Luxury Cars

Road Test Review – 2021 McLaren GT – Supercar Quirks Blunt GT Character

by

When one looks at a McLaren offering, chances are good that track-ready performance and Ferrari slaying styling will immediately leap out into mind. While the British supercar maker has primarily delivered the goods, for the most part, the firm also knows that it needs to expand its reach to appeal to a broader range of buyers. The recently unveiled Artura was McLaren’s first leap into the green vehicle market, and for GT buyers, the company has unleashed the all-new McLaren GT, but is it finally the perfect balance of supercar daring and GT elegance?   Exterior Styling Looks Slick The …

Keep reading

Cadillac InnerSpace Concept Previews Luxury Filled Autonomus Future

by

It wasn’t too long ago that roadways in the U.S. were once home to the personal luxury coupe. Having their heyday in the 70s and 80s these models packed loads of luxury into a typically sleek (there were a few design misses in those days) package that happened to have two doors and sporty driving manners. These original status symbols faded away in the 1990s, but the all-new Cadillac InnerSpace concept not only revives the idea in a spiritual way but also brings autonomous driving into the mix too.   InnerSpace Concept Is Sleek and Elegant Styling Statement A key …

Keep reading

Mercedes EQXX Concept Makes Splash, Previews Multiple Production Bound Features

by

Mercedes-Benz is preparing to make radical changes on its future lineup of all-electric vehicles, and the German luxury carmaker has previewed this future with the all-new EQXX concept which will preview a whole trove of production bound technologies that will eventually make their way to future EQ models.    A Whole New Look Is Coming One of the things that many observers will notice is that the EQXX is previewing a brand new front fascia design for the lineup. The grille less space is smooth and aerodynamic and even the hood-mounted metal tri-star is gone. Fans of the star will …

Keep reading

2021 Lexus RC 350 F SPORT review by Ben Lewis

by

We recently tested and loved the all-new Lexus IS 500 F SPORT Performance, with a massively powerful and sonorous 5.0-liter V8. It was a fantastic sport sedan. But maybe you like the svelte lines of a coupe. And don’t really need all that power, but still want something quick and sporty – and with all that luxury and goodness of Toyota’s premium division? Well have we got a car for you! The Lexus RC 350 F SPORT. Let’s take a look. Sporty, Smooth and Sophisticated The RC has been with us for several years now, yet it still turns head …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Volvo S90 Recharge T8 Inscription – Suave Green Filled Sophistication In Sedan Form

by

With Volvo‘s reputation so entrenched in vehicle safety, it can be easy to forget that the Swedish luxury carmaker is also trying to build a name for itself in the green vehicle market. The Recharge series is an attempt to introduce customers to electrification gradually, and we enjoyed our last exposure to the Recharge when we had a chance to drive the XC90 Recharge. But with the XC90 sharing a platform with the S90 sedan, it was only a matter of time before it too received the electrification treatment. But will it deliver the same positive vibes that the XC90 …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Mercedes-AMG A35 4MATIC – A35 AMG Leaves Our Shores With A Bang

by

Mercedes-Benz and their AMG sub-brand are on a quest to lure in more customers thanks in part to a revamped model lineup and some new thinking in the way they promote their models. Unfortunately, part of this new thinking involves some shuffling in the lineup with Mercedes axing the A35 AMG from our shores in the process of writing this review. What will we miss out on with the model gone from our shores?   Spunky Character Defines A35 Formula For starters, we’ll no longer get to see the A35’s design-focused personality. The standard A-Class already has some impressive design …

Keep reading

Maserati Teases MC20 Cabrio, Supercar Loses Its Top For More Style

by

Winter may have much of the United States in its winter clutches, but as they say, it’s always summer somewhere and Maserati is attempting to make consumers flashback to warmer weather and even driving through curvy coastal roads with the all-new MC20 Cabrio which is set to add a new flavor of fun to the lineup.   Dropping The Top In The Name Of MC20 Style As the name implies, the MC20 Cabrio is at its core, an MC20 convertible with the performance-packed two-door now having the ability to generate open-aired driving thrills on-demand. Like other recent Maserati products, the …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Lexus RC F Fuji Edition – Track Potential Soured By Flaws

by

It’s not often that a track-focused limited edition model visits the office, but we always look forward to learning more about it. That was precisely the case when the 2021 Lexus RC F Fuji Edition came to visit. But while the slick carbon fiber visuals, burbly V8, and elegant interior made an excellent first impression, it ended up falling just short of being the right mix of track performance and street capability.   An Artist Known By A New Name If the introductory visual presentation looks familiar, it’s because the newly renamed Fuji Edition was once known as the RC …

Keep reading

Maserati Ghibli Slated To Be Axed In 2023, 2022 Model Rumored To Be Swan Song

by

The Maserati Ghibli promised to be a whole new beginning for Maserati when it made its appearance in 2013. The Ghibli was supposed to be a smaller sedan alternative to the Quattroporte and allow Maserati to target the BMW 5-Series, Audi A6, and the Mercedes E-Class while reaping the rewards of higher sales at the same time. But it appears that the Ghibli experiment will be ending with a report suggesting that Maserati will not make a 2023 version and will use the 2022 model to play its proverbial swan song.   Ghibli, What Happened? The report comes from the …

Keep reading

Mercedes-AMG A35 Latest Sedan To Leave U.S. Market, Poor Sales Possible Factor

by

The lumps keep coming for Mercedes-Benz and AMG. First, the ongoing pandemic forced Mercedes-AMG to not ship V8 engines into the U.S. for the 2022 model year, and it now appears that poor sales are potentially forcing the spunky A35 AMG sedan to bail from our shores after 2021.   A35 AMG Receives Neuralzyer Treatment Fans that have followed the Men In Black film series will undoubtedly remember scenes where agents use a neuralyzer to wipe and alter the memories of those pointing at it to cover up their activities. While Mercedes reps aren’t planting new memories into buyers, they …

Keep reading

Aston Martin Teases Vantage V12, Is It The Final Swan Song For The Twelve-Cylinder?

by

Ever since the current generation Aston Martin Vantage made its way into dealerships a few years ago, rumors have swirled about whether it will once again receive a V12 engine. Aston Martin denied the rumors at first claiming that it wouldn’t fit (we didn’t believe them) and it appears that our suspicions were proven correct, with the British sports car maker revealing that it will indeed be putting a V12 into the new Vantage, but it appears that it will be the last time the Vantage will be paired with it.   Cryptic Teaser Video Points To Swan Song The …

Keep reading

Bentley Continental GT Mulliner Blackline Embraces Noir Vibes, Expands Customization

by

The Bentley Continental GT and GT Convertible are still a very luxurious way to celebrate the finer things of life, especially when equipped with the Mulliner Package. But what if you’re a discerning buyer that wants to blend all of this world-class performance and luxury with the noir styling that can only come from sinister black accents. The British luxury carmaker thinks it has found a perfect balance with the all-new Mulliner Blackline edition.   Noir Is In Style Like other blackout packages that we have seen from other automakers, this one takes the existing chrome pieces and replaces them …

