AUTO

2025 Toyota GR Corolla

BUY

Toyota GAZOO Racing Adds Direct Automatic Transmission to GR Corolla

• New Premium Plus Grade Now Available

• 2025 GR Corolla Provides More Engine Torque at 295 lb.-ft.

• Launch Control Adopted to Help Enable Powerful Acceleration

• Suspension Enhancements Add Stability When Cornering

• Redesigned Front Bumper to Improve Cooling and Aerodynamics

• Complimentary 1-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association

The GR Corolla has expanded the fun quotient. Now both hardcore enthusiasts who enjoy the thrill of a manual transmission and those who’d rather focus on the handling can enjoy the thrill of sports car driving with the new addition of the 8speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) with Paddle Shifters. Just shortly after the reveal of the GR Corolla in 2022, MORIZO, Akio Toyoda, challenged his team to think about what’s next. Creating ever better cars is in Toyota GAZOO Racing’s DNA. MORIZO challenged them to pursue untamed energy, and from there, we have the first GR Corolla with the new DAT. Inspired by track driving, the GR Corolla has been tested by rally and racing drivers on some of the most rigorous courses the world has to offer, including Fuji International Speedway. Through their development efforts, the GR team increased engine torque on the GR Corolla from 273 lb.-ft. to 295 lb.-ft. and enhanced suspension components and tuning, resulting in a vehicle that is sure to impress. Changes have also been made both inside and out to improve the driving experience. On the exterior, the front bumper has been redesigned to accommodate optional cooling components while simultaneously retaining aerodynamic performance. On the inside, there is a new dark sporty vibe due to the new trim finishes on flat surfaces and switches throughout the vehicle to provide a pleasing tactile feel. Customers can expect new GR Corolla models to arrive at Toyota dealerships this winter. Additional details and pricing will be shared later this year.

Toyota GR COROLLA 2024 via 360 MAGAZINE.

Urus S at Esperienza Avventura

On board of the Super SUV discovering authentic Norwegian landscapes, culture, and cuisine

The Lamborghini Esperienza Avventura Norway, created for small, exclusive groups of Lamborghini owners and guests, delivered an exceptional itinerary of Norwegian scenery, hospitality and experiences during July 2024.

The entourage of Lamborghini S Super SUVs, ensuring an exciting on and off-road dynamic experience through Norway’s fabled fjordlands, started from Trondheim, dubbed the ‘culinary capital of Norway’. Guests arrived for the first night at the five-star Hotel Britannia on the shores of Trondheim Fjord, where a welcome dinner in the hotel’s restaurant Jonathan gave an introduction to modern Norwegian cuisine, in an area named the European Region of Gastronomy in 2022.

The Route has seen the entourage heading through lakes and mountains to Oppdal, Norway’s largest ski area, with a coffee stop before lunching at Phillipshaugen Lodge at the foot of the Oksendal mountains. Tackling a range of winding tarmac roads and more demanding stony tracks, the group journeyed onwards to Angvik, on the shores of a crystal-waters fjord famed for its salmon, before heading to the Håholmen hotel on the Atlantic Road. Guests were transferred to Håholmen island by powerboat – a traditional fishing village – staying overnight in buildings dating back to the 1700s: a piece of living coastal history.

Departing from Angvik, the Super SUV took guests to the shoreside for a spectacular RIB powerboat experience along Norway’s coastline. Once back on the road, the convoy headed to the mountains of Eggen with breathtaking views of lakes and mountains for lunch in an observatory overhanging the valley. An adventure both on tarmac and away from conventional roads followed, showcasing the Urus S’* multiple personas, combining an exceptionally comfortable ride for pilot and passengers and delighting with their outstanding capabilities on difficult and stony tracks. After a day’s adventure on land and sea the convoy arrived in Hotel Brosundet, Ålesund; a modern conversion of a warehouse in the fishpacking district combining history with urban luxury, and a dinner in the elegant Sjobua seafood restaurant.

Esperienza Avventura’s convoy drove to the traditional timber-style luxury Storfjord Hotel in the hills above Ålesund, for a farewell to the spectacular scenery of Norway’s ‘Golden Route’.

Esperienza Avventura Norway along with the Super SUV Urus S, will be nestled in the hearts of the guests with unique memories of authentic Norwegian hospitality; authentic culinary experiences; and their adventures behind the wheel of the Lamborghini Urus S through some of the world’s most extraordinary landscapes.

