Electric Cars

Twisted Automotive has unveiled the TRRC, a bespoke reimagining of the iconic first-generation three-door Range Rover. This exclusive restomod, limited to just 12 units annually, commands a starting price of £350,000 (approximately $445,000), excluding the donor vehicle. The TRRC seamlessly blends the classic charm of the 1970s off-roader with contemporary performance and luxurious craftsmanship, making it a highly coveted collector's item. Every vehicle undergoes a rigorous hand-building process and over 500 miles of testing to ensure exceptional quality and a refined driving experience, reflecting Twisted's two decades of expertise in Land Rover modifications. The meticulous attention to detail and significant upgrades justify its premium price, appealing to discerning buyers who seek both heritage and cutting-edge automotive engineering.

At its core, the TRRC is powered by a formidable 6.2-liter LT1 V8 engine, derived from the Chevrolet Corvette, delivering around 500 horsepower. This substantial power increase is complemented by an eight-speed automatic transmission and a comprehensively upgraded chassis, including reinforced suspension, bushings, and differentials. The braking system features six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers, ensuring robust stopping power. Inside, the cabin receives a complete overhaul with lower-mounted seats for improved driving ergonomics, leather upholstery, heated seats, an eight-channel audio system, and a discreetly integrated infotainment unit. The exterior benefits from new hand-formed aluminum panels and enhanced panel fit, addressing a common issue in older Range Rovers. These elements collectively contribute to a vehicle that offers modern comfort and performance without sacrificing its classic appeal.

Modern Power Meets Classic Design

The Twisted TRRC embodies a meticulous fusion of vintage Range Rover aesthetics with a powerful, modern powertrain. At its heart lies a 6.2-liter LT1 V8 engine, extensively re-engineered from the Chevrolet Corvette, generating an impressive 500 horsepower. This significant performance upgrade is coupled with an advanced eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive power delivery. To handle this enhanced power, the vehicle features thoroughly reinforced suspension, bushings, and differentials, along with a high-performance braking system comprising six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers. Despite these extensive modifications, Twisted Automotive has carefully preserved the Range Rover's characteristic ride comfort and composure, avoiding any harshness often associated with performance enhancements. The vehicle's exterior styling pays homage to the 1970s models with a clean, simple front bumper, while incorporating elements from the 1990s Range Rovers, such as the grille and lighting, to create a timeless yet updated appearance.

The design philosophy behind the TRRC is to honor its heritage while integrating contemporary advancements. The introduction of new hand-formed aluminum panels dramatically improves the body's fit and finish, a notable enhancement over the original vehicles. Buyers also have the option to customize the exterior, including painting the C-pillar to match the body, thus eliminating the traditional 'floating roof' look for a more integrated and robust stance. This blend of classic lines with modern manufacturing techniques ensures the TRRC stands out as a unique and exquisitely crafted vehicle. The founder, Charles Fawcett, conceived the TRRC as a personal tribute to his father's 1980s Range Rover, emphasizing the deep personal connection and passion that drives the project. The limited annual production of just 12 units underscores its exclusivity, making each TRRC a rare and highly sought-after collector's piece that seamlessly marries nostalgia with cutting-edge engineering and bespoke artistry.

Crafted for the Driving Enthusiast

The interior of the Twisted TRRC has been completely transformed to prioritize driver and passenger comfort, combined with discreet modern technology. The redesign includes lower-mounted seats, which not only enhance the driving position but also maximize the impact of the Range Rover's distinctive glasshouse, offering an expansive view. Inside, occupants are enveloped in luxury with premium leather upholstery, heated seats, and an advanced eight-channel audio system. A seamlessly integrated infotainment setup ensures connectivity and entertainment without detracting from the classic cabin aesthetic. Every detail in the TRRC's interior speaks to a bespoke approach: sound deadening materials are strategically placed beneath the carpets, rather than concealed behind panels, allowing the painted surfaces to remain visible and contributing to the vehicle's unique, handcrafted feel. This thoughtful design philosophy ensures that modern amenities are present but subtly integrated, maintaining the authentic character of the original Range Rover.

Each TRRC undergoes a meticulous hand-building process, reflecting an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Following assembly, every vehicle is subjected to over 500 miles of rigorous testing to guarantee optimal performance, reliability, and an uncompromised driving experience before delivery to its owner. This exhaustive testing ensures that the TRRC is not merely a showpiece but a vehicle built to be driven and enjoyed. The culmination of these efforts results in a Range Rover Classic that is noticeably sharper, faster, and far more exclusive than its original counterpart, all while retaining the essential character and iconic appeal that made it legendary. The high demand for this exceptional vehicle is evident in the fact that Twisted Automotive's entire 2026 production run is already sold out, highlighting its immense desirability among enthusiasts and collectors seeking a truly unique blend of classic charm, modern performance, and artisanal quality. The TRRC is more than a car; it's a statement of automotive artistry and engineering excellence.

In a bold move that defies the prevailing automotive trend towards SUVs, BMW has officially teased the next iteration of its 3 Series Touring, signaling a continued commitment to the wagon body style. This announcement coincides with the reveal of the i3, highlighting BMW's strategy to offer a diverse range of vehicles, including traditional sedans and estates, alongside its growing electric crossover lineup. The forthcoming 3 Series Touring is poised to feature both conventional internal combustion engines and electric powertrains, mirroring the flexibility expected in its sedan counterpart.

During the i3 presentation, Oliver Zipse, BMW's outgoing CEO, briefly showcased the new 3 Series Touring. While specifics on powertrain options remain under wraps, the indication of an electric variant (i3 wagon) is strong, alongside potential gasoline and diesel choices. Observant enthusiasts have noted subtle design cues, such as low-profile roof bars, suggesting a refined aesthetic for the new model. However, there's speculation that some traditional features, like the independently opening rear window—a beloved practicality in previous Touring models, including the current 3 Series and older 5 Series variants—might be reconsidered in the new design. Such an alteration, while minor, could impact user convenience, reflecting broader trends in modern automotive design.

BMW's dedication to the Touring line, even if certain practical elements are modified, is a strong statement in a market increasingly dominated by SUVs. The continuation of the 5 Series Touring, coupled with the introduction of this new 3 Series wagon, ensures a rich variety for consumers seeking alternatives to high-riding utility vehicles. The possibility of the new 3 Series Touring making its way to the United States could also be a significant development for American wagon enthusiasts, who currently have limited choices, particularly at a more accessible price point than premium models like the M5 Touring. Beyond the confirmed sedan and wagon, hints of a coupe-styled iX4 crossover suggest BMW is exploring diverse form factors, possibly as an indirect successor to the X4, with an all-electric future in mind for many models, including potential two-door variants to fill the void left by the outgoing Z4 and 8 Series.

This strategic direction by BMW underscores a visionary approach to automotive evolution, balancing innovation with heritage. By embracing electric propulsion across varied body styles and maintaining a presence in segments like wagons, BMW demonstrates a commitment to catering to a wide spectrum of customer preferences, ensuring that driving enthusiasts and practical consumers alike have compelling choices in an ever-changing automotive landscape. This forward-thinking strategy not only preserves the brand's storied legacy but also paves the way for a dynamic and diversified future.