Keep reading

2022 Kia Stinger GT-Line RWD review by Ben Lewis

by

We recently tested the Kia Stinger GT2 V6 and came away massively impressed. Mildly refreshed and featuring a 368-horsepower twin turbo V6 that loves to sing at high rpms, it was a thrill ride. But we also knew that the more affordable 4-cylinder turbo model was getting even bigger changes – how does going from a 255-hp 2.0-liter to a 300 hp, 2.5-liter sound? Sounds like a reason for a road test! Wow-house Design For those Stinger lovers on a budget, the first thing you should know is that the 4-cylinder GT-Line is almost impossible to tell from the much …

Keep reading

2022 Lexus LC 500 and 500h Arrive With Minor Updates, Introduce Bespoke Build Option

by

In our recently published review of the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible, we pointed out that the LC 500 had the potential to emerge as a true world-beater in the Grand Touring segment if it received the right amount of upgrades. Lexus appears to have been listening to some of this feedback from consumers and has introduced several minor updates that aim to keep the LC lineup fresh for 2022.   Bespoke Build Options Add Exclusivity, Shuffles Equipment Around While these updates do not focus on the dysfunctional infotainment technology that constantly haunts the LC lineup like a ruthless specter, …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Lexus LC500 Convertible – The Perfect Summer Time Ragtop

by

When the Lexus LC 500 coupe first made its appearance a few years ago, it proved that Lexus was indeed capable of designing a sharp-looking Coupe that could be a contender to rivals from BMW and Mercedes as well as select Maserati models. The exterior styling looked like rolling artwork, and the interior was comfortable and well insulated from the outside world. But while it functioned well as a coupe, some wanted a droptop. Lexus has delivered the 2021 Lexus LC500 convertible. But is it the ultimate toy?   LC500’s Exterior Styling Has Us Longing For The Quiet Days Of …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce Ghost Becomes Spectre Of The Night With All New Ghost Black Badge Model

by

Rolls Royce is riding a wave of success, especially regarding its Black Badge lineup of ultra-luxury models. Black Badge alone represents about 30 percent of Rolls Royce’s global sales, with the company planning to offer Black Badge versions of nearly all of its models (Phantom excluded). That includes the newest member of the Black Badge family, the Ghost Black Badge sedan.   Ghost Back Badge Adds Sinister Charm To Exterior Styling The Ghost Black Badge largely follows the exact patented blueprint that has defined other Black Badge models. Black is the color of choice here, with the large chrome grille …

Keep reading

Mercedes-AMG Reboots An Icon With 2022 SL Roadster, More Power And Style Define Open Top Roadster

by

The Mercedes SL roadster has always been an iconic marque in the droptop luxury roadster segment. The two-seater was the benchmark for the segment and did a good job projecting Mercedes’s influence in the luxury car game for the bulk of its existence. But the outgoing SL represented a decline, with the roadster suffering from a sales slide and some signs of aging. Mercedes aims to change all that with the 2022 SL, which will be the most significant change that the model has seen.   AMG Infused Exterior Styling Gives This SL More Visual Bite A significant change for …

Keep reading

Lucid Motors Unveils DreamDrive ADAS Platform, Promises Conditional Automated Driving

by

Lucid Motors just began full-scale production of its Air EV sedan. Still, while the Air already comes with an impressive array of standard equipment, the company revealed that the Air will eventually debut an all-new DreamDrive ADAS platform that promises to bring automated driving to the next level.   Conditional Automated Driving Is No Longer A Dream Before we get into some of the core essentials that define the DreamDrive system, it’s essential to reveal that the system will not be available at launch, but it will eventually come to the Air via an Over The Air update (OTA). The …

Keep reading

Learning The Ropes On And Off The Track, We Spend A Day At BMW’s Performance Center West

by

Growing up as a kid, I always had a solid drive to learn new things, which helped me be very adaptable in various aspects of my life and allowed me to participate in a multitude of roles during the first few years of my time in the working world. That would later extend to my press career, where I learned to hone my driving skills. But something always seemed to be missing, like the critical piece in a Lego set needed to complete whatever model one is working on completing. To help fill that proverbial void, I traveled to BMW’s …

Keep reading

2021 BMW 330e Sedan Review by Ben Lewis

by

2021 BMW 330e Sedan review by Ben Lewis We recently tested the Audi Q5 PHEV Plug-in hybrid, and found it gave near the performance of the pricier SQ5, with a price and efficiency closer to the base Q5 – especially when the federal and state tax breaks were added in. So, we were equally excited to driver the BMW 330e – the 3-series sport sedan with plug-in hybrid powertrain. While the previous gen had a similar version, the 2021 features the all-new 3-series that came out a couple years ago. Was this another plug-in we could love more than a …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Volkswagen Arteon SEL Premium R-Line – CC Replacement Does An Even Better Audi Impression

by

The Volkswagen Arteon had alot on its plate when it first appeared in the U.S. in 2018. Not only did it have to replace the languishing CC in the U.S., but it also showed that top-notch Volkswagen design could move beyond the GTI and Golf R hot hatches and into other nameplates that might not have as much firepower under the hood. But does the Arteon truly succeed in finally bringing cohesive luxury to buyers in this regard? We followed up our west coast encounter of the Arteon with a sequel here on the east coast to see if the …

Keep reading

2022 Porsche Taycan Gains Android Auto And New Colors

by

The Porsche Taycan and its shooting brake sibling, the Taycan Cross Turismo, were designed to carry Porsche into a green future thanks to their clean lines and their advanced lineup of driving technology. But even these futuristic super EVs need an update once in a while to keep rivals like Tesla from snatching their vaunted spot in the EV sales race. Porsche has delivered the goods and has announced some new tech upgrades and a few splashes of extra color for the 2022 model year.   Vibrant Colors Infuse Depth Into Taycan Pallette Charts The Taycan has always been a …

Keep reading

2022 Kia Stinger GT2 RWD V6 Review by Ben Lewis

by

It’s hard to believe that the Kia Stinger debuted 4 years ago as a 2018 model. There was so much talk about it – here was an up and coming brand, breaking free of the inexpensive–but-rugged reputation, and getting ready to soar. And they brought out a rear-wheel-drive performance sedan to take on the likes of BMW and Mercedes! So, we really looked forward to getting back into a 2022 Stinger. Was it as good as we originally thought? How has it aged? And should you be stopping by the Kia dealer on your way to the Audi or BMW …

Keep reading

Audi Skysphere Concept at Pebble Beach 2021

by

The Skysphere Concept is an unusual and highly experimental design ethos from Audi.  In being so very unlike their current range it seems to make a bold statement about the elegance of cab-backward, front-engine GTs.  Or at least those are the proportions, but that long hood is surely filled with batteries and motors in this case. None of Audi’s current quattro-intensive range approaches this level of dash-to-axle ratio and this ultralong hood is a striking addition.  The glasshouses for the front and rear lighting elements are interesting and the tactility of the 3D badge up front is quite something. It …

Keep reading

Bentley Motors at Pebble Beach Concours 2021 Villa and Concept Lawn

by

Bentley brought a powerhouse fleet to their Pebble Beach Villas in 2021! We even get a look at the Bacalar concept from the concours lawn.  Aside from the bubble canopy in back it looks fairly production-ready in its details.  The new Flying Spurs and Conti GT’s are also very very appealing.  After you enjoy this 50-photo gallery shot by JC, read some our full drive reviews of Bentleys over here.    Gallery – Bentley Motors at their Pebble Beach Villa and the Concours Concept Lawn   Road Test Review – 2021 Bentley Bentayga – A Nip And A Tuck For …

