2023 BMW 330e Sedan review by Ben Lewis

There are best sellers, and there are true best sellers. And for BMW, you have to count the 3-series as a long time favorite. BMW made their reputation in the States on small sporting sedans, and today the 3 sedan is the rightful heir to the crown. Which is not to say there’s no competition for the throne – everyone from Audi and Mercedes to Lexus and Genesis are gunning for that spot. So, is the 2023 BMW 330e still top of the pops? Let’s take a look. Still a Looker On the outside, the 2023 model gets a fresh …

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Rolls Royce Wraith Black Arrow Signals End Of An Era, Last V12 Wraith Model, Limited To 12 Copies

The Rolls Royce Wraith has lingered in Rolls Royce’s lineup for the past few years. We even had the opportunity to briefly sample a Wraith Black Badge several years ago at MAMA’s Spring Rally. However, production of this ghostly coupe and the V12 that powers it is coming to an end, with the company unveiling one final Wraith model, the Black Badge Black Arrow Edition.   Rarity Thy Name Is Black Arrow In keeping with the theme, these Black Arrow models will be rare members of the breed with Rolls Royce confirming that they only plan to build 12 examples …

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2023 Acura TLX Type S PMC Edition Gets Batman Inspired Gotham Gray Matte Paint, Limited To 50 Examples

When Acura promised to give the TLX a pinch of NSX supercar flair, the company followed through with the TLX Type S PMC Edition and some of the colors that came with it, including the latest addition to the color roster, Gotham Grey Matte.   Bruce Wayne, Your Acura TLX Has Arrived Even Batman needs a break from the Batmobile, and the TLX S PMC Edition is shaping up to be a compelling candidate. Like other PMC Editions, this Gotham-hued example will be limited to 50 units and will continue to be a largely designed-focused creation. In addition to the …

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Road Test Review – 2023 Lexus RC350 F Sport – Light Updates Keep This Coupe Fresh

The 2023 Lexus RC350 F Sport is an interesting entry in the luxury coupe segment. While the aggressive exterior styling projects sporty driving and track-ready prowess, the RC350 prefers to cruise through the motions with the range-topping V8-powered F model taking on formal track duty. But while the mainstream RC’s approach to the slow life has helped it maintain a presence in the marketplace, it’s also no secret that the model is rapidly aging and losing ground to rivals. But does the RC lineup as a whole still have a few tricks up its sleeve to help it stay fresh …

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GM Shares New Details On Upcoming Ultra Cruise System, Confirms Enhanced Mapping And Sensor Suite

The 2024 Cadillac Celestiq is shaping up to be a game-changer for Cadillac as the brand prepares to enter the EV age. While the $300,000 plus four door sedan is preparing to bring the fight to Bentley and Rolls-Royce with its bespoke levels of luxury. GM chose to share more details about the all-new Ultra Cruise system which will be a trademark feature on the Celestiq when it goes on sale.   Ultra Cruise Is What Happens When Super Cruise Goes To Reform School The Ultra Cruise system is based on GM’s Super Cruise system. As such, Ultra Cruise shares …

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Rolls Royce Partners With Iris van Herpen For One Of A Kind Phantom Syntopia

Rolls Royce is often the trend setter when it comes to glitz, glamour and style. However while the bespoke British luxury car maker has certainly been busy rewriting the rules of luxury with the all-electric Specter EV, it has been awhile since we saw Rolls Royce in the world of fashion. That’s changing with the company confirming that it has teamed up with fashion designer Iris van Herpen for a special Phantom, the Rolls Royce Phantom Syntopia    Phantom Syntopia Embraces Haute Couture Themes Rolls Royce has made plenty of bespoke Phantom custom models over the years but company reps …

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2023 Infiniti Q50 Black Opal Edition Debuts Color Changing Paint, Will Have A Limited Production Run

The 2023 Infiniti Q50 may be an aging offering in the luxury car segment, but the luxury brand still has a few tricks up its sleeve to help keep the long-running model fresh in the eyes of customers. In the case of the all-new 2023 Infiniti Q50 Opal Edition, it gets an all-new color-shifting paint scheme that allows it to draw plenty of attention to itself while also basking in the rarity that often comes with a limited production run.   Black Opal Edition Color Shifting Paint Is New Take On Familiar Gimmick With the bulk of the 2023 Infiniti …

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Cadillac Celestiq Aims To Pivot Perceptions About Cadillac, But Is It Capable Of Shattering Perceptions?

