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As Halloween approaches, luxury tuner Mansory unveils its latest masterpiece: the Mercedes-Benz G-Class P850, ready to send shivers down the streets with its bold black and orange livery. The P850 package not only transforms the G 63’s appearance but injects a substantial power boost into the mix, making it an intimidating and eye-catching presence on the roads.

Exterior Overhaul

Mansory’s P850 doesn’t hold back when it comes to the exterior, featuring a menacing front end with a redesigned bumper, grille, and prominent badging. Forged carbon fiber components, including a hood and a roof housing with integrated LED lights, add a touch of aggression. Door mirrors and A-pillar accents get the forged carbon treatment, while side-exit exhausts and striking black and orange center-capped wheels complete the bold look. The rear boasts a forged carbon fiber roof spoiler, a spare wheel cover, and a distinctive bumper, enhancing the G-Wagon’s already iconic silhouette.

Interior Elegance in Orange

Stepping inside, Mansory has transformed the interior into a vibrant symphony of bright orange leather, creating an atmosphere that complements the Halloween theme. From the seats to the transmission tunnel, the cabin is bathed in orange luxury, with white leather accents on certain elements and carbon fiber details on the steering wheel and center console. Even the air vents receive the orange treatment, showcasing Mansory’s commitment to a cohesive and striking interior.

P850 Power Boost

Beyond the aesthetic enhancements, the P850 package takes the G 63’s performance to exhilarating heights. The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 undergoes Mansory’s magic, elevating the power output from the stock 585 hp and 626 lb-ft to an awe-inspiring 850 hp and 737 lb-ft of torque. With these enhancements, the G-Wagon achieves a rapid 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in just 3.5 seconds, adding a spine-tingling performance dimension to its intimidating presence.

A Halloween Treat

The Mansory Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon P850 is not just a vehicle; it’s a Halloween treat for automotive enthusiasts who appreciate the fusion of power, luxury, and bold design. Mansory’s craftsmanship, attention to detail, and commitment to pushing boundaries make this G-Wagon a head-turning masterpiece, offering a thrilling experience both on the road and in the spirit of the season.

As the P850 prowls the streets, it becomes a symbol of Mansory’s ability to transform an already iconic vehicle into a bespoke work of art, creating a sensation that transcends the ordinary. For those seeking a Halloween thrill on four wheels, the Mansory G-Wagon P850 stands ready to deliver a spine-chilling experience that captivates the senses.

In the ever-expanding world of crossovers, Ford’s venture into nostalgia with the Bronco Sport Heritage Limited has certainly turned heads. Launched in 2023 as a tribute to the iconic 1966 original, this limited edition model seeks to blend retro styling with modern functionality. CarBuzz recently took the 2023 Bronco Sport Heritage Limited for a spin, exploring whether Ford’s nostalgia-infused crossover is a compelling choice in a segment brimming with options.

Exterior: Heritage Style That Demands Attention

Ford’s Heritage Edition takes inspiration from the 1966 Bronco, evident in its ’60s-inspired pastel colors and distinctive white wheels. The Heritage Limited, restricted to just 1,966 units for the Bronco Sport’s 2023 model year, boasts a unique charm. The Robin’s Egg Blue variant, coupled with the Oxford white grille, wheels, and roof, creates an eye-catching beach-ready aesthetic. The limited color options contribute to the exclusivity of this homage to the past.

Interior: Retro Styling, Modern Quirks

While the exterior pays homage to the past, the interior introduces a blend of throwback design and modern quirks. The cabin embraces a “rugged” feel with ample hard plastics and wipeable surfaces, maintaining a balance between durability and aesthetics. The throwback technology, however, falls short, with an eight-inch touchscreen featuring last-generation Sync 3 infotainment software. The absence of features like wireless Apple CarPlay and a 360-degree camera may leave tech enthusiasts yearning for more.

Practicality: Cargo Management and Beyond

The Bronco Sport Heritage Limited impresses with practical touches designed for adventure seekers. The cargo area, with up to 32.5 cubic feet of space, features rubberized material for easy cleaning. Ford’s Cargo Management System, available for $195, adds versatility to the cargo space, offering multiple configurations, including a table and trunk divider. The rear seat comes with innovative storage solutions, including pockets for smartphones and additional zippered pockets for larger items.

Performance: A Balance of Off-Road Capability

Built on the Escape platform, the Bronco Sport sets realistic expectations for off-road prowess. Powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, the Bronco Sport offers a decent blend of power and capability. The optional 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine in the Badlands trim elevates performance, sprinting to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. The G.O.A.T (Goes Over Any Terrain) drive modes provide surprising off-road capability, making it more than just a pavement-dwelling crossover.

