Large Sedans

Luxury Flagship Comparison – 2nd Place – 2018 Genesis G90 3.3T – By Carl Malek

by

Genesis has certainly hit its stride over the past few years. Models like the G80 (a rebadged Hyundai Genesis) as well as the recently unveiled G70 sport sedan have helped the young luxury brand ascend to new heights since it was first introduced to the world in 2015. This surprising emergence, as well as the G90’s ambitions to topple luxury flagship benchmarks, helped it earn an invitation to our Luxury Flagship Comparison challenge to see if it could measure up to its two rivals the 2018 Lexus LS 500, and the Cadillac CT6. The exterior styling of our tester still …

Keep reading

20180603_135930

Luxury Flagship Comparison – 3rd Place – 2018 Lexus LS 500 F-Sport – By Carl Malek [Video]

by

With the recent swath of new luxury flagship sedans that have entered the marketplace, it can be very difficult to find which one is indeed the best fit for you and your budget. This tough choice helped serve as inspiration for our inaugural three way international luxury car comparison test. We assembled three of the most popular luxury flagship sedans and drove them side by side to help find which one is indeed best. The German benchmarks (BMW 7-Series, Mercedes S-Class, and Audi A8) were excluded, and instead we focused our attention on two new players (the Genesis G90 3.3T …

Keep reading

2018 Genesis G90 5_24

2018 Genesis G90 5.0 V8 RWD – Road Test Review

by

Here’s the secret in full-size limos from the premium brands: they are all pretty splendid to drive and have in your life. The speed and road presence alone of driving a land-yacht of a vehicle is enough to earn serious respect on the road. And they all class up a driveway like nobody’s business. The new class is all turbocharged and uber-packed with tech — to the point where even the new LS500 crosses the $100k threshold in a huge hurry. Does the new G90 really run with the big dogs like the S550, 740i and A8L in the fastlanes …

Keep reading

2018 Honda Accord Touring 2.0T – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

While crossovers are the big thing, we think it’s great to see the sedan isn’t ready to roll over and die. In fact, with the all-new Camry, and coming soon, All-new Altima, carmakers are stepping up their game – each of these new sedans is on the edge of style, technology, and best of all, performance. Leading the renaissance is the 2018 Honda Accord. Super Stylish It must be tough being Audi. You come up with a gorgeous design, and next thing you know, other manufacturers seem to be dipping in the same inkwell. Take the new Audi A7 – …

Keep reading

2017 VW Passat 1.8T – Road Test Review – By Tim Esterdahl

by

Review: 2017 VW Passat – 5 Things We Loved About It Volkswagen gets a lot of grief from people due to the diesel-emissions scandal and narrow views of them being only a diesel-engine focused company, but lost in this hatred is the fact they do build some pretty great non-diesel cars. For example, a week behind the wheel of the 2017 VW Passat reveals it is pretty dang good with lots of smart engineering. Here is what we loved about it. Before we get to the things we loved, we should back up and say our test model was a …

Keep reading

Cadillac Reinvents Itself With All New CT6, V-Sport Packs 626 lb-ft of Torque

by

With Cadillac still tackling issues with long term sales growth, and a lineup lacking strong CUV presence, the brand needed to prove it was not down for the count. If the 2019 CT6 is to be believed, there is still plenty of vigor left in the iconic luxury car maker.   The 2019 CT6 debuts a new trim strategy (more on that later,) but the exterior enhancements might not standout at first glance, especially if one views the car head on. It takes a look sideways to fully see the strong emphasis on three dimensional elements present here. Thinner headlights and …

Keep reading

2018 Hyundai Sonata SEL – Drive Review w/ Video

by

For a few months your humble scribe was referring to himself as Mr Sonata.  Even using the nick on the youtube drive videos. This is a car we know backwards and forwards!  So much great Sonata content for you to browse here on Car-Revs-Daily.com Our last outing with the Sonata was perhaps the brightest ever.  The time we really “got” this machine for its core essense. Amazing cabin space, standard equipment and a run-forever sense of reliability. That is Sonata’s raison d’etre and it is a good one. The Electric Blue SEL test car is about as humble as it …

Keep reading

Jaguar Promises Bigger Size, More Sportiness For Next Generation XJ

by

Despite not being spotted in the wild as of yet, Jaguar is indeed working on the eventual replacement for the current XJ flagship sedan. While key details are still being kept close to the hilt, Jaguar’s chief design guru Ian Callum has decided to reveal some preliminary details in an interview with the folks at Car Advice at the Geneva Motor Show. During the fore-mentioned interview, Callum revealed that the next generation XJ will grow in size to help enhance cabin space. This is obviously a response to criticism about the cramped confines for occupants, especially rear passengers that have …

Keep reading

2017 Toyota AVALON Hybrid Limited – Road Test Review – By Tim Esterdahl

by

The 2017 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited is a very stylish car loaded with safety equipment and great fuel economy. It’s only blemish is simply bad timing with the ultra-hot truck and SUV market seeing customers buying other types of vehicles at a startling pace. After receiving a facelift in 2015 and now with a new 2019 model on the way, the 2017 model should represent a bargain for consumers. Here’s why. On the outside, the Avalon represents the older way of designing Toyota vehicles with a more muted front-end and blended style from front to rear. Newer Toyota styling has …

Keep reading

2018 VW Passat SE 2.0T w/ Technology – Road Test Review

by

The USA-made and optimized Passat is now in its second generation on American roads.  The refresh for 2016 brought optional LEDs that are Audi-tastic, new infotainment tech and a few other tweaks. For 2018, Passat gains an all-new 2.0T engine as standard versus the 1.8-liter turbo from the previous four-cylinder models.  The extra pony count is pretty modest – just four extra for a total of 174. As ever, VW’s turbo models punch above their stats when it comes to real-world pace.  This motor is no different – and cuts the sprint time to 60-mph down to one of the …

Keep reading

2018 Genesis G80 Sport RWD – Road Test Review

by

G80 Sport has the dark, sporty and sinister makeover of our dreams.  This luxury sport sedan has been a popular favorite among CRD writers around the country in the last few years. We’ve watched the brand go from a fledgling offshoot to a stand-alone division whose products threaten Lexus, Mercedes-Benz and BMW ownership of the luxury sedan marketplace. Is it weird to be proud of how far Genesis has come?  Perhaps. 2018 is a big year for the big G.  The model range has the traditional G80 from about $40k, G80 Sport and a new-for-2017 G90 flagship limo.  Soon a …

Keep reading

2018 Genesis G80 Sport 3.3T RWD – Road Test Review – By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman

by

If you were asked to name luxury automobile manufacturers today, your answers would be somewhat different based upon your age. Those of you above the age of 45 would most likely include names like Mercedes, BMW, Jaguar, Lexus Cadillac, and Lincoln among the top brands. One brand you wouldn’t likely think of would be Genesis, or the brand that spawned it, Hyundai. But if you were under 45, I’d bet you’d have those two brands in the mix, and near the top. The reason is that so many younger drivers have grown up with, and have enjoyed, the ownership experience …

Keep reading

2017 Nissan Maxima SR – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

Recently we tested the all-new 2018 Camry. Ours was the sportiest V6, XSE and it managed to clear the $40,000 hurdle with optional equipment. It’s certainly a great evolution in Camry-dom, but it had us thinking, for 40-large you’re treading on some well-established toes. Including the self-proclaimed 4-Door Sports Car, the Nissan Maxima. So, is the Maxima still the sport/luxury sedan of choice for value conscious buyers? Well, it’s certainly aging well. While competitors like the Camry are handsome, the Maxima still lives in a league above. It looks long, low, and wide, full of serious intent. Also tying in …