Keep reading

Bentley Blings Up The Flying Spur With New Mulliner Model, All Three Engines Can Be Equipped With Package

by

Monterey Car Week is well underway, and with all the glitz, glamour, and flair on display, it would seem a bit lacking if the folks at Bentley did not find a way to draw eyes to its booth. The British luxury carmaker has a strong reputation for always showing off something truly extravagant and expensive to attendees. The firm has not been disappointed with the debut of the all-new 2022 Bentley Flying Spur Mulliner.   Mulliner Has Ultra Luxury Appointments For The True Jet Setter Unlike the Mulliner Driving Package on other Flying Spur models we have experienced, this particular …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Volvo V90 Cross Country – Rugged Volvo To Serve As Last Remnant Of V90 In The U.S.

by

When Volvo revealed that it would not be offering the V90 station wagon in the U.S., we thought about what customers will be missing when they step inside their local Volvo dealer. In addition to the V90, the Swedish car firm is also discontinuing certain trims of the V60 as it focuses on enhancing the appeal of its rugged Cross Country models. But while the Cross Country will be the only V90 variant sold in the U.S. from now on, does it have what it takes to carry on the family legacy?   Exterior Styling Retains Core Essentials, Enhances Trail …

Keep reading

2021 Toyota Avalon TRD Review by Ben Lewis

by

We’ve always liked the Toyota Avalon. Toyota’s flagship full-size sedan has always exceptionally, comfy, roomy, well-turned out. Ok, kind of a Grampa car. What it really hasn’t been is exciting to drive. Toyota has been on a tear lately, though to make their vehicles a lot more fun, and after we tested the Camry TRD, (Toyota Racing Development is their in-house racing arm) we were so impressed, we hoping the company would do the same magic with the Avalon TRD. One Bad Grampa Ok, we have never had an Avalon that got this kind of attention before! The massive front …

Keep reading

Bentley Unveils 2022 Flying Spur Hybrid, Features 435 Mile Driving Range

by

Bentley reps have repeatedly told us that the company is looking to transform into an all-electric brand by 2030. While the company has touted its environmental plan and some of the promises that come with it, Bentley currently only has one green model in its arsenal (the Bentayga Hybrid.) With the winds of change blowing ever harder, the company has unveiled its second green-tinged model, the all-new 2022 Flying Spur Hybrid.   Flying Spur Hybrid Is Like Looking Into A Mirror With the Flying Spur lineup benefitting from a recent redesign that completely rebooted the design language, it should come …

Keep reading

Maserati Shuffles Trim Lineup For 2022, Adds GT And Modena Models

by

Maserati‘s three-model lineup is soldiering on for 2022. Still, the Italian luxury carmaker chose to go in a unique direction for its updates this time around and has actually done some quick housecleaning to simplify the trim ladder for buyers, with the GT and Modena trims being added into the mix for the new model year.   So What’s Being Replaced? In this instance, the outgoing GranLusso and GranSport monikers were a prominent part of the brand’s identity for the past few years. In theory, they were supposed to project a higher identity in the minds of buyers, but they …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce Taps Into Forgotten History With All New Landspeed Collection Dawn And Wraith

by

The Rolls Royce Dawn and Wraith might be leaving the U.S. However, these two models are still primed to be potent players in the international market, and that includes the bevy of special Collection models that the British ultra-luxury carmaker intends to produce. The latest addition to this series is the Landspeed Collection, and unlike other entries in this series, this one aims to deliver a bit of historical redemption.   Rolls Royce Revives History With Landspeed Collection As mentioned, the Wraith and Dawn Landspeed Collection editions are out for redemption, with the duo revisiting a forgotten slice of history. …

Keep reading

2021 Mercedes AMG GLE 53 Coupe Review by Ben Lewis

by

So, here’s a challenge to many manufacturers – with SUV’s being so popular, how do you keep things fresh? One trend we’ve seen are the “coupe-like” SUV’s, which trade off some of the utility (and headroom) for a racy profile. It’s especially popular with the Europeans, with everything from VW’s Atlas Cross Sport to BMW’s X4 and X6. Mercedes won’t be left out either, so we’re now enjoying GLE Coupe. But with a coupe, you’re driven by passion, so we were especially excited to get our grabby little hands on an AMG GLE 53 Coupe. Big vehicle, larger-than-life performance. This …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce Taps Its Coachbuilding Past With Wild Boat Tail Custom

by

Remember back when Rolls Royce was just as well known for its one-off coach-building creations as the world-class luxury that defines its current lineup of luxury cars? We wouldn’t blame you if you said no with that aspect of its past being MIA since the introduction of the wild Sweptail way back in 2017. But the iconic British ultra-luxury carmaker didn’t want that side of itself to slip away and has not only announced the creation of the Rolls-Royce Coachbuilding Department but also unveiled its first project, the Boat Tail.   Nautical Themed Boat Tail Sails Into Luxury Like other …

Keep reading

2021 BMW 540i xDrive Review by Ben Lewis

by

SUVs, SUVs, everywhere. With SUV/SAV/Crossovers pretty much the standard for family transport, it’s easy to forget that the Europeans like Audi, BMW and Mercedes made their name here with sedans. Some were 2-doors, some 4-doors, even wagons! But for a long time, the epitome of luxury was the 4-door premium sedan. And at the head of that class for enthusiasts has always been the BMW 5-series. Mercedes were ultra-luxury, but a little staid. Audi technically advanced but a bit spartan. The Bimmer though, that was a driver’s car. So now we have the 2021 540i, the 7th generation 5-er, with …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Bentley Flying Spur – The Pinnacle of Luxury?

by

While the four-door sedan as we know it has certainly faded from importance when looked at the broader scope of things, it can still draw the right amount of attention, especially when it comes with the right mixture of luxury, style, and technology. Bentley may be focused on enhancing its position in the utility market with the 2021 Bentayga. Still, it also wants to make sure that fans know it has not forgotten about the stately sedans and coupes that helped make the British ultra-luxury carmaker into an icon that continually pushes the envelope of luxury and technology. The 2021 Bentley …