Fuel Efficiency: Room for Improvement

While the Bronco Sport delivers a fun driving experience, fuel efficiency doesn’t top the charts. With the three-cylinder engine managing 25/28/26 mpg city/highway/combined and the four-cylinder performing slightly worse at 21/26/23, it falls short of segment leaders in this aspect. The absence of an efficient hybrid model may limit its appeal for eco-conscious consumers.

Pricing: A Steep Nostalgic Journey

The Bronco Sport Heritage Limited’s starting price of $44,655 raises eyebrows, considering its feature set and interior amenities. With competitors like the Mazda CX-50, Subaru Forrester, and Toyota RAV4 in a similar price range, Ford’s nostalgia-laden offering faces stiff competition. The 2024 Bronco Sport Heritage Edition, featuring the three-cylinder engine, offers a more palatable option at $33,700. For buyers seeking a blend of nostalgia and on-road focus at a lower price point, waiting for a tech update might be a prudent choice.

In conclusion, Ford’s attempt at blending nostalgia with modern crossover dynamics shines through in the Bronco Sport Heritage Limited. While its distinctive styling and off-road capabilities are commendable, the pricing and technological aspects leave room for improvement. As the crossover market continues to evolve, the Bronco Sport’s success may hinge on future updates that address these concerns, making it a more compelling choice for those eager to embark on a nostalgic journey.

Exploring the unbeaten path with off-road vehicles like the Ford Bronco comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to potential damages. Recognizing the unique needs of off-roaders, Ford has unveiled a specialized Off-Road Warranty for the Bronco and Bronco Sport, aiming to provide comprehensive coverage for damages incurred during off-road adventures.

This Off-Road Warranty is designed to address damages resulting from off-roading activities and navigating unpaved terrains, including sand, gravel, snow, and riverbeds. Ford offers this warranty through various Ford Protect Plans, namely TireCare, TireCare Plus, TripleCare, and Triple CarePlus. Notably, the TripleCare and TripleCare Plus plans are not available in Florida.

The coverage extends to include damages such as tire and wheel issues, small exterior dents, and minor windshield chips. By doing so, Ford aims to instill greater confidence in Bronco owners, encouraging them to push the boundaries of off-road exploration in their capable SUV.

However, it’s essential to note that, like any warranty, the Off-Road Warranty does have certain limitations. Instances such as dents exceeding four inches, windshield cracks surpassing six inches, and damage to tires with less than 3/32″ tread depth at the lowest point are not covered. Additionally, Ford emphasizes that the warranty does not include front windshield replacement.

This specialized warranty is applicable to vehicles purchased within three years and with fewer than 36,000 miles on the odometer. To enhance the off-roading experience further, Bronco enthusiasts can make use of the Bronco Trail App, offering access to around 1,200 off-road trail maps in North America. This feature is in line with the off-road trail guide system offered by Jeep for the Wrangler, highlighting the growing trend of providing digital navigation tools for off-road enthusiasts.

While Ford has not disclosed the pricing details for the Off-Road Warranty, the company estimates that the average cost of replacing body dents, windshield chips, and tire and wheel damages is approximately $1,675. Prospective Ford owners interested in the Off-Road Warranty can anticipate a pricing structure that aligns with or is lower than this estimate. This initiative from Ford underscores the brand’s commitment to supporting and enhancing the off-road experience for its dedicated Bronco community.

The Land Rover Defender, an iconic workhorse, ceased production in 2016 after a glorious run spanning decades. But, surprisingly, Land Rover hasn’t turned its back on this beloved classic. Land Rover Classic continues to breathe new life into the old Defender with an array of exciting parts and accessories, showcased recently at the 2023 Goodwood Revival event.

The Expedition Camper Transformation:

One of the standout additions to the Defender’s repertoire is the ‘Expedition Camper’ (EC) package. This conversion kit transforms the Defender into a true overlander, catering to the adventurer in all of us. While enthusiasts have been customizing Defenders for off-road expeditions for years, Land Rover Classic has taken it a step further by partnering with TentBox. The highlight of this collaboration is the official branded roof tent, set to hit the market in 2024. This roof tent is designed to be compatible with both the Classic Defender 90 and 110 models. For those seeking an all-in-one package, there’s also the option of a ‘Land Rover Classic approved’ interior conversion. Executed by The Ply Guys, this conversion adds a cozy bed, a functional kitchen area, and ample storage space to the rear of the Defender, making it an ideal companion for extended journeys.

