Large Sedans

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Iconic Classic: 1938 Dubonnet Hispano-Suiza H6C Xenia at Mullin Automotive Museum

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Orig Published on: Nov 5, 2013 @ 13:12   If it seems like we have an unhealthy fascination for the Mullin Automotive Museum, you might be right. The cars inside this Oxnard, California collection just… write their own stories. I have a dozen more that I would like to feature, but we must start at the true nexus – or “Xenia” perhaps – of the art of French coach-building by Jacques Saoutchik and his contemporaries. How all these cars got to sunny California is no accident. In many cases – the cars in the collection were painstakingly built – sometimes …

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Concept to Reality — Design Analysis — Hyundai HCD-14 to the All-New 2015 Genesis — Plus US Pricing and Equipment

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Last week we explored the fresh and innovative appearances of the Hyundai Intrado concept SUV, HCD-9 Coupe concept and the PassoCorto sports car concept — with generous praise for the ideas and execution shown in all three.   Will that gravy train keep rolling with the new Genesis? Unfortunately, after comparing the two side-by-side and in detail: the answer is a firm “No.”   Overall, the transition from HCD-14 to Genesis loses all of the concept’s unique surfaces, elegance,  and all semblance of premium appeal. The artful and contemporary sweeping shapes of the HCD-14 are all completely gone; replaced by …

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HD Road Test Review – 2014 TESLA Model S 85 – Smooth Power, Great Dynamics, Unequivocal EV Brilliance

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 2014 TESLA Model S 85 Review After a scathing Op-Ed the other week about Tesla Motors’ many (perceived) shenanigans on Wall Street and in Washington: I decided it was time to get behind the wheel to experience the car itself. I registered my interest in the Model S at TeslaMotors.com and promptly received a nice phone call from Silicon Valley to help arrange things. But the nearest Tesla dealers were at least five hours away from me, so I put a pin in the Tesla test drive and went back to work on normal vehicle reviews/ keeping the website up/ …

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Best of Awards – 2014 BMW 335i GT M Sport – 1000 miles at 100MPH… In One Day?

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Orig Published on: Jan 27, 2014 @ 16:37 What car would you pick for the ultimate day of dawn-to-dusk road tripping? Great style, pace and space in back will become far more important than previously thought. The 2014 BMW 328i xDrive GT and 335i xDrive GT are looking better and better to these eyes. Even while prepping the 328d and 328x Touring articles last week: I could not help but liking the 3GT from most angles versus its low-roof-wagon sibling. The nose is really the clinch-point for a car’s style, and the 3GT is arguably more handsome and well-resolved than …

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2.8s QUANT e-SportLimo – Design Shootout vs Porsche 918

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2.8s QUANT e-SportLimo – Design Shootout vs Porsche 918 Why so curious about this car’s origin and vision? A few things seem a bit unusual. Let’s dive into the salty blue of QUANT together.     We knew suspected from first seeing this car’s badge that it comes with a large beer-mug of Bavarian heritage: the Quandt (with a D) family is a major controlling shareholder in the BMW Group. Along with the Porsche’s and the Piech’s — these are some of the most revered industrial dynasties in Germany. And also some of the most shielded and private. But is …

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Updated With Night Photos — Top Cosmetic Car Mods Under $50 — Part 1 — Switchback LED Blinkers — How-To Instructions

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Part One of a new ‘DIY Car Mods’ series. Definitely some really trashy stuff included in this series of articles. But what is the best/worst part of modifying your own car? No matter the price of the upgraded parts — you have zero guarantee they will perform as promised, or even fit. So please take all these with a hefty dose of salt. Ideally, these are just ideas based on what has “stuck” on my car’s cosmetic refresh list over the years. Many, many even trashier upgrades have been installed and later removed from deep shaming by car-guy pals. And …

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2015 Chevrolet Impala Station Wagon? Twin Renderings Explore The Speculative Idea

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These are just for fun – a way of imagining new body styles for the hugely popular new Chevy Impala sedan.   Yes, the Chevrolet SS with its big V8 and rear-drive does have a wagon variant abroad, as does the Buick Regal in the Opel Insignia Tourer. But this front-drive, “affordable large car” has a great track record of success with American family car shoppers.  These new parents are the most unusual in their buying habits: they generally want whatever type car they did not grow up riding around inside as a child themselves. So as the full-frame SUV …

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HD Road Test Review – 2013 BMW 535i M Sport

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2013 BMW 535i M Sport Review Carmax? Oh yes. A new depth of drudgery in our quest to bring amazing car news to the world! This pre-owned BMW 535i M Sport called my name today across five lanes of traffic. I zoomed in on the beefy Alpine White/Gloss Black M Sport presence and knew: you must be mine!  