Keep reading

2018 Hyundai Sonata Limited 2

2018 Hyundai SONATA Limited 2.0T – Road Test Review w/ Video!

by

The 2018 Sonata is quite a looker on the roads!  There is no lag time in the Genesis G80 Sport’s design trickle-down: both wear very similar shield grilles, darkened with glossy mesh and black chrome for a sinister and sexy style. Usually it takes a few years for the 7 series M Sport style to make it to a 3 series (for example), so Hyundai is definitely plugged into style trends. This review comes from a man whose middle name might be Sonata this fall.  We started with the Sport 2.0T and now are in the Limited 2.0T, which has …

Keep reading

OP_ED: KIA Taking Major Risks with STINGER Launch Rollout

by

The 2018 Kia Stinger is amazingly cool in the flesh.  Low, wide and longer than any KIA you’ve ever imagined.  It is shaping up to be a real Audi A7 rival, but with pricing that starts in the low 30s for the cheapest models.  Closer in pricing are the Audi A5 Sportback and BMW 4 series GranCoupe — both of which kick off their pricing near where the Stinger tops out around $50k. We’re all for this new sporty KIA.  The initial drive reviews are coming back amazingly positive, and there is real buzz as the first cars arrive at …

Keep reading

2018 GENESIS G80 Sport AWD 3.3T – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

BMW, Audi and Mercedes: better check your mirrors. There’s a new brand breathing down your neck. Hyundai. Yes, Hyundai (hey wasn’t that their ad campaign a while ago?) In this case, it’s the Korean automaker’s luxury division, Genesis. From the get-go, Genesis has taken serious aim at the luxury market, and while early cars where Hyundai Genesis models like the Coupe, it has slowly divested itself from the mothership, and become a stand-alone luxury brand. Well.. sort of, they don’t have stand-alone dealerships yet, so the lavish love you get from The Europeans, Lexus, and others is sadly missing. That …

Keep reading

2017 VW Passat 1.8T R-Line – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

Hankering for a sporty European performance sedan, but stunned by the high prices? Never fear – we’ve found a sweet sedan that ticks all the right boxes and even surprised us with its sensible pricing: the 2017 VW Passat. Now you have to be a smart shopper, or you could get carried away and end up dropping a fair amount of loot on some maxed-out model. You have to know the magic word. The magic word is R-Line. VW actually serves up 6 different models, but the R-Line gives you a nice dollop of sporty goodness in its second-to-lowest priced …

Keep reading

DSCN4428

2017 Toyota AVALON Hybrid XLE Premium – Road Test Review – By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman

by

  When it comes to hybrid vehicles, Toyota knows their stuff.  The Prius has been around for decades now, and have constantly improved them with each new makeover.  It is the best-selling hybrid of all time.  So as the company expanded their hybrid offerings to many of their other models, customers can feel comfortable enough to buy these larger vehicles in hybrid form.  I couldn’t wait to see how their full size Avalon, which I enjoyed in its gasoline version, would stack up.  The verdict?  It’s a wonderful hybrid car too. We tested the 2017 Avalon XLE Premium, which slots …

Keep reading

2018 BMW M550i – HD Road Test Review

by

What if one of the most comfortable cars you’ve ever driven … is also one of the fastest? A big sedan that pivots like a track star? How has BMW defied physics?  Yes. The M550i is a revelation on the road.  After a week of flogging this beauty for kicks – and the cameras – we came away absolutely in love with BMW’s fastest ever 5 series. The 3.9s sprints to 60-mph from the almost-violent launch control are enough to make up for its lack of M5 sounds from the V8TT.  The hyper-adaptive suspension and standard xDrive turn a soft car …

Keep reading

2018 Genesis G80 Sport EXTERIOR 29

2018 Genesis G80 Sport AWD – HD Road Test Review

by

Imagine you really love a new luxury sedan for its stellar platform, proportions and sporting potential.   This car is genuinely large versus its mid-size rivals in the $40k-60k segment. But you have specific high-performance needs for every inch of the vehicle. Your rocket-limo must be blacked-out and badass from all angles. Especially the driver’s seat. Genesis G80 is that luxury car, and the G80 Sport is the performance special of our dreams. This machine is a thorough answer to a wishlist we had for more power and glamour from Genesis. G80 Sport proved its awesomeness in a week of THRUSTING …

Keep reading

2017 Dodge Charger Daytona 392 – HD Road Test Review

by

The Dodge Charger has always made big, loud speed its reason for being.  Even the simple R/T V8 runs a shouty HEMI and gets close to 5 seconds on the 60-mph sprint.  Simply heroic thrust on the road.  All with pricing that is a damn bargain versus any hot Camaro or Mustang, let alone anything else with a V8 and four doors.  (Rare breed indeed, lately). So now we have this Daytona edition with its Hellcat-alike bodywork and sexy black details.  Atop the Daytona kit you can add a three-number code that shouts POWERRR from the heavens:  the 392. Now …

Keep reading

Monterey Car Week 2017 GALLERY By Anthony DAquisto 60

217mph LUCID Alpha Speed Car + 2018 LUCID Air at Pebble Beach

by

One of The most promising Tesla-killer of the next year is Lucid Motors. This beauty is packing up to 1000 horsepower and in its top trim, and a base price of $55k at the bottom. It is a dead-on hit at the Tesla Model S, but upgraded to sci-fi limo spec. Fittingly, Lucid brought out their production prototype as well as this road rocket: the Alpha Speed Car. Wearing wrapped and de-mirrored bodywork and a giant clear plexiglass wing in back, the Lucid Alpha Speed was officially clocked at 217MPH. This is one fast forward to the future!  The below …

Keep reading

2018 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T – First Drive Review w/ Video

by

This heavily revised Sonata arrives in the nick of time. Its two core rivals in Camry and Accord have just undergone dramatic redesigns – bringing the latest tech, style and efficiency to their legions of devoted owners. Staying competitive on the design front means every panel besides the doors and roof of Sonata are fresh for 2018.  All wear a very Genesis-like ‘cascading’ front grille for the first time, as well as a brand new tail with longer and sharper detailing. It really works in the flesh.  Pulling the visuals of the car’s nose downward and the tail further back …

Keep reading

2017 Lincoln Continental 3

2017 Lincoln Continental 3.0T AWD Black Label – Road Test Review

by

Welcome to a future where the Lincoln Continental has the grace of a Bentley.  It has cabin comfort worthy of a private jet and a backseat to shame most Mercedes. Impressive?  That barely does the Continental’s first impression justice. We spent a week getting to know the machine inside and out.  Learning the delights of cooled and massaged comfort in all four corners of the machine.  And flinging the Continental out of corners with unreal speed thanks to the Focus RS-style torque vectoring AWD system.  Of course, the whole time, surfing full throttle of 400HP/400 pound-feet of torque from the …

Keep reading

2017 Lexus LS460 F Sport – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

If you know anything about Lexus, you already know the LS460. This is the whole enchilada, the übersedan (not to be confused with Uber-sedan), the division’s luxury flagship, providing all aboard uncompromised wafting comfort. Oh wait, this is the F-Sport version. Whaaaa? Yes F-Sport. In the Lexicon of Lexii, you have your regular models, your AMG-baiting F division RC-F and GS-F, and in between, F-Sport. Kind of like BMW’s M-sport. Sporty, but not designed to remove fillings at the first speed bump. And we’ve tested various F Sport trims, including everything from the IS350 F Sport, which we loved dearly, …

