RENAULT

Renault to spin off electric vehicle arm Ampere

Renault SA plans to reintegrate its electric vehicle and software business Ampere into its parent company, halting a major strategic move. Former CEO Luca de Meo had promised investors that Ampere would be worth 10 billion euros, but that promise has not materialized.

For a year and a half, the Renault Group had announced its plans, and in November 2023, the time came: Renault established the independent company Ampere for electric cars and software-defined vehicles (SDVs), employing around 11,000 staff, of whom approximately 35% were engineers. As part of this move, the e-mobility cluster ElectriCity in northern France—comprising the car factories in Douai and Maubeuge, as well as the component plant in Ruitz—along with the component plant in Cléon, were transferred to Ampere’s ownership. Ampere also took over production responsibility for electric models such as the Renault 4 and Renault 5, which continued to be marketed under the Renault brand. Later, Ampere opened a new software centre near Nice.

Ampere was considered a pet project of former CEO Luca de Meo, who also brought the alliance partners Nissan and Mitsubishi on board and aimed to take Ampere public quickly. However, Renault postponed the IPO in January 2024, and it has not been rescheduled since. In March 2025, Nissan was released from its obligation to invest €600 million in Ampere. And in May 2025, the €200 million investment agreement with Mitsubishi was also terminated.

After Luca de Meo moved to the luxury group Kering in the summer of 2025, his successor, François Provost, began reviewing the strategy. He now appears set to reverse the spin-off of Ampere, despite having previously supported it. This is reported by the news agency Reuters, citing two insiders. However, Luca de Meo may have at least indirectly prepared this step by terminating the contracts with Nissan and Mitsubishi – because since then it was clear that Ampere belongs entirely to Renault anyway.

Bloomberg reports that CEO Francois Provost is dismantling the standalone electric vehicle unit less than six months into his term, citing lower-than-expected demand for electric vehicles and the need to simplify Renault’s corporate structure. In January 2024, Renault canceled its initial public offering of Ampere shares altogether. The official explanation cited unfavorable market conditions, but the real problem was simpler: investors were not willing to pay what Renault was asking. Demand for electric vehicles in Europe had waned.

De Meo left Renault in mid-2025 to become CEO of luxury group Kering, leaving Provost to deal with the fallout from an electric vehicle strategy that looked great on paper but clashed with market reality. Renault is doing well with electric vehicles, especially with the R4 and R5 models, but the overall electric car market is not growing as expected. The reorganization will transform Ampere into an engineering center focused on software and electric vehicle development within the Renault Group. It will eliminate the administrative costs of maintaining a separate corporate structure.

Renault is set to reintegrate its electric vehicle unit, Ampere, back into the main group, effectively shutting down the separate EV company as of July 2026, according to recent reports in January 2026, reversing the previous plan to spin it off publicly after market conditions made an IPO unfeasible and CEO François Provost seeks operational streamlining. Ampere, established in 2023 for developing affordable, software-defined EVs like the Renault 5 and Renault 4, will see its EV tech, factories, and 11,000 employees returned to direct Renault control, simplifying structure and reducing costs, with no job losses anticipated but unions remaining vigilant. 

Background of Ampere(below):

Launch: Ampere was formed in late 2023 as an autonomous unit to accelerate Renault's EV and software strategy, aiming to be a European competitor to Tesla and Chinese EV makers.

Goal: To lower EV costs by 40% and develop software-defined vehicles (SDVs) using a new platform starting in 2026.

IPO Cancellation: An initial public offering (IPO) planned for 2024 was canceled in January 2024 due to poor market conditions, making the standalone structure redundant.

Partnerships: Renault brought in partners like Nissan and Mitsubishi, though their investment obligations were later terminated. 

The reintegration plan (January 2026):

New Leadership: Under CEO François Provost, the focus shifts to streamlining operations after the failed IPO.

Structure: Ampere's EV development, manufacturing (Douai, Maubeuge), component plants, and 11,000 staff will be brought back under Renault Group's direct management.