My 30PSI-Boosting Subaru Legacy GT on HD GoPro Video + Photo Comparo vs Cadillac CTS 3

My 30PSI-Boosting Subaru Legacy GT on HD GoPro Video + Photo Comparo vs Cadillac CTS 3.6 Wagon

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This one is pretty fun. My first external GoPro mounting that also includes some very hard driving. Challenge: Name that Video’s Locale! At least half the time in this film was spent worrying that the camera would fly off the hood at any moment! Got lucky this time, but definitely looking into a more reliable and stick-able suction mount. My Personal Subaru Legacy GT Limited Wagon in photo comparo versus 2011 Cadillac CTS 3.6 Wagon. Which would you prefer? Worth noting is that the Subaru is currently in the shop at the moment for a 115,000-mile service. A “Custom Tune” …

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RM Auctions MONACO 2014 Preview -- 1958 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by Franay 26

Meet the Real Bond Car: 1954 Bentley Continental R-Type Fastback — RM Auctions Monaco Preview

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As much as we young folks like to think Aston-Martin is the epitome of a Bond car, that was not actually the case the first few times our man slid behind the wheel in Ian Fleming’s novels. His preferred coach in at least the first few books is the Bentley Continental R-Type, in black, if we’re not mistaken. Without quoting any of Flemings work (for lack of time, in honesty); the R-Type Fastback Sports Saloon certainly best matches my memories of his first car-of-choice. For, you see, Commander Bond was a bit of a lout. He was not a wild …

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Amelia Time Capsules — 1960 Rolls-Royce Phantom V Limo by Park Ward — 60 Delightful Photos — Sold for $99,000 By RM

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This stately car was such a huge milestone for Rolls-Royce that the core template and style of this 1960 car barely changed for the next thirty years. In fact, Queen Elizabeth probably still wishes this were her daily cruiser. Such is its elegant simplicity, comfort and joyousness outside and in. The Phantom V Park Ward is still the utmost in formal living, so this realistic auction result is even more appreciable. Channel4 in the UK will air a relatively candid look inside Rolls-Royce this evening, but candid is a relative term in Goodwood. While the youthfulness of the staff and …

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Amelia Time Capsules… Quiz? Name That Car! Clues: American V12, One of One Made, Greyhound Badge…

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Which V12 Tourer is this? I would make a sloppy teacher because there is no answer line anywhere on this page, and, in fact: we still do not know for sure the year and exact model! We certainly had no idea (whatsoever) when fawning over its leaping greyhound and V12 badges, but now know it is a V12 Lincoln thanks to its very happy driver.   Only serious history buffs will know the model name for sure. Based on some quick research, we believe it is a 1934 Model K Tourer.  

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2015 GMC Yukon Denali COLORS – Every Shade in Animated Fly-Around Graphics

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 2015 GMC Yukon Denali COLORS   This article will load slowly due to the sheer volume of artwork,  but included below are nine full spin-tables in all nine colors available. Each color spinner is labelled with the paint color as its file name. Enjoy! This one is Summit White, for example.   COLOR CHOICE ANIMATIONS   Animated History of the Chevrolet Suburban – right-click to download

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OP-ED: Tesla Increasing Already-Hefty Risks + Online Build Shows $72k Model S Is Tech Vanguard Bargain vs. Accord PHEV at $45k

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As my Tweets previewed a few minutes ago: “When you or I flip a coin, there are two possible total outcomes. When Tesla flips a coin, it lands as a still-spinning Rubik’s Cube.” PART 1: DEVILS ADVOCATE DISCLAIMER — OPINIONS ONLY We have been pretty hard on Tesla recently for a variety of reasons that have little to do with the excellence of the firm’s main product: the Model S sedan. Before you write this off as uninformed Tesla ‘hating,’ please note a few things about his article right at the top:   The Model S is ** by far** …

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2014 Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid -- 30 Real-Life Photos -- Live Configurator Link + 80 Images of Options, All Colors and All Wheels 93

2014 Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid — 30 Real-Life Photos — Live Configurator Link + 72 Images of Options, All Colors and All Wheels

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Panamera desire but also confusion? Such is life in the fast lane. This hugely-successful model has bloomed into an eight-strong fleet this year. What is new? The Turbo S, Panamera LWB, Diesel and even this all-new plug-in e-Hybrid. (Versions outlined and pricing comparisons here in previous article.) The Panamera S e-Hybrid slides in between the Panamera S and the Panamera 4S on price. Surely, luxury limo’s are passe company cars for those with more dollars than actual eco guilt? No longer. The Panamera S e-Hybrid is the first-ever plug-in luxury car in existence. Doubtful? Count them down. 1. Tesla = …

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Amelia Island 2014 -- Marque Highlights -- VOLVO PV444 and 122S Amazon Coupe -- Pre-Dating BMW 3 series Ancestors 15

Amelia Island 2014 — Marque Highlights — VOLVO PV444 and 122S Amazon Coupe — Pre-Dating BMW 3 series Ancestors

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These Volvo’s were immaculate and very appealing. The white car (122S Amazon Coupe, we believe) established a template for small, rear-drive sports sedans that firmly did not exist yet from anyone — including BMW or anyone else. The BMW 1600 (later the 2002) would ride to greatness as the current 3 series. The 122’s early-1960s imports into the United States showed how far ahead Sweden was at the time of Germany in some ways. Sweden largely sat out WWII and maintained much of its sovereign wealth as a result. The PV444 is even more iconic for many Volvo fans, and …

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East Coast West Coast Benz Battle: CLS550 4Matic versus CLS550

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So you need a Mercedes-Benz with a giant V8, about 5.0-seconds to 60-mph or less, and perhaps four doors — perhaps only two. Options will lead you to the CLS, the original “foupe” and inspiring act for the very fashionable new CLA250 and CLA45 AMG. This is not really a Tupac vs Biggie-style rap battle. Just noting that the CLS550 is available both in rear-drive and AWD setups. They are both very tail-happy and will play along when you are in the mood. But once the CLS trigger is pulled, you might be compelled to only consider the CLS63 AMG. …

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Amelia Concours — Marque Showcases — Mercedes-Benz 219 Peking-to-Paris, 220SE (Coupe), 250SL Pagoda and Even 500E HAMMER!