Keep reading

2017 Kia Cadenza Limited – Marketplace Comparision – By Carl Malek

by

When we last met the 2017 Kia Cadenza Limited, it was on the roads of South Carolina in the hands of CRD chief editor Tom Burkart. You can check out his detailed review here, but we wanted to see how the Cadenza would fare in other environments, as well as against rivals in a segment that has taken a pummeling in recent years due to the resurgence of crossover vehicles. To find out, we took the Cadenza to the CRD Metro Detroit outpost to see if Michigan’s rough roads were enough to unsettle this spirited sedan, while also crunching the …

Keep reading

2018 Toyota CAMRY – First Drives of LE, XLE and XSE – By Zeid Nasser

by

[Parts of this post originally appeared on TheIntelligentDriver.com] Toyota knows how valuable the Camry is. It’s known as one of the most reliable, efficient and safe vehicles on today’s roadways. But times are changing, and many of today’s vehicles ace those hallmark Camry qualities. Toyota wants to keep their customers happy and maintain their sales lead with emotional design, leading tech and an engaging (gasp) driving experience. Did they accomplish it? Well, first some background info. Back in 2006 when I earned my license, I convinced my mother that the newest generation 2007 Camry was the way to go. I …

Keep reading

2017 Lexus GS350 RWD Luxury 5

2017 Lexus GS350 RWD Luxury – Road Test Review + Drive Video!

by

The GS slides into 2017 with great stance, racy handling and serious value. The Lexus transformation into a performance-car brand is firmly ON TRACK with this new GS.  So smooth and easy… but handles and hustles in Sport+? Even without the F Sport package, our tester drew stares like the GS-F during its week in the speed fleet. We thoroughly enjoyed its performance and luxury, with a special nod to some amazing options that make a good car into a great car. Standard article headings and a quick drive video of the fresh-faced Lexus GS here to share. HD Drive …

Keep reading

2017 Volvo S90 T6 – Road Test Review + Best of 2017 Award-Winner

by

We all knew the brand-new Volvo S90 sedan would be a quantum leap ahead of its S60 and S80 predecessors in the luxury segment.  We knew this new S90 is the second Volvo since XC90 to be a real class-best achievement in style and safety. But knowing all this still offers no prep for how absolutely phenomenal the new S90 is inside and on the road.  It is so magnificently high-tech, yet grounded in light Swedish leathers and a open-pore walnut woods. It drives with lightness and agility unlike anything you might expect from a 5 series or E-Class rival. …

Keep reading

2017 Dodge Charger DAYTONA 6

2017 Dodge Charger DAYTONA – First Drive w/ Active Exhaust + 44 Photos

by

The new Charger Daytona brings the looks of the Hellcat, sound of the SRT392 and price of a loaded R/T. A fantastic combination, no? From $39k, we cannot think of a cooler or more fun big sedan.  Check out the video below to get a sense of the new Sport-mode’s louder exhaust – and check out the photo flyaround below that! The Daytona pack brings a huge list of upgrades inside and out.  The monroney sticker for the car is included below but is slightly out of focus.  Go drive this car to have the full HEMI immersion — at …

Keep reading

2017 Kia Cadenza Limited EXTERIORS 16

2017 KIA Cadenza Limited – Road Test Review + 2 Videos

by

There is real buzz around the brand-new 2017 Kia Cadenza. Car reviewers near and far have been shocked by its lux feel and right-priced tech. Are they right? We spent a week in the loaded Cadenza Limited to find out.  Hard on throttle and chucking it around corners… and honestly expecting the worst.  After all, it is a hard time for near-luxury sedans.  Cars like the Maxima, Avalon, Lacrosse or Chrysler 300 are suffering from low sales and a crowded marketplace.  Meanwhile, the deeply unfun Lexus ES still hoovers up sales for reasons no one truly understands. How can Cadenza …

Keep reading

2017 BMW 540i 10

2017 BMW 540i M Sport – First Drive Review + 50-Photo Flyaround

by

We stopped flogging the 540i on its first drive only for a few moments.  A few fleeting flashbulb pops. Then back on the road and back hard on throttle. The new 5 series is an incredible machine and one that is New Game versus any one before.  More nimble, more feelsome and fast as f***!  But also serene and triple-rubber-damped. The M Sport with Dynamic Handling Pack comes alive in Sport and Sport plus modes.  Here you have a true thhhummppp on the instant upshifts and pop on overrun.  Engine is ferocious and mad for horizons. Traction actually seemed stellar in …

Keep reading

2017 Volvo S90 T6 AWD Inscription – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

Thinking that if you want a European Sport Sedan, It’s got to be a Bimmer, Benz, Audi or Jag? Maybe taking a chance with an Alfa? You might be missing out on something very cool.  The Volvo S90 T6. Yes, Volvo. Most people think they’re mostly a maker of SUV’s (they make a couple of excellent ones) or don’t even know they’re still in business. So sure, they look great loaded up outside IKEA with your latest FINNBY Bookcase (who comes up with these names?), but does it have the credibility on the streets with the big boys from Bavaria? …

Keep reading

2017 Audi A6 Sedan 3

2017 Audi A6 3.0T Competition Quattro – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

There are advantages to flying under the radar. Make no mistake: there is great fun in having a red-hot sports car that gathers the oohs and ahhs of from friends and thumbs-up from those in the know. But there’s little fun having law enforcement following you around, waiting for you to succumb to temptation. Or when your insurance company finds out you have an M3, S4, or AMG E43. Luckily, there’s a nice little niche of strong performing vehicles that don’t call attention to themselves, or raise red flags to those who would spoil Your Good Time. Take for example, …

Keep reading

20170326_162728

Road Test Review: 2017 Dodge Charger SXT AWD – By Carl Malek

by

Dodge has been on a performance vehicle blitz the past few months. From unveiling the fire breathing Durango SRT, to the recent unveiling of the utterly bonkers Dodge Challenger Demon at the New York Auto Show, it’s no secret that the brand is going all in on its quest to nab performance minded enthusiasts. But with the slow selling Dodge Dart mercifully sent to the land of discontinued automobiles, can the 2017 Dodge Charger still draw in family buyers looking for a sedan that can haul occupants and cargo? While still allowing you to unleash your weekend warrior tendencies at the …

Keep reading

2018 LUCID AIR – $60k EV Limo Is Dream Tesla Rival

by

Pretty fascinating new make at the NY auto show this year.  Lucid out of California, a startup set to take on Tesla.  How will they succeed where others failed?  Similar talent pools help, while Tesla’s current market cap makes an investment in Lucid seem genius.  What can take down a killer startup?  An even more-killer startup. Lucid is making big promises and is taking reservations for their launch model now.  This is a real-deal car versus a one-off concept.  But still, production remains some time off into the future.  Likely about a year from now. Let’s focus elsewhere: the powertrain with three …

Keep reading

2018-LS-500-F-Sport-NYIAS-13fv

2018 Lexus LS500 F Sport – Air-Ride, Active 4WS + Live NYIAS Photos

by

  There is some kerfuffle that the new LS500 F Sport sticks with the 415HP V6TT from the standard car – versus bringing extra ponies like a proper F model might.  But that misses the point of F Sport entirely. Here is a style and handling upgrade that costs little and delivers big dividends.  Outside, the unique look is dechromed and diipped in a sexy gloss black.  More aggressive fascias, wheels and sill details complement the sharp new brakes.  A BBK Big Brake Kit wishes it was as cool as these Lexus clamps. A true performance mod for F-Sport are …

Keep reading

2017 Jaguar XF 35t AWD R-Sport 57

2017 Jaguar XF 35t AWD R-Sport – HD Road Test Review w/ 2 Videos

by

Shhh.  The Jaguar XF does not know it’s a sedan!  With a big back seat and giant trunk! You won’t realize that either when driving.  This is a sports sedan that puts the SPORT proudly FIRST. Here is a car that doesn’t need the (optional) leaper cat emblem.  Why? Because a supercharged pop off the line delivers 5.1-second sprints to 60-mph — no matter what. This AWD variant is a tenth quicker than the rear-drive model.  So it aims to be just as quick rain, snow or shine. We took the XF by the scruff of the neck for an HD …

