Goodwood is thrilled to announce that 1978 Formula 1 World Champion Mario Andretti will return to this year’s Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard.

In attendance across all four days of the event, Mario will take to the Goodwood Hill in his 1978 championship-winning Lotus 79 as the Festival of Speed joins forces with Formula 1 to celebrate 75 years of the F1 World Championship.

An Italian native, who became enthralled by motor racing when he was taken to watch the Mille Miglia and Italian Grand Prix in 1954, before his family emigrated to Nazareth, Pennsylvania when he was 15, Mario Andretti is widely regarded as one of the most versatile racing drivers of all time. During a competitive career that began dirt track racing with his twin brother Aldo in 1959 (without their parents’ knowledge!) and concluded with a 15^th place finish at the Le Mans 24 Hours in 2000, Mario amassed more than 100 careers wins across an extraordinary range of disciplines.

Along with fellow American racing legend Dan Gurney, Mario is one of only two drivers to win in Formula 1, IndyCar, NASCAR and World Championship Sports Car racing, and he remains the only driver to have won the Daytona 500 (1967), Indy 500 (1969) and the Formula 1 World Championship (1978). Even during his World Championship year in 1978, he found time to compete in eight IndyCar races, crossing the Atlantic (on Concorde, to save time!) at every opportunity.

He is also part of one of the greatest racing dynasties of all time. As well as his twin brother Aldo, his sons Michael and Jeff, nephew John, and grandson Mario have all competed at the top level. Indeed, at the 1991 and 1992 Indy 500, there were four Andrettis on the grid (Mario, Michael, Jeff and John), and Mario twice competed in 24-hour races as part of an all-Andretti line-up (with Michael and John at Le Mans in 1988, and at Daytona with Michael and Jeff in 1991).

Even now, Mario remains actively involved in motorsport, driving the two-seater IndyCar at races, and is on the board of the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, which will make its F1 debut in 2026.

In July, Andretti will join the Festival of Speed’s biggest single celebration for the 75th anniversary of the Formula 1 World Championship as part of the Champions class, reuniting with his Championship-winning Lotus 79, which he last drove at the Festival of Speed in 2021. He’ll be joined by four-time Formula 1 World Champion Alain Prost and other legendary F1 names, to be announced in the coming weeks.

Formula 1 World Champion Mario Andretti said: “I have been to the Goodwood Festival of Speed many times, driving various iconic cars.  And I’m ready for another run up the hill in my Lotus 79. Why do I keep coming back? It’s a memorable experience with a wonderful community of car enthusiasts who bring the heart and the noise. There are so many greats in the paddock at Goodwood – the cars, their mechanics and of course the drivers. It will be fun to see how this year’s celebration of 75 years of Formula 1 comes together.”

The Duke of Richmond CBE DL said: “I am thrilled that Mario will be joining us at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this year. He is, in many ways, the ultimate motorsport hero – a truly global superstar, who mastered every racing discipline in which he competed, from dirt tracks to the Indy 500, Formula 1 to Pikes Peak, and world sports cars to the Daytona 500. He is also one of the most eloquent and charismatic men ever to sit in a racing car, whose incredible 40-year career spanned motorsport’s most glamorous and dangerous era. It is always a pleasure to welcome him to Goodwood, especially this year, as we host the biggest celebration to mark 75 years of the F1 World Championship. I can’t wait to see him back aboard the stunning Lotus 79 – one of the greatest partnerships in Formula 1 history.”

Mario Andretti joins the previously-announced celebration for four-time WorldSBK Champion Carl Fogarty, the biggest celebration of Formula 1, and Gordon Murray Automotive’s impressive Central Feature sculpture.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday tickets are now sold out, with limited Thursday tickets remaining at goodwood.com.

International Jazz Day is celebrated on 30th April in 190 countries around the world

Honda is hitting the high notes on International Jazz Day with a unique duet between sounds created by its award-winning Jazz e:HEV and renowned, award-winning saxophonist, Otis Lawrence.

By capturing the car’s seat mechanism, fuel filler cap opening, and remote key fob, plus its doors, bonnet, and windows being opened and closed, the maestros at Honda have carefully arranged a backing track to accompany Otis and his saxophone – creating a one-off performance that is sure to strike a chord with Jazz fans around the world.