Cadillac made waves late in 2022 when the luxury brand unveiled the 2024 Celestiq. The Celestiq catapults Cadillac back into the hyper-luxury market and also serves as the brand’s attempt to shake up the way that most customers would think about Cadillac as a whole. But does it succeed in this mission, and what does it all mean for Cadillac’s broader EV efforts? We decided to take a brief dive into how the $300,000 plus Celestiq fits into the broader sales puzzle.   Celestiq Is Showcase Halo For Brand, Helps Break The Ice With Buyers Not long ago, Cadillac would …

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2024 Aston Martin DBS 770 Ultimate Is V12 Powered Swan Song To Iconic Model, Comes Loaded With Upgrades

The Aston Martin DBS was always considered the last word on performance regarding the iconic DB line of cars. The nameplate made its most recent return on the axed DB9, and it managed to solider on into the DB11 (Aston Martin skipped the ten and jumped straight to the DB11). However, the company knows that the V12’s days are numbered, and it has been celebrating its impending retirement not with a whimper but with a very loud bang. We first saw this on the V12 Vantage, and now the 2024 DBS 770 Ultimate will be the figurative last word both …

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2022 Audi S4 Sedan review by Ben Lewis

We recently tested the BMW M340i xDrive, and loved the intoxicating blend of performance and practicality. But there’s more than one Great White shark swimming in the Euro-sedan Ocean, and one that’s a direct competitor to that Bimmer is the Audi S4. So does the Audi put the bite on the BMW, or vice versa? Let’s find out. Stunning Design The S4 makes a bold first impression, with segmented LED running lights framing the hexagonal headlights. Like most manufacturers, Audi is a member of the big grille club, but like the BMW, it’s done tastefully here, with lower side intakes …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Lexus IS350 F-Sport – New Technology Hides Old Bones

The Lexus IS was the classic example of age before beauty. Lexus wanted to bring the fight to the Germans, but in the end, there was no hiding the fact that the IS was too old, clunky, and unpolished for it to pose any serious form of threat to the established benchmarks (even the Cadillac CT4 managed to outshine it). This time though, Lexus went back to the drawing board for the 2022 IS, and while some of the old bones carry over from the outgoing model, there’s still plenty to talk about here.   New IS Styling Is Bolder …

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Road Test Review – 2023 Jaguar F-Type Roadster – Aging Cat Is Losing Ground To Rivals

When the Jaguar F-Type appeared in dealer lots, it was supposed to bring the iconic British luxury car maker back into the mix in the two seat sports car market. The F-Type was the spiritual successor to the E-type and proved so popular it managed to upstage the Jaguar XK. But Jaguar is navigating rough waters as it prepares to morph into an all-electric luxury brand. Can the aging 2023 F-Type still be a top feline in the sports car ranks, or is its age finally beginning to catch up with it?   F-Type’s Added Lipstick Can’t Hide Wrinkles The …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Volvo V90 Cross Country B6 – Adding Green To Established Estate Form

Volvo’s commitment to electrification is unquestioned especially when you look at the wild EX90 flagship EV SUV that the brand recently revealed in Sweden. However, the company also knows that for now, hybrid and plug-in hybrid models will play a key role in laying down the foundations for this EV future. The 2022 Volvo V90 B6 Cross Country is one of these models and it aims to prove that green technology and a proper station wagon can indeed co-exist. But has Volvo indeed succeeded in this pursuit?   V90 Styling Carries Over, Hides Changes Underneath At first glance, you would …

