferrari clients involved in the brand’s official motorsport activities. Drawing inspiration from the 499P, Ferrari’s Hypercar that clinched the overall win at Le Mans 2023 and 2024 in the Hypercar category, the 296 Speciale reflects Ferrari’s racing legacy and the deep connection between the brand and its motorsport community.
Racing Heritage in Every Detail
Offered in four iconic, racing-inspired colours — Rosso Scuderia, Blu Tour De France, Nero Daytona, and Argento Nürburgring — the Piloti Ferrari 296 Speciale showcases a bold exterior livery, meticulously finished in Giallo Modena. Accentuating the racing aesthetic, the livery features a hand-painted WEC logo, the Italian flag on the front bumper, and a customizable racing number chosen by the client. The model revealed at Le Mans proudly displayed the number 51, the same number with which Alessandro Pier Guidi, James Calado, and Antonio Giovinazzi won the 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans — marking Ferrari’s official return to top-tier endurance racing.
Inside, the 296 Speciale honors Ferrari’s racing heritage with thermoformed black Alcantara® racing seats, complemented by fireproof fabric inserts from official drivers’ suits. The racing number is also displayed on the carbon fibre interior, while the footwell features customizable technical metal surfaces. Personalisation extends to a carbon identification plaque and a carbon-fibre door sill with an exclusive dedication chosen by the client.
A Benchmark in Performance and Design
The 296 Speciale represents Ferrari’s ultimate evolution of the mid-rear-engined berlinetta, offering an unrivalled driving experience. At the heart of the model lies a plug-in hybrid powertrain, combining a 120-degree twin-turbo V6 engine and an electric motor, delivering a staggering 880 cv. The internal combustion engine (ICE) has been lightened and reinforced with Formula 1-derived components, while the 8-speed DCT transmission has been optimised with Ferrari’s fast shift strategy, maximising electric torque for an even more engaging drive.
With a 20% increase in aerodynamic downforce compared to the 296 GTB, the 296 Speciale is lighter, faster, and more agile, ensuring precise and responsive track behaviour. Radical design elements, including rear gamma wings, suspended splitters, and an enlarged diffuser, infuse the car with a purposeful, racing-inspired aesthetic.
Ferrari’s Triumphant Return to Le Mans with the 499P
The 499P is Ferrari’s Hypercar that marked the brand’s highly anticipated return to the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2023, after a 50-year hiatus. With a carbon-fibre monocoque chassis and double wishbone suspension, the 499P boasts a hybrid powertrain that combines a 3-litre twin-turbo V6 with a front electric motor, delivering around 680 cv and active all-wheel drive above 190 km/h. This powerhouse secured victories at Le Mans 2023 and 2024, cementing Ferrari’s legacy at the iconic endurance race.
Ferrari Tailor Made: The Pinnacle of Personalisation
Ferrari Tailor Made is the ultimate bespoke programme for Ferrari clients who seek a car that reflects their individual tastes and character. Through this exclusive service, clients are guided by a team of expert designers who bring their vision to life while upholding Ferrari’s impeccable aesthetic standards. With three distinctive collections — Classica, Inedita, and Scuderia — the Tailor Made programme offers endless possibilities, making each Ferrari a unique expression of luxury, elegance, and racing spirit.
BMW XM Label Revealed
BMW Australia is excited to announce the arrival of the new XM Label, the most powerful BMW road car ever developed. Revealed last night, this thrilling new model will make its world debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans this weekend and will be available in Australia by the end of 2025.
A New Era of Performance and Personalisation
The XM Label marks a pivotal point in the XM lineup, representing the only variant available after a major model restructuring. This high-performance SUV delivers not only an exceptional level of power but also a refined array of personalisation options, positioned at a new, elevated price point.
With an astonishing 550 kW of power, the XM Label’s M HYBRID system combines a high-revving BMW M TwinPower V8 (430 kW) and an electric motor (145 kW), seamlessly integrated into the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission. This cutting-edge technology ensures 1,000 Nm of combined torque, enabling the XM Label to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 290 km/h.
New Personalisation Options and Upgraded Features
BMW now offers exclusive personalisation options for the XM Label, including the striking new BMW Individual Frozen Tanzanite Blue exterior paint. Interior choices have been expanded with Night Blue with Vintage Leather, Silverstone II with Black Elements, and Black with Vintage Leather upholstery combinations.