Rationale: To simplify organization, cut costs, and accelerate project implementation, leveraging Renault's stronger financial position.

Products: Ampere's EV models (Renault 5, 4, Twingo) will continue to be sold under the Renault brand, with Ampere managing their full lifecycle internally. 

Autonews

 

BUGATTI

Bugatti F.K.P. Hommage

Bugatti has unveiled the F.K.P. Hommage, a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, part of Bugatti’s exclusive Solitaire program, created in honor of the original Bugatti Veyron and the visionary engineer behind it, Ferdinand Karl Piech.

Conceived to mark two decades since the Veyron redefined the boundaries of automotive engineering, the F.K.P. Hommage celebrates the philosophy that made the hyper-GT concept possible: combining extreme performance with refinement, usability and timeless design.

Technically, the Bugatti F.K.P. Hommage represents the ultimate evolution of Bugatti’s W16 platform. It is powered by the most advanced version of the quad-turbo W16 engine, producing 1,600 horsepower, paired with a reinforced dual-clutch transmission and the latest advances in cooling, aerodynamics and tire technology.

This mechanical package reflects two decades of continuous engineering refinement, while maintaining the compact proportions and balanced layout that were fundamental to the success of the original Veyron. The result is a car that embodies both the raw performance and the civilized, grand-touring character envisioned by Pih.

Bauhaus-influenced elegance, but every surface has been subtly reworked for greater clarity and precision. The iconic horseshoe-shaped front grille has been sculpted into a more three-dimensional shape, seamlessly blending into the surrounding bodywork, while larger air intakes support the upgraded powertrain.

Updated wheel sizes (from 20 to 21 inches) and modern Michelin tire technology enhance both performance and visual balance. Advanced paint processes add further depth, with a complex red finish applied over an aluminum base and contrasting with black-painted exposed carbon fiber, creating a rich, three-dimensional look that changes with light and perspective.

Inside, the F.K.P. The Hommage is a dramatic departure from previous W16 interiors, featuring a near-complete redesign inspired by the minimalist character of the original Veyron. A custom-made steering wheel, a new center console machined from solid aluminum, and exclusive fabrics developed in Paris define the cabin’s aesthetic. The centerpiece of the interior is a fully integrated Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon watch, set within the dashboard as a functional timepiece and a symbolic tribute to mechanical art. Powered by the movement of the car itself, rather than electronics, this feature underscores Bugatti’s commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and deep personalization.

As the second creation of the Solitaire Program after the Brouillard, the F.K.P. Hommage exemplifies Bugatti’s approach to ultra-curated custom-made vehicles, where each vehicle is redesigned from the ground up to reflect its owner’s heritage, engineering excellence, and personal vision.

Autonews

SUBARU

2026 Subaru WRX

The WRX is one of two performance models remaining in Subaru's lineup, and the only one that offers the brand's signature all-wheel drive. It boasts plenty of power from its turbocharged flat-four and is still available with a manual transmission, but the available continuously variable automatic takes some of the immediacy and driver involvement from the experience. There's still fun to be had, though, and today's WRX strikes a nice balance between juvenile and adult tendencies, with lots of creature comforts to go along with its agile handling.

The tS trim, new last year, brings back some of the sharpness that we miss from previous WRX models. It includes bigger Brembo brakes, upsized wheels and tires, specially tuned adaptive dampers, more supportive seats, and a variety of drive modes that let you dial up your desired level of playfulness. The tS's brakes give it all the stopping power you need for track-day events.

Nobody expected the price of a modern performance car to move backward especially not one that built its reputation on rally stages and late night highway pulls so when Subaru quietly reopened the door to an affordable WRX it forced a simple question how did this happen now

For the twenty twenty six model year Subaru brings back the base WRX trim resetting the entry point to thirty three thousand six hundred ninety dollars and undoing a pricing decision that pushed many buyers away just one year earlier The move immediately reshapes the WRX lineup and gives enthusiasts a way back into a brand new turbocharged all wheel drive sport sedan without stretching into premium territory The new WRX is scheduled to arrive at dealerships this spring.