*Fuel consumption and emission values of Urus S; Fuel consumption combined: 14,1 l/100km (WLTP); CO₂-emissions combined: 320 g/km (WLTP)Read LessDOWNLOAD MEDIA

On board of the LAMBORGHINI Super SUV discovering authentic Norwegian landscapes, culture, and cuisine via 360 MAGAZINE.

THE BUGATTI TOURBILLON

Molsheim

In the second instalment of the storied marque’s ‘A New Era’ docuseries, Bugatti Director of Design, Frank Heyl, explores how the timeless form of the Bugatti Tourbillon is shaped by the pursuit of speed – and the incomparable emotion of experiencing a Bugatti in this exciting new chapter.

Premiering on YouTube today, July 25th, the latest episode of the new series reveals the insights of Frank Heyl, Director of Design, into the thrill – and challenge – of crafting a fresh incarnation of quintessential Bugatti design philosophy.

“With over 115 years of Bugatti history, there is a rich legacy of design DNA that we can reference to; we have a guiding line emphasizing what defines a Bugatti,” explains Frank Heyl. “What we need to take into account is this: form always follows performance.”

Echoed across every Bugatti design in the modern era, the Tourbillon is ‘shaped by speed’ from front to rear. Through each curve, intake, exhaust, and panel – the entire architecture of the Tourbillon has been meticulously crafted to unlock new levels of performance.

In this vein, aerodynamic performance goes hand-in-hand with every design decision made. Whether it is top speed or a high downforce value like in the Bugatti Bolide – the question is asked: Is there a performance purpose connected to it?

Such attention to engineering detail is infused throughout the car, enabling the Tourbillon to harness the forces of traveling at more than 400 km/h. But for Bugatti, that is only half of the story the Tourbillon has been crafted to tell in this new chapter for the brand.

With the Tourbillon, and every Bugatti that came before it, timelessness is at the core of its design. “Bugatti is about the interplay between elegance and speed,” Frank Heyl notes. “Because these cars are around for so long, we also need to keep them current and in-vogue. What dates a car is the technology of the time it was created in; 100 years from now, today’s technology won’t be cutting-edge anymore. Instead, we need to focus on preciousness.”

The design philosophy behind the Tourbillon faithfully reflects this ethos. Taking inspiration from the art of watchmaking, the timelessness of century-old timepieces and their use even today, the cabin of the Tourbillon is defined by an authentically unique analog experience.

For Frank Heyl and the Tourbillon design team, experience is the operative word in this new era of Bugatti.

NEW LAMBORGHINI DEALERSHIP IN BUNDANG

Automobili Lamborghini inaugurated its new dealership in Bundang, marking a new chapter of the partnership with Italia Automobili.

The grand opening event featured the latest Urus SE, which is the brand’s first plug-in hybrid SUV and most powerful version of the best-selling car for the company worldwide. Around 100 customers, media and guests celebrated this official opening together with Federico Foschini, Chief Marketing and Sales Officer of Automobili Lamborghini and Francesco Scardaoni, Region Director of Automobili Lamborghini Asia-Pacific.

“South Korea is one of the key markets with high growth potential, it is therefore important that we expand our retail footprint to be closer to our customers. This brand new showroom also enables us to meet the needs of our customers better with the Ad Personam room where they can customize their dream car. 2024 is the second phase of the Direzione Cor Tauri where a second hybrid is added to our line-up. This new state-of-the-art showroom will guarantee an elevated brand experience as we transit into an era of hybridization.” commented Stephan Winkelmann, Chairman and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini.

Being a major city in the Seoul Capital Area and located southeast of Seoul, Bundang is the largest and most populous district of Seongnam, with a population of approximately 440,000. The Bundang-Pangyo area is highly accessible from Seoul’s Gangnam district and is considered a region with high purchasing power due to the concentration of major IT companies. The Lamborghini Bundang showroom is located near Pangyo Techno Valley, a landmark of the Bundang-Pangyo area, and has a ground floor space of 540.62 square meters (approximately 164 pyeong).

The showroom features the best of Italian automotive design and engineering, with the latest super sports cars and Super SUVs in the market, complete with Collezione and Accessori Originali fashion offerings and a dedicated Ad Personam room where customers can have the opportunity to personalize their dream cars from the exterior, interior to the colors and trims of their vehicles, reflecting their personalities and lifestyles with a nearly infinite of bespoke colours and materials using the Lamborghini Car Configurator. It also allows customers to immerse themselves in the process from touch to smell of the upholstery materials and exclusive materials such as carbon fiber.