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2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Is Next Step In Hyundai’s Electrification Plans, U.S. Spec Details Revealed

The 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 has been on sale in Korea for a while now, but we still wondered what an Americanized version of the sleek EV sedan would look like and what it would bring to U.S. buyers. Hyundai used the 2022 L.A. Auto Show to glimpse what such a future would look like when the Ioniq 6 makes it to our shores.   Minimal Changes Define Sleek Ioniq 6 Design At first glance, the Ioniq 6’s design changes look largely identical to its Korean market sibling. However, the U.S. government is still not receptive to advanced camera mirror …

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2023 Porsche 911 Dakar Brings Safari Spirit In A Factory Ready Package, Will Be Limited To 2,500 Examples

While a Porsche 911 may be the last thing that you would expect when someone asked you to name an off-road-ready performance vehicle? They do exist, especially in the coveted Safari guise. However, these conversions were largely done by aftermarket firms, with Porsche not offering a factory-ready version for customers that crave desert-ready capability but with a factory warranty backing them up. Porsche has finally answered the call and has unveiled the 2023 Porsche 911 Dakar.   Porsche 911 Dakar Raises The Temperature On Off-Roading The Porsche 911 Dakar might have styling that largely sticks to the 911 family tree, …

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Genesis X Convertible Soaks Up The Sun In L.A. Sharpens Brand’s Focus On Electrification

Genesis promised something special for the third concept in its “X” series of show cars, and the upstart luxury brand has managed to deliver the goods in spades with the L.A. reveal of the Genesis X Convertible concept.   X Convertible Is The Droptop Version Of The Speedium We Never Knew We Wanted At first glance, the X convertible looks like the Speedium concept, but unlike the coupe, chopping off the roof allowed designers to go further with the design. The front fascia still features a grille less panel with the lighting elements wrapping from fender to fender while also …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Genesis G80 – Latest G80 Moves Even Closer To German Rivals

The Genesis G80 has always been our favorite whenever it visits the office. It was already an exceptional value lay in the luxury segment when it was known as the Hyundai Genesis. The second generation G80 pivoted closer to the brand’s core mission, but there was no denying that it was still a Hyundai underneath. Genesis has listened to these complaints and has launched the revamped 2022 G80. But is this radical refresh finally enough to make the G80 a true threat to German mainstay models?   Elegant Styling Makes G80 Look Like Jewelry As mentioned, a prominent complaint of …

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Maserati’s F Tributo Models Pay Homage To First Woman In Formula 1, Will Be Ghibli and Levante Exclusive

Maserati may be focusing the bulk of its efforts on electrifying its growing pool of models, but the company is still taking time to pay homage to key moments in its history. Case in point is the new lineup of F Tributo models that are helping to highlight the legacy of the first female driver in Formula 1, Maria Teresa de Fillipis.   F Tributo Duo Will Be Ghibli and Levante Exclusive Fillipis is one of a small handful of female drivers that have competed in the largely male dominated sport and is from Maserati’s home country of Italy. Fillipis …

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Rolls Royce Debuts All-Electric Spectre, Bespoke EV Boasts 260 Miles Of Range

When Rolls Royce first announced plans for the Spectre it appeared to go against everything that Rolls Royce stood for. For countless decades, Rolls Royce was proud to promote its twelve-cylinder powered heritage and dismissed any notion of electrification in its lineup (except for the occasional experimental concept.) But the gloves are now off, and Rolls Royce has finally unveiled its entry into the EV wars, the 2023 Rolls Royce Spectre.   The Spectre Is A Prelude To A New Era While the 2023 Rolls Royce SPectre continues the long-running tradition of being named after various aspects of the paranormal, …

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2025 Cadillac Celestiq Rewrites The Rules of EV Luxury, Will Be Most Important Cadillac Yet