Keep reading

2021 VW Arteon 2.0T SEL Premium R-Line Review by Ben Lewis

by

It’s got to be tough to be a brand like Audi. First of all, you’ve got Mercedes and BMW always gunning for you. And then, brands like Lexus. And the excellent Acura TLX we tested – another upstart. And then, you have to worry about your sibling…in this case the recently refreshed 2021 VW Arteon. Does VW’s handsome luxury flagship have what it takes to lure buyers out of those fancy, shiny dealerships? Let’s see. Simply Gorgeous You don’t see a lot of Arteons – frankly the brand is busy selling lots of SUV’s and churning up interest in their …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce Phantom Oribe Embraces Pottery, Celebrates Collaboration With Hermes

by

When it comes to covering all the details, it’s hard to argue that anyone can top Rolls Royce and some of the energy they put into making their cars special pieces of automotive jewelry. This is particularly true regarding its Bespoke division, which helps create special one-off customizations for a very elite club of wealthy one-percenters that manage to shine even above the established pool of the world’s elite. Their latest creation is the Rolls Royce Phantom Oribe. While we have seen Bespoke tackle some exciting builds, this particular example takes things in a very interesting albeit creative direction.   …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce Wraith And Dawn Leaving The U.S. 2021 Model Year To Be Their Last Swan Song

by

It’s not often that Rolls Royce brings the ax to members of its bespoke model lineup. But if you’re a fan of either elegant coupes or true open-top luxury convertibles, you’re not going to like hearing that both the Dawn and the Wraith will be leaving the U.S. after the 2021 model year concludes. So what led to their demise, and will they be replaced?   Simplifying The Lineup First reported by the folks at Motor1 and later confirmed by a Rolls representative, the departure of the Wraith and Dawn will sadden some but will also help better the company …

Keep reading

Aston Martin Debuts Pastel Collection, Limited To California Market

by

Summer is rapidly approaching and that means adding some lighter colors into your closet to help prepare for the sunnier side of the year. But what if you want to add some extra color to your garage and have the checkbook required to do it? If this is you and you happen to live in California Aston Martin might just have a fashionable solution to your summertime fashion worries with an all-new Pastel paint collection.   Five Flavors of Summer Style The infusion of color comes courtesy of Aston Martin of Newport Beach (one of the biggest Aston dealerships in …

Keep reading

2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS Debuts, Packs 478 Mile Range And Slick Hyperscreen Technology

by

The Tesla Model S showed the world that a luxury EV sedan could be desirable and luxurious. Tesla’s achievement served as a springboard for countless other firms, and these days the pool of competitors has grown considerably. One notable absence was Mercedes-Benz, with the iconic German luxury brand taking its time to make a Model S competitor. But after nine years, the three-pointed star has unveiled its long-awaited contender, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS, which aims to raise the bar and finally bring the fight to Tesla.   EQS, It’s A Looker While the bulk of the attention will be focused …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Genesis G80 Prestige – Can It Finally Dethrone The Germans?

by

The very notion of Korean design might seem like an established lexicon of premium fashion, but it wasn’t too long ago that it once was relegated to the background. That was also the case with Hyundai and Kia (Genesis was not a brand yet), with both brands being content with making budget-friendly but very plain automotive entries. But fast forward to 2021, and the scales have completely flipped. Genesis is rapidly becoming the lovable new kid in the luxury car landscape. K-Pop music is hot on the U.S. music charts, and Hyundai and Kia have made massive strides in design …

Keep reading

2021 Lexus ES250 AWD Review by Ben Lewis

by

We still remember when Lexus launched in the US in 1990. It was a bold move – the Toyota company creating an upstart to take on the biggest luxury names in the market, including Mercedes and Cadillac. And its success is legendary, where it seems like Honda’s Acura, and Nissan’s Infiniti have never been able to quite get that cache. Why the history lesson? Well, there were two models when Lexus debuted, the LS400 and ES250. And now the ES250 name is back! So, if you’ve been waiting, your wishes have been fulfilled. Even more interesting, the ES250 is unique …

Keep reading

Bentley Unveils 2021 Continental GT Speed, Creates Wildest Version Yet

by

The Bentley Continental GT Speed has always been one of the fastest ultra-luxury cars that money can buy. A silky smooth W12 engine and timeless styling have always been enviable trademarks. But how can you make this inviting package even better? Bentley thinks it has the answer with the updated 2021 Continental GT Speed. Buckle in to hear all the latest details on this very special Continental.   Updated Exterior Styling Adds Depth, Bespoke Interior Captivates The GT Speed’s exterior styling retains much of the standard model’s core identity, but Bentley designers added more aggressive touches to make the GT …

Keep reading

Last Surviving Allard P4 Comes Up For Auction In The UK, Product of Bizarre Lexus/Allard Collaboration

by

When it comes to Lexus, the company is usually pretty straightforward in its products, with the current lineup trying to make Lexus into a luxury brand that embraces its performance heritage. But the brand’s history is also marked by an occasional twist into intriguing projects that ultimately failed to gather momentum. One of these involved iconic British brand Allard and the last remaining fruit of this bizarre venture, the Allard P4, is primed to cross the auction block in England.   Allard a Retrospective The story of this unusual prototype requires us to go back in time to 1945 when …

Keep reading

2021 Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo Debuts New Gravel Mode, Massive Sunroof

by

When Porsche first debuted the Taycan EV, it promised that more was in store for the moniker and that it would spawn its own lineup of variants. Porsche has delivered the goods and has unveiled the 2021 Taycan Cross Turismo, which brings elegant wagon styling and increased capability to the futuristic EV.   Wagon Shape Enhances Cross Turismo’s Flair The 2021 Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo is not the first design-focused wagon entry that we have seen from Europe, but it’s perhaps the most futuristic-looking one that we have seen yet. The front fascia is typical Taycan, but Porsche designers have …

Keep reading

2020 Kia Cadenza Technology Review by Ben Lewis

by

With the huge popularity of SUVs/Crossovers/SAVs, we sometimes forget just how good a traditional luxury sedan can be. And one of the nicest – and smartest values – is the Kia Cadenza. Let’s take a look at the Kia we call “The Big Easy”. (Hey, it’s Mardis Gras…) Fresh Face For 2020, Kia’s handsome full-size gets an update to keep things fresh. While the “Tiger Nose” grille shape is still there, the grille has a new deeper waterfall design, the reshaped hood enjoys power creases, while there are also standard LED headlights, redesigned LED daytime running lights and new integrated …

Keep reading

Lexus Ups The Firepower With 2022 IS 500, 472 HP V8 Brings Fight To Rivals

by

The current generation Lexus IS certainly has plenty going for it. A major revamp of its exterior styling helped the sedan bring some much-needed freshness into its flanks, while a set of interior tweaks improved its technology game. But perhaps the one thing that has been missing is a true range-topping engine. The naturally aspirated V6 was the default choice, but its age is getting harder to hide, and it couldn’t hold the mustard against a world where turbocharging is increasingly becoming the new normal. The Japanese luxury brand is out to change that and has unveiled the 2022 Lexus …

Keep reading

2021 BMW X5 X Drive 45e by Ben Lewis

by

Amazing how quickly time and technology change things. It used to be an EV was a golf cart, and a hybrid was one of the agrarian looking Toyota Prius models. The good thing is, there are a lot of talented engineers that work for the automakers, and the vehicles we get today are exciting and fun – no matter what may be under the hood. And a perfect example of today’s performance hybrid is the 2021 BMW X5 with the all-new 45e plug-in hybrid system. If you were expecting something for the Birkenstock and Bean Sprout crowd, the X5 will …

Keep reading

Steinmetz 1

Cadillac Steinmetz Catera Concept Was A Glimpse Into Modern Cadillac Performance Models

by

Cadillac is on the cusp of debuting the most potent track ready models it has ever offered the 2022 Cadillac CT4-V and CT5-V Blackwings. While the duo represent just how far the brand has come in the world of luxury performance sedans, it also makes one look back at the V-Series range and in particular some of the early ancestors that helped play a role in the creation of this special performance focused sub-brand and what they brought to the table. One of these concepts was the Steinmetz Catera concept which previewed what would happen if a healthy dose of …