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Bored of these concours articles yet?! With 3,000 photos snapped in three days — I was even a bit tired of all this out-of-reach metal myself my the end of the weekend. But there really were some stunning machines in attendance. Best part? Their owners were typically nearby — more than happy to extol the benefits of their cherished cars. And more often, the great care and passion they have put into getting these machines up to show-quality. Yes, in theory, anyone with a cool car could apply for a lawn badge. But be prepared for light interrogation by fellow …

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Pre-War Rolls-Royce Showcase — Phantom II Henley Roadster A Sweet, Smooth Operator — Gooding & Co. Amelia Island 2014

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It was convertible Rolls-Royce season down in Florida last weekend!   Three exceptional pre-war Rollers were in proud residence, with both soft-tops bringing in far more cash than the single hardtop: the 1929 Phantom I Newmarket. All are exceptionally-desirable, but clearly some more than others. Results for the cars featured here are included with headers noting which is which. The real star of the show was the Henley Roadster, but the 1933 Rolls-Royce 20/25 Three-Position Drophead Coupe has many merits of its own. One quick one? This was the firm’s official 1933 Paris auto show car. A running, bespoke concept …

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2014 INFINITI Q50S AWD Hybrid — 1080p Road Test Videos & 50 Photos — AAA+ Refinement — Truly Authentic Steering That Beats 535i on Feel

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I worried about the new Q50 for three reasons: the name change did not sit well with me, at first the styling seemed … confused as well the steer-by-wire system’s early announcement freaked me out, because I actually drove a 2003 Q45 briefly (years ago, third-gen car with Gatling-gun HIDs) that had a   n appallingly-bad electronic throttle. The third-gen Q45’s throttle had two settings: no forward movement for first two inches of toe-tip, then a huge, huge over-surge that confused the transmission as you immediately backed off the throttle. Anyone know the big lurch I am referring to with …

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2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG COLORS, Options + Leathers Guide

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2014 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG COLORS So, which 2014 S-Class is for you? The S550 starts things off with a 4.8s sprint to 60-mph for just $90,000, while the S63 AMG lops that time down to just 3.9s for an extra $50 Large. For real-life Kings and Queens? Still the rear-drive S65 AMG for now — but stay tuned for the extra-long-doors version and perhaps even a six-door Pullman S700 (?) in the next few years. The all-new AMG 4Matic is heavily rear-biased, with last fall’s E63 4Matic drive proving these are still exceptionally-balanced and great-steering vehicles.       S63 …

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2014 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG and S63 AMG – Jaw-Droppingly Posh in 40 Real-Life Photos

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2014 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG and S63 AMG The 2015 S-Class is set to be a giant leap over the uncomfortably-compromised BMW 750iL and the ungainly 2014 (and 2015) Audi A8 models. Sidebar: What is up with the 7 series and A8 these days? The old kings are both fuddy-duddy specials lately, one might say. — The BMW drives like an Avalon Hybrid with roid-rage, while the A8 is simply tiny in the back seat and trunk by most real-world measures. — I do not have the stats at hand, but know for a fact the Chevrolet Impala’s legroom, headroom, shoulder …

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JAGUAR XFR Sprint Video — 20-second Snippet

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We’re all busy — so here is the best part of the JAGUAR XFR video reviews from a few days ago… in 20-second form. =] Another 12 minutes of high-def JAGUAR XFR driving reviews about four articles below this excerpt. Or on click here.

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2014 Rolls-Royce GHOST Series II Revealed! Plus Wraith & Phantom LED Comparison

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2014 Rolls-Royce GHOST Series II Early bird gets the worm! This applies in elementary school as much as it does in Warren Buffet’s Berkshire compounds — with one of Buffet’s companies recently snubbing high-frequency traders’ access to market-moving news releases. As we know, Geneva is seven hours ahead of eastern time in the United States. Therefore, as I type this at 5:58am, the Ghost Series II has already blown the doors off this Swiss expo hall. But wait, I hear you say: “The car does not look all that new?” That is the Rolls-Royce way. Huge progress without boastfulness. Continuity …

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Concept to Reality – 2006 SAAB Aero-X to 2013 SAAB 9-5 Turbo6 Aero XWD

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Concept to Reality – 2006 SAAB Aero-X to 2013 SAAB 9-5 Need a reason to save SAAB? Here it is: the 2006 Aero-X concept — which presented a number of jaw-dropping ideas for a potential Swedish GT supercar. This template and aesthetic was the guiding light for the production 9-5 that never quite made it to volume production. So how close is the Aero-X to the doomed 9-5? You be the judge — but we’d say: very, very close. Front Angles Front Three-Quarter Angles Side Profiles INTERIORS Rear Three-Quarter Angles Rear Angles  