Keep reading

2017 BMW 740e xDrive – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

I have driven the car of the future, today. OK, we hear stories like this all the time. And usually, the “Car of the Future” is some cobbled-together prototype that has little likelihood of actually making it to market. Or worse, it points to the time when folks like you and I aren’t needed. Just robots, pal. And if you think an autonomous EV is the wave of the future, I’m going to disagree. While there are plenty of folks who would rather let the machine drive, there are also plenty who still enjoy time behind the wheel. And for …

Keep reading

2017 GENESIS G80 AWD 3.8 – Road Test Review

by

The Genesis G80 is a real luxury-car hero around here. The car’s beating performance heart is evident every time we have the pleasure of snapping Sport mode on and the throttle down.  Here is a long-wheelbase limo that handles! The AWD upgrade on the G80 3.8-liter V6 makes a fantastic case for itself on the basis of handling alone.  WHat it brings to the table is a precise, grippy nose and unshakeable confidence around fast corners. The Big G as a standalone brand for 2017 kept this car essentially the same as 2016.  With the car business — and especially …

Keep reading

2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring – HD Road Test Review w/ 2 Videos

by

The 2017 Mazda6 is an affordable midsize car for those seeking something better.  A car with premium handling, design and cabin feel.  Yet with pricing that undercuts its spiritual Audi and BMW rivals by tens of thousands. We’ve been a big fan of the Mazda6 for years now.   Our reco of the car has even led more than a few friends and neighbors to buy one. And for most of those people, the car was not even on their radar. So to answer the question of ‘Why don’t more people buy the Mazda6?‘ the answer is a lack of …

Keep reading

2017 Lexus ES350 – HD Road Test Review w/ 2 Videos – By Tom Burkart

by

The Lexus ES was refreshed for the 2016 model-year to enhance its styling and luxury equipment, along with a new build location as the first Lexus to be made in the USA. Its upgrades are fairly skin-deep, however, so we worried this car would be left behind by all the new midsize luxury models.  Vehicles like the Lincoln Continental or C-Class are all significantly fresher than the ES350 outside and in.  The ES has a huge target on its back — even from upstarts like the latest Avalon, Acura TLX and even Kia Cadenza. These rivals often have the latest turbo …

Keep reading

2017 Genesis G90 1

2017 Genesis G90 5.0 Ultimate RWD – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

The hunt for the elusive Luxury buyer is on with the all-new Genesis division. We recently tested the G80 sedan, and came away mightily impressed – a dynamic, stylish, beautifully-equipped competitor to the BMW 5 series. But for the price of a lowly turbo 4-cylinder Bavarian, the G80 had 5.0-liters of rip snorting V8 muscle. While Genesis is on safari for luxury brand competitors, it doesn’t stop at the G80, because with the larger G90, the brand is taking on the big game – Lexus LS, BMW 7-series and Mercedes S-Class. So, does it come home with a trophy, or …

Keep reading

2017 Porsche Panamera TURBO Exterior 19

2017 Porsche Panamera TURBO – Startup/Exhaust Video + 44 Photos

by

  The new Panamera Turbo is all about headline numbers versus the rest of the range. 3.4-seconds to 60-mph. 190-mph top speed. All-new 4.0-liter twin turbo V8 with 550HP and a snarl worthy of the Porsche crest. The exterior is indeed very evolutionary from up front.  New PDLS+ and LED matrix lighting sets the car apart as the new model, as do the new intercoolers behind every nose hole.  Intercooler as fashion statement!  They are bright silver so definitely stand out to the eye — in the best way.   Around the side and rear end, the car looks much …

Keep reading

2018 Lexus LS500 6

Design Analysis: 2018 Lexus LS500 at Amelia Island Concours [23 Photos]

by

A car whose in-person effect was knee-weakening? This new LS500. So, so new and so revolutionary for the Lexus icon.  Wait until you see this car’s unreal side sculpting and ultra-LWB, fastback-like proportions.  Its nose wears a next-gen level of sculpting throughout the bumper and hood.  The grille almost takes a back seat to the intensely low, long and muscular fenders and slim LED headlights.  The new DRL’s little lashes are intriguing too. The LS and its ultra low new nose and long hood lead the eye to the windshield.  Check out the rake angle!  This is seriously streamlined and likely …

Keep reading

Road Test Review: 2017 Lexus ES 300h – By Carl Malek

by

Lexus has been on a roll the past few years. With the recent introductions of the sleek LC coupe, and the technology packed 2018 LS 500 at the 2017 North American International Auto Show, the Japanese luxury brand is firmly focused on adding a new dimension to its ongoing battle with German luxury rivals. The 2017 Lexus ES sedan aims to bring this new-found spirit to the brand’s core audience, but can it still stand out among a crowded field of luxury sedan contenders?     Crisp exterior styling is typically a proven formula when it comes to drawing stares, …

Keep reading

2017 Nissan Maxima SR Midnight Edition – HD Road Test Review

by

Is the coolest Maxima in ages also the best? We found out over a week of driving the 2017 Maxima SR Midnight and came away impressed, if full of caveats.  And understanding some of the fanboy hate for the Maxima’s drivetrain these days. We didn’t get too bogged down by worries about how true a 4DSC the Maxima really is in this generation.  You see, describing Maxima as a four-door sports car sets some pretty unrealistic performance expectations. Let’s explore this complex car for what it is: a stylish and comfortable full-size sedan that is blessed with a standard 300-horse V6. Breaking …

Keep reading

2017_NAIAS_2018_Lexus_LS_500_009_AC00A447A81271D3136EE23C323147B340D4C794

2018 Lexus LS500 Debuts All-New Flagship with 4.5s Turbo 10-Speed and Standard LWB

by

The new Lexus LS just debuted in Detroit with some shocking advancements in style, luxury and performance. First things first: the powertrain of the creamy cruiser is now a 3.5-liter twin-turb oV6 making 415 horsepower.  Through the standard 10-speed automatic, the new LS promises a brisk flash t o60-mph in just 4.5-seconds. The machine is longer than before: its 123-inch wheelbase is up 1.3-inches versus even the LWB LS460L/LS600hL from the existing generation.  A lower rear roofline but much more enveloping rear seating keeps legroom limo-huge. The design itself is also a big leap into the future.  With a nose …

Keep reading

2017 Genesis G80 5.0 Ultimate – HD Road Test Review – By Tom Burkart

by

The Genesis launch is in full swing for 2017! No more Hyundai badges to be found anywhere on the two-model range.  Flying wings for the nose and tail are a huge relief for customers who disliked the previous dissonance of two ‘brand’ emblems on the same car. The G80 and its EQUUS-replacing G90 are both lightly refreshed beyond the badge upgrades, however. We were blessed to spend a week in the top G80: the 5.0-liter V8 Ultimate.  This rear-drive sports sedan delivers some SERIOUS heat to chase its 550i and E550 rivals. How do 420 ponies and sub-5-second sprints sound …

Keep reading

pa211869

2017 Volkswagen Passat 1.8T SEL Premium – Road Test Review – By Lyndon Johnson

by

  In Europe, they make fun of the Volkswagen Passat Americans drive. Their suspension and materials are superior, they argue. OK, fine. Relish that superiority, Europe. That doesn’t change the fact the ‘Merican Passat remains one of the best all-around midsize family sedans in ‘Merica. Family values I spent a week with a 2017 VW Passat and pretty much fell in love with its practicality and handsome good looks — but mostly its practicality. Some people have criticized this generation of the Passat for being too understated. It takes on Volkswagen’s corporate low-and-wide styling, so the grille and headlights aren’t …