What makes this return more interesting is that the base WRX is not a stripped shell designed only to hit a price target Instead Subaru quietly added features that buyers had been missing Keyless entry with push button start is now included along with summer performance tires a sport tuned suspension a tire pressure monitoring system and modern safety essentials that no longer feel optional.

Inside the WRX balances everyday usability with driver focused details Wireless phone connectivity a rear view camera dual zone climate control cloth seating a leather wrapped steering wheel automatic up and down front windows a tilt and telescoping steering column and LED headlights all come standard This is a car that works on a commute but still feels purpose built when the road opens up.

The WRX looks a lot like other contemporary Subaru models inside, except that it’s dressed up with carbon-fiber-like accents, red contrast stitching, and a thick-rimmed, flat-bottomed steering wheel. WRX tS upgrades include deeply pocketed, eight-way, black synthetic suede Recaro bucket seats, plus blue cabin accents and WRX tS logos.

Performance upgrades on the Series Yellow mirror what is found on the WRX tS which costs forty six thousand one hundred ninety dollars for twenty twenty six That model includes STI tuned electronically controlled dampers Brembo brakes Recaro front seats and Bridgestone Potenza S zero zero seven tires These versions push the WRX closer to track ready territory while maintaining daily drivability.

All WRX models use the same powertrain consisting of a turbocharged 2.4L turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® flat-four engine rated at 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It’s accompanied by all-wheel drive and a standard six-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission, the latter offered as an option on the Premium and Limited and standard on the GT.

In Comparison: Across multiple instrumented tests of Toyota's all-wheel-drive GR Corolla, the hot hatch (with the manual transmission) ripped a best 60-mph time of 4.4 seconds.

The EPA hasn’t released any fuel-economy information for the 2026 WRX yet, but the 2025 model earned ratings of 18-19 mpg city, 25-26 mpg highway, and 21-22 mpg combined. For more information about the WRX's fuel economy.

Depending upon the model, the WRX wears 18- or 19-inch summer tires. The tS improves on the outgoing TR with a reworked suspension that includes adaptive dampers and more powerful Brembo brakes with larger rotors. The brake upgrade offers better resistance to fading, something we confirmed when we drove the tS on a racetrack at our 2025 Lightning Lap event. Other tS updates include black trim for the side mirrors, antenna, and rear spoiler. It’s offset by gold brake calipers and 19-inch satin gray wheels.

Standard Safety Features: forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control

Optional Safety Features: blind-spot monitoring, reverse automated emergency braking

For information about the WRX's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)

Every twenty twenty six WRX is powered by Subaru’s turbocharged two point four liter boxer engine producing two hundred seventy one horsepower A six speed manual transmission remains standard reinforcing the WRX identity while the Subaru Performance Transmission continuously variable option is available on the Limited trim and standard on the GT

The timing of this reset is not accidental WRX sales dropped forty one point two percent in twenty twenty five the same year Subaru removed the base trim and raised prices across the board Total sales fell to just ten thousand nine hundred thirty units a sharp contrast to earlier years But those numbers only tell part of the story.

Subaru previously confirmed that WRX production had been intentionally limited to prioritize the far more popular and profitable Forester With Forester production expanding in the United States capacity has opened back up at the Gunma Japan factory where the WRX is built That shift created the opportunity to bring the WRX back to its roots.

