Debuts Topic Hub

Top 4 Hardcore Off-Road Debuts – Los Angeles 2017 Auto Showfloor

LA is lousy with soft-roaders this year. There are at least a half dozen softroad compacts all the way to plush 7-seaters. But that is not our goal here. Here we will tease out the top four serious off-road vehicles to make their debuts or appearances at LA Automobility 2017. Special shoutouts to the very-cool foot porthole in the door of the Wrangler. The flat floor and full front trunk of the Bollinger is also pretty special. 2018 Jeep Wrangler 2018 Bollinger B1 EV-SUV 2018 Ford Expedition Baja Concept 2018 Land Rover Discovery SVX

Nov 30, 2017 Read more

2017 TOKYO Motor Show LIVE – Top Ten Sexiest Debuts

Tokyo is full of EVs and stand-tall vans per usual. But this year the eco flavor has a lot more speed and outdoorsiness. Cars like the Nissan IMx — a preview of a Juke replacement running 400+ electric ponies. Taller ride height and gravel-busting looks are part of the Subaru VISIV concept’s rallytough looks. We even love the new Mitsubishi Mazda is on a roll with its gorgeous Vision Coupe concept — a light teaser of where the humble Mazda6 is going in the future. Same for the sexy shrink-wrapped KAI Concept for its 2019 Mazda3 flavors. Cars like the …

Oct 25, 2017 Read more

2017 Monterey