Additionally, the XM Label features enhanced charging capabilities, with AC charging now capable of reaching 11 kW, reducing charging time from 7.4 kW in previous models to just 2 hours and 45 minutes for a full charge — saving over 1 hour and 15 minutes.
A Unique Aural Collaboration with Carl Cox
In an exciting partnership with British DJ Carl Cox, BMW has also incorporated the sounds of the BMW XM into an exclusive audio experience. Cox has creatively woven the rumble of the V8 engine, the signature welcome chime, and the unique pop of the bonnet closing into a soundscape that captures the essence of the XM. Further details on this collaboration will be unveiled in the coming days.
Production and Availability
The BMW XM Label will be manufactured at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg starting in August 2025, with local customer deliveries expected by the end of the year.
Pricing and Equipment
The BMW XM Label is equipped with a range of advanced features that reflect its high-performance pedigree. Standard equipment includes:
BMW M HYBRID system with BMW M TwinPower V8 and electric motor
8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic
Active M Differential and Adaptive M Suspension Professional
M Sport Exhaust system, M xDrive, and M Dynamic Mode
BMW M Head-Up Display, M Leather steering wheel, and M Gear selector
22” or 23” M light alloy wheels and M Sport Brake system
Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System with 20 speakers
BMW Individual Leather Merino Upholstery and M Carbon Fibre Interior trim
Wireless charging, Seat Massage, and Heated Front Armrests
BMW Service Inclusive Basic (5-Year / 80,000 km)
Exterior Paint Options:
Mineral White
Marina Bay Blue
Cape York Green
Black Sapphire
M Carbon Black
M Toronto Red
BMW Individual Frozen Tanzanite Blue – New
Interior Upholstery:
Night Blue with Vintage Leather – New
Silverstone II with Vintage Leather
Black with Vintage Leather – New
Deep Lagoon with Vintage Leather
Wheels:
22” M Light-Alloy Wheels and 23” M Light-Alloy Wheels (Multiple Styles Available)
Brakes:
M Compound Brakes (Red or Black High-Gloss)
The BMW XM Label sets a new standard in high-performance luxury SUVs, combining striking design with cutting-edge technology and a level of personalisation previously unseen in this segment.
BMW M2 CS Coming to Australia in 2025
BMW Australia has confirmed the all-new BMW M2 CS will arrive locally in late 2025, adding serious performance and exclusivity to the M2 line-up. Following recent CS models like the M3 CS and M4 CS, this new variant is lighter, faster, and more track-focused than the standard M2.
Key Highlights:
More Power: The M2 CS features an upgraded 3.0L twin-turbo inline-6 producing 390kW and 650Nm, matching the M3/M4 Competition xDrive figures and outpacing the standard M2 by 37kW and 50Nm.
Faster: 0–100km/h in 3.8 seconds, with a top speed of 302km/h thanks to the standard M Driver’s Package.
Lighter: 30kg weight reduction via carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) components and forged wheels.
Track-Tuned: Adaptive M suspension, bespoke chassis tuning, lowered ride height, M Sport differential, and optional $19,000 M Carbon Ceramic Brakes.
Distinctive Design: Carbon roof, ducktail spoiler, carbon centre console, CS-specific trim and badging, plus exclusive 19"/20" forged wheels in Gold Bronze.
Interior & Tech: Heated M Carbon bucket seats, Alcantara steering wheel, illuminated CS badging, BMW Curved Display with iDrive 8.5, wireless charging, Harman Kardon audio, and M Drift Analyser.
Safety & Assistance: Includes front collision warning, lane departure warning, speed limit info, and Parking Assistant with Reversing Assistant.
Built in Mexico at BMW Group Plant San Luis Potosí.
A Sharper, Lighter, Louder M2
The CS badge on any BMW M car brings with it an expectation of enhanced performance—and the M2 CS doesn’t disappoint. With a 30kg drop in weight, thanks to the use of CFRP body panels and interior trim, plus lightweight forged wheels, this special edition is sharper in every direction. It's also the first of the second-gen M2s to drop below the 4-second mark in the sprint to 100km/h, stopping the clock at just 3.8 seconds.