Subaru of America, Inc. announced pricing today on the 2026 WRX, including the return of a base WRX and new limited-production WRX Series.Yellow trim levels. The 2026 Subaru WRX lineup offers exceptional performance throughout the model range, beginning with its 271-horsepower, 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® engine and legendary Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. The 2026 Subaru WRX will arrive at retailers in spring with a starting price of $32,495 MSRP. Compared to the 2002 Subaru WRX, which set the standard for sport compact sedans, the new 2026 WRX has nearly the same price, adjusted for inflation, yet it includes far more equipment and features.  

by Autonews

 

AUTONEWS

The trick that turns your head into an antenna for your car remote control

Sometimes, forgetfulness plays tricks on us. You return to the parking lot where you left your car and can't remember where it is. You press the remote control, looking for flashing lights, but perhaps it's too far away and the signal doesn't reach you. What this driver may not know is that there's an incredible trick that allows you to extend the range of your remote control using something we all carry with us (literally): our own head. It may seem like science fiction (or something out of a MacGyver movie), but your skull can act as an improvised antenna that increases the range of your remote control, perhaps even making the lights you're looking for turn on.

The method is simple and only requires placing the car remote control near your temple or under your chin, pointing it at the area where you think the car might be, and then pressing the lock or unlock button. We're not suggesting you perform magic, but rather that you take advantage of the properties of physics. This is because the human body, composed mainly of water, acts as a natural conductor of electromagnetic waves. By placing the remote control close to your head, you create a kind of resonant cavity that allows the low-frequency radio waves used by car remote controls to be amplified before being emitted into the air.

Body resonance...The effect even has its own name: "body resonance." This resonance allows the skull and cerebrospinal fluid, rich in electrolytes, to conduct electricity when an electromagnetic field is present. The radio signal from the key, upon reaching this structure, is amplified in a specific direction.

Electrical engineer and science communicator Kyle Hill has explained this principle on several occasions, noting that the head acts as a radio frequency signal amplifier. This allows the waves to travel with greater intensity and overcome obstacles that would normally prevent them from reaching the area.

However, it seems that the effectiveness of this trick varies from person to person, as it depends on factors such as the bone density of the skull, the amount of body fluids, and the specific operating frequency of each car's remote control. And, in any case, don't expect a significant increase: under normal conditions, the range of a modern car remote control ranges between 50 and 100 meters, and by holding it close to your head, you only gain about 10 or 15 meters.

Furthermore, it has been proven that if you slightly open your mouth while pressing the remote control attached to your chin (this all sounds like a joke, but it's true), the effect is even more amplified, since the oral cavity also plays a role in resonance and sends the signal even further.

This curious trick, however, has its limitations. It never replaces dead batteries. Nor does it transform a simple key into a long-range remote control. Its true usefulness becomes evident in critical situations, when you've strayed far enough away to lose the signal, but not far enough to make the walk back (if you're unsure whether you locked the car or not) unpleasant. And, interestingly, it's still surprising when you realize it actually works.

Holding your car remote (key fob) against your head can significantly increase its effective range, sometimes doubling it, by using your skull and bodily fluids as a rudimentary antenna. This technique, often demonstrated to help find a car in a crowded parking lot, works because of the high water content in the human body (around 73%). 

How the trick works:

Capacitive Coupling: When you press the key fob to your head (temple or chin), you are "capacitively coupling" the device to your body.

The "Antenna" Effect: The fluids in your skull act as a conductor, essentially extending the antenna of the remote and amplifying the signal.

Dielectric Resonator: The water in your head interacts with the electromagnetic waves from the remote, acting as a "dielectric resonator" that increases the amplitude of the signal.

Better Directivity: The human body acts as a reflector, helping to focus or direct the radio waves toward the car, rather than letting them dissipate in all directions. 

Effective methods:

Under the Chin: Pressing the fob directly under your chin and opening your mouth slightly can be very effective.

The Temple: Pressing it against the side of your head (temple) is another recommended spot.

Height Matters: Even without touching your head, simply holding the remote as high as possible increases range because it reduces obstacles between you and the car. 

by Autonews

AUTONEWS

Mercedes-Benz E 220 CDI: 2 million kilometers without a major breakdown

Mercedes diesel engines are renowned for their ability to cover millions of kilometers without major problems, especially in models like the W124. This 2002 Mercedes E 220 CDI, although it lacks the legendary six-cylinder engine of its predecessor, has covered an incredible 2 million kilometers with the original OM646 engine. Of course, this remarkable durability is thanks to meticulous maintenance.