Keep reading

2017 Subaru Legacy 2.5i SPORT – HD Road Test Review

by

The trusty midsize sedan segment of the car business has found itself in an unusual spot these days. SUVs and low gas prices mean the old days where Camrys and Accords sold by the dozen are long gone.  They are now fighting to be a purchase not of necessity, but one of desire. Subaru has stepped up with a serious rival in this high-stakes game.  A car that is still easy to buy and own, but with added pizzazz to make it pop versus the onslaught of new, high-riding competition. Subie’s answer? The new-for-2017 Subaru Legacy SPORT trimline.  The car is …

Keep reading

bmw_alpina_b7xdrive_2016_08_press_21

601HP, 3.6s 2017 BMW M760i USA Price and Arrival Revealed + 40 New ALPINA B7 Pics!

by

Updated 11.16.16 The badass twin flagships from BMW just stormed the LA auto show: M760 versus Alpina B7! Both score 0-60-mph times of just 3.6-seconds, but go about it with different engines (V12TT in M760 plays race-ready V8TT in B7) and vastly different suspension tunes.  Both are fully air-sprung but the B7 has an extra Sport Plus setting to drop the ride height down to the ground.  The standard xDrive AWD in both cars also receives some big tweaks to differentiate their drive manners.  Safe to expect the Alpina to be far more eager to hang the tail out! Both …

Keep reading

2016 KIA K900 V6 – Road Test Review – By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman

by

My friends are used to seeing a lot of new cars in my driveway, from almost every manufacturer.  They were especially intrigued by the new Kia 900. They admired the understated exterior styling, and the absolutely beautifully appointed interior.  The next question was, “How Much?” “Just under $61,000”, I replied.  “Are you kidding???” came the response.  “A $61,000 Kia?”  “That’s just NUTS”. I had to remind them that it was only two decades or so ago that they said the same thing when Toyota, Nissan, and Honda each came out with very expensive luxury cars.  But today, nobody laughs at …

Keep reading

2016-chrysler-300s-5

2016 Chrysler 300S – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

Everybody’s gone SUV/Crossover crazy lately. Manufacturers are luring us out of small cars with the new CX-3, HR-V, Trax models, while sales of the largest SUV’s like Escalades, Tahoe and Suburbans –  thanks in part to cheap gasoline – are selling like crazy. In the rush for capability, capacity and audacity, something’s been lost. In case you might have forgot, there’s a segment that still deserves your attention. Ladies and Gentlemen, may we re-introduce a performer we’ve know and loved for years – the Great American Sedan. And perhaps there’s none greater than the 2016 Chrysler 300S. Depending on your …

Keep reading

1mdh16243

Paris Debut – 2018 Porsche PANAMERA 4 E-Hybrid

by

Official details today on the all-new Porsche plugin: the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid.  Quite striking how much the style of this new Panamera reflects the long-term vision shown in the firm’s latest concept Mission E. Still firmly room for a gasoline motor in this production iteration, but the cab-backward — yet forward-looking — style of all Porsches since day one appears more than intact for 2018. NEW HYBRID PANAMERA MODEL UNVEILED 08/09/16   Sustainability and performance – no contradiction for Porsche ATLANTA, Sept. 8, 2016 — The Paris Motor Show will see Porsche unveil the next model in the all-new Panamera line: the …

Keep reading

p16_0395_a4_rgb-copy

Paris Preview – 2018 Porsche PANAMERA 4 E-Hybrid

by

Official details today on the all-new Porsche plugin: the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid.  Quite striking how much the style of this new Panamera reflects the long-term vision shown in the firm’s latest concept Mission E. Still firmly room for a gasoline motor in this production iteration, but the cab-backward — yet forward-looking — style of all Porsches since day one appears more than intact for 2018. NEW HYBRID PANAMERA MODEL UNVEILED 08/09/16 Sustainability and performance – no contradiction for Porsche ATLANTA, Sept. 8, 2016 — The Paris Motor Show will see Porsche unveil the next model in the all-new Panamera line: the Panamera …

Keep reading

2016 VW Passat SEL 11

2016 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.8T SEL Premium – HD First Drive

by

    Watch us put the new VW Passat through some autocross corners around Georgia’s Lake Lanier Islands Resort. Thrilled with the 1.8T engine’s thrust and the car’s handling balance — as well as the six-speed automatic, which fooled us into thinking it was a DSG!  But actually just a terrific Tiptronic with Sport mode.  Impressive.   2016 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.8T SEL Premium 2016 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.8T SEL Premium – Interior

2016 INFINITI Q70L 5.6 – HD Road Test Review

by

How far can you get in life with a giant V8 and a hot body? That was the question we kept asking ourselves after a week  behind the wheel of this 4.7-second rocket-limo. The car is refreshingly innovative in its long-wheelbase variation — bringing what is the best-selling global choice in luxury cars to the United States for the first time.  What is this choice? Best-selling?  Allow me to explain. The long-wheelbase variants of the A6/E-Class/5 series are easily the best sellers in the Chinese car market these days.  For the most part, however, the LWB limos that luxury brands …

Keep reading

The Escala Concept introduces the next evolution of Cadillac des

World Debut – 2016 Cadillac ESCALA Concept

by

Yes, Cadillac’s new video ads are appallingly bad.  Yes, a CT6 in slow-motion down a brick street in Manhattan is ridiculous. It looks like a high-fashion version of those anti-texting PSA’s, where the beautiful couple/friends/family’s lives are shattered by a huge crash.  No overt carcrash in the Caddy ads.  But they are a trainwreck. But Cadillac does have a vision these days, even if little of the product lineup really matches that look into the future. The Escala is the third “glamour” concept from the marque, after the Ciel and the Elmiraj from 2011 and 2013, respectively. This machine is all …

Keep reading

2016 Lexus GSF - South Carolina Angel Oaks 6

Widescreen Gallery – 2016 Lexus GS-F Meets 1700s Carolina Angel Oaks

by

The spidery shadows of the Angel Oak Trees lining the Carolina coastline make for a cool respite from 330 sunny days a year.  That was their purpose, of course, when planted in neat rows on the major plantation driveways around Charleston. Bursting with leaves year-round, these trees even wear a layer of Spanish Moss to keep things cool — centuries before AC made this climate live-able for a Chicagoan like myself. The GS-F is quite a sight under the speckles of sunrays that can break through. The intricate grille detailing, purity of surfaces and absolutely perfect proportions on the wide-body …

Keep reading

2016 Lexus GS-F 1

Drive Review – 2016 Lexus GS-F – By Ben Lewis in Los Angeles

by

  Not Godzilla. More like T-Rex. To paraphrase Sally Field, “Lexus likes us. They really, really like us!” At least enough to let us spend some more time in the GS F. But we have some different perspective here, as this time, your humble scribe spent a week partaking in the GS here in sunny LA-LA land. And it ends up netting some mixed results. First, a quick rehash of the technical pleasantries. Like BMW’s M division, with models ranging between M235i’s and M2,3,4, and 5, there are F-Sport cars, and then there are F-Sport cars. F-sport is Lexus’ catch-all …

Keep reading

2016 BMW 750i – Road Test Review – By Tim Esterdahl

by

Review: 2016 BMW 750i xDrive – Perfect or Superfluous Luxury Sedan On a warm summer afternoon, I sit with my feet up, my body reclined, a pleasing smell in the air, cool drink in hand while listening to music in the shade as a cool breeze blows. It is an ideal setting, except I’m not sitting outside. I’m actually sitting in the rear of the 2016 BMW 750i xDrive. Its long list of features, comfort and material choices make it infinitely more appealing than a lawn chair, but is it all just a bit too much? Maybe to some, but …