Keep reading

2022 Blackwing lineup

Cadillac Takes The Wraps Off 2022 CT4 and CT5-V Blackwing Models, 3 Things You Should Know

by

Cadillac certainly ramped up our expectations when the luxury car brand revealed that it would be teasing the 2022 CT4-V and CT5-V Blackwings at the Rolex 24 event in Daytona. With the past few teasers only offering heavily veiled glimpses of the two we weren’t expecting anything too wild. But Cadillac gave us a very unexpected surprise with this latest teaser offering our first fully unveiled look at the duo before they make their official debut in February. Here’s three things to know about Cadillac’s newest performance superstars   Familiar Styling Defines Blackwing Experience For buyers hoping that the Blackwing …

Keep reading

Cadillac Teases Celestiq Flagship Sedan, Confirms Novel Dimming Sunroof [Video]

by

The race to electrification is heating up, and Cadillac is out to show the world that it still has what it takes to bring the fight to the Germans in a rapidly developing segment. The Lyriq was the first stanza in this push, but the luxury brand has now added a crescendo to the mix with the first ever teaser of its upcoming Celstiq flagship sedan. Electrifying The Flagship It wasn’t too long ago that American flagship sedans were known for being floaty luxury filled barges that were filled to the brim with coddling extras, but lacked the motivation to …

Keep reading

2020 Genesis G70 Sport 2.0 T Road Test Review: Will We Miss The Manual Transmission?

by

The sport sedan segment has been one long dominated by benchmarks like the BMW 3-Series, Mercedes C-Class and even the Audi A4. Many attempts have been made to try and usurp this trio from their respective pedestals for years. Some have come very close to achieving that goal, while others promptly flamed out and settled for low sales numbers. The 2020 Genesis G70 is the latest contender to try and do the seemingly impossible task of toppling Germany’s finest. But can it channel its inner Sam Darnold and lead Genesis to a New York Jets worthy upset win? Or will …

Keep reading

2021 Lexus IS350 F SPORT by Ben Lewis

by

We have a lot of vehicles that we like. And then the manufacturers manage to tweak and massage, and Boom! You get something really special. We felt that way with the larger-engined Subaru Crosstrek we tested recently.  And there was something about the latest Civic Coupe that just felt perfect. And now we’re ready to add the Lexus IS350 F SPORT to that list. Already a very good sport sedan, the changes for 2021 make it, as they say ….”just right”. Evocative Looks First impressions matter in sport sedans, and the IS350 F SPORT makes us feel all tingly. Slightly …

Keep reading

A trip back in time, we take a retrospective at the 1974 Jaguar XJ12 PF Concept

by

With our focus on concept cars and their links to current products, it’s also important to look back on concept cars that helped play a key role in either their history, or their continued existence (in the case of Porsche and its 1993 Boxster concept.) This theme carries through with the latest entry to this particular sub-theme, the 1974 Jaguar XJ12 PF. This obscure design exercise not only highlighted the international connections between auto companies, but could also be considered a key stepping stone for Jaguar models of the period. Britain and Italy create an interesting XJ fueled collaboration Jaguar …

Keep reading

Hellfire and unholy levels of performance define insane 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT63 S [Video]

by

It’s not too often that the fires of hell craft a piece of machinery that’s the perfect combination of otherworldly temptation and world class performance. But Mercedes-Benz has done just that with the 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT63S. The “S” is one of the heavy hitters in Mercedes-Benz’s lineup, and was the most powerful Benz money could buy before it was usurped by the ultra limited 720 horsepower AMG GT Black Edition. But with that model being a pure two door, the GT63 aims to bring some of this track slaying performance into a distinctly four door flavored package. But does …

Keep reading

Ambition and luxury, what happened to the 2006 Chrysler Imperial Concept?

by

Another week, and another Chrysler concept enters the spotlight in our ongoing concept and show car focused series. For those that missed us last week, you can forgive us for catching Teofino Lopez’s shocking upset victory over Vasyli Lomachenko on ESPN (we’re big fight fans at the Metro Detroit office) but with the dust having fully settled from that epic clash, it’s back to our weekend task of dissecting concept vehicles from years past to find out what happened to them after their time on the show circuit, and whether they had a lasting impact in current vehicle offerings? This …

Keep reading

2020 Hyundai Genesis G90 Ultimate Review – With major revamp, can it still be a luxury bargain?

by

When the first generation Genesis G90 appeared on the scene, it was trying to rid itself of a fresh identity crisis that dated back to when it was formerly known as the Hyundai Equus. The Equus was a flagship sedan with potential, but it didn’t get the flashy state of the art fashion designs that its rivals got. Instead, its exterior design was more akin to a bland sweater or cardigan that your relatives got you for Christmas at the last minute. It did the job, but kept people from really noticing its inner talents. The G90 was a welcome …

Keep reading

Volvo swings for the fences, but comes up a tad short with 2020 Volvo S60 T5 R-Design

by

When Volvo announced that it was preparing the all new S60, we were curious to see how it would fare out in the real world. The S60 represents the most serious effort that Volvo has put into dethroning segment benchmarks like the BMW Series, Mercedes C-Class, and the Audi A4. But while the rapid growth of crossovers has indeed put some pressure on this segment, the stakes are still very high in the luxury sport sedan segment, and bragging rights are still the ultimate trophy to strive for. But does the S60 have the tools to do what no other …

Keep reading

2020 Lexus ES300h – Road Test Review – By Matt Barnes

by

The Lexus ES is moving upmarket. Can it step up to the task? The seventh generation ES was new for 2019 with the 2020 model receiving a few minor updates. Moving forward, the ES will have to cover for its traditionally sportier sibling with Car and Driver, reporting that the GS is going out of production.   Exterior You’d be forgiven for mistaking the Lexus ES for a sports sedan. The updated design is beautiful, sporty, and luxurious. The ES is longer and lower than the previous generation with the wheels pushed out to the corners. It is a gorgeous …

Keep reading

2021 BMW 4-Series convertible breaks cover, features giant grille and canvas convertible top

by

The 2021 BMW 4-Series certainly made waves when it first debuted thanks in part to its gigantic twin kidney grilles, as well as some of the technology improvements that the model brings to consumers. With the coupe having its time in the spotlight, BMW has decided to address the needs of sun lovers with the unveiling of the 2021 BMW 4-Series convertible. While the front fascia continues to dominate the narrative with the fore-mentioned grilles (a throwback to vintage BMW offerings) the convertible also makes a big change for 2021, with the hardtop being pitched for a lightweight canvas piece. …