The Mercedes-Benz E 220 CDI, a version of the W211 launched in 2002, is equipped with the OM646 diesel engine. It is a 2.1-liter, four-cylinder cast iron unit with a turbocharger and an EGR valve to reduce emissions. The engine develops 150 horsepower and 340 Nm of torque from just 2,000 rpm. Before the introduction of the optional diesel particulate filter (DPF), this older version was not equipped with this system, which reduced the strain on the exhaust system.

The secret is in regular servicing...The car in question has covered 2,190,000 kilometers with the original engine. Only the gearbox and injectors have been replaced. This distance is equivalent to traveling to the moon and back three times. Such impressive longevity shows the reliability of this generation of German cars, especially when properly maintained.

However, it is important to note that the OM646 engines are not considered indestructible compared to the famous OM602, known for its “invincibility”. This case, however, proves that even a four-cylinder engine can achieve exceptional durability with proper maintenance. Regular and careful servicing is essential, especially for older diesel models. Forum discussions also reveal that some well-maintained Mercedes engines often exceed 500,000 kilometers.

This is especially true for cars used as taxis in Germany, where they are driven almost constantly. While that is impressive, it is far from the record set by this Mercedes E 220 CDI. Therefore, this is a truly rare feat.

This example shows that some older designs, despite their simplicity compared to modern electronic systems, can offer a long life with proper maintenance. Today's modern cars are safer, cleaner and more advanced, but they are not always designed to last that long. Because if they were, the automotive industry would be out of business within a few years.

Documented cases exist of Mercedes-Benz E 220 CDI models (particularly the W211 and W212 generations) surpassing or approaching 2 million kilometers, primarily when used as taxis or for high-mileage commercial work. These vehicles are renowned for their exceptional durability, often achieving over 1 million kilometers on their original engine and transmission. 

autonews1@yahoo.com answer---Key examples and records Mercedes:

2 Million KM (2003 W211): A 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 220 CDI, owned by taxi driver Manuel Costa e Silva in Portugal, achieved 2 million kilometers. The car reached this milestone with its original transmission and differential, though the engine was replaced at 1.5 million km.

Over 2.3 Million KM (2004 W211): A 2004 W211 E220 CDI was documented in 2025 as having reached 2,333,333 km, reported to still be on its original engine and gearbox.

1 Million+ KM (W212): Reports indicate that the W212 model is equally robust, with instances of high-mileage taxis exceeding 1 million kilometers (621k+ miles) while maintaining solid performance. 

Maintenance for high mileage:

-Achieving such high mileage requires rigorous maintenance and specific driving habits, including: 

-Preventive Maintenance: Regular, strict adherence to maintenance schedules.

-Engine Care: Allowing the engine to warm up for about 5 minutes before starting a journey.

-Gentle Driving: Avoiding exceeding 80 km/h in the first 10 km.

-Component Overhaul: Proactive servicing of the starter motor and alternator every 500,000 km. 

Common characteristics:

-Durability: The E-Class is designed for longevity, frequently used in high-mileage, long-distance, or "workhorse" roles.

-Reliability: The diesel engines in these models are highly regarded for their reliability when properly maintained.

-Wear and tear: While the mechanical components can last, other parts like the interior or body may show signs of wear, especially after over 1 million kilometers. 

by Autonews

AUTONEWS

Real-time 3D measurement system streamlines steel forming for shipbuilding

The DIKUQ project has developed a semi-automated process chain for forming steel sheets for shipbuilding. Fraunhofer IOF designed a novel inline 3D measurement system that can digitally capture workpieces in less than half a second and reconstruct them as 3D images. The system reduces the workload for specialists and minimizes quality fluctuations.