Nik Pearson, General Manager of Corporate Communications at Honda Motor Europe commented: “With its style, sophistication and famed reliability, the Honda Jazz is the perfect bandmate for Otis and his saxophone. Since embarking on its European tour over 20 years ago, the Jazz has built up a dedicated fanbase and received a chorus of strong reviews – this is therefore a fitting musical tribute to our very own chart-topper.”

Honda Jazz e:HEV
With its combination of space, efficiency and technology, the Honda Jazz e:HEV is packed with sax appeal. Now in its fourth generation, the hybrid model is one of the brand’s most successful ever, with almost 9 million global sales and more than 50 international awards since it launched in 2001. Available in four trim levels – Elegance, Advance, Crosstar and Sport Advance – the latest Jazz is the most advanced and practical model yet.

Instrumental in this success is an interior that provides unrivalled utility, practicality and functionality in a simple, ergonomic layout. There’s a class-leading 986mm of rear legroom, while rear Magic Seat configuration delivers both fold-flat or flip-up flexibility.

Like all Honda’s mainstream model range, the Jazz e:HEV also features a state-of-the-art electrified powertrain producing as little as 102 g/km (WLTP) and fuel economy of 4.5l/100km (WLTP).

For more information on the Honda Jazz visit: https://www.honda.co.uk/cars/new/jazz-hybrid/

International Jazz Day
Founded in 2011 by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), International Jazz Day aims to promote peace, diversity and respect for human rights and dignity through the exploration and performing of Jazz music.

Wednesday 30 April 2025, Gaydon: Aston Martin is proud to announce the arrival of a new DBX flagship, DBX S. With the dynamic appeal of DBX707 and an engine enhanced by technology transferred directly from the forthcoming Valhalla supercar, DBX S offers one of the most engaging and responsive driving experiences delivering even more power, reduced weight and more assertive design. With a suite of exterior and interior enhancements to match, the DBX S certainly has its own undeniable identity.

DBX S continues a long tradition of Aston Martin’s utilising the ‘S’ suffix to denote a special, high-performance version of an existing model; the first being Vanquish S which made its public debut at the Paris Motor Show in 2004. DBX S proves that lighter variants with more power and performance are still very much part of Aston Martin’s core production offering and looks to continue a lineage of notable high performing models.

Aston Martin CEO, Adrian Hallmark, said ‘Over the last two years, Aston Martin have introduced an entire core collection of next generation sports cars as well as a new DBX; all with a new, entirely bespoke infotainment system designed in-house. The marque continues its focus on class leading performance, ultra-luxury design and innovation, broadening the range of products under each core model. The introduction of DBX S not only reaffirms our commitment to producing the most exciting, rewarding and beautiful cars, it also sends a powerful statement of intent about our ambitions not just for DBX, but for the Aston Martin brand.”

At the heart of the new DBX S lies an upgraded version of the acclaimed Aston Martin 4.0-Litre Twin-Turbo V8 powerhouse. By using turbo technology transferred directly from the upcoming Valhalla supercar including its larger compressor wheel diameters and other internal improvements, power is raised by a further 20PS to 727PS and provides even greater urgency at the very top of the rev range, making DBX S’s performance even more memorable. The result is a 0-62mph time of just 3.3 seconds and reduction in acceleration time from 0-124mph (200km/h) of 0.3 seconds. Top speed remains unchanged at an impressive 193mph.

Further enhancing both performance and its perception is a modified exhaust system amplifying even more character to the natural voice of the thunderous V8 engine and exploiting the full the opportunity presented by the engine’s turbo enhancements.

As with its DBX707 stablemate, DBX S distributes its power between the front and rear wheels in variable proportion – including an ability to send 50 per cent of its torque to the front and up to 100 per cent of its torque to the rear wheels alone – through an innovative 9-speed ‘wet clutch’ transmission, which removes the need for a conventional torque converter, delivering extreme performance on launch from standstill. However, the DBX S gearbox has been further modified to provide an even more memorable driving experience. Change up points are adjusted to reflect the car’s extended rev range, while downshifts in Sport and Sport + modes when the car is in automatic are even more aggressive.