TechArt Showing 13 Mad Porsche Customs in Geneva + Exclusive 911 Noselift System for Tall Driveways

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Geneva supercars? Again? Oh yes. TechArt is one of my favorite technical upgrade shops because their focus is primarily under the hood. Yes, they embellish their models with lurid body kits and wild colors: but that is only to show off the amazing power and grip solutions TechArt has done in the oily parts of these Porsches. A few all-stars are present and accounted-for in the TechArt Geneva lineup, with much focus these days on the Cayenne and Panamera. The 911 is not left out: TechArt’s upgraded 911’s also look good enough to kiss on the badge. TECHART unveils numerous …

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Concept Estate Confirms It! Volvo’s New Design Lead Th. Ingenlath Should Be Sweden’s Man of the Year!

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Go Volvo Go! I love an underdog, and have thrown my continued support behind Volvo since the VCC debuted in Frankfurt in September. Sidebar: Did I love Volvo before? Yes, as a brand. But not the cars. Only one year ago — almost exactly — I wrote an op-ed for a defunct media outlet that debated Acura versus Volvo in the battle for the Worst Luxury Brand In America. Scathing barely does that one justice. Seeing the Concept Estate makes me glad that article is not still online, and that the original Word doc is long gone as well. Such …

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VIDEO + Renders of 8 Future Hot-Rods From German Special Customs — Which Is Your Favorite?

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GSC is broadening their scope. They are now applying their trademark upgrade style to brands beyond the Mercedes-Benz star. The latest future projects from German Special Customs work in a hot-to-trot new Range Rover and even an Aventador-from-Hell called the Estatura GXX. Using the names of brands by GSC is a bit touchy, so GSC has these future mock-ups under simplified working titles. Estatura GXX   McLaren P1 Night Glow by German Special Customs   Which do you like best? My choice is probably the E-Class, but I am open to debate! Hey, if you’re not having fun on the …

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Top 10 Tips for Track-Day Newcomers — Plus! The Ideal Track ‘n Back Wagon: 186MPH, 550HP Jaguar XFR-S SportBrake

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By Special Contributor Chris May. So: you have made the decision to take the plunge in to the world of HPDE (High Performance Driver Education). You have forked over a good chunk of cash and fueled up your 2015 XFR-S Sportbrake  JAGUAR for her maiden journey into stardom and instant racing hero status. Before you have dreams of becoming the next Lewis Hamilton or Randy Pobst here are some tips that will hopefully keep you: — out of trouble — hooked on track events like a fish to water. Seriously, where can you drive at the limits or performance, safety, …

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Edited for Content: Bentley Changes Tack As World’s Oligarchs Go Into Hiding — 2015 Conti GT Speed Updated and Flying Spur V8 Launched

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Oh, you are a comically-inept and hopelessly-corrupt politician? Riding high as some kind of monarchy cousin? News Flash: your constituents are tired of seeing your multiple Bentley’s running others off the road all over the world. Your stage winks last for 15 seconds of awkwardness as the kickback cashier’s check peeks from under your lapel? #Byezees. As Ukraine’s people write the blueprint for taking down these fat-cats — the rest of the world’s hate-regimes best take note: your time is rapidly running out. Very aware of the times, Bentley has updated two of its most important models in hopes of …

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2013 SAAB 9-5 Turbo6 XWD Aero — 48 HQ Photos — The Coolest AWD, Turbo V6 Limo You Cannot Buy

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The 9-5 is an exceptional car caught in the wrong place at a disastrous time. The rapid pullout and poison IP pill from General Motors is still causing major delays in all efforts to restart the storied Trollhatten brand. The saddest part of the SAAB downfall were the two models launched as a Hail Mary pass deep downfield in 2011. The 9-6X and 9-5 are both fantastic cars. Ultimately, some time in the 9-5 shows exactly how excellent the core package is at matching SAAB’s brand and design ambition, market priorities with giant rear seat, and even XWD and turbo-diesel …

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Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge Gunning for BMW M5 — High-Res Glory + Geneva Video Teases GT-R-like Engine Howl

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The prospect of the Eau Rouge Infiniti Q50 just became much, much more tantalizing.  @TheRealAutoblog has discovered a brilliant tidbit of information: this car sounds turbocharged. This is news because no Q50 sedans are currently turbocharged. In fact, I do not think Infiniti has ever implemented turbo engines (so far). Aside from the Q45 and its well-known 278-horsepower V8, the first 1990-92 M30’s were V6-powered, as was 1993-1998 J30… and so on. The Q50 Eau Rouge does not just sound turbocharged. It sounds GT-R turbocharged. The GT-R has a particularly gruff but high-strung appeal to its engine and exhaust harmonies. …

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2014 XTS4 Vsport Platinum — First-Drive Videos and New Cadillac Showroom Concept