When bending steel sheets weighing several tons for ship hulls, the final geometry often depends on the trained eye and experience of the workers. Millimeters determine the accuracy of fit and stability. Until now, specialists had to repeatedly stop the production process to manually check for deviations in shape—a time-consuming and error-prone process. Conventional approaches to digitalizing these processes from industrial series production can hardly be transferred to the individual production of single pieces in shipbuilding.

The joint research project DIKUQ ("Digitalization of cold plastic forming through continuous quality control"), addresses precisely this issue. In this project, the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF, together with partners, developed a semi-automated process chain for the cold plastic forming of ship components. The project partners are Ostseestaal GmbH & Co.KG, which also acts as project coordinator, the Fraunhofer Institute for Large Structures in Production Engineering IGP, the University of Rostock, and MSR-Service GmbH. One focus of the project is the precise, digital recording of the workpieces along the entire process chain.

A worker forming a steel sheet. Thanks to the measurement system, test templates are no longer required during forming. Credit: Fraunhofer IOF

Sensor network for 3D reconstruction...For the DIKUQ project, researchers at Fraunhofer IOF have developed a novel high-speed inline 3D measurement system: a low-latency 3D sensor network that can be used to digitally capture the workpiece, enabling precise target/actual comparisons directly at the press. The system consists of two synchronized cameras on the right and left sides of the workpiece, which are coupled with the corresponding projectors. This allows a measuring volume of up to 4 x 2 x 0.5 meters to be completely captured in less than half a second. The image sequences obtained are reconstructed into a precise 3D model of the workpiece using triangulation.

At the heart of the system is an area-based 3D measurement method using structured light in the near-infrared range (NIR). "An irregular pattern is projected onto the object surface, which deforms according to the geometry of the workpiece," explains Dr. Christoph Munkelt, research scientist in the Imaging and Sensors department at Fraunhofer IOF. "The distortion of the pattern then provides us with the information for the 3D reconstruction."

"The decisive advantage over conventional methods lies in the real-time feedback," explains the IOF researcher. "The system creates an automated target/actual comparison with the target geometry, which is projected onto the sheet metal. This allows the worker to see immediately where reworking is required to achieve the target corridor." Physical test templates, which would otherwise have to be time-consuming to set up and evaluate, are no longer necessary. Instead, a digital "test template" is available that can be compared with the process data at any time.

Supporting specialists with 3D data...The system's precise, digital feedback makes complex work steps that were previously anchored exclusively in the experience of workers accessible for new employees. "Our goal is to provide digital support for the forming process, which has previously been shaped primarily by the expertise of the workers. This enables us to counteract the shortage of specialists, increase process reliability, and make jobs more attractive," explains Maximilian Müller, Head of Research and Development at Ostseestaal.

Digital recording of the workpiece geometry minimizes quality fluctuations, achieves higher fitting accuracy, and reduces the return rate. At the same time, the system creates complete quality control documentation that is traceable for end customers.

Digitally networked manufacturing process...With the overall system developed in the DIKUQ project, the project partners are presenting an example of a digitally networked, semi-automated manufacturing process for the cold plastic forming of ship components—from incoming goods inspection to planning and control of the forming steps to final quality inspection. The automation concept can also be transferred to industries with similar requirements, such as aerospace or architecture.

Provided by Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft

TRIUMPH

New 2026 Tiger Sport 660

Something unexpected happens when a motorcycle quietly gains more power, more range, and more confidence without trying to reinvent itself, and that is where the story of the new Tiger Sport 660 really begins.

At first glance, the Tiger Sport 660 still looks familiar, but spend a few moments riding it and you quickly realize something has shifted beneath the surface. Triumph has taken a machine already known for balance and versatility and sharpened it in all the places that actually matter to real riders. This is not about chasing extremes. It is about making every ride feel easier, stronger, and more satisfying, whether you are commuting across town or packing up for a long weekend escape.