Keep reading

2016 Porsche Panamera GTS 10

Porsche Unveils All-New V8TT Ahead of Next Panamera Launch

by

With Porsche hard at work developing the next generation Panamera, the German firm has quietly unveiled an all new bi-turbo V8 at the annual Vienna Motor Symposium in Austria. Expected to be used in the aforementioned Panamera as well as the next generation Cayenne, the new engine is loosely based off of the Audi S4’s 3.0 liter turbocharged V6 and also shares some of that engine’s basic components. Porsche did not reveal the engine’s formal displacement, but look for it to be a step up from the current 4.8 liter V8. The company did however, claim that the engine will …

Keep reading

2016 Lexus GS-F – GoPro Adventures! 3 Full-Throttle Drive Videos, LED Walkaround and Startup/Exhaust Note

by

Updated 4.29.16 We’re very aware that the HD drive reviews we post here are not world-class. Not anywhere close.  Sticking a GoPro up and heading out has basically been our gameplan.  The uploading the ginormous video files to YouTube virtually unedited whatsoever.  The real way to do this would be to do a script, many takes, and then refine it meticulously in the editing room.  By an expert editor. Alas, the videos so far have been more of ‘extra credit’ additions to written drive reviews. Then this GS-F came along, and we had to up our game.  Still no script …

Keep reading

HD Road Test Review – 2016 Jaguar XF 35t R-Sport RWD

by

Here is another new Jag that absolutely wallops the competition. Brutally competent.  Ruthlessly efficient.  Stylishly elegant. Very fast with a 5.2-second sprint to 60-mph, yet never too shouty about it. The new 2016 XF is stunningly good.  This mid-range model lives between the base Ingenium diesel here in the USA and the top XF S with its 380HP and sport exhaust. 340 ponies are always on tap thanks to the supercharged engine configuration.  Same goes for the worlds-best ZF eight-speed automatic.  And the lightweight, part-aluminum chassis that drops hundreds of Lbs versus its arch-rivals the 535i and Mercedes-Benz E350. How …

Keep reading

2016 Lexus GS200t – By Ben Lewis

by

    If you read our recent preview, or saw Tom’s video of the new Lexus GS-F, you know that Lexus is going after the German ‘Bahnstormers in a big way. How big?  A 5.0-liter V8 that pumps out 467 hp at a zinging 7,100 rpm, backed up by a chassis that could easily handle a good amount more. It’s an amazing machine. But allow me to play the devil’s advocate here. If you want the most German of the GS models, go for the entry level GS200t.  Yep, the one with the turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder. Allow me to explain. …

Keep reading

2016 Chrysler 300 Limited 4

Road Test Review – 2016 Chrysler 300 Limited – By Tim Esterdahl

by

Review: 2016 Chrysler 300 Limited Offers Lots of Value Celebrating its 90th year of production, the 2016 Chrysler 300 Limited AWD could just be the best value ever offered in the large sedan. Our test model came in at just under $40k and it is LOADED. For the 2016 Chrysler 300 90th Anniversary Edition, there is more standard equipment than ever offered before. For example, the Limited edition comes standard with an 8.4” Uconnect system with navigation, SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link, plus a spectacular dual-pane sunroof and unique commemorative appointments. Chrysler says the Limited edition is the most “well-appointed …

Keep reading

2016 Porsche Panamera GTS 14

First Drive Gallery – 2016 Porsche Panamera GTS

by

We mis-spoke when saying on GS-F videos last week that the Lexus was the only naturally-aspirated, rear-drive super-sedan on the market! There is one big daddy to contend with: the Panamera GTS. This hardcore sports model is the most stylish, most playful and best-sounding Panamera of all time. It is impossible to do the car justice from a fairly brief test drive, but the photos speak very clearly for themselves! Just like the 4.8-liter, 440HP V8, in fact! Pricing for the GTS as shown here rings in at $129k.  Worth it?  Oh yes. The base of $113k climbs rapidly, with …

Keep reading

2016 Lexus GS-F Caviar Black 9

Speed Fleet Intro! 2016 Lexus GS-F – First 70 Photos in Caviar Black

by

One of the hottest new super-sedans just arrived out front! Then something magical happened.  They tossed me the keys … and said bon voyage.   We’re barely an hour into this week-long tryst, and I can tell it is going to get pretty steamy.  467HP, active intake and exhaust, standard torque-vectoring-differential in back.  And perhaps even four-wheel-steering in Sport + drive mode??! Only a few cautious prods of the GS-F’s throttle so far, and less than a block of driving.  200 photos later, and we can’t wait to share this stunning M5 rival with you.  Rushing this a bit, as you might …

Keep reading

2016 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR – HD Road Test Review + Drive Video

by

The Nissan Altima is a favorite around here.  Even drivers coming from exotic cars would be astounded by the compentence of this vehicle for 2016. We recently dubbed it the ‘world’s smoothest sedan’ in 2.5SL form.  That smoothness is from effortless drive manners, the infinite-ratio Xtronic automatic and, of course, the pillowy ride quality of the mid-spec Altima. This SR trimline is new for the 2016 model-year on the four-cylinder engine.  An effective nose darkening with smoked headlamp lenses and optics sets a great mood from the start.   Larger wheels and sport-suspension and cabin are added bonii. All good, …

Keep reading

2016 Jaguar XJ Carves $3B China Skyroad in Plush, Superlux Fashion!

by

Who loves grand infrastructure projects? We all do, on some level. But the engineering, cost and sheer complexity of many mountain road projects make them cost-prohibitive for all but the grandest planners. Luckily, China and Jaguar are both chock full of the passion and budget to innovate. In the case of the Paxi Expressway in the Sichuan province, this meant building a modern expressway through mountain passes that have been limited to rural, often-unpaved hiking trails for the last 3000 years.  Since 2010, though, the infusion of a million man-hours of prep, and perhaps a billion hours of collective labor, …

Keep reading

11406_2017_Cadenza

Official: 2017 Kia Cadenza Makes NY Debut

by

A heavy redesign of the new Cadenza just bowed in NY — and is set to take on the ES350 and perhaps 528i with its all-new cabin, exterior and powertrains. 2017 Kia Cadenza ALL-NEW 2017 KIA CADENZA TAKES THE STAGE AT THE NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW 23/03/16 Second-Generation Cadenza Boasts Luxury Refinements with Expressive Styling, Advanced Technology, and Refined Powertrain New body structure is stronger, yet lighter and more rigid for a more enjoyable driving experience All-new Cadenza takes its sophistication to greater heights with beautifully crafted interior Kia’s first FWD eight-speed automatic transmission improves driving dynamics and efficiency …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2016 Nissan Altima SL – Fresh Face for World’s-Smoothest Sedan

by

One of comedian Amy Schumer’s bits comes to mind as we sit down to write up this Altima review. “You’d bang me, but you wouldn’t blog about it…” The Altima is fresh for 2016 with a mini nip/tuck front and rear, updated tech and even more efficiency for the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This update is a light refresh, and is part of the new automaker strategy of lowering product cycle times from around five years before to less than three now.  Technology and style trends are moving so rapidly that a four-year-old car is easily one of the most …

Keep reading

2016 Dodge Charger SRT392 – Road Test Mega Gallery

by

Extension of the glowing review just published:  all these stunning photos (and crazy-fun launch videos!) all by themselves. The photos below are still a gallery lightbox on click, but using a single column layout to give you a close look without any clicking.  Cheers. Thanks Dodge.  May I please have some more? =] Drive Video 1       Drive Video 2 2016 Dodge Charger SRT392 – Road Test Mega Gallery http://www.dodge.com/en/  

