AMG’s Vision Gran Turismo Racing Series is one more reason we wish games were real

By Nick Jaynes February 3, 2014

Mercedes-Benz and Gran Turismo 6 blew the automotive design world when they unveiled not only the virtual AMG Vision Gran Turismo but also the real-life concept as well at last year’s LA Auto Show.

Sculpted in the image of a “hunting feline,” the AMG Vision Gran Turismo combined sleek bodylines and incredible power into one imposing package.

Now the designers have one-upped even themselves with the new AMG Vision Gran Turismo Racing Series variant.

The new AMG Vision Gran Turismo Racing Series takes the already uproarious car and makes it much more mental. A large rear wing has been added, which improves downforce, pushing the streamlined car into the road. Although drag is increased with the wing, drivers who prefer high-speed circuits will love the elevated levels of grip.

The CCD camera-based side view mirrors of the original have been replaced with conventional mirrors. This in part helps bring weight down by 85 kilos, taking total curb weight to 1,300 kg.

Impressively, while weight is down, power is up. The 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 now makes 591 horsepower, while the 7-speed AMG dual-clutch transmission has been optimized not for ride comfort but rather for performance.

With a new lower center of gravity, lower ride height, and increased power output, the new AMG Vision Gran Turismo Racing Series should perform even more impressively on the circuit.

Want to get behind the wheel of this ferocious automotive feline? You’ll have to fire up GT6 on your PS3.

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Former Digital Trends Contributor

Nick Jaynes is the Automotive Editor for Digital Trends. He developed a passion for writing about cars working his way…

Cars

Rivian R2 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: Should you wait for the Rivian R2?

Rivian R2

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The R2 and the Ioniq 5 each make a compelling case for themselves, and they're likely to end up being similarly priced if the Ioniq 5 doesn't get much cheaper and the R2 does end up being sold at $45,000. To be fair, the cars are pretty different -- the R2 is more of an SUV, while the Ioniq 5 is much more crossover-sized. But because of their similar price, you might be deciding between the two. How do they compare? We put the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 head-to-head.
Design
The differences between the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 are perhaps no more apparent than when it comes to design.

Cars

The 6 best remote car starters in 2024

Best car remote starters

While some modern vehicles come standard with remote start features, it's still relatively uncommon. That's a shame because if you live somewhere where cold weather, snow, and ice are frequent concerns, a remote car starter is one of the best auto accessories you can have. If you're not familiar with them, a remote car starter works similarly to a key fob, except it will actually start your car from a distance instead of just unlocking the doors or trunk. That means you can start your car from the warm comfort of your home or office before venturing out. If you live somewhere hot, you can even start your car and let the AC run for a little bit. You'll never enter a freezing cold or scorching hot vehicle again.

The best remote car starters have long ranges, replaceable batteries, and other handy features — but how do you know which is best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the best car starters in a range of prices and features. Keep in mind that while you can install some yourself, some will require a professional.
The best remote car starters in 2024

Cars

The best portable jump starters for cars in 2024

The Clore Jump-N-Carry JNC660 portable jump starter connected to a truck battery.

Any time you hit the road, whether you're taking a short or long trip, it's a good idea to have backups handy. A spare or backup tire, some anti-freeze, windshield wash fluid, a road hazard kit, and, last but not least, one of the best portable tire inflators and a portable jump starter. You never know when cold weather, inadvertently leaving the dome light on, or plain old Father Time can curse you with a dead battery. Ensure you have one of the best portable jump starters that can save you in a jam, kickstarting your car even when there isn't anyone around to jump the battery. Naturally, that's why we’ve rounded up what we feel are the best portable jump starters for 2024.
The best portable jump starters in 2024

Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter overall.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter runner-up.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter and tire inflator combo.
Buy the if you want another name-brand option.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter for cheap.