PORSCHE 911 SPIRIT 70
A Retro-Charged Convertible Dream
Porsche enthusiasts, brace yourselves for a collector’s gem that’s as much a time machine as a supercar. Porsche has unleashed the 911 Spirit 70 at the Shanghai Auto Show, a drop-top stunner limited to 1,500 units that channels the free-spirited vibe of the 1970s and early 1980s. Built on the 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet platform, this hybrid rocket blends heritage with electrified thrills, and we viewed it in the metal at the largest automobile exhibition in the world.
Under the hood, a 3.6-litre boxer engine, paired with an eTurbo and electric motor in the new PDK, pumps out 398 kW and 610 Nm, delivering blistering acceleration.
The Spirit 70, part of Porsche’s Heritage Design strategy, sports a bespoke Olive Neo green paint, contrasted by Bronzite grey-gold on the lower rear, front, and Fuchs-style wheels. Black silk gloss stripes and “Lollipop” side graphics evoke ’70s racing, while a 1963-inspired Porsche crest and gold-plated badges add vintage flair. Inside, the iconic Pasha pattern in black/olive neo adorns the 18-way sports seats, glovebox, and optional trim, its chequered-flag design screaming retro cool. Basalt black leather and a high-res 12.65″ instrument cluster with green digits nod to the Porsche 356.
Though its price tag makes for a sizable investment, Porsche sweetens the deal with a bespoke chronograph, a 1970s-inspired Lifestyle Collection, and an Apple Vision Pro app for virtual customisation. With over 1,000 Exclusive Manufaktur options, the Spirit 70 is a rolling tribute to Porsche’s past and future.
The Porsche 911 Spirit 70 is available to order now at R5,056,000 and includes a three-year/100,000 km Driveplan.
RENAULT 5 TURBO 3E
Retro Electric Dream
Buckle up, Renault enthusiasts! Renault has just dropped a bombshell with the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, an all-electric “mini-supercar” that reimagines the legendary Renault 5 Turbo and Turbo 2 from the ’80s. Unveiled for production last month, this pocket rocket is now open for reservations. While it’s unlikely to grace many Mzansi driveways with a starting price of €155,000 (roughly R3.3 million), this electrified beast is a drool-worthy masterpiece for gearheads dreaming big.
The Turbo 3E channels its retro roots with a bold, modern twist. Think flared wheel arches, supercar stance, city-car footprint. Its 80zero to volt architecture powers two rear wheel-hub motors, churning out a ferocious 400 kW and a jaw-dropping 4,800 Nm of instant torque. Weighing under 1,450 kg thanks to a carbon superstructure, this rear-wheel-drive monster rockets from zero to 100 km/h in under 3.5 seconds. A 70 kWh battery delivers over 400 km of WLTP range, and with 350 kW DC fast-charging, it juices up from 15-80% in just 15 minutes.
Only 1,980 numbered units will be made, and securing one requires a €50,000 (R1.06 million) deposit via Renault’s online portal to lock in a dealership appointment. This priority reservation ensures first dibs when sales open, with the option to pick your car’s number for extra bragging rights. From 2026, buyers can customise their ride, choosing iconic liveries like Grenade Red or a Tour de Corse-inspired black, yellow, and white scheme, or even collaborating with Renault’s Design team for a one-of-a-kind look. Deliveries are set for 2027, pending homologation.
While it’s a fantasy for most, the Turbo 3E proves Renault’s still got the guts to build cars that make our petrolhead hearts race.
HIDE AND SEEK
Bentley’s AI Tech For Leather Perfection
Bentley Motors introduced a groundbreaking AI-powered Hide Inspection system at its Crewe “Dream Factory,” marking a significant advancement in luxury automotive craftsmanship.
The system employs advanced camera technology and artificial intelligence to detect minute imperfections in leather hides, such as insect bites, scars, or holes, ensuring only the finest materials adorn Bentley interiors. With approximately nine hides required per Bentayga SUV, this technology enhances quality control, reducing waste and cutting CO2 emissions by 135.7 kg per vehicle. This aligns with Bentley’s Beyond100+ strategy prioritising sustainable, high-tech luxury manufacturing.
The AI streamlines the inspection process, evaluating multiple hides simultaneously and optimising cuts for over 200 trim components. As the first Volkswagen Group brand to adopt this method, Bentley sets a new industry standard. Crucially, the technology complements the expertise of Crewe’s artisans, automating initial assessments to allow skilled craftspeople to focus on intricate hand-stitched detailing, preserving the bespoke elegance of Bentley cabins.
This Hide Inspection innovation exemplifies Bentley’s fusion of cutting-edge technology and traditional craftsmanship, and provides a glimpse into the meticulous artistry and forward-thinking ethos driving Bentley’s pursuit of automotive perfection.
Report by WILHELM LOOTS