In addition to the power upgrade, a number of measures have been taken not only to significantly reduce the kerb weight of DBX S, but to do so in an intelligent and highly selective fashion that ensures that mere weight loss is just one of attributes resulting from these actions. A prime example is the new optional carbon fibre roof presented in a glorious single weave pattern which, at almost three metres square, is by far the largest such carbon element ever fitted to an Aston Martin. Specification of the carbon roof sees the removal of the roof rails, and as a combination not only saves 18kg of mass, but does so from the very highest point of the car, reducing its centre of gravity and therefore enhancing both stability and agility further.

Magnesium wheels are also now available as an option for the first time on any car in the SUV segment. Magnesium is not only robust, but an incredibly lightweight material, some 75 per cent lighter than steel; half the weight of titanium and a third less even than aluminium. In selecting this 23” optional wheel, a further 19kg of unsprung mass is saved, delivering improvements in ride quality, steering precision and feel, as well the car’s more immediate reaction to direction input. DBX S is also available to order with 23” forged aluminium wheels as standard.

Specifying the magnesium wheels also sees the deletion of roof rails, offering a further weight savings. Additionally, customers can also specify a bespoke a lightweight polycarbonate honeycomb grille, intricately designed with over 25,000 individual facets which all helps shift the weight distribution rearward, aiding both handling and the car’s traction capabilities.

Steering ratio on DBX S is also faster by only 4 per cent but noticeably improves agility making the car feel even more sporting and responsive while stopping well short of introducing any sense of nervousness into its handling. It also reduces the turning circle by almost half a metre to just 12.0 metres, improving the urban driving experience.

DBX S benefits from the full suite of suspension enhancements introduced last year, which saw a revised calibration of both the air springs and electronic dampers, increasing transient body control in order to reduce weight transference and therefore improve primary ride quality and overall stability. Even right at the limit, its standard electronic roll control means the DBX S rolls by no more 1.5 degrees; enough to create the natural feel of the car cornering but still keeping the car flatter than many purpose built, two seat sports cars.  The spring rate also changes depending upon selected drive mode, actively moving the roll stiffness balance through a corner to enhance grip and steering response. Near inexhaustible braking performance is provided by mighty carbon ceramic disc brakes at each corner, measuring no less than 420mm at the front and 390mm at the back.

Visually, the Aston Martin design team have ensured that no one who sees DBX S will be left in any doubt they’re looking at the most sporting, dynamically capable and enthralling ultra-luxury SUV on the market.

From the front, the new DBX S is instantly recognisable by its pure black vaned grille, giving this edition immediate road presence, whilst the lightweight polycarbonate grille with a honeycomb design taking cues from DBS 770 Ultimate, is also available to specify as an option. A new splitter and diffuser further enhance the car’s naturally assertive presence alongside the distinctive wraparound daytime running light design.

Seen from the side, new sills boast highly distinctive up-turned air splitters which in typical Aston Martin fashion exist for function as much as form, helping channel and direct the airflow along the side of the car. Carbon fibre is available to specify for the wing mirrors, side strakes and lower door sill, while distinctive ‘S’ signature badging on the front fenders marks the true nature of this beast. Like the iconic Aston Martin wings, these badges are manufactured in solid metal, glass enamelled with the ‘S ‘infilled in red as it appeared on previous models such as the V12 Vantage S and the Rapide S. The badge surround is then chrome plated in either the bright or dark chrome to match the colour of the wings chosen by the customer.

The most obvious visual changes to the new flagship DBX are at the rear, dominated by quad exhausts now vertically stacked and available in both gloss and matt finishes, giving full voice to the glorious sound of the V8 at maximum attack. The rear bumper and diffuser have been completely reprofiled and, along with the side sills and wing, can be specified with carbon to reduce overall vehicle mass by a further 7kg. DBX S also showcases a new lower livery design available to specify in 3 colours; Rosso Corsa Red, Trophy Silver and Podium Green. The sporting livery highlights the front splitter, diffuser and side sills continuing to the rear, framing the new stacked quad exhausts.

The interior of DBX S displays a bespoke ‘S’ theme; the most notable feature being the distinctive herringbone design which comes as standard on the seats, but which is also extended to the headlining if the optional Carbon roof is chosen. The herringbone lines become increasingly wider as they progress up the seat, giving an unmistakeable impression of speed; fitting for the highest performing SUV in the marques range.