Lamborghini Bundang provides an exclusive, comfortable environment in where customers can fully immerse themselves in the process of their selecting and configuring their dream cars

Corner Bar Management + LVCVA

Corner Bar Management and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) have unveiled “Downtown Las Vegas Nightlife in One Take,” a 2:40 continuous, one-shot drone video that miraculously weaves in and out of Corner Bar’s clubs, bars and restaurants, all located on the same block on East Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas. Produced by industry innovator JayByrd Films and set to “Joy Ride” by Las Vegas’ own The Killers, the cutting-edge video features one of the most intricate drone shots ever captured.

“We sought to create a video that captures the vibrant spirit of Fremont East, a curated collection of unique nightlife spots designed for the ultimate bar crawl,” said Ryan Doherty, founder of Corner Bar Management, the mastermind behind some of Downtown Las Vegas’ most talked-about bars, clubs, and restaurants. “What JayByrd Films captured with their bird’s-eye view surpassed all my expectations. It’s absolutely mind-blowing.”

The video debuted today at 9 a.m. EST on an Instagram collaboration by the LVCVA on @vegas, Downtown Las Vegas’ (DTLV) page, @DTLV; and Corner Bar’s destinations featured in the video: Park on Fremont at @parkonfremont, DISCOPUSSY at @discopussy, Lucky Day at @luckydayvegas, We All Scream at @weallscreamvegas, Cheapshot at @cheapshotdtlv, La Mona Rosa at @lamonarosalv and Commonwealth at @commonwealthdtlv. The video has also been posted on the DTLV YouTube channel, linked here.

The cinematic first-person perspective transports viewers into an electrifying Saturday night on East Fremont Street between Las Vegas Boulevard and Carson Avenue. The single-shot video highlights the whimsical charm of Park on Fremont, the underground beats of Discopussy, the colorful, mezcal-fueled ambiance of Lucky Day, the convergence of music and art at We All Scream, the cheeky spirit of Cheapshot, the modern Tulum vibes at La Mona Rosa, and unparalleled nightlife and live music at Commonwealth. Corner Bar Management’s bars typically host around 6,000 guests on a weekend night.

The final video, capturing seamless continuous shots across each of the seven destinations, required numerous takes. Directed by Jay Christensen and Doherty, with Christensen also serving as the drone operator and director of photography, the video showcases the unique perspective of Downtown Las Vegas using a GoPro Hero 12 mounted on a custom-built sub-250 drone. The video was produced by Emily Erhart, with Gian Lorenzo Ferretti as the assistant camera and Erik Nelson as co-producer. Post-production sound design was completed by Taylor Lewin and Christensen. The Killers, known for their affection and support for their hometown of Las Vegas, provided licensing for “Joy Ride” to accompany the video.

JayByrd Films is a globally recognized leader in cinematic first-person view and aerial cinematography. Established with a passion for pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling, JayByrd Films has revolutionized the audience experience through innovative techniques, cutting-edge technology, and extraordinary sound design.

NEW PRELUDE TIE-IN COMIC SHEDS LIGHT ON ALIEN: ROMULUS

Writer Zac Thompson and artist Daniel Picciotto’s ALIEN: ROMULUS #1 hits stands this October.

Made in close collaboration with the filmmakers, the one-shot will unravel a lingering mystery presented in the upcoming Alien: Romulus film.

Following next month’s theatrical release of Alien: Romulus, the latest installment in the groundbreaking Alien film franchise, Marvel Comics will proudly present an ALIEN: ROMULUS comic one-shot in October that tackles one of the film’s lingering mysteries.

On sale in October, ALIEN: ROMULUS #1 will be written by horror master Zac Thompson (Absolute Carnage: Avengers, I Breathed a Body) and drawn by rising star Daniel Picciotto (Danny Ketch: Ghost Rider, X-Force). The upcoming film will take “Alien” storytelling back to its roots with a thrilling saga of young space colonizers coming face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe. Marvel’s one-shot will take place prior to the events of the film, providing an illuminating backstory behind the film’s main threat. Made in close partnership with Director Fede Alvarez and frequent collaborator Rodo Sayagues, both of whom wrote Alien: Romulus, the comic is a must-have companion to one of the most highly anticipated films of the summer.