Keep reading

The best Cadillac sedan yet? CT5 shoots for a bullseye

by

The Cadillac CTS certainly left a big pair of shoes to fill when it was taken out of production recently. The model originally started as a tweener model to compete with the BMW 3 and 5 Series before eventually being given more freedom to go after bigger game. Along the way, it also spawned a coupe and even a station wagon to go along with the spicier V8 powered V variants. However, it was not enough to help Cadillac snatch the sales crowd from the Germans, and sales slid. Cadillac decided to go for a full reboot with the CT5, …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce stretches the definition of opulent luxury with 2021 Ghost Extended

by

September had little time to get into full gear when Rolls Royce took the cover off of the revamped 2021 Rolls Royce Ghost. The second generation Ghost promised to bring a higher level of sophistication, luxury, and technology to the “entry level” model in Roll’s bespoke lineup. Perhaps fittingly, Rolls execs chose the dying days of September to reveal the newest member of the Ghost family, the Ghost Extended. As the name implies, the Ghost Extended is the extended wheelbase version of the Ghost, with the variant adding 6.7 inches to the length of the car. This extra length allows …

Keep reading

What changes are in store for the 2021 Lexus IS? We compare old vs new to find out

by

When Lexus took the veil off of the 2021 Lexus IS, it certainly appeared to be a noticeable improvement over the outgoing model which was really starting to show its age, and was falling behind rivals in a number of categories. But what can buyers expect in terms of changes, and is the new model indeed better than the outgoing IS? To find out, we spent some time behind the wheel of a 2020 model, and it certainly answered alot of our burning questions.   Fresh Styling Rules The Day: One of the most obvious changes that buyers will notice …

Keep reading

Genesis confirms G70 facelift is coming, will appear in 2022

by

When the world was first introduced to the all new Genesis G80 a few months ago, it (along with the GV80) signified a radical departure for the brand in terms of design. But left out of the shuffle was the Genesis G70 which debuted just before the brand formally pushed forward with their new design theme. The upstart luxury contender was keen on righting this wrong, and has formally introduced the 2022 Genesis G70. As expected, the second generation G70 adopts the G80’s front fascia design, and that helps create a more unified and aggressive face. That’s enhanced by the …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce unveils heavily revamped 2021 Ghost: luxury sedan

by

If you see a 2021 Rolls Royce Ghost cruising its way down a quiet boulevard, chances are that you might mistake it for its outgoing predecessor versus being anything radically new. The Ghost is one of the most successful models in the company’s history, and as a result, designers did not want to rock the boat too much when it came time to make the 2021 Ghost. As mentioned earlier, the core design of the 2021 Ghost does not stray too far from its predecessor, with the new model only sharing the Spirit of Ecstasy badge and the door mounted …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce Ghost to debut September 1st, will feature 152 LEDS in dashboard [Video]

by

Remember the splash that Rolls Royce made a few years ago when it introduced the world to its Starlight Headliner? The ritzy piece of optional equipment transformed the roof of a model equipped with it into a very good representation of the night sky thanks to the use of strategically placed LED lighting elements. Rolls even added a shooting star effect in later models for an extra degree of realism. But how do you top something as elaborate as that? Rolls Royce managed to find a way to do just that. Dubbed (perhaps pompously) the Illuminated Fascia, it uses the …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce drops the top on elegance with all new Dawn Silver Bullet:

by

Rolls Royce made a splash awhile back when the British Luxury car maker revealed that it was launching its Collection Cars line of special edition products. While we have not seen the full scope of what the Collection will bring to showrooms quite yet, Rolls has decided to give the world another compelling appetizer, with the unveiling of the Dawn Silver Bullet. The elegant Silver Bullet brings a number of unique flavors to the Dawn, with Rolls reps claiming that it’s supposed to be “a contemporary interpretation of the classic roadster spirit and driving experience,” and looking at what it …

Keep reading

2021 Lexus ES: to receive all-wheel drive, limited Black Line Edition variant

by

When the 2020 Lexus ES appeared, it helped inject new styling, technology, and performance into the brand’s bread and butter sedan. But while the U.S. Government prevented its advanced video mirror technology from being brought here due to safety regulations, the lack of all-wheel drive was a very glaring omission. Lexus has formally remedied that for 2021, and is even bringing the Black Line trim to the ES for the first time ever. The ES has never had all-wheel drive, but the ES 250 will be the first ES in the brand’s history to have the option. This system allows …

Keep reading

2021 PRIOR DESIGN Porsche Taycan Widebody

by

Just some drool-worth images and official press release on this beauty!  Since driving Taycan Turbo down at Amelia Island Concours 2020 I am a huge fan and this design upgrade is sure to increase the car’s already-amazing curb appeal even more. These are just the renders and they already make me weak in the knees!  Cannot wait to see the real thing. 2021 PRIOR-DESIGN Porsche Taycan Widebody PRIOR-DESIGN PRESS RELEASE: Wide body kit for the Porsche Taycan www.prior-design.de Porsche’s four-door all-electric sports car gets a ferocious appearance Tune an electric car? You can’t do that – or at least nobody would …

Keep reading

2020 Genesis G70 Sport RWD V6TT – Road Test Review + Drive Video

by

Every midsize premium sport sedan thinks it can dethrone the 3 series.   Beat BMW at their own game with the best engineering they can muster to make a relatively practical four-door sedan as playful and fun as the best sport coupes in the world. The 3 series might be king of the comparison tests but in truth all sedans in this price and size category are also chasing another prize: the top-selling Tesla Model 3.  It comfortably outsells the Euro premium brand sedans this size – combined.   But electric performance and the blob-like design of the Model 3 mean it’s …

Keep reading

2020 BMW M235i xDrive Gran Coupe by Ben Lewis

by

We recently tested the MINI Clubman and remarked that there’s a lot of BMW under the skin. Well, in many ways, you could say the new BMW 2-series Gran Coupe has a fair amount of MINI under the skin – and just like the Clubby, it’s a good thing. Another way to think of the M235i Gran Coupe is the sedan version of the monster X2 M35i we tested – they share a lot of the same running gear – but going from SAV/SUV/Crossover to Sedan/Gran Coupe (stop with all the different names, please!) creates a very different beast. But …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce Patent Registration Might Reveal Droptop Sequel To Sweptail:

by

When Rolls Royce first unveiled the one-off Sweptail to the world, it immediately set the world ablaze with its seductive styling and a roof line that appeared to draw inspiration from past Rolls Royce offerings. However, a new patent registration appears to suggest that the Goodwood based luxury car maker is preparing a droptop sequel that could indeed make lighting strike twice. First discovered by the folks at Coche Spias the roof of the mysterious Rolls Royce model is arguably its most distinctive attribute. The renderings themselves don’t give us a clear idea on what kind of top will be equipped, with …

Keep reading

2020 Toyota Avalon XSE Hybrid by Ben Lewis

by

It’s interesting how different technologies develop over time. A perfect example is the Hybrid car. With the original Prius, it was a technically interesting, but pretty agrarian little vehicle. Slow and a little clunky, it got very good gas mileage, but you had to be committed to the cause. Come round 2, and Hybrids got better, with little penalty to the driving experience, excellent gas mileage – our 2019 Prius tester averaged over 50 mpg! – but the appeal of hybrids remained in the camps of eco-friendliness. But now the Hybrid has another trick up its sleeve – it’s now …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce Cracks The Code With Wraith Kryptos: Edition

by

It’s no secret that when it comes to customization and the ability to add all kinds of bespoke extras to a car, few can top the benchmark that is Rolls Royce. In addition to their extensive customization suite, Rolls also sells limited edition cars. Each one brings a distinctive flavor to customers, and the all new Kryptos Edition might be the wildest yet. Based on the Wraith, the Kryptos Edition is the latest addition to the firm’s Collection series. The theme this time around is computer coding, and the process of writing and solving them. In this instance, the Goodwood …