Expedition Camper Features:

The Expedition Camper isn’t just about functionality; it’s also about style. It boasts a range of enhancements, including LED headlights, side steps, sleek black Sawtooth wheels, and a black exterior pack that adds a touch of aggressiveness by darkening the grille, headlight surrounds, and heritage badging. Inside the cabin, you’ll find premium front seats, a natural birch roof lining, and a touch of elegance with a Harris Tweed center console and rear bench.

More Than Just Campers:

While the Expedition Camper certainly steals the spotlight, Land Rover Classic has introduced a comprehensive range of parts and accessories to cater to various Defender enthusiasts. This includes the Silver Exterior Pack, LED rear lights, a durable rubber boot liner, an expedition roof rack and ladder combination, new winches, and a plethora of other components that can be used to customize and enhance the old Defender’s performance and aesthetics.

Conclusion:

Eight years have passed since the last Land Rover Defender rolled off the assembly line, but the spirit of this rugged icon is far from fading away. Land Rover Classic’s commitment to breathing new life into the classic Defender is commendable. The Expedition Camper package, complete with the official roof tent and interior conversion, showcases the brand’s dedication to keeping the Defender adventure-ready. Furthermore, the extensive range of parts and accessories ensures that Defender enthusiasts can continue to enjoy and personalize their beloved classics.

In an age where modernity often overshadows tradition, Land Rover’s ongoing support for the Defender is a testament to the enduring appeal and timeless charm of this legendary off-roader. For those who cherish the spirit of adventure and the iconic Land Rover Defender, the journey is far from over.

In the bustling SUV market, where choices abound, the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport Heritage stands out as a unique offering, blending nostalgia with modern performance. Priced at around $46,400, just above the average cost of a new car, this compact SUV competes in a segment filled with various contenders, from larger Jeep Wranglers to more laid-back off-road options like the Subaru Outback and Crosstrek Wilderness. Ford believes that the Bronco Sport Heritage is a worthy investment, and we’re here to explore why.

Design That Captures the Essence

The first thing that strikes you about the Bronco Sport Heritage is its captivating design. If the benchmark is its ability to capture the essence of the larger Bronco and scale it down effectively, then Ford has undoubtedly succeeded. The front grille closely resembles that of the Bronco, and the well-placed fender flares contribute to the SUV’s robust stance. The Heritage edition incorporates several nostalgic touches, including pastel yellow paint, retro-look white wheels with all-terrain tires, vintage badging, and badge color variations depending on the base color you choose. Inside, Ford has equipped all Heritage models with a faux leather interior featuring patterns reminiscent of plaid seats from vintage Broncos. A unique touch is the numbered plaque behind the cupholders, reminding you of the exclusivity of your vehicle.

The Bronco Sport Heritage’s distinctive appearance sets it apart in its price range. It’s a rare find to come across a vehicle in this segment that stands out so boldly on the road, making the Heritage Edition an enticing choice for those seeking a unique look.

Interior Assessment

The interior of the Bronco Sport, much like its larger sibling, presents a mix of positives and negatives. Some elements work exceptionally well, such as the MOLLE-compatible seatback straps and zippered seatback pockets, catering to adventure enthusiasts. The center stack boasts user-friendly physical controls that can be operated without much effort, and the smaller, less obtrusive screen in the Bronco Sport is preferable to the larger screens found in other Ford models like the F-150 and Mach-E.

However, for each commendable aspect, there’s a counterpoint. While the infotainment system functions smoothly, the sound system lacks depth and richness. The cabin features numerous low-quality materials that detract from the overall experience. The door cards, for instance, feel more suited for a model airplane, and the seat material, despite its intriguing appearance in Heritage trim, can be uncomfortably hot to sit on. These shortcomings notwithstanding, the Bronco Sport effectively channels the spirit of its larger counterpart, a quality that more luxurious competitors may lack.

Driving Experience

One of the main attractions of higher-tier Bronco models is their selectable 4WD and GOAT (Go Over Any Terrain) modes, making the Bronco Sport one of the most capable off-roaders in its price range. However, it’s worth noting that you can also purchase a larger, more off-road-oriented Jeep Wrangler for a similar price, which may give you pause.

Setting that aside, the Bronco Sport excels off-road, aided by its all-terrain tires that provide ample grip. The suspension keeps passengers reasonably comfortable even on rough terrain. However, there’s room for improvement in the approach and departure angles, as some trails still pose challenges, and avoiding damage to the lower fascias requires caution. On the bright side, the Bronco Sport features sturdy tow points, a helpful feature when you find yourself in a tricky situation.

