So long,9,000 rpm. The 992-series Porsche 911GT3, set to make its debut this year, might be the last with a naturally aspirated engine. Sources inside Porsche's Weissach R&D center say it is virtually impossible that a naturally aspirated engine will be able to meet the next generation of emissions and fuel consumption regulations. "It's as if they want us to build nothing but turbocharged engines," one engineer grumbles. If that happens, the 992 GT3s are certain to become instant classics. Details are scarce, but you can bank on the choice of either a PDK twin-clutch auto or conventional six-speed manual transmission being offered. A wingless Touring version will be included in the lineup, as well. All change for the next-generation Range Rover. Code-named L460, JLR's flagship SUV is reportedly moving onto the MLA vehicle architecture for the 2022 model year. MLA is said to be lighter, stiffer, and less complex than the all-aluminum D7u hardware that underpins the current model and will be built in standard and long-wheelbase forms for L460. Things will be different under the hood, too. The mainstream engine for the U.S. market will be a 4.4-liter V-8, built by BMW and tuned to produce about 520 hp. Entry-level models in the U.S. will continue with the 355-hp version of JLR's 3.0-liter inline-six used in the current car. JLR is also likely to add a more powerful PHEV powertrain to the U.S. lineup, combining a 394-hp version of the 3.0-liter six with a 140-hp motor to give a powertrain boasting more than 530 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque. The new Rangie is expected to make its public debut late in 2021. Now that the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been launched, Daimler is turning its attention to its electric flagship, the EQS. Built on Daimler's bespoke EVA2 EV platform, the EQS will feature a motor at each axle with a large battery pack in between. The skateboard layout means the EQS will be about the same size as a standard-wheelbase S-Class but will have the interior room of the long-wheelbase model, according to sources in Stuttgart. The EQS will look very different from the traditional flagship Mercedes, too; those who have seen the car say the production version retains the cab-forward proportion and arching roofline of the Vision EQS unveiled at the 2019 Frankfurt show.
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