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Despite big desire for better videos and (some) effort from me, these are perhaps the worst quality of any of mine yet. Shockingly bad, even for my third final GoPro knock-off camera. Time to upgrade my tech package to the real thing… Edit — removed driving video. In addition to poor quality, the audio is out of sync. Too embarrassing to discuss further. The XTS4 Vsport is also a huge upgrade versus the previous-generation STS models and even the first few flavors of XTS to hit the market. In performance, rigidity, quality, competitiveness and durability — the old STS was …

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Update1 — 1970 Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman SWB for $75,000 In Charleston, South Carolina

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 No words to describe this immaculate 1970 Pullman? I am never short of words! Yes, a tech thing prevented description of this car yesterday. But I will say these things now: — cars in this quality are very rare — price just 10% of a the total earned by drop-top six-door 1971 600 Pullman earlier this month in Paris by RM Auctions — for history fans or the inherently curious: the eagle in the front grille is the German Imperial flag — and nothing to do with some other eagle iconography that is perhaps better-known from Deutschland. https://www.deutschland.de/en This car …

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2014 Maserati Ghibli Q4 -- Interior Feels Luxe and High-Quality, But Back Seat A Bit Tight 16

4.7s, 175-mph Ghibli S Q4 Also Debuts All-New Maserati Online Configurator — Colors, Wheels and Leathers Built-Out

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The new Maserati configurator is really excellent — with far more choices for the exterior and interior than anticipated. Over a dozen exterior colors, six wheel choices, four brake caliper colors and a sport pack are available outside. Wheels   Brake Calipers Indoors — the Italian craftsmanship idea really blossoms. Six leathers are available for the seats, five themes for the dashboard, four accent materials like wood or carbon-fiber, and even special carpet and headliner colors. Is this information overload for an executive sports car? For many BMW shoppers with silver exterior/black interior preferences — perhaps. But the Italian nature …

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2014 Maserati Ghibli Looking, Sounding Marvelous -- 40+ All-New, High-Res Photos -- Available Now from $67k 33

2014 Maserati Ghibli — First Cabin Impressions — Interior Feels Luxe and High-Quality, But Back Seat A Bit Tight

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Lots of recent coverage of the Ghibli here lately. Why? 175MPH top speed, 4.7-seconds to 60MPH in awd S Q4 format — or just 4.9 for the rear-drive Ghibli S. Sonorous and Ferrari-evoking exhaust note, handling purity and exclusivity. First cabin impressions: great seats, four front cupholders, sporty steering wheel and large infotainment touchscreen. The 8.4-inch Maserati Tough Control (MTC) screen also includes side-mounted analog knobs for rapid adjustments, and the panel is both near-vertical to avoid glare and pretty closeup for easy tap-ability without leaning or stretching. The trunk even seemed pretty generous. But the rub? The back seat …

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2015 Volvo V60 T5 Sport Pack -- Video Walkaround and 30 All-New Photos 22

2015 Volvo V60 T5 Sport Pack — Video Walkaround and 30 All-New Photos

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The 2015 V60 has landed in America — with fresh looks and excellent merits as a BMW or Infiniti alternative. Is this the first V60 in America? Nope, Volvo of Charleston got their first last week — and sold it in two days. That is a good sign for Volvo’s improving market performance. It carries an all-new and very chic style, along with all the latest high-tech features and base pricing from about $36,000. As tested, this T5 Sport trim comes in at $43,570 with a few desirable tech, safety and styling upgrades. Overall: a fantastic new Volvo and one …

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Wealth Dreams -- 1930 Lancia Lambda 8 Sports Tourer Seeks New Home -- My Home 6

Wealth Dreams — 1930 Lancia Lambda 8 Sports Tourer Seeks New Home — My Home!

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So, if you were in the audience or bidding online during RM Auctions’ Paris 2014 event, what would you pick to drive home? Let’s have an imaginary budget of $150,000 — which is plenty — where would your dollars go? For me, it is this 1930 Lancia Lambda 8 Sports Tourer. It speaks to me. I think about it often. It is like a lover I will never have, or a friend I’ll never lose. Four doors, low roof, drama from all angles — yep. This is just my style. It is still seeking a new ‘forever home’ since not …

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1971 Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Six-Door Landaulet - RM Auctions Paris 2014 - 7

1971 Mercedes-Benz 600 ‘Six-Door’ Pullman Landaulet — *Just* $731,000 at RM Auctions Paris 2014

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Just $731,000? That is still a huge sum of money, right? In today’s world, for a six-door Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Landaulet, this is an absolute bargain. First off: most of these cars have never left the banana republics they originally called home. Many are still in active service all over the world. Secondly, this car might look rough cosmetically, but let me assure you: the Mercedes-Benz 600 (and all their pre-1989 cars, for that matter) are unbelievably strong automobiles.     I know this for a fact because I spent three weeks a few years ago dis-assembling the interior of …

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Car-Revs-Daily Recommends: Black Magic Tire Foam — DIY Touchless Shine + Cuts Brake Dust/Wheel Grease

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Tires are by far the dirtiest and most soiled part of any car. This makes sense — they touch all the ickiest parts of the road and rubber traps dirt far more deeply than painted finishes of any kind. Black Magic Tire Wet Foam is my preferred option for a touchless shine on any tire. Note: the tires can be wet or dry when you apply, but generally this should go on after a car wash has cleaned the tires as best it can. No endless pumping of a washer handle is needed with this aerosol, nor is there any …