Ford includes some of the big Bronco’s off-road features, such as hill descent control and manual adjustment of electronically locking differentials, setting it apart in its segment. On-road, the Bronco Sport maintains a smooth and quiet demeanor, offering a comfortable respite from the outside world. Although the transmission may occasionally hunt for gears, a common complaint in this segment, the Bronco Sport’s turbocharged torque (250 hp, 277 lb-ft) aids in passing with ease.

Everyday Usability

Ford has succeeded in making the Bronco Sport highly adaptable for everyday situations. The cargo area is exceptionally customizable, with the $150 cargo organizer being a must-have accessory. It can be removed, locked in place, and even deployed as a work surface inside the rear hatch, thanks to small legs. Two pivoting LEDs provide light when the liftgate is up. Heritage models and others come with seatback protection, making it suitable for family adventures.

However, there are a few downsides to consider. Fuel economy is relatively poor, with 25 mpg falling short of modern SUV standards. The seats, although comfortable, lack adequate support in the lower half, which can lead to an uncomfortable driving posture. Additionally, the Bronco lineup’s structure presents a dilemma, as there are more affordable Broncos available that offer similar features without the Heritage Edition’s nostalgic aesthetics.

In summary, the Bronco Sport successfully combines off-road capability with on-road civility. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient SUV, its adaptable cargo area and user-friendly features enhance its daily usability. Despite some material quality concerns in the interior, the Bronco Sport’s unique look and off-road prowess make it a compelling choice for those who appreciate its distinctiveness in a crowded market segment.

Pros:

• Smooth and quiet ride
• Impressive off-road capabilities
• Distinctive appearance sets it apart

Cons:

• Relatively poor fuel economy
• Interior materials leave room for improvement
• Approach and departure angles could be better

In a remarkable feat that pushes the boundaries of engineering and automotive prowess, Porsche has once again showcased its innovative spirit by successfully scaling the towering heights of the world’s tallest volcano. More than just a thrilling adventure, this achievement highlights Porsche’s commitment to pushing the limits of performance, this time taking its iconic 911 to new heights—literally.

Over three decades ago, Porsche first unveiled an all-wheel-drive system for the 911, a move that led to its victory at the grueling Paris-Dakar rally in 1985. However, this historic achievement is dwarfed by the recent triumph accomplished by Porsche engineers on the challenging terrain of the Ojos del Salado volcano in Chile, standing as the world’s tallest volcano.

Guided by the skilled hands of legendary racing driver Romain Dumas, two highly modified Porsche 911s embarked on a daring journey up the towering volcano. Scaling to an astonishing elevation of 19,708 feet (6,007 meters), these intrepid vehicles faced the formidable challenges posed by the hostile environment, including navigating through treacherous boulders and enduring temperatures as frigid as minus 22 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 30 Celsius).

To equip the 911s for this audacious undertaking, Porsche engineers made several key modifications. The implementation of new portal axles significantly augmented ground clearance, providing a substantial 13.8 inches (350 millimeters) to conquer uneven terrains with ease. Further enhancing their off-road capabilities, revised front and rear clips enabled better angles for overcoming obstacles. The adoption of robust 12.2-inch wide off-road tires imparted exceptional grip, ensuring optimal traction during the climb.

Inside the cabins, safety took precedence. A roll cage, carbon fiber seats, and safety harnesses were strategically integrated to safeguard Romain Dumas and his team as they embarked on this unprecedented journey. Among the groundbreaking enhancements is the “Porsche Warp-Connecter,” initially engineered for track applications. This innovative system establishes a mechanical link between all four wheels, maintaining consistent wheel load even in extreme articulation scenarios.

While these 911 prototypes were notably adapted for off-road capabilities, they retained some fundamental factory components, particularly in the powertrain department. The unmodified version of Porsche’s turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six engine from the 911 4S, generating a robust 443 horsepower (330 kilowatts), was coupled with a standard seven-speed manual transmission to power the awe-inspiring ascent.

Naturally, the 911s received fitting racing liveries, underscoring their bold and audacious spirit. One vehicle sported the distinct livery featured on the contemporary 963 LMDh racer, while the other exhibited a bespoke 911-themed livery meticulously crafted by Porsche’s team in Weissach.

In a world where the boundaries of automotive engineering are continually redefined, Porsche’s daring escapade up the Ojos del Salado volcano stands as a testament to the company’s unwavering dedication to innovation and excellence. This breathtaking accomplishment not only reaffirms Porsche’s position at the forefront of automotive advancements but also serves as an exhilarating chapter in the ongoing legacy of the venerable Porsche 911—a symbol of performance, precision, and daring exploration.