Marvel Comics presents an all-new story revealing secrets of the film’s legendary antagonists and this issue shines light on them all!

“The Alien franchise is responsible for my lifelong love of body horror, so needless to say, I’m ecstatic to be contributing a small piece to the canon,” Thompson shared. “Working with Fede Alvarez to craft a prequel to Alien: Romulus was a genuine dream come true and a responsibility I don’t take lightly. The result is a thrilling, terrifying story that slowly gestates into something wholly unpredictable.”

Check out the main cover by Leinil Francis Yu along with a stunning variant cover by Björn Barends and preorder ALIEN: ROMULUS #1 at your local comic shop today. See Alien: Romulus in theaters August 16. For more information, visit Marvel.com.

The Ultimate Guide to Exedy Clutches

Performance, Benefits, and Installation

Understanding the Crucial Role of a Clutch

Before discussing the specifics of Exedy clutches, it’s important to understand the essential role a clutch plays in the function of a vehicle. Optimally placed between the vehicle’s engine and transmission, a clutch manages the engagement and disengagement of the engine’s powers to the wheels. This purposeful control is particularly essential when starting a vehicle from a standstill, shifting gears, and coming to a halt.

When choosing a new clutch for your vehicle, there are three elements you should consider: quality, performance, and price. And this is where the Exedy clutch enters the equation.

Stand-Out Features of Exedy Clutches

Exedy is globally recognized as a leading manufacturer of automotive clutches. It boasts a wide array of products that cater to various vehicle models, irrespective of whether they’re meant for track or normal road usage.

Superior Materials and Construction

What sets an Exedy clutch apart from its rivals is its exceptional construction using high-quality materials. The company utilizes a wide range of components from organic to cerametallic, aiming to cater to varying driver preferences and needs. The result of this thoughtful construction is a durable and reliable clutch which delivers superior performance.

Engineered for Performance

Many automotive enthusiasts vouch for Exedy clutches as their top choice for high-performance applications. They are designed to withstand the demands of high-powered engines and challenging driving conditions, making them suitable for racing vehicles and other high-powered applications.

Diverse Range of Options

Whether you’re a regular driver seeking a reliable clutch for daily use or a motorsports enthusiast looking for a high-performing racing clutch, Exedy offers a vast range of options to fit all driving styles and requirements.

Benefits of Opting for an Exedy Clutch

Now that we understand what makes an Exedy clutch unique let’s talk about the specific benefits of having one installed in your vehicle.

Reliable Performance

Exedy clutches provide a reliable performance, thanks to the company’s commitment to using only top-tier materials. With their products, you can expect smoother gear transitions and more responsive acceleration.

Longevity and Durability

Given their robust construction and high-quality materials, Exedy clutches usually have a longer lifespan compared to other brands in the market. They’re able to survive the rigours of everyday use as well as aggressive driving conditions.

Excellent Hitting Power

In the world of automotive gear, hitting power refers to how efficiently a clutch can transmit engine force to the transmission. With their superior construction, Exedy clutches are particularly well-equipped to transfer hitting power efficiently, resulting in better vehicle performance.

User-friendly Operation

Despite their robust nature, Exedy clutches typically provide a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. The feather-touch operability of these clutches makes gear shifting an effortless task while also reducing driver fatigue.

Keys to Successful Exedy Clutch Installation

Even the best exedy clutches will fall short of expectations without proper installation. The clutch must be impeccably aligned with the engine and transmission for optimal performance. When it comes to Exedy clutches, a proper installation procedure is the key to extracting superior performance, longevity, and reliability.

Using the Right Tools

Before installing exedy clutch, it is important to have the appropriate tools. This kit should include items like clutch alignment tools, a torque wrench, socket set, and a jack stand to support the vehicle securely during the process.

Aligning the Clutch

A crucial part of the installation process is aligning the Exedy clutch correctly. This involves aligning the clutch disc with the pilot bearing and positioning the pressure plate to bolt directly to the flywheel. Misalignment can lead to serious performance issues and even damage to the clutch itself.

Tightening the Bolts

Once everything is aligned, the next step is to tighten the flywheel and pressure plate bolts to the required specification. Over-tightening these components could result in damage, while under-tightening could lead to the clutch slipping and wearing out prematurely.