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WOW! 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 4MATIC Coupe — High-Speed, High-Fashion 2-Door Glam Shuttle

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The S-Class Coupe debuted this morning to rapturous praise from thisguy! It looks stunning and will hit showrooms virtually unaltered from the shockingly-attractive S-Class Coupe Concept from Frankfurt. Today may indeed mark the start of the Bentley Continental GT’s long, slow decline. As the market-makers tire of that bloated and understeering hog of a machine: both the Rolls-Royce Wraith and this new S550 4Matic Coupe are eager for their attention. Please enjoy these official images and debut details from Mercedes-Benz ahead of the S550 4Matic Coupe’s arrival to U.S. showrooms in Fall 2014. Exteriors   Interiors Official Details below from …

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2014 Maserati Ghibli Looking, Sounding Marvelous -- 40+ All-New, High-Res Photos -- Available Now from $67k 4

2014 Maserati Ghibli Looking, Sounding Marvelous — 40+ All-New, High-Res Photos — Available Now from $67k

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Took a bit of time to meet the all-new, 410-horsepower Maserati Ghibli S Q4 in person today in Charleston, South Carolina.   I’m pretty smitten with this sexy twin-turbocharged sports sedan — even more so after some time up close! The excellent Maserati Super Bowl commercial sets the tone for this bellowing Italian stallion. The Ghibli is available in two trims: standard from about $67,000 and the Ghibli S Q4, which carried a sticker of $94,000. Please enjoy these images ahead of a more thorough test-drive video in the coming weeks – and this quick slideshow featuring the Ghibli’s rich …

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Empire Records Generation — 2014 Accord Hybrid EX-L on Sexy Sugar High to Battle Mazda6 and Ford Fusion

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Shock me, shock me, shock me… with that deviant behavior. – Empire Records (1995), Warner Bros. 2014 might be the year hybrids really start to blossom as a tech option that does not have to ruin your style like a light-green Prius. Case in point is the deceptively handsome Honda Accord Hybrid EX-L – shown in silver here – and even the Accord Hybrid Touring is a bit less dorky for this year.   [Wearing nothing but a MusicTown apron] Gina: Welcome to MusicTown, may I service you? That is great news for Honda. Have you seen the Ford Fusion …

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2015 Subaru Legacy Sedan -- More Lux and Tech in Cabin -- Finally Some Exterior Style -- Even 36MPG Highway 12

2015 Subaru Legacy 2.5i and 3.6R Sedans — Much Quieter — Far More Tech Inside — Finally Some Exterior Style — Even 36MPG Highway!

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The all-new 2015 Legacy launched today in Chicago, with great news all around for Subaru fans. And even enough unique features to entice those curious about the cult-like following of these AWD cars. Subaru’s are fantastic and very rewarding to drive — with handling balance and sure-footed-ness no Camry can ever match. 2015 Legacy Summary points: — This is the Legacy Sedan only, in 2.5i and 3.6R flavors (equipment lists detailed below). — A future Outback is a sure thing, but is not part of today’s big Legacy launch. — A future Legacy GT may join the fun eventually, but …

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Polestar Brings BTCC 850R Style to America! 2014 Volvo S60 and V60 Wagon — Chicago Debut — 4.7s to 60MPH — Summer Arrival

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The Volvo renaissance just hit max boost before squealing all four tires on its full-throttle launch back to greatness. The Volvo racing legend grows for 2014 with the American debut of the S60 and V60 Polestar today in Chicago.   As with many blue-sky dream sessions among Volvo R wagon lovers, the enhancements to the S60 and V60 are deceptively simple. Huge boost via giant new turbocharger, new high-capacity boost cooler Styling overhaul outside and in 3.5-inch exhaust drums in back Brembo brakes large enough to stop a Bentley in heat and Ohlins dampers all around The stats are very …

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2015 BMW 428i and 435i Gran Coupes Bring Wide, Low Style + xDrive, 4 Doors and Huge Trunks – Arriving Summer 2014 From $43,000

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The BMW Gran Coupe and Gran Turismo strategy is finally starting to make sense. It really comes down to sporty proportions in the GC’s versus the taller and more limo-like roominess of the GT’s. There is still some inevitable overlap in the model lines – most notably with the 3GT versus this 4GC – but generally this idea lets all buyers have the best of all worlds. Wearing the aggressive, low and wide styling of the new 435i and 428i two-doors, the Gran Coupes offer a huge wheelbase stretch for limo-like rear legroom and that huge top-hinged tailgate. Overall, the …

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Best of Awards – 2014 Ford Taurus and Taurus SHO – Biggest Trunk and EcoBoost Turbo Innovator

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EcoBoost is coming on-line in a big way! The popularity and roll-out of turbo Ford engines owes a big thanks to this SHO — the first intercooled twin-turbo Ford in decades. With the announcement of the F-150 this month, Ford confirmed that a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 will join the truck line-up. The 6.0-liter V8 is replaced by a 5.0-liter delivering similar power, but no turbo V8’s yet. That is when the SHO will get really, really exciting! For now, this is a huge and comfortable car that also has big passing power and sprint pace on demand.   As a …