Pair this with the 390kW straight-six, shared with the M3/M4 Competition, and the M2 CS becomes the most potent version of the compact M platform yet. Power is delivered exclusively to the rear wheels via the 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, giving drivers full control of how aggressively or smoothly shifts are handled.
Built for the Track, Enjoyed on the Street
BMW has tuned the adaptive M chassis, springs, dampers, and stability control systems specifically for the CS model. The suspension has been lowered by 8mm, while the M Sport differential and integrated braking system have been refined for sharper cornering response and more precise control at the limit.
While M Compound brakes come standard, track-focused buyers can spec M Carbon Ceramic Brakes for an additional $19,000—a serious bit of kit for serious drivers. And if you're into telemetry, BMW’s M Drift Analyser and 10-stage M Traction Control let you dial in your setup or study your hot laps down to the degree.
CS Style Inside and Out
Visually, the M2 CS stands out with matte black accents, carbon fibre trim, and its signature ducktail spoiler integrated into the CFRP boot lid. Paint options include several bold no-cost choices, including BMW Individual Velvet Blue Metallic, exclusive to this market.
Inside, it’s all Alcantara, Merino leather, carbon, and motorsport inspiration. The heated M Carbon bucket seats feature removable headrests for track harnesses, while the M Alcantara steering wheel comes complete with red stitching and customisable M buttons. Even the door panels feature illuminated CS badging for that added drama every time you hop in.
Volkswagen Tayron Lands in Australia September 2025
Volkswagen Australia has confirmed the arrival of the all-new Tayron SUV, a brand-new model that comfortably slots between the Tiguan and Touareg in the lineup. Set to hit local showrooms in September 2025, the Tayron offers buyers a compelling mix of premium styling, cutting-edge tech, and everyday practicality - with both five- and seven-seat layouts available depending on the variant.
Built on the latest MQB Evo platform, the Tayron takes inspiration from the third-generation Tiguan, but dials up the space, refinement, and feature list. Volkswagen has designed the Tayron to appeal to a wide spectrum of Australian drivers, from growing families needing flexibility, to those wanting a spacious SUV with comfort and tech for long-distance touring.
Four variants will be offered at launch, each tailored to a different set of priorities, whether that’s entry-level value, luxury feel, or spirited performance.
Model Highlights:
🔹 110TSI Life (FWD, 7-seat):
110kW/250Nm 1.5L turbo petrol engine
7-speed wet-clutch DSG
1,800kg towing capacity
Standard features: 18" alloys, 12.9" infotainment screen, Digital Cockpit, Travel Assist, Area View 360°, wireless charging, 9 airbags
🔹 150TSI Life (AWD, 5-seat):
150kW/2.0L turbo petrol + 4MOTION
2,500kg towing capacity
885L of boot space
Combines SUV comfort with wagon practicality
🔹 150TSI Elegance (AWD, 7-seat):
Adds luxury touches: leather, ergoActive seats with massage/heating/ventilation, 19” alloys, LED Plus lighting, and chrome accents
Optional Sound & Vision package available
🔹 195TSI R-Line (AWD, 7-seat):
Flagship performance model: 195kW/400Nm, 0–100km/h in 6.1s
20” alloys, R-Line styling, Harman Kardon audio, 15” Discover Pro Max, Matrix LED headlights, HUD, and more
Optional Black Style package and panoramic sunroof
Volkswagen has packed the Tayron with an impressive array of driver assistance systems, including semi-autonomous Travel Assist, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, pedestrian and cyclist monitoring, front and rear cross traffic alert, Park Assist Plus, and no less than nine airbags as standard across the range - including a front-centre airbag for enhanced occupant safety.
In terms of technology, every Tayron variant comes with a crisp 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment display, wireless smartphone integration, digital radio, and a fully digital Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster. Step up to higher-spec models and you’ll find even more premium equipment, such as a 15-inch Discover Pro Max display, head-up display, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system.
Inside, the Tayron’s cabin echoes Volkswagen’s push into luxury territory, with high-grade materials, clever storage, and spacious seating layouts designed to suit both urban errands and longer adventures. Whether you opt for five seats or seven, the focus is clearly on comfort, flexibility, and a high level of standard equipment.
With powertrains ranging from the efficient 110TSI front-wheel drive to the punchy 195TSI all-wheel drive, there’s something in the Tayron lineup for every type of driver. Towing capability spans from 1,800kg to 2,500kg, and VW’s proven 4MOTION system ensures confident handling in all weather and road conditions.