DBX S is trimmed as standard in lightweight sporting Alcantara, which can be seen on the seats, headlining, centre console, lower instrument panels and upper trim. In areas of high wear such as the seat bolsters, the Alcantara is seamlessly blended with semi-aniline leather. For those who prefer an even greater sense of luxury, DBX S can be trimmed entirely in semi-aniline leather. Red seatbelts can also be specified to bring additional ‘S’ identification inside the car.

The ‘S’ suffix is embroidered onto the seat, complimented by the Aston Martin wings that are emblazoned on the headrests with an industry-first technique using both embossing and debossing with extreme pressure (1.5 tonnes) and heat to sculpt the wings into the leather in sub-millimetre precision and detail. Furthermore the ‘S’ appears on the treadplates and engine plaque to complete the picture.

DBX S continues the adoption of Aston Martin’s state-of-the-art in-house developed infotainment system with a striking new cabin architecture. This transformative enhancement showcases exemplary deployment of craft and innovation combining immaculate design and indulgent luxury with a formidable suite of connected car technology.

It is also fitted with the Aston Martin Premium Audio 800w 14 speaker audio system as standard. Developed utilising advanced hardware, this system features a surround sound mode with QuantumLogic® surround sound processing for a totally immersive soundscape. However, true audio enthusiasts will delight in the optional system developed with Aston Martin’s audio partner, Bowers & Wilkins. Acoustically engineered to the interior volume and shape of DBX S, this exceptional system uses technologies and innovations found in Bowers & Wilkins acclaimed world-class loudspeakers. Aluminium Double Dome tweeters and Continuum® midrange speakers give this 23-speaker, double amplified 1,600W surround sound system a balanced and accurate sound. Dedicated 3D headline speakers, bass speakers and a powerful subwoofer deliver a powerful and dynamic sound experience, reflecting the characteristics of DBX S itself.

‘S’ has long had an association with Aston Martin, and DBX S proves that lighter variants with more power and performance are still very much part of the marque’s story, and are set to last into the foreseeable future. DBX S is available to order now, with deliveries expected in Q4 2025.

Following 2024 success that delivered a refreshed product line-up, award-winning models and two of the nation’s favourite cars, Nissan GB is accelerating into an electric year ahead.

It was the only UK brand to finish the last year with two cars in the top-five best-sellers list, thanks to the British-built Qashqai and Juke, which found homes with 76,872 of the UK’s new car buyers.

The achievement meant Nissan GB powered to 100,446 car sales in 2024, up 12.3% on 2023, securing a 5.14% market share (up almost half a percent over 2023).

Qashqai and Juke’s popularity also ensured Nissan’s 6,000-strong team in Sunderland proudly retained its title as the UK’s all-time most successful vehicle manufacturing plant. Half a million electrified cars have rolled off the production line there in recent years, pushing the total production number to an unsurpassed 11.5m cars since it opened in 1986.

Diana Torres, managing director of Nissan GB, said: “2024 was a challenging year in our industry, so to have secured these results is a testament to the hard work of everyone in our organisation, including our dealer partners, and to the strength of our vehicle line-up.

“It gives us powerful momentum as we look forward to an exciting year ahead for our brand and, with new cars like the Ariya NISMO arriving imminently, I am confident we have the people, products and partners for success in 2025.”

2024 saw significant changes to Nissan’s UK line-up with upgraded versions of the Qashqai and Juke crossovers, new variants of X-Trail and Ariya, and the unveil of the new Interstar van, which is available with both diesel and fully electric power.

These changes didn’t go unnoticed either, with eight trophies awarded to Nissan in 2024 in recognition of its new and used vehicle strengths, and uniquely innovative powertrains. Even its UK-based engineering teams were singled out for praise, with David Moss and his Cranfield-based research and development teams picking up a prestigious Autocar award in recognition of services to engineering.

And the momentum continues into the new year with the launch of Nissan’s January sale event, from Jan 8^th to Feb 5^th, with some incredible offers across the manufacturer’s line-up.

For more information on the full range of Nissan models and current sales offers, visit: nissan.co.uk