Reinstalling the Transmission

The final step involves reinstalling the transmission and other removed parts and ensuring everything is back in place. Run a final check to ensure everything is tightened and functioning correctly.

Professional Installation is Key

Although it’s possible for an enthusiast with a well-equipped garage to install an Exedy clutch, it’s usually recommended to have a professional do the job. The complexity of the process and the importance of achieving perfect alignment makes a compelling case for utilizing professional services with ample experience in handling Exedy installations.

Getting the Best Out of Your Exedy Clutch

The moment an Exedy clutch is installed, a noticeable revamp in vehicle performance will be experienced. However, maintaining the optimal function of a clutch is just as critical as the process of choosing it. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your Exedy clutch.

Regular Maintenance

Just like other parts of a vehicle, regular maintenance is essential when it comes to maintaining the health of your clutch. Regular inspection for signs of wear, coupled with periodic adjustments, can go a long way in ensuring your Exedy clutch serves you for extended periods.

Hydration Levels

It’s critical to ensure that your clutch hydraulics are always at an optimal level. Low hydraulic levels can easily lead to premature wear and tear or even irreversible damage to your clutch system.

Gentle Usage

Aggressive driving habits such as sudden acceleration or braking can cause immense strain on your clutch, consequently affecting its lifespan. Therefore, adopting smooth and steady driving habits is an effortless way to enhance the life of an Exedy clutch.

The Complete Exedy Line Up: Choosing the Right Clutch for You

The variety of choices available in Exedy’s product line ensures that there’s an option suitable for every kind of driver. Here’s a rundown of some main clutch types in the Exedy range, and what makes them unique.

Standard Replacement Clutch Kit

Designed for daily drivers, the standard replacement clutch kit offers exceptional reliability and sustainability. It replicates the driving experience of the original components, making sure that driving transitions feel smooth and manageable.

High-Performance Racing Clutch Kit

As the name suggests, this kit is designed for vehicles driven under extreme conditions, such as motor racing. They demonstrate an impressive tolerance for heat and high RPMs.

Stage 1 Organic Clutch Kit

Organic clutch kits function optimally for ordinary street use. They provide a slight increase of torque while maintaining a smooth engagement. Minimal modifications are necessary for installation, making this kit suitable for casual drivers whose focus is more on ease of driving than high performance.

Stage 2 Cerametallic Clutch Kit

Cerametallic clutches perform excellently in applications needing increased torque, such as modified road cars and light track use. They offer a higher burst strength due to their high-heat engage/disengage performance.

Stage 3 and 4 Hyper Single and Multi-Plate Clutch Kit

These are top-of-the-line Exedy clutches, catering to serious track racers and the powerful road car. With different plate designs and configurations, these clutches handle extreme torque requirements while still permitting reasonable driving comfort and control.

Wrapping Up

Whether you’re just starting and learning the ropes in the world of automotive vehicles or an experienced racing enthusiast, there is an Exedy clutch designed to fulfill your performance expectations. The decision to choose one should be based not only on the vehicle type and the performance level you desire but also on your personal driving habits and goals.

From the reliable standard replacement clutch kit designed for daily drivers to the robust Hyper Single and Multi-Plate Clutch suited for extreme racing conditions, Exedy has a vast array of options. So, whether your next journey takes you to the grocery store or the race track, there’s an Exedy clutch ready to be your trustworthy companion, ensuring smooth operations and performance reliability. The choice is in your hands, and undoubtedly with Exedy clutches, it’s a choice you’ll be glad you made. With the right Exedy clutch, every drive can be a journey towards enlisting your vehicle’s best performance.

2024 Toyota Tundra Pro i-force Max Hybrid

2024 Toyota Tundra Pro i-force Max Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid is a life-size Tonka Truck for a small business owner with a modern family in tow. Fully loaded and well-equipped at a price point of $72,730, it’s a bang for your buck.

Outside the cabin, it’s one of the most attractive animals on the road that’s ready to kill the asphalt. 18-in BBS forged wheels, skid plates, auto-leveling LED headlamps + LED DRLs, aluminum composite bed, TOYOTA grille along with light bar, it’s a tenacious toy that literally smiles back at you. Terra/Black skin gracefully glistens on any terrain and under any conditions. It’s the perfect palette to reduce visible grime and dirt with grit.

