Autoesque

Following a second round of voting, the top three finalists for each of this year’s World Car Awards have been named.

Although they both look the same as before, the 2021 BMW C 400 X and C 400 GT mid-size scooters have received some worthwhile technical improvements.

First things first: the new Continental GT Speed (which Bentley claims is “the most dynamic road car” in its history) won’t be available in Europe.

Two manufacturers are supplying the Formula 1 Safety and Medical Cars this season. Mercedes-AMG continues to provide the familiar GT R F1 Safety Car and C 63 S Estate F1 Medical Car (albeit both now painted red), while Aston Martin will fulfil the role for the first time with the Vantage F1 Safety Car and DBX F1 Medical Car.

As part of its India 2.0 product strategy, Škoda has introduced the Kushaq. At 4,221 mm (13’ 10”) long and 1,760 mm (5’ 9”) wide, this new SUV is about the same size as the B-segment Kamiq that’s currently sold in Europe.

Volkswagen has added a Sportline trim grade to its Transporter line-up. Available for both panel van and Kombi models in either short- or long-wheelbase guises, this new styling package also benefits from a decent level of equipment.

Unlike several other manufacturers, Toyota isn’t abandoning the city car segment. The Aygo X Prologue is a striking new concept which demonstrates that commitment.

To mark the launch of its third-generation Qashqai, Nissan has created the Premiere Edition. This special version – which in terms of specification sits between the N-Connecta and Tekna grades – is due to arrive at dealers in the summer.

As well as being the first model to be built on the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the 2022 Kia EV6 introduces the brand’s new ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy.

Toyota has created the GR Supra Jarama Racetrack Edition. Based on the 340 PS (335 bhp / 250 kW) 3.0-litre model, it’s named after the famous circuit located north of Madrid, Spain.

Four years after it was originally unveiled, the SsangYong Rexton SUV has been comprehensively updated.

As its name suggests, the new 2021 Rocket 3 GT Triple Black limited edition motorcycle gets a unique dark look.

Triumph has introduced a blacked-out version of the Rocket 3 R. Named (unsurprisingly) the Rocket 3 R Black, production is being limited to 1,000 units for distribution around the world.

To help celebrate two decades of the TMAX scooter, Yamaha has created the new 20th Anniversary limited edition.

This year’s World Car Awards ‘long list’ finalists have been announced.

Škoda has released some design sketches that show both the exterior and interior of its upcoming Kushaq.

Hyundai is adding another B-segment SUV to its European range. The new Bayon – which measures 4,180 mm (13’ 9”) long – joins the slightly larger 4,205 mm (13’ 10”) Kona.

A jury comprising 59 motoring journalists from 22 European countries has decided the winner of the 2021 European Car of the Year contest.

This summer marks 45 years since Volkswagen introduced the original Golf GTI. The new GTI Clubsport 45 limited edition has been created to commemorate that upcoming anniversary.