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2014 Volvo S60 and V60 – Buyers Guide With 78 Photos, Pricing and Full Tech Specs: $33k T5 to 325HP T6 R and Polestar

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The S60 just got much, much cooler for 2014. A totally redesigned grille and nose meld well with new dark alloys and R-Design styling upgrades. Sure, you can buy a safe, smooth and reliable T5 S60 from just $33,000. Is there better seat comfort or standard audio system on any other car? Volvo’s are full of surprise-and-delight features — with extra tech flair for 2014. The Polestar package is definitely available on all the T6 models below, including the new-for-2014 V60 sportwagon! http://car-revs-daily.com/2013/12/09/hot-wagons-2014-volvo-v60-coming-u-s-r-design-polestar-trims/v60-animated-gif/#main 2014 Volvo V60   2014 Model Year Updates: Volvo S60 T5 New hood and front fenders New …

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Future Maxima Concept -- 3

Future Nissan Maxima Concept — 3.5-in Lower Roof — 2.1-in Wider Stance — Official Debut

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Update1: Just updated this article with all the 2015 4DSC concept photos; sans the previous burnt photo error =] i think all the designers use Macs — and all the rest of us use PCs… ? ANYWAY Next Maxima is set to be just 0.3-inches taller than the GT-R. But will a manual box join the fun? With the Z06 hitting eight cogs as a manual, or the GT-R running its precious-metals DCT ….. might the next Maxima get a six-speed manual? I think it would help get people in the doors — even if they ultimately buy the V-spec …

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Acura TLX Prototype Is Actually Quite Handsome + New 8-Speed and 9-Speed Transmissions

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The 2015 TLX concepts from the Detroit show are packing huge advancements under that newly-stylish profile. In fact, this front or AWD sedan is on the bleeding edge of technology across all Honda and Acura models. How? —  New eight-speed twin-clutch automatic for the 2.4-liter —  New nine-speed torque converter auto for the 3.6-liter V6 Certainly raised my eyebrows, in a good way! As does the styling. Despite sharing many family traits with terminal RLX sedan, the TLX prototype is really quite handsome. The once-controversial grille has even evolved into a much more cohesive and attractive shape. Organic flow replaces …

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Tahoe Police concept

140MPH+ Chevy Tahoe PPV Coming as 2015 Model With Optional 4×4 and Far Better Cabin

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The funny thing about the Chevy Tahoe police cruiser’s tenure on the market is that it only recently started to offer four-wheel-drive to these LEO customers. Fuel economy and high-speed pace were the initial reasons – with even the 2012 5.3-liter Tahoe PPVs able to hit 139 mph. Four-wheel-drive is a mandatory feature this time of year in many places. Example? My hometown typically runs Tahoe PPV models and Crown Victoria Fords – but during the recent blizzard, switched to their personal 4×4’s to keep the peace. And keep the grip on snow and ice. Rear-drive Tahoe’s are very stable, …

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2014 Rolls-Royce Ghost V-Spec Adds Power + Dark Glamour to SWB and LWB 4-Doors 3

2014 Rolls-Royce Ghost V-Spec Adds Power + Dark Glamour to SWB and LWB 4-Doors

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There almost are no words to properly convey the quality and luxury of every single detail in the 2014 Rolls-Royce model lineup versus normal cars. Speed and handling during my Wraith press drive in November was very, very impressive – this platform has fantastic poise, but enough movement and sway when being pushed hard to remind you about the speedometer. Wraith’s fun-to-flog nature is important because Many of the fastback’s sportier elements are introduced for the first time on Ghost V-Spec cars.   I am smiling at my desk as I type. While many fast cars make it seem “easy” …

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BMW 328d and 328i Wagons Back in U.S. for 2014 – Buyers Guide

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Fast wagons are cooler than ever in 2014. Even a lowly Jetta Sportwagen on dark steel winter wheels can cause a double-take. They are rare, and achieve a low-roof profile that all the sportiest SUVs envy. Even better? Sweeping on-ramps and highway curves can be confidently driven fast, on throttle, with family and kids in the back. Try the same thing in many SUVs, and there will be much more body roll and potential life partner jabs to ribs. Slow down!     But the low, low center of gravity is like a gift that keeps on giving with the …

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Low-Volume Specials – Buick Regal Country Tourer Could Be Yours… At A Price

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When a long-term product plan from GM was released a few years ago by a disgruntled employee to a German newspaper, the revelations about what exactly lay ahead for Opel were quickly silenced. Luckily, it was not the Guardian who received the documents. The one thing I recall before all the news … went away … was the Country Tourer name for a potential Vectra replacement wagon.   An all-road-style option for families who not only need AWD, but need some extra ground clearance and gravel resistance on the lower panels as well. These are not some kind of “country” …

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Passat Sport New-for-2014 with Black Roof, Turbo and 19-in Luxor Wheels From $27k