Cadillac has made it clear that they intend to take the EV market very seriously as the luxury brand continues its transformation into an all-electric brand. We got a small slice of this impending future when we had the chance to get behind the wheel of the 2023 Cadillac Lyriq all-electric SUV. However, Cadillac is now about to embark in a rather ambitious direction with its second EV offering, the 2025 Cadillac Celestiq.   Sleek Celestiq Bodywork Hides State Of The Art Structure   The exterior styling of the Celestiq has changed little from when we last saw it as …

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Maserati Shows Off GranTurismo Design, Confirms Nettuno V6 Will Be On Board And Adds Nice Livery

Maserati may have not formally unveiled the all-new GranTurismo coupe just yet, but that doesn’t mean the company is willing to sit idly by and let some of its rivals command the global spotlight. The company has decided to show off the car early and not only added a nifty livery to it, but also confirmed that the Nettuno V6 will be coming along for the ride too.   GranTurismo Walks The Cat Walk With New Livery Package Maserati claims that the GranTurismo is the “true icon” of Maserati and that’s reflected in some of the styling that this coupe …

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Chrysler Reveals 2023 Chrysler 300C, Scat Pack Infused 300 To Serve As Swan Song For Model

Chrysler promised that something powerful was coming to the brand for 2023. While it’s unfortunately not a Hellcat powered creation, Chrysler instead chose to dust off an old but very potent formula with the unveiling of the 2023 Chrysler 300C which brings potent V8 power to the venerable 300 for one final time.   Familiarity Plays Big Role In 2023 300C If you feel like you have seen this script play out before you’re not wrong, and that’s because the 2023 Chrysler 300C is roughly a rebadged version of the international market 300 SRT and is also a sequel to …

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2023 Bentley Flying Spur Speed Is Luxury Lined Rocket, Retains 626 hp W12

While the Bentley Bentayga and Bentley’s upcoming electrification strategy have undoubtedly taken the bulk of the world’s attention, it can be easy to forget that the company also has the venerable Flying Spur sedan. When we last experienced the luxury-lined borderline limousine, it was in a smaller V8 package, and it certainly delivered a solid first impression. But what if you’re a business tycoon, world leader, or enthusiast that prefers to have a pinch of speed to your limo experience? Bentley has the answer to that very question with the 2023 Bentley Flying Spur Speed.   More Performance And Flying …

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Lincoln Adds Clarity To EV Plans With Lincoln Model L100 Concept, Proves Size Doesn’t Matter

Lincoln may be looking towards a future where electrification and technology will define automobiles, but that doesn’t mean that it has decided to completely ignore its past. On that front, the brand has formally unveiled its newest concept, the Model L100   Model L100 Lives Large The Model L100 is a 2+2 Coupe but don’t let Lincoln’s press photography fool you; this concept is a large expression of design, with Lincoln designers being allowed to throw everything they could at it to make it special. With the concept being longer than a Navigator, they had plenty of canvas to work …

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Cadillac Announces First Road Test For Celestiq EV, Debuts Spacey Camo Wrap

The 2023 Cadillac Celestiq made waves several months ago when the luxury brand unveiled the Celestiq near-production concept. It looked like it leaped off the pages of a designer magazine and had luxury trappings that firmly put it in the crosshairs of Rolls Royce and Bentley. The one key problem, though, was that the Celestiq was a concept at the time, and it didn’t offer a good look at what a full production version would look like. Cadillac revealed that it has now begun the road testing phase for the elegant four-door.    Intergalactic Camouflage Hides Key Celestiq Details Cadillac …

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Bentley Mulliner Teases Batur Grand Tourer, Previews Bentley’s EV Future

Bentley has talked a big game about how it plans to revamp its future with a fleet of all electric BEV offerings. However, we have not seen too much about what kind of offerings they will be and as they say, a picture is worth a thousand words and Bentley has finally delivered the goods with the first images of the Batur.   Batur, A Crystal Ball Into The Future The two teaser images don’t reveal too much detail about the Batur, but it’s clear that this successor to the Bacalar will go in a unique direction. The front chrome …