The main advancement lies in the mechanical assembly. Both the Trident and the Tiger Sport now feature the updated 660 cc three-cylinder engine. It now delivers 95 hp at 11,250 rpm and 6.93 kgf.m of torque at 8,250 rpm. The rev limit has been raised by 20%, reaching 12,650 rpm, while 80% of the maximum torque is available between 3,000 rpm and almost 12,000 rpm, ensuring more vigorous and usable responses throughout the rev range.

This performance gain was made possible thanks to important changes, such as the adoption of three individual 44 mm throttle bodies. In addition, it gained a new, larger-volume front airbox, a revised cylinder head with larger exhaust valves, and a camshaft with greater lift. The cooling system has also been improved, with a larger and repositioned radiator and fan.

The heart of the Tiger Sport 660 is its updated 660 cubic centimeter triple engine, now producing 95 PS and 68 Nm of torque. That increase is not just a number on paper. It shows up the moment you roll on the throttle. Power builds smoothly and confidently, with 80 percent of torque available from 3000 rpm all the way to nearly 12000 rpm. This wide and usable powerband is what makes the Tiger Sport 660 feel calm in traffic and confident when fully loaded with luggage or carrying a passenger.

A big reason for this improvement comes from meaningful mechanical changes. Triumph moved from a single throttle body to three individual 44 millimeter throttle bodies, one for each cylinder. The engine also benefits from a larger front mounted airbox, revised cylinder head, and updated cam profiles. The redline has been raised by 20 percent to 12650 rpm, giving the engine more breathing room at the top while keeping the smooth character that makes this bike so approachable.

On the road, the Tiger Sport 660 feels stronger without becoming intimidating. Throttle response is clean and predictable, especially at low rpm, which makes slow speed riding and tight maneuvers less stressful. At highway speeds, the engine feels relaxed and composed, with plenty in reserve for overtakes and long climbs.

Triumph also paid attention to comfort and touring practicality. The fuel tank has grown to 18.6 liters, extending range and reducing fuel stops on longer rides. The revised bodywork improves wind protection, and the adjustable windscreen can be changed with one hand, allowing riders to fine tune airflow depending on speed and weather. These details may seem small, but together they make a big difference over a full day in the saddle.

The chassis remains one of the Tiger Sport 660 strongest points. A revised frame accommodates the updated engine while maintaining the bike’s light and agile feel. Showa suspension front and rear delivers 150 millimeters of travel, offering a balanced setup that absorbs rough roads without feeling soft or vague. The rear shock includes remote preload adjustment, which is especially useful when switching between solo riding and two up touring.

Braking performance comes from twin 310 millimeter front discs with Nissin calipers, delivering consistent stopping power with good feel at the lever. Michelin Road 5 tires provide confidence in both dry and wet conditions, reinforcing the bike’s all weather capability.

Technology is fully integrated without overwhelming the rider. Ride by wire throttle enables three riding modes, Sport, Road, and Rain, each adjusting throttle response, traction control, and ABS. A six axis inertial measurement unit allows cornering ABS and cornering traction control, adding reassurance when roads get unpredictable. Cruise control comes standard, making highway stretches less tiring, while Triumph Shift Assist allows smooth clutchless upshifts and downshifts.

The display combines a color TFT screen with an LCD panel, keeping information clear and easy to read. MyTriumph Connectivity is standard, enabling navigation, music, and call control, which adds convenience without distraction.

Visually, the Tiger Sport 660 looks more purposeful for 2026. Updated radiator cowls and revised front end styling give it a stronger presence, while new color options like Interstellar Blue with Mineral Grey and Silver Ice with Intense Orange add personality without being loud. The finish feels premium throughout, with careful attention to fit, materials, and small design touches.

What makes the Tiger Sport 660 stand out is not one headline feature, but how everything works together. It is comfortable without being dull, sporty without being demanding, and capable without being complicated. It fits into everyday life just as easily as it fits into a weekend adventure.

by Mundoquatrorodas