by Jay Traugott
Convertible sales aren t anywhere near what they once were, but this hasn t stopped BMW from building them. Not only has it pressed ahead with the second-generation 4-Series Convertible, but it s done so with the high-performance version. Meet the 2022 BMW M4 Competition Convertible, a 503-horsepower, German-built, roofless road missile. Available only in Competition guise, the new M4 Convertible is also only sold with the xDrive all-wheel drive system, something the previous generation lacked.
Another major departure from its predecessor is that it s equipped with a folding soft-top instead of a heavy retractable hardtop. Why these changes? Because the latter saves a substantial amount of weight which in turn allows for better performance. Why no rear-wheel-drive? The likely answer is because BMW determined there wouldn t be sufficient demand. Having AWD (with a rear-drive bias) allows BMW to expand M4 Convertible sales to parts of the country facing harsh winters
Built Ford Tough Still Looks The Part
The F-150 Lightning very much looks like an F-150. That s because designers began with the existing model and then applied a number of changes to give it more of a high-tech and modern look. The most noticeable change is up front with the new three grille design and wraparound lighting. The optional signature LED lightbars running across the front and rear is an excellent touch. Out back is a similar lighting design with F-150 stamped boldly across the tailgate.
Ford claims the truck is the most aerodynamic F-150 to date, thanks to redesigned running boards, a sculpted hood aimed at reducing drag, and more compact dimensions in general compared to the regular truck. The body is made from military-grade aluminum.
One wouldn t think it d be possible to improve on the 789-horsepower V12 powerplant equipped to the Ferrari 812 Superfast. Then again, we aren t one of the undaunted engineers working at Ferrari. They ve been busy of late and have just unleashed this, the epic new 812 Competizione. Based on the 812 Superfast, this limited-edition model brings even more power to the party along with a higher rev limit approaching superbike levels, enhanced aerodynamics, and even more imposing styling. Revealed in tandem with the 812 Competizione A, a Targa variant, this is Ferrari at its unfiltered best. Ferrari
An Aerodynamic Beauty
While retaining the 812 Superfast s distinctive silhouette with a stretched hood and tall tail, the greater aerodynamic requirements of the 812 Competizione have introduced numerous alterations that give it an edgier appearance. One of the most notable changes is the use of an all-aluminum surface in place of the Superfast s rear window. With the placement of vort
An Interior Only Ferrari Can Do
The two-passenger cockpit s general layout remains largely the same as that of the 812 Superfast. The design of main dash and door panels have not been altered, though the latter has been is now composed of lighter-weight materials. The flat-bottom steering wheel is also identical to the Superfast s. Four large air vents are displayed dominantly.
The door panel pockets sticks out from the main structure with a floating design element, creating a greater sense of lightness with the rest of the cabin. Another noteworthy design element is the gear-gate theme in the central console where in past Ferraris, the iconic gated manual shifter was located. Ferrari says this is the first time its applied this unique styling in a V12 model.
Sexier Exterior Styling
Although it rides on the same CMA platform as the XC40 Recharge, the C40 has a completely unique exterior. Its coupe-like styling comes by way of a lower roofline that tapers more directly into the rear end. The taillights are integrated into the sides of the tailgate and a small spoiler has been added for both aesthetic and aerodynamic purposes. The front-end design is new and different from that of the XC40. In fact, the C40 introduces a new face for fully electrified Volvos and we wouldn t be surprised to see this styling continue for future models.