Inside the cockpit, the truck is an automation oasis. 14-inch infotainment touchscreen, as big as most tablets, with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Toyota multimedia with a 3-month SiriusXM radio trial. You’ll enjoy every second of channel 42 as it pushes out high fidelity sound. The premium JBL audio system boasts a 12-speaker system with subwoofer as well as am amplifier. And, baby got back! With loads of legroom, USB ports, 120V/400W outlet, and ample seating for five. To make the interior feel even more spacious are the small A-pillars, massive power moonroof, which tilts and opens, and the power rear window. The FR-passenger seat comes with 8-way power control seats. Super comfortable for a road trip to Vegas or simply picking the kids up from soccer practice. With all windows flush, it feels like a safari at Krugersdorp Game Reserve in South Africa. Our baby model in the back, Swedish/Blatino West Sovinsky, had the time of his life while safely strapped in his car seat.

This vehicle is clearly in a class of its own with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+. It’s virtually impossible to scrape the wheels at an El Pollo Loco, run over a wild coyote, or even feel out of control with adaptive steering and braking. It’s a true truck that you can track on tarmac, off-road at the Santa Monica Mountains or pimp and play at the Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hills. It’s the most baffling beast wherever you take it–regardless of all heads that will turn. The Hybrid Twin-Turbo V6 power plant is seamless, and you hear the car whine as it continues on the gas transmission. The only beat that will skip is your heart as it’s the most handsome stock on steroids. No other truck has a much swag as this one yet crawls almost like a Jeep Wrangler on 4WD on low. It’s can do things a Trackhawk dreams of doing due to ride height. Yes, it’s guzzles down a pint like a crowd at gay pride, but it’s no cissy. In fact, the exhaust notes sing like Whitney.

‘There’s a reason why Toyota was one of the first cars I leased straight out of college because it holds it value, looks good in any lipstick, and is dependable.’ — says Lowery.

If you’re not excited about its city slicker demeanor, it will break your back on any mountain with its agility, ability to tow and carry cargo like it’s non existing competitors. All you need to do is purchase this vehicle as is and press the start button, and you’ll be catapulted into a universe of respect within the realm of car culture. It was an outer body experience to lay eyes on it in Hawaii with hibiscus flowers all around and an even more therapeutic environment to indulge in the beautiful California State with the wind combing through my curls.

It’s another win for Toyota reintroducing this vehicle, possessing a powerful hybrid V6 powertrain instead of a clunky V8. 360 is sure Jay Leno has one, and if not soon, he will have one in his garage. Praises to the design team for paying attention to the details: camo tech black leatherette seats and wheel fenders. But the icing on the cake is signature TOYOTA 3D insignia on the dash. The entire vehicle is best described as YUMMY.

2024 Toyota Tundra TRD PRO IFORCE MAX via Vaughn Lowery and 360 MAGAZINE.

2024 Toyota Tundra TRD PRO IFORCE MAX via Vaughn Lowery, Anthony Sovinsky, West Sovinsky and 360 MAGAZINE.

2024 Toyota Tundra TRD PRO IFORCE MAX via Vaughn Lowery and 360 MAGAZINE at Baba's Vegan Cafe.

Photos + Story | Vaughn Lowery

2024 LEXUS IS 500 F SPORT

Japan’s latest dragster is the 2024 Lexus IS 500 F Sport, which boasts a 5.0L V8 engine (rear wheel drive) with 472 HP and 395 lb-ft of torque, and has a top speed of 149 mph. With a price point around $63,370, this is one of the most delightful drives the manufacturer has to offer; it’s in a class by itself.

On the outside, its blue flame color resembles a pack of azure Skittles. The overall silhouette is seductive and racy. Its bodacious and brawny presence always draws attention. Its F Sport performance trim includes stacked quad exhaust, suspension tuning, rear dampers, and 19-inch matt black BBS forged wheels with bolts. Upon entry with the SmartAccess card key, the cockpit has more than enough technology with USB ports scattered throughout. As you step inside, you’ll notice illuminated kick plates and aluminum pedals. But the brains of the beast sit flush in the dash. The 10.3-inch infotainment has a massive screen that almost appears to connect to the odometer display. It’s intuitive and well-equipped, just as you would expect from a Lexus. The driver can easily control all systems by touching, speaking, or playing with the trackpad.