Volkswagen Australia says the Tayron is aimed at buyers who want premium features without the premium price tag. With the flexibility to cater for families, adventurers, and even performance-minded drivers, the Tayron looks set to shake up the mainstream large SUV space when it arrives later this year.
2025 Volkswagen Tayron range:
Volkswagen Tayron 110TSI Life
Volkswagen Tayron 150TSI Life
Volkswagen Tayron 150TSI Elegance
Volkswagen Tayron 195TSI R-Line
2025 Volkswagen Tayron options:
Sound & Vision package (available on Tayron 150TSI Elegance)
Black Style package (available on Tayron 195TSI R-Line)
Panoramic roof (available on Tayron 150TSI Elegance and 195TSI R-Line)
2025 Volkswagen Tayron highlights
MQB evo is the latest evolutionary stage of the modular transverse matrix platform bringing a variety of modern technologies to Tayron: premium features such as HD Matrix headlights, new adaptive chassis control DCC Pro standard on 150TSI and 195TSI variants, new driving experience switch and infotainment generation for a more intuitive and logical operating concept.
The all-new Tayron is equipped as standard with a Vehicle Dynamics Manager – an MQB system that made its debut in the Mk8.0 Golf GTI. The system controls the functions of the Electronic Differential Lock (XDL) and the lateral dynamics components of the controlled shock absorbers in the DCC Pro system. Wheel-specific braking interventions and selective changes in the shock absorber hardness leads to greater comfort and enhanced performance during dynamic cornering. This makes the vehicle handling more stable, agile and precise. With the DCC Pro you can choose from different driving profiles such as Comfort, Sport or Individual.
In 7-seat variants when the third row is not in use, the luggage compartment capacity is a considerable 850 litres with the third row folded, 150 litres more than the Tiguan Allspace. Choose the 150TSI Life model variant and the unique five seat configuration provides an enormous 885 litres – possessing all the desirable attributes of an SUV with the boot space of a wagon.
The all-new Tayron is approximately 250mm longer than the all-new, third-generation Tiguan, with a wheelbase that is 110mm longer allowing for third row seating, additional second row space and enormous luggage space. The vehicle length, width have increased over the Tiguan Allspace the all-new Tayron replaces.
The all-new Tayron will be available at launch in six colours: Pure White, Oyster Silver Metallic, Dolphin Grey Metallic, Night Shade Blue Metallic, Grenadilla Black Metallic, and Ultra Violet Premium Metallic.
Jaguar F-PACE SVR 575 Ultimate Edition Revealed
As Jaguar commemorates 90 years of groundbreaking design, engineering, and performance, it’s also closing the chapter on one of its most thrilling combustion-powered vehicles — the F-PACE SVR. To mark the occasion, Jaguar has unveiled the F-PACE SVR 575 Ultimate Edition, a limited-run high-performance SUV that blends raw V8 power with refined British luxury.
This final edition of the F-PACE SVR will be offered exclusively to Australian customers, with only 60 examples available. It represents not only the pinnacle of the F-PACE performance range, but also a symbolic send-off as Jaguar shifts toward an all-electric future.
The 575 Ultimate Edition is the most powerful version of the F-PACE SVR ever offered, featuring a suite of bespoke finishes and high-end features designed to appeal to collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Performance & Design Highlights:
5.0L Supercharged V8 producing 423kW (575PS) and 700Nm
0–100km/h in just 4.0 seconds, with a top speed of 286km/h
Four striking paint options:
Sorrento Yellow, British Racing Green, Icy White, Ligurian Black Satin
(All paired with the Black Exterior Pack)Ultimate Edition fender badging and a custom car cover
Luxury & Technology:
22” Forged alloy wheels with gloss black and technical grey accents
Sliding panoramic roof, Privacy glass, Gloss black roof rails
3D Surround Camera, Head-up display, and carbon fibre interior trim
14-way heated and cooled Ebony Semi-Aniline leather performance seats
Full digital suite with wireless Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™,
Amazon Alexa integration, and wireless device charging
Availability & Pricing:
The F-PACE SVR 575 Ultimate Edition is available now through Jaguar retailers across Australia.
$197,033 Drive-Away (NSW)
Or $182,235 plus on-road costs
