DEFYING DOOMSDAY Four elements in a mothership gadget by MB&F.

Latest motoring news from around the world.

01 DROPTOP GORGEOUS

If the “standard” 488 Spider is not rapid enough, meet its hardcore sibling, the 488 Pista Spider. The inserted word means “track” in Italian, which hints to the Pista’s habitat. Liberal application of lighter materials such as carbon fibre and aluminium has shaved off so much mass that its coupe counterpart ends up astonishingly heavier. Zero to 200kmh arrives in eight seconds – faster than most cars can reach 0-100. Hair-raising performance indeed, roof down or up.

02 MAGNUM OPUS

Here is one for the Minotti coffee table. Bentley Motors teams up with specialist publisher Opus to create a limited edition tome to fete the luxury carmaker’s centenary. Out in all good bookstores next year, the volume chronicles the marque’s historical success and offers a glimpse of its future through interviews with insiders. Available in three editions, the “Mulliner” version weighs 30kg, with rare pictures showcased on gatefold pages that extend 2m across, when unfurled.

03 DOGGY STYLE

Fun fact: Half of all Land Rover drivers own canines. So to make travelling in the load space as comfy as riding up front, the SUV-maker offers premium add-ons to pamper Man’s best friend – among others, a quilted liner for Fifi to rest her tired body on; an extensible access ramp if her hips are too arthritic to make the hop; a portable rinse system for washing her muddy paws after a walkie; or a spill-resistant water bowl that leaves her hydrated regardless of how badly you drive.