HD Road Test Review - 2016 Dodge Charger SRT392 16

HD Road Test Review – 2016 Dodge Charger SRT392 – Balls Deep in the 4.2s ThunderCat!

by

World Class FAST! The 2016 Dodge Charger SRT392 is a life-changing machine. Normal drives become the highlight of your day.  The remote start is a thunderous event in itself!  Waking the 6.4-liter, 485-horsepower HEMI V8 happens with pure raging fury. Hence, our loving ThunderCat nickname! The 2016 Charger is an instant Best-of Award winner.  A week in this car is enough to make anyone feel like a man’s man.  Women included.  It puts hair on your chest and a baritone in your throat. Full review here with standard headings of Exterior, Interior, Performance, Pricing and Summary.  Two HD drive videos …

Keep reading

2016 BMW Vision Next 100 – Nightmare Blob Shows Why BMW Sales Are Tanking

by

Ready for 5000 German words you cannot possibly care about!? Let’s dive in to the BMW Next 100 Years press conference and new-concept debut, while stripping out 95-percent of the unintelligible corporate babble below. First things first: BMW Group and BMW pressclub have new websites.  Yay! But they do not work as easily as the previous ones. Boo.  At least the zip files do not create unmoveable, undeletable 3GB desktop bombs like BMW USA PressClub’s.   The renderings do turn from brown to pink when saved on a PC tho.  Bonus — some fails live on!   Dear BMW.  Flatten …

Keep reading

HD Road Test Review – 2016 Nissan Maxima SR – Bonneville GT-R is Ace

by

We had a pet name for the Maxima SR during its awesome week in the speed fleet. But like some nicknames are, it is hauntingly accurate and also slightly insulting… Resisting it in this review created major writer’s block.  How to clear the logjam? Tell you our nickname for the 2016 Maxima SR, and then explain why it is actually a loving salute to the car’s awesome, Dodge Charger-rivalling handling and machismo on the road. So what is it? We referred to the Maxima SR as… The Bonneville GT-R. Now, that might not sound too bad.  But among car enthusiasts, any mention of …

Keep reading

Geneva Debuts – 2016 SAIC Volkswagen PHIDEON – China-Only Super-Passat

by

VW just revealed its next-gen flagship  super-Passat: the Phideon. Riding on a next-gen premium platform, the Phideon is a long-wheelbase sedan the size of the S-Class, but with a lower roof that VW refers to as a four-door coupe. On that note, one of the Phideon’s best initial impressions is its premium proportions.  A long-looking hood, improved dash-to-axle length and fairly short front overhang all send the right signals loud and clear.  That being said, it is not as rear-drive in appearance as even the Hyundai Genesis. The design itself is familiar, if a bit angle-sensitive as shown on these preview images. …

Keep reading

2017 Bentley MULSANNE Revealed – Refreshed Styling + Tech Leaves Bug-Eyes Intact

by

I really, really want to know: who loves the look of the Bentley Mulsanne’s giant, bug-eye headlights. Find me someone.  Anyone. Anyone who is not immediately repulsed by these gobsmackingly hideous, oversized lamps.  Oh, and cross-eyed, too. Certainly not anyone we have met. We even understand the hommage.  Past Bentley’s with their free-standing light units, etc. Even so, for the first Mulsanne facelift/refresh to leave the ‘elephant in the room’ unaddressed…. is inexplicable. In fact, despite the cool new looks front and rear with fresh bumpers and grilles, the oversized lamps are now even more repugnant.  Now lined with a …

Keep reading

2017 BMW M760i xDrive – V12TT Range-Topper Lags Alpina B7 to 60MPH

by

Quite a week for the part-carbon BMW 7 series! First the Alpina B7 with its twin-turbo V8 and optional gold deco stencils outside. And now this M760i with a twin-turbo V12 — and also AWD for this generation! The coolest part of the M760i route — which is likely to cost significantly more than the ALPINA — is definitely its dark satin body accents. That, of course, and the techno-font V12 and M760i badges throughout. The 62-mph sprints for the two cars show a curious contrast: 3.9s for the M760i plays 3.7s for the Alpina B7.   On any US …

Keep reading

HD Road Test Review – 2016 Audi A6 2.0T Quattro – 5.8s, 550-Mile Time-Traveler

by

No scoffing at my 2.0T badge! It only takes a block of driving to know: this Audi is a time machine. It takes us into a future of downsized, forced-induction engines that hold their own beside V8s.   And cruise onward while others take the exit ramp to refuel. Power, speed, efficiency and value come standard on the 2016 A6 2.0T.  There are a few option boxes omitted on the test car that we think you will enjoy, however. And one bombshell performance secret to why the 32-MPG A6 quattro is a *must* over the 35-MPG A6 2.0T in its $46k, front-drive guise. The …

Keep reading

2016 Chrysler 300S and 200S Alloy Editions – Sport Chassis Tunes Now Featuring Titanium and Dark Bronze Finishes

by

  The main Chrysler trim letter to lust after?  C, right? For 2016-and-beyond style, the coolest Chryslers are now definitely wearing the S! Bold pronouncement, perhaps, but over the last few years the 200C and 300C have become the lux and powerful versions of the standard models.  The S twins, however, are the badass ones with mean night styling and performance-tuned handling — regardless of engine. To drive that point home even more explicitly, Chrysler just pre-launched its coolest S models yet: the 300S and 200S Alloy Editions. They are gorgeous and easily the most SRT-infused cars in the Chrysler …

Keep reading

2016 Mercedes-Maybach PULLMAN Limo 2

2016 Mercedes-Maybach PULLMAN Limo – Noblesse Oblige

by

Updated 2.2.16 with 30 new photos from Dubai  Royals have it so tough. Every step?  An exhausting endeavor. Even waving to their subjects when en route between photo-ops can be emotionally and physically draining for this sensitive group. They are constantly pulled one way or another, with no time to just relax and mellow out. I mean, it is Gstaad skiing this week and then RIGHT to St. Barts for some beach thing. No break. Double vacations can be so tiring, right? Just getting from private chalet to private jet can be a taxing experience. These poor, pampered beings are never …

Keep reading

HD Road Test Review – 2016 Hyundai GENESIS Ultimate V6 RWD

by

Our love affair with the “impossibly good” Hyundai Genesis just got stronger for 2016! Testing out a rear-drive version of the 2016 V6 is a nice counter-point to the V6 AWD we fell so hard for a few months ago as a 2015 model. The 2016 Genesis has a few very notable updates to the V6 model lineup: standard HID headlights and available LED foglamps for the V6 — lamps that were previously a V8 exclusive. And even better, the Genesis now runs its gorgeous — and standard — LED headlamp accents as the main DRLs for normal driving.  This …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2016 Toyota Camry XSE

by

2016 Toyota Camry XSE Review By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman For decades now, The Toyota Camry has been one of the best-selling family sedans in America.  It isn’t because it does everything better than the competition, but rather it does everything well, and has built up a reputation for reliability, quality, and value.  For folks who have a hard time making a decision because they’re fearful of making a bad one, the Camry is always going to be a safe choice and one that won’t foster buyer’s remorse. It’s always easy for journalists to forget that the vast majority of the …

Keep reading

Mecum Florida Faves – 2014 Maserati Quattroporte – Hate at First Drive, or As-New for Half Off?