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Lucid Embraces Its Dark Side With All-New Stealth Package, Will Debut At Monterey

The recent trend of adding blacked out special editions to all sorts of models have certainly not been overlooked with a wide plethora of automakers adding the sinister treatment to models big and small. The folks at Lucid Motors have taken notice, and have revealed an all-new Stealth Package for the Air sedan which aims to transform this sleek EV sedan into a elegantly sinister four door.   Blacking Out The Bright Bits Like other stealth packages we have seen over the past few years, this one largely follows the same core script when it comes to upgrades with Lucid …

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2022 Audi A3 Review by Ben Lewis

We get to test an interesting range of vehicles here at Car_Revs_Daily, from the entry level Hyundai Accentup to the plush Mercedes E450 convertible. What is unusual for us is to test the entry-level model of a premium maker. But with an all-new Audi A3 for 2022, it gave us a great reason to try the carmaker’s most affordable vehicle. So, is it a bargain Bahnstormer, or inexpensive imitation of greatness? Let’s find out! Strong Family Looks From the outside, this is one handsome sedan, if not a large one. The new model is more evolutionary than revolutionary – it’s …

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Rolls Royce Spectre Testing Moves To France, Company Confirms It Will Retain Core Character

Rolls Royce made waves a short while ago when it revealed that it was producing the Spectre EV. The Spectre will be the first EV to move beyond concepts and limited production exercises with the model showing the world what a production Rolls Royce EV will look like. Rolls confirmed that testing has now moved to the coastal scenery of France, and they even revealed some new things about the Spectre, including the suspension.   Ghostly Spectre Will Be A Different Kind Of EV The Spectre may be taking Rolls on the fast track to electrification but that doesn’t mean …

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Cadillac Unveils Celestiq Concept, Retro Ideas Fuse With Modern Tech To Create Electrified Art

Evolution and art typically go hand in hand, especially in the automotive world. That’s especially true when it comes to Cadillac, which has seen its fair share of evolution over its 120-year history. Design and luxury served as the key pillars that defined Cadillac in its early years, with technology becoming a prominent theme as the decades rolled on. It’s these pillars that inspired Cadillac to embark on perhaps its most ambitious gamble yet, with the brand finally taking the veil off of the long-awaited Cadillac Celestiq ultra-luxury sedan.   A Package Embodying The Past And The Present The Celestiq …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Mercedes E450 4MATIC Cabriolet – Coast To Coast Droptop Fun

Do cars have personalities? We think so. Some are your buddy, that say “Hey let’s play”. Others are reliable workhorses. Trusted friends. Some even feel like movie characters. So, what to make of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 450 Cabriolet? How about Batman’s loyal companion and butler, Alfred? Bold and Sophisticated Design Ok, this is one beautiful convertible. Mercedes design language is an interesting one, and we applaud the fact that you don’t think you’re looking at a BMW or Audi. Mercedes has its own brand of curvaceous, and we think it works better on some models than others. The …

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Toyota Polishes Iconic Nameplate For 2023 Crown, Will Form New Family Of Offerings

When Toyota axed the Avalon sedan a short while back, we were curious to see what the company had in store to fill the void that the aging four-door sedan left behind. The Japanese auto giant answered that question with the 2023 Crown, which not only aims to fill the shoes left by the Avalon but also create a new model sub-family within Toyota’s vehicle lineup too.   Toyota Pulls Automotive Swerve, Confirms Full Crown Family If you managed to stay up and catch Toyota of Japan’s late-night live stream reveal of the Crown (we sure did), you would’ve seen …

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Celestiq Teasers Enhance Art Theme, Cadillac Confirms July Debut