Keep reading

2020 Toyota Land Cruiser – Off-Road Test Review – By Matt Barnes

by

What can be said about the 200 series Land Cruiser that hasn’t already been said? It’s been around since 2008 and has only had a few meaningful changes since then. For 2020, there is an all new Heritage Edition that removes the rear seats and center armrest cooler and adds a roof rack, BBS forged wheels, and special badges. Other than that, little has changed from the 2019 model year. For our review, Toyota sent us a base model Land Cruiser for a week. Keep in mind the base model Land Cruiser starts at over $85,000 and there is only …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2020 Lexus RC-F – Is This The Ultimate Japanese Pony Car? [Video]

by

In a segment where lap times are rapidly becoming the defining measuring stick in terms of what makes a good car, it can be easy to forget that sometimes, buyers want a performance car that also excels in feeling and sounding special. Lexus is keenly aware of this, and has made some welcome updates to the RC-F for 2020. But can these updates help the RC-F truly stand out in a crowded segment, while retaining the core essentials that enthusiasts love?   A Solar Flare Of Expressive Styling: For 2020, the RC-F received a mild refresh that aimed at adding …

Keep reading

2021 Lexus IS Brings New Styling and Technology To Buyers, Retains Engine Lineup

by

Even though the Lexus IS has been around in some shape or form for the past 20 years, it often does not get some of the respect and credit that it rightfully deserves. With segment benchmarks like the Audi A4, Mercedes C-Class and the legendary BMW 3-Series still resonating profoundly in the compact luxury car segment, the quirky IS has never really had the opportunity to outshine the trio. Lexus engineers were eager to change that reality, and have formally unveiled the 2021 IS via a virtual event. The exterior styling of the 2021 IS will arguably be the most …

Keep reading

2020 Hyundai Sonata Limited by Ben Lewis

by

Well, we are always excited to hear about a new Hyundai Sonata. It seems that the automaker always tries to do something special, and their flagship sedan also seems to get some hand-me-down (we should all be so lucky!) technology from its wealthy sibling Genesis. And if you saw the Superbowl commercial, it’s bringing some amazing tech to the segment as well. So, is this the sedan to beat Camry and Accord at their own game? We’ll see! Sonata exterior – Distinctive Styling Ok, you see the word “distinctive” and you wonder – and well you should. At first glance …

Keep reading

2021 BMW 4-Series Embraces Bigger Grilles, Gains More Power and Poise For New Model Year

by

When BMW first revealed that the iconic twin kidney grilles on many of its cars were going to be growing in size, it caused an uproar among BMW loyalists that feared that an iconic BMW design cue was going to be lost forever. Despite this, BMW has moved forward, and has unveiled the 2021 BMW 4-Series coupe. The enlarged grille originally made its debut on the Concept 4, and while we are still processing the look of the production version of this grille, it is apparent that some changes were made in an attempt to address some of these concerns. …

Keep reading

2021 Lexus IS Teases New Taillight Design, Will Make Global Debut June 9th

by

When we last met the Lexus IS, we praised its commendable performance, and the impressive amounts of comfort that lurk beneath the surface. But it was also no secret that some of the finer elements of the car were starting to ungracefully show their age. With the current generation car being on the market for seven years, it was no secret that a replacement was indeed imminent. Lexus has finally revealed that one is coming, with the Japanese luxury brand releasing one lone teaser image ahead of its debut June 9th. While the teaser does not tell us very much, …

Keep reading

2021 Acura TLX Revealed, Poised To Make Acura Serious Threat In Sport Sedan Segment Once Again [Video]

by

Following a steady stream of teaser images that have done a good job wetting our appetite for Acura‘s revamped TLX sedan, the Japanese luxury car brand has taken the veil off of the 2021 TLX which aims to reinvigorate Acura’s ability to be a threat in the popular sport sedan segment. Based on what we see here, we think Acura could be on the right track to reaching this bold goal. The exterior styling of the 2021 TLX thankfully embraces many of the styling cues that we came to adore in the Type S concept, with chiseled lines, aggressive curves, …

Keep reading

2021 BMW 5-Series Debuts With Refreshed Design, Brings More Powerful Electrified Powertrain To Consumers

by

BMW recently took the wraps off of the 2021 BMW 5-Series earlier this week, and it brings a number of welcome updates that not only help keep the 5-Series fresh in the minds of buyers for a few more years, but also allows the 5-Series to take a big step closer towards formally fitting in with BMW’s renewed push towards electrification technology. But before we get into the more radical changes that take place in the performance hardware, we might as well address the decidedly more subtle updates that define the exterior styling. Being a mid-cycle refresh, the 5-Series avoids …

Keep reading

2020 BMW M340i xDrive Sedan by Ben Lewis

by

In every market segment there is the dominant player. Small affordable sports car? Miata. Import pickup truck? Tacoma. And when it comes to premium sport sedan, that would be the BMW 3-series. Which is not to say there isn’t competition there, in fact a bunch of wonderful sedans from the Audi A4 to the Genesis G70 to the Volvo S60 are gunning to be the quickest gun in town. But it always seemed that the BMW 3 is the benchmark. And now they went and made it incredible – welcome to the BMW M340i. M340i Exterior – Low-key flyer The …

Keep reading

First Drive Review – 2020 BMW 840i – By Carl Malek [Video]

by

When one asks what makes a proper flagship coupe? Some will say that you must have eye watering style to help your offering stand out from the rest of the pack. Still, others will say performance and technology rule the day. Regardless of which principle is true, making sure all the stars align to achieve this nirvana is very difficult even for a German luxury car maker like BMW. When the world last saw the 8-Series coupe, it was back in 1990 when the first 8 Series rolled off the assembly line. Designed to be the ultimate 90’s luxury machine, …

Keep reading

Lexus LS Could Bring Back V8 Hybrid Power, Four Cylinder Option Also Rumored

by

When Lexus introduced the current generation LS flagship sedan a few years ago, it was supposed to bring some much needed aggression to one of the marque’s most iconic models. The design was sleeker, the interior was more luxurious than ever, and Lexus promised to make more of an effort at targeting segment benchmarks like the Mercedes S-Class as well as the BMW 7-Series. However, some folks were disappointed to see that a V8 option was not available, with the twin-turbocharged V6 being the only power plant offered. But according to a new report from Japanese publication Mag-X, it appears …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2020 Lexus LS 500 F-Sport – By Carl Malek

by

When we last met the Lexus LS 500, it was back in 2018, when we invited it to a special three way dance to see which flagship sedan could indeed emerge as the best of the best. While the F-Sport we had at the time lost out to the Genesis G90 and the first place Cadillac CT6, it also helped play a supporting role in a very key life moment for this writer (the proposal to my fiancée Emily.) With a bundle of subtle updates for the 2020 model year, we were eager to catch up with this very special …