by

How did this new QP end up between a Camaro IROC-Z and a violently impotent custom Wrangler? One of the great parts of the week-long Mecum Kissimmee, Florida auction is the ‘come-as-you-are’ vibe about the place. They make a carnival atmosphere of these 3000-plus cars finding new homes — and it is truly a fun way to see many curious cars up close and personal.  In fact, they are all unlocked and ready for close-up inspection — so it is a bit like an ‘all-you-can-sit’ sampling of various exotic cars. Wish it were all-you-can-drive… but that’s okay. One very curious find? …

Keep reading

Best of NAIAS – 2017 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL – No-Apologies Flagship = Limo Heaven!

by

Lincoln Motor Company is still best known for its long-running Town Car — that darling of the global limo business for decades. The Town Car on its rear-drive, Falcon-based frame has been out of production since 2012 — with the time since spent working doubly hard to prove that the MKC and MKZ are viable global luxury cars. Sporty, modern and elegant have been the core tenets of the new Lincoln recently, but a moment of genius has now swept through the brand’s strategy. The insight?  Being modern and stylish is possible … even while embracing the legacy of the brand. …

Keep reading

Mercedes-Benz New Year´s Reception, Detroit 2016

Update1 – 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class – Official Debut of Ultra-Posh New Cabin, All-New Exterior

by

This is it!  The 2017 E-Class in all its official glory. A few variants shown here in this official launch packette: from the most trad to the ultra-mod AMG Sport in bright red. A frozen grey E400 quatromattico GDM model is the wildest shown so far, but points strongly toward the new E63’s menace on the roads. The revamp outside is exceptionally sleek and organic; new flowing lines for the glasshouse and every nose and tail element replace some carry-over elements on the current car. All-new is the slightly more formal C-pillar angle than previously shown: a nice nod to …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2016 Hyundai Genesis AWD 3.8

by

2016 Hyundai Genesis AWD 3.8 Review By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman   With a major makeover in 2015, the second generation Hyundai Genesis continued it ascension in the ranks of luxury cars.  While there are few changes to the 2016 model year, the Genesis continues to amaze with its price, content, and quality. The sedan is quickly distancing itself from luxury models coming out of Japan and Germany, which it rightly rivals, in the “bang for the buck” category. Simply put, you can’t find another car in the marketplace that has the features and performance of the Genesis and not have …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2016 Kia Optima SX Turbo

by

2016 Kia Optima SX Turbo Review By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman Midsize family sedans are a huge segment of the automobile business, and it’s a hotly contested space.  The Kia Optima is a strong player, and getting stronger each year, with improvements and even more standard content.  It has to keep improving in order to compete with the likes of a Toyota Camry & Avalon, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Mazda 6, or Nissan’s Altima. The 2016 Optima has been redesigned inside and out, and the result is an outstanding automobile, that ranks right up there with the best in the class. …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2016 Toyota AVALON Touring

by

2016 Toyota Avalon Touring Review By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman We recently tested a 2015 Toyota Avalon, the first Avalon we had tested in quite a few years.  And the full size car impressed us with its roominess, performance, and its luxury look and feel. But before I had a chance to write the review, the 2016 model became available, so I decided to wait a little bit, and write about that one, to also report on the subtle changes for the 2016 model year. This year, the Avalon’s grill gets a bit larger, and sports a little downturn at the …

Keep reading

2017 Genesis G90 World Premiere – Tech Specs and 100 Images Inside and Out

by

The first official Genesis model is out!  Dubbed the G90, this giant limo will replace the EQUUS in the US market, above the current Hyundai Genesis lineup in pricing and size. First things first: — the car is huge! — the looks are unique, if derivative of very-recent global superlux cars like the Mercedes-Maybach S600. — do not prejudge its looks too much: these are Korean-market trims and details, with changes probable for US cars (trims, wheels, etc.) — tech and cabin luxury take a huge leap forward from the already-impressive Genesis sedans — powertrains and pricing are finalized for …

Keep reading

The All-New E-Class

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Striptease Begins! Cabin Tech and Design Are Mighty Impressive

by

The new E-Class from Mercedes-Benz is pretty huge news for all luxury car shoppers. Despite our obsession with the E63 and E550 range-topping models, and their delicious LEDs and black-chrome trims all around, the latest E-Class is not selling well. Its current iteration is a heavy facelift of the car first seen in the mid-2000s, and really needs this deep revamp to take on the 535i in USA sales. A big part of the E-Class’s issues stem from its current cabin. This is generally loveable and very liveable, but the tech is confusing and the overall experience is dark and …

Keep reading

2017-Buick-LaCrosse-004 copy

2017 Buick LaCrosse – All-New Luxury Limo Is Truly Plush Inside, Wider and Lower Outside

by

  2017 Buick LaCrosse   Buick Introduces All-New 2017 LaCrosse Leaner and sleeker with effortless technology   LOS ANGELES – The all-new 2017 Buick LaCrosse introduces the new face of Buick, influenced by the dramatic cues of the award-winning Avenir concept unveiled at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit and inspired by a Buick concept from the mid-20th century.   The LaCrosse, which goes on sale in early summer 2016, features a new grille design with a large opening distinguished by the return of a three-color – red, silver and blue – Buick tri-shield insignia, accented by …

Keep reading

BRABUS Rocket 900 Desert Gold Edition 7

BRABUS Rocket 900 Desert Gold is New Bugatti-Fast Dubai Limo

by

What to say about this latest BRABUS Rocket 900 that will not be racially or culturally insensitive….. This bespoke color was custom-created for the Rocket 900 Desert Gold Edition, which features matching forged wheel accents and cabin detailing. Performance is out of this world — 124-mph from a stop takes just 9.1-seconds! This is unreal pace for a car so plush with room for five wealthy individuals inside: the Veyron delivers the same sprint for just two people in 8.9-seconds. The overall top speed is 217-mph-plus from the bored-out 6.3-liter V12TT, producing 887 horsepower and more than 1100 pound-feet of …

Keep reading

Standalone GENESIS Luxury Division Is Official! New G90 Sketches Preview 2017 Equus Replacement

by

Hyundai confirmed earlier this week that the Genesis luxury car will blossom into a full premium brand, distinct from its origins with Hyundai. Six new models are promised before 2020, with the first look today at the design direction and future name scheme for Genesis. This first look at the G90 shows the way for the next-generation Equus limousine, making its debut in early December 2015 in Seoul. The Equus sedan itself has been a massive hit in its home market, where it is currently named EQ900. The upgrade to a new Genesis brand is aimed as a springboard to …

Keep reading

2016 Lexus GS350 3

2016 Lexus GS350 Facelift Brings GSF and RC-Inspired Nose +4WS and Active Intake

by

The revised Lexus 2016 GS350 is offically sexy in this ultra white paintwork and fresh detailing all around. Regardless, we love the results of new-shape LED headlights, LED arrowhead DRLs flush-mounted within the painted bumper, and all-new lower bumper and grille look. This is the GS350 RWD, but an AWD model continues with a $2k bump in price from the $49k base for the GS lineup. We also expect a revised F Sport trim style for both the GS350 and the GS450h for 2016, as well as for the GS200t discussed below. The fresh GS450h was recently seen at the …

Keep reading

Renault_71370_global_en copy

2016 Renault TALISMAN – Pricing and Trims from €27,900

by

Updated 11.1.15 with French prices and new photos.         Welcome to the top of the Renault range: the new Talisman sedan. This fresh D-segment saloon is a larger and more plush big brother to the Laguna — promising world-class comfort, design, luxury and technology. All with a completely fresh design and dimensions to compete with the BMW 5 series. A total length of 4.85-metres is fairly gigantic for a front-drive luxury sedan in France. As the segment’s built-in government and livery driver pool looks to Germany for their fleets, the large car market in France is fairly …

Keep reading