The Cadillac Celestiq is rapidly shaping up to be an iconic model for the brand and could perhaps be the most significant Cadillac in recent memory. But while we have seen prior glimpses of the model (as well as spent time behind the wheel of its EV partner in crime, the 2023 Lyriq,) this latest round of teasers gives us our best view yet of the interior while also confirming that the model will make its global debut on July 22nd.   Prominent Colors Highlight Timeless Celestiq Luxury Colors and lighting will be very prominent in the EV lineup moving …

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Cadillac Teases Track Themed CT4-V Blackwing Track Editon, Will Make Debut In July

Cadillac’s success in the IMSA Weathertech Sportscar Championship series has elevated the brand’s racing reputation and to help celebrate, it appears that Cadillac will be unveiling a special track-focused version of the CT4-V Blackwing but what will the Track Edition bring to the table when it debuts in July?   Track-Focused CT4-V Blackwing Styling Raises Eyebrows View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cadillac Performance (@cadillacvseries) On the surface, it would appear that this model will be mainly a styling exercise designed to try and bring customers closer to the track-oriented atmosphere that the Blackwing is promoting. Cadillac’s …

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Cadillac Celestiq Interior Images Tease Vibrant Elegance, Bentley Like Luxury

Cadillac’s mysterious Celestiq hyper flagship sedan has not only spawned its own rumor mill but also raised questions about what Cadillac is up to in regards to the mysterious flagship offering. The car has also eluded the lenses of cameras and has so far not been documented out in the wild. In the meantime, Cadillac has been releasing teaser images of the car via GM’s Design Instagram page, and several new ones today give us glimpses of the interior.   Red Celestiq Interior Reminds Us Of A Ruby, Teases Evolution Of Luxury The images in question show an interior that’s …

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2022 Kia EV6 Wind Review by Ben Lewis

Today, we are driving the car of the future. When you look at Kia’s new EV6 electric vehicle, it’s easy to think that this is what the future of the automobile might look like. Especially if you put on your 1980’s hat. If the EV6 had plopped down at the LA Auto Show as a “future concept” we all would have nodded our heads – something stylish, unique, using electric power and loaded with all sorts of amazing tech. Well, the future is here. So how does it stack up? Meet George Jetson Well, Kia has nailed the look. First …

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Cadillac Celestiq Teases More Metal In New Images, Looks Promising

The Cadillac Lyriq and the Escalade V are immediate examples of Cadillac’s push to become a major player against European luxury benchmarks. But hiding in the shadows is the Cadillac Celestiq which was touted to be the flagship for Cadillac’s all-electric ambitions. It’s not often that we get to see teasers of it, but this latest round appears to confirm that it will reassert the role that design will play in the Ultium family.   Celestiq’s Red Paint Draws Stares Like other Celestiq images of the past, there’s not much to make out here but there are some valuable nuggets …

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Bentley Continental GT-S And GTC-S Add New Dimesnion To Customization Experience For Buyers

When it comes to offering buyers the ultimate car creating experience, few can top the charts the way Bentley can. The company’s strong emphasis on putting the customer first in the ultra-luxury segment has defined it for over 100 years and the British firm aims to continue this tradition with the all-new Continental GT-S and GTC-S models.  Back In Black And Sleeker Than Ever, This Continental S Has The Goods All S models begin their lives as standard V8 models but they subsequently go under the knife to become S models. The exterior appointments are mostly limited to blacked-out pieces …

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Buick Wildcat EV Exudes Style, Previews Future Of Brand’s EV Efforts

The evolution of Buick has seen the brand go through many twists and turns over the past few decades. GM’s Ultium fueled revolution aims to guide Buick through its latest transformation into an all-electric brand for the future. Buick reps offered a glimpse into this new reality with the all-new Buick Wildcat EV Concept that not only looks sleek in its own right but also previews some new technologies too.   A Showstopper That’s Not Heading To Production The Wildcat concept first started out as a mere design sketch that happened to catch the attention of higher-ups within the company. …

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Bentley Debuts New Azure Range, Redefines Interior Luxury And Promotes Automotive Wellness