Keep reading

Cadillac CT4-V and CT5-V Blackwing Announced, Manual Transmission To Be Offered [Video]

by

When Cadillac first unveiled the CT4-V and CT5-V at the end of May last year, it felt as if it something was missing. While the prospect of having two performance sedans to salivate over certainly pleased many enthusiasts, some were left wanting more power. Especially considering that the V-Series models that came before them packed much more muscle under the hood. Cadillac even paraded the Blackwings out on the track during the 2019 Detroit Grand Prix to give the public a fleeting glimpse at the duo. Fast forward to 2020, and Cadillac has officially confirmed that both the CT4 and …

Keep reading

Upcoming Second Generation Acura TLX Could Debut A New Turbocharged V6, Engine Allegedly Developed Just For Acura

by

The second generation Acura TLX has been an eagerly awaited offering. With SUVS and CUVS as well as the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic currently on the world stage, it can be easy to forget that some new products are still moving along with their launch schedule. One of these is the second generation Acura TLX, and a new report appears to suggest that buyers could benefit from an all new V6 which would be exclusive to the Acura brand. We first got a glimpse of the next generation TLX when Acura unveiled the Type S concept at the Quail event back …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2020 Volvo S90 R-Design – By Carl Malek

by

In the world of high end luxury cars, marques such as BMW, Mercedes Benz, Audi and more can usually be found flooding the parking lots of shopping malls, bustling downtowns, and those elegant high end restaurants. This is due to how well built they are, as well as the love affair that many loyalists have with their elegant charms, state of the art technology, and luxury trappings. As a result, they present a formidable bar for others to surpass. One such contender looking to do this is Volvo, which has recently mounted a renewed effort at adding ample amounts of …

Keep reading

2019 Audi RS5 Sportback Review by Ben Lewis – Green with Energy

by

To paraphrase a famous SNL sketch, Audi been very, very, good to us. Looking back, we spent quality time with the beautiful A5 coupe, the potent S5 Sportback, and now we’re driving the Uber-fast (not to be confused with Uber, fast) RS 5 Sportback. It’s a nice progression, as each one has built on the other, but you’re never really prepared for the jaw-dropping performance an Audi RS model can provide. Green, with Energy The first thing that hit us about our tester was its Sonoma Green Metallic paint. We loved it. Audi has a tradition of bringing some awesome …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce Teases Dawn Silver Bullet Collection Model, First Collection Car Model Of New Decade

by

When Rolls Royce was preparing to enter the new decade, the bespoke British luxury car maker revealed that it would be offering a new series of “Collection Cars” at various points through out the decade to help celebrate key moments in the company’s iconic history, while also giving eager buyers the chance to add something unique to their diverse vehicle collections. Rolls Royce has formally teased the first of these models, with the firm confirming that the Dawn will be the canvas for its all new Silver Bullet model. The Dawn Silver Bullet draws its inspiration from the 1920’s, a …

Keep reading

Bentley Bacalar Brings Bespoke Details, Exclusivity To Bentley Lineup [Video]

by

Are you a certain kind of customer that has climbed atop the financial mountain and think that the standard and already elegant Bentley Continental GT Convertible is simply not enough of a styling statement to signify that achievement to the world? if that fits you, the British luxury car company has the answer to your needs with the all new Bentley Bacalar by Mulliner limited edition convertible. It was originally supposed to make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show (before it was cancelled) but we took some time to formally examine things in-depth to find out if the Bacalar …

Keep reading

Cadillac Celestiq To Appear As Brand’s New EV Flagship Sedan

by

Cadillac and GM as a broader whole shocked the world yesterday by opening the door on its electrified future, while the company stopped short of formally allowing its vehicles of the future to be photographed, one vehicle in particular stood out to us the most, the Cadillac Celstiq. Designed to be a truly proper flagship offering, the Celestiq checks all the boxes, with a hand built exterior, and an old world chic luxury interior all built on top of the Ultium infused EV modular platform. The Celestiq will also have a limited production run, though it is way too early …

Keep reading

Alfa Romeo Puts Giulia On Crash Diet, Adds Power With All New GTA Model

by

Alfa Romeo wanted to bring some zest and fire to the Geneva Motor Show, but while the ongoing Coronavirus outbreak and the subsequent actions of the Swiss government thwarted Alfa Romeo’s original plans for a grand unveiling worthy of its ongoing 110th anniversary celebrations. The Italian sports car maker instead took to the digital realm to showcase the newest iteration of its Giulia sedan, which revives a vaunted moniker that has painted a trail of victories and performance during Alfa’s existence. Dubbed the Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA, this model arrives to serve as an even hotter version of the already …

Keep reading

2019 BMW M850i Convertible Review and Drive Video – The Richmaker

by

What is it like spending a week behind the wheel of the new M850i?  There are barely words to capture how amazing it is, but we will try. This reborn 8 series continues the essence of that original shark-nosed executive supercoupe perfectly — updating and evolving it into the present and future. How well?  After a few days behind the wheel, this M850i will make you feel ridiculously rich. Tax haven rich. City, beach and Tahoe ski house rich. Capital gains tax rich. So rich you stop calling it money and start calling it wealth. So rich you can barely …

Keep reading

2021 Jaguar F-Type Brings Handling Improvements, Updated Styling To Already Popular Two Seater

by

The Jaguar F-Type made quite a splash when it first appeared in the first half of the decade. With an all new design language that was a visceral injection of freshness not only into the segment, but also into Jaguar itself, the F-Type rode on a massive rocket that shot it into the stratosphere of sales success (taking the bigger and aging XK convertible out of its misery in the process.) But like all good things, even this stylish feline is in need of a comprehensive update, and Jaguar has finally delivered the goods with the unveiling of the revamped …

Keep reading

2019 Lexus ES350 Ultra Luxury – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

For 2019, Lexus introduced an all-new ES350, and it’s a radical step up from the previous model. Due in part to the all-new Camry which the ES shares a chassis, it was the last sedan to get some bona fide’s in terms of performance and pizzazz. There may some though, that kind of liked the previous models focus on the luxury and away from sport. What to do for them?  Enter the ES350 Ultra Luxury. Sleek and Sexy Okay, there’s really not much difference exterior-wise between the Ultra Luxury and other ES350’s, but we don’t mind Lexus not being shouty …

Keep reading

2019 Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe – Road Test Review + Drive Video

by

The C43 had huge shoes to fill when it arrived out front for its review recently. The car it replaced was none other than a flagship from its top rival BMW in the M850i.  Though not size or price rivals at all, the level of excellence as my benchmark for comparisons was sky-high. So it is a shock to say that this car exceeded all expectations of what a hot exec sports coupe can and should be. The AMG C43 is a scalpel for slicing apexes on track, dicing with rivals in long straights, and icing its competitors with brick-wall …

Keep reading

2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible Debuts In L.A.

by

When we last met the Lexus LC convertible, it was earlier this year at the North American International Auto Show. While the cold weather, and Lexus’s vague statements on whether it was indeed production bound or not kept us guessing, there was no secret that even in concept form, Lexus had a very stylish entry on its hands. Fast forward to the 2019 L.A. Auto Show, and the company has unveiled the production version of the LC 500 convertible which has thankfully retained a lot of its show car charm in the transition from concept to production bound vehicle. The …

Keep reading