Connecting wirelessly with Apple Carplay or Android Auto. The creature’s premium Mark Levinson concert-like audio system is what truly distinguishes it from others in its class. Playing Tems Me & U, the Afrobeats icon, over and over again, was an emotional experience for us.

Further, Lexus Safety+ 2.5 includes road sign assistance, pedestrian detection, panoramic view monitor, blind spot monitor, parking assist with auto braking, blind spot detection, and intelligent high beam headlamps.

Performance-wise, it’s playful and peppy. You will fall head over heels with both its exhaust notes and overall responsiveness. The V8’s performance is best described as invigorating. She claws every corner and will stop at the drop of a hat. Both the steering and the drivetrain are adaptive. Pushing almost 500 horsepower in a compact luxury sedan is pure nirvana.

It’s clear that the 2024 Lexus IS 500 F Sport should be recognized by the World Car Awards. It’s the right amount of bite that this company needs as it continues to dominate the world stage. And, Lexus deserves credit for maintaining their elegance with grace.

PLUSES:

Power moonroof
Rear power shade
Dual climate seats
Ventilated heated + cool seats
17 city / 25 highway

Lexus.com/IS

Images + Story | Vaughn Lowery

2024 LEXUS IS 500 F SPORT story and photos by Vaughn Lowery via 360 MAGAZINE.

Bizzarrini

Bizzarrini makes key steps in strengthening its already impressive team and building its corporate structure with the appointment of Isobel Dando to the role of CEO, effective July 2024. Isobel brings with her a wealth of experience and knowledge from a career in automotive, where she has been central to the successful reinvention and relaunch of some of the most iconic automotive brands.

Isobel has held senior positions at the likes of Rolls-Royce, Jaguar Land Rover and – most recently – MOKE.

Rezam Al Roumi, Executive Chairman and owner of Bizzarrini: “We are delighted to welcome Isobel Dando as our CEO at Bizzarrini. The experience she brings with her is unmatched, and we are excited to see how her visionary leadership helps guide the brand in this next phase of development as the Giotto program continues to gain momentum.”

This appointment complements an already powerful and experienced executive team comprised of Ian Fenton, who moves to the role of Board Advisor following Isobel’s arrival; Dr Ulrich Bez, Board Advisor; Chris Porritt, Chief Technical Officer; Fraser Dunn, Chief Engineer; Simon Busby, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer; Dr Matthew Bennett, Sales Director and Lewis Trickett, Head of Commercial and Programme.

This further senior appointment coincides with the conclusion of the successful 5300 GT Corsa Revival programme, which began 24 months ago and has recently seen the last of the 24 editions delivered to new owners.

Isobel Dando, Chief Executive of Bizzarrini: “I am thrilled to join Bizzarrini. Following the success of the 5300 GT Corsa Revival, The Giotto is the first project in the new era that honors our founder’s vision, to combine cutting edge technology with breathtaking design. With The Giotto and additional projects in the pipeline, the team and I are passionate to deliver an enduring legacy that Giotto Bizzarrini would be proud of.”

Whilst building a strong and credible team Bizzarrini is also investing in its corporate structure through the establishment of operations in both Italy and the UK, housed in premises and locations supporting the ambition and future business plans of this iconic brand. One of the first is the launch of the Centro Tecnologico di Bizzarrini (CTB) at Silverstone.

These investments illustrate the determined focus that now falls fully on the creation and delivery of the next chapter in the Bizzarrini story embodied in an all-new Hyper GT car – The Giotto. The Giotto is a breathtaking new model building on the legacy of engineering excellence, and purist Italian styling that the brand is renowned for.

Designed by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro, and his son Fabrizio at GFG Style, The Giotto is a future icon that honors the brand’s heritage, flowing powerfully, elegantly and purposefully to embody the perfect balance between velocity and luxury.

Featuring a bespoke carbon fibre body that echoes the signature design of the iconic Bizzarrini 5300 GT, the heart of this masterpiece is the exclusive Bizzarrini V12 engine, developed in partnership with Cosworth. This naturally aspirated engine is a poignant reminder of Giotto Bizzarrini’s design for the original Lamborghini V12, the cylinder capacity of 6626cc being a further respective nod to the founder’s birth date, 6th June 1926.

The spirit of Giotto Bizzarrini is reignited in The Giotto, designed and styled through a 60-year partnership of virtuosity, engineered to stir the emotions and deliver the moments of automotive wonderment.