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The 2014 Passat Sport is news to me: where did this very affordable and chic black optics pack come from! A surprise and delight, to be sure, from Volkswagen ahead of the big show next week. The 2014 Passat Sport is a trim line between SE and SEL, with manual or automatic boxes available to suit your preference. The Sport is offered with the strong 1.8-liter Volkswagen turbo that has seen action mostly in high-powered models not imported to the States. Luckily, the new turbo will roll out across the full VW USA line-up in the coming years. Boost is …

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Lincoln Black Label: Modern Heritage

2014 Lincoln MKZ 3.7 AWD Shows Very Handsome Kamm Tail

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This is less of an article as a galleries post. You can take in the latest Lincoln MKZ images for yourself. I enjoy its looks, especially versus any other Lincoln. The single LED bar is really good in real life – but looks bad in these photos. The tail spoiler is appealing. But the nose is not pleasant. Exterior Gallery – 2014 Lincoln MKZ Black Label and MKZ Hybrid Interior Gallery – 2014 Lincoln MKZ Black Label and MKZ Hybrid The car shares steering wheel and dash with Fords; making the MKZ less than enticing, despite new-looking seats.  

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Best of Awards – 2013 Cadillac Elmiraj – Most Provocative Concept

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What else to say about the Elmiraj? It speaks for itself.   In my opinion, the real achievement of the Elmiraj is how faithfully its wild design is brought to the road. Anything can be rendered on CAD-CAM screens, but rarely does the finished product surpass the original idea. In this case, Cadillac has aced the test. Full house. Even if this exact car does not appear, the techniques on the interior, and especially the exterior style, surely sees the road right now as the stunning Cadillac CTS4.   Interior Gallery – Cadillac Elmiraj Concept Exterior Gallery – Cadillac Elmiraj …

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180MPH? Custom Wagons – BBM 330d Touring and BMW M135i by Tuningwerk

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The M135i two-door will soon be coming to America as the 228i and 235i, but this body style is really the epitome of fast wagon stance. A power jump is only half the results achieved here by both fast wagons from the local speed shops: Tuningwerk and BBM. The BBM 330d Touring shows what can be done with careful ECU boost enhancement – but this car also wears a one-off reflective matte red exterior that is very unique. BMW M135i by Tuningwerk BMW 330d Touring by BBM  

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New Maxima 4DSC Heading to Detroit as GT-R-Style Concept Sports Sedan

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Exciting news from Nissan today: the announcement of a new Concept Sports Sedan for the Detroit NAIAS from mid-January. The teaser concept is widely believed to be the next Maxima. The dark red/auburn colored image is the only official teaser from the Nissan – all others are speculative renders exclusive to CarRevsDaily.com Nissan has avoided a nameplate for the concept car, but this shape is likely to be in stores by Summer 2014 – perhaps even with a NISMO model alongside at launch. Nissan does reference the recent IDx and IDx NISMO concepts in this teaser release – which shows …

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2014 Infiniti Q50S

2014 Infiniti Q50S Fantastic in Real Life + Very Fast: 4.9s to 60mph for RWD or AWD Hybrids

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Perhaps it was just me: but the Infiniti Q50’s design was not a real favorite since it debuted earlier this year. There seemed to be too much light swirling and photo magic to even see what the car really looked like. I am thrilled to report that this Q50’s style really works in the real world: a low nose and that cat’s-eye of LED lighting in the corner of the lamps is quite fresh, looks expensive, and shows class. Other elements of the Q50 Sport Hybrid’s breauty really come to light in the latest real-life photos of the car, taken …

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2015 Audi A8 Looks Same, But Adds FWD Hybrid and TDI Flavors

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An early debut of the 2015 A8 would seem to jeopardize sales of the current 2014 A8 and S8 – but the changes are mostly tech and powertrain-based. A very evolutionary styling A8 makeover on the 2015 models will go unnoticed by most observers, keeping the 2014 cars relevant. Here are the image galleries of the 2015 Audi A8 TDI, TFSI, Hybrid and W12 LWB models. See if you can tell them apart!  (Hint: it is not easy, but the grilles and tailpipes are the best clues.) 2015 Audi A8 – LEDetails 2015 Audi A8L W12 2015 Audi A8 Hybrid …

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Best of Awards – Zero to Hero in the 2014 Chevrolet Impala

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The 2014 Impala looks amazing in the flesh and on the streets. One might even say it is… “really, really, really ridiculously good-looking.” Even its base trims are very cool and dark up front, with a really solid appearance that is unique and very attractive. Yes, on a Chevy Impala!   The 2014 Impala comes in three engine options, from the eAssist 2.4-liter up to the 3.6-liter V6 that should be a must for anyone reading this. The headlights are even quite interesting, which is special at this price point. HID bi-xenons are optional, with LEDs ringing the main beams …

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The Most Stylish 4-Door Never Made? 1980 Ferrari Pinin Still Brilliant

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The 1980 Ferrari Pinin concept shares much of the low-slung beauty of the 400i models, but none of their affordability. This one-off concept is being sold by Museo Ferrari for $1.2 million. Before you write off this design and its gob-smaking egg-crate grille, take a few minutes to twirl it around with 30 years perspective since its debut. Yes, the nose is messy, and the clamshell hood shows some panel fit issues in some of the photos.   But Enzo Ferrari himself is also sitting in the car for some of the photos, evaluating it around Fiorano on a nice …

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