Bentley‘s interiors are considered to be the pinnacle of luxury when it comes to the ultra-luxury car segment. The standard Bentley range already offers an impressive degree of customization and materials for imaginative buyers, but what if you want more sparkle and perhaps more opulence in your Bentley purchase? The British luxury carmaker thinks it has the next best thing with the all-new Azure range.   Azure Range Morphs From Model To Interior Package When we last saw the Azure name, Bentley used it to label convertibles with the Continental R and Arnage getting the designation when their roofs were …

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Rolls Royce Unveils Updated Phantom Series II, Adds New Shine To Icon

A key trait of Rolls Royce over the years is that when the company updates one of its models, it prefers to do things subtly, with the car’s presence and the features it’s packing doing much of the talking. That established script has carried over to the 2023 Rolls Royce Phantom which has received a suite of new updates and an all-new Series II designation.   Phantom Styling Takes Pages From Ghost When Rolls Royce execs said that the changes to the Phantom were mild, they were not kidding with the car looking much like it did when it is …

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2022 Volvo S90 B6 AWD R-Design review by Ben Lewis

Volvo used to be famous for sedans (and wagons). But if you ask today’s buyer, it’s probably all about the SUV XC models like the XC40, XC60 and XC90. They also have some gorgeous wagons if you are interested. And while they don’t always get the prime-time headlines, Volvo makes some very appealing sedans. Case in point, our 2022 S90 sedan. In fact, it may just be one our favorite Volvo’s! Big, Bold, Beautiful The first thing that grabs you is the sheer size of the Swedish sedan. It’s as long as many 3-row SUV’s and its sharp lines really …

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Maserati GranTurismo Folgore Lights Up Rome

The iconic Maserati GranTurismo is making significant progress in its quest toward production reality. Maserati has released heavily veiled teaser images of it in the past, but a trip through the streets of Rome has given the world its clearest look yet at the all-new GranTurismo Folgore. Italian Style Personified The Folgore part of its name (not to be confused with the similar-sounding character from the Killer Instinct video game series) signifies that it’s an all-electrified model, and it also gives the car a nice ring to it as well. The exterior styling largely follows the same basic script that …

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Lucid Confirms Air Grand Touring Performance Model, Still A Potent Green Machine

When we last saw the Lucid Air, it was in the range topping Dream Edition model which boasted over 1100 hp and made an appearance at the 2022 NACTOY awards (though it came away empty handed.) Lucid is not letting that little setback stop them though, and the California based EV maker confirmed that it will be releasing the all-new Grand Touring Performance model to consumers.   Still In The 1,000 hp Club While the Grand Touring Performance is not quite as powerful as the limited production Dream Edition, that’s like saying a single jet fighter jet is less powerful …

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Cadillac Lyriq Orders Begin May 19th, Celstiq To Arrive Next Year

The Cadillac Lyriq and the Celstiq will be the first two EV models in Cadillac’s EV revolution, but while we have seen our fair share of Lyriqs cruise around Metro Detroit (as well as a recent report that attempted to put a date on the start of production) the Celstiq has remained an elusive ghost and Cadillac didn’t reveal the exact start date of production for the Lyriq. The luxury brand changed that narrative slightly today confirming that not only will the Lyriq start production next week, but that the Celestiq ultra-luxury flagship is on track for its launch next …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing – Super Sedan Spreads Its Wings For Maximum Performance

Cadillac is about to fully double down on its commitment to the electric vehicle market. The luxury brand plans to eventually ditch gasoline vehicles in place of an all-electric future. Before that happens, though, the luxury brand is throwing one final celebration of performance with the Blackwing lineup of performance models (and the Escalade-V to a lesser extent.) One of these is the 2022 CT4-V Blackwing which strives to have one last dance with rivals like the BMW M3. But does it finally have the mustard to overcome the benchmark of the sport sedan segment?   Blackwing Exterior Styling Is …

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Acura Pulls The Veil Off 2023 Integra, Spicier Type S Model Is Coming

When Acura first confirmed that it was bringing back the 2023 Integra, it immediately brought back memories of moves like the Fast & The Furious and the massive car customization craze that it helped jumpstart alongside the Honda Civic. The 2023 Acura Integra aims to catch lightning in a bottle once again, and it seeks to appeal to a new generation of young buyers.   Showcar Styling Defines Integra As with other recent Acura models, the Integra’s styling mirrors the prototype closely, with the production version retaining the sporty lines that defined that model. The large graphics and the colored …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Genesis G70 3.3T Launch Edition – Beefier And More Luxurious Than Ever

The Genesis G70 has always been an oddity in the luxury sport sedan ranks. when it first arrived on the scene, it was a spunky underdog that combined Korean build quality with a level of performance that was missing in other Genesis products. While the manual-equipped version had a transmission that was woefully inadequate for the job, the real moneymaker in the room was the eight-speed automatic which proved to be a potent combination when paired with the right driver. With such a strong start, the second-generation G70 had a very tough act to follow, but did Genesis do a …

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Maserati Celebrates Racing History With Trio Of MC Edition Models

Maserati may make the bulk of its sales dollars in the luxury car market these days, but did you know that the Italian luxury brand also has had its fair share of success out on the track? If you didn’t it’s understandable with much of the company’s recent marketing focusing more on the comfort side of the coin versus its racing pedigree. Maserati is out to change that though and has unveiled a new crop of MC Edition models to remind the world of its racing pedigree.   A Trio Of MC Editions For Any Occassion For now, the Maserati …

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

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 …

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Cadillac InnerSpace Concept Previews Luxury Filled Autonomus Future

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 …

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Mercedes EQXX Concept Makes Splash, Previews Multiple Production Bound Features

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 …

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2021 Lexus RC 350 F SPORT review by Ben Lewis

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 …

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

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 …

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

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 …

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

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 …

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

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 …

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

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 …

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

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 …

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

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 …

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Bentley Continental GT Mulliner Blackline Embraces Noir Vibes, Expands Customization

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 …

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2022 Kia Stinger GT-Line RWD review by Ben Lewis

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 …

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

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, …

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

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 …

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

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 …

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

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 …

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Lucid Motors Unveils DreamDrive ADAS Platform, Promises Conditional Automated Driving

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 …

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

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 …

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2021 BMW 330e Sedan Review by Ben Lewis

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 …

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

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 …

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2022 Porsche Taycan Gains Android Auto And New Colors

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 …

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2022 Kia Stinger GT2 RWD V6 Review by Ben Lewis

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 …

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Audi Skysphere Concept at Pebble Beach 2021

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 …

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Bentley Motors at Pebble Beach Concours 2021 Villa and Concept Lawn

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 …

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

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 …

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

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 …

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2021 Toyota Avalon TRD Review by Ben Lewis

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 …

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

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 …

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

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 …

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

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. …

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2021 Mercedes AMG GLE 53 Coupe Review by Ben Lewis

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 …

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Rolls Royce Taps Its Coachbuilding Past With Wild Boat Tail Custom

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 …

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2021 BMW 540i xDrive Review by Ben Lewis

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 …

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

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 …

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

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 …

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Rolls Royce Phantom Oribe Embraces Pottery, Celebrates Collaboration With Hermes

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.   …

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

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 …

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Aston Martin Debuts Pastel Collection, Limited To California Market

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 …

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

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 …

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

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 …

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2021 Lexus ES250 AWD Review by Ben Lewis

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 …

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Bentley Unveils 2021 Continental GT Speed, Creates Wildest Version Yet

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 …

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

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 …

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

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 …

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2020 Kia Cadenza Technology Review by Ben Lewis

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 …

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

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 …

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2021 BMW X5 X Drive 45e by Ben Lewis

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 …

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Steinmetz 1

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

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 …

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2022 Blackwing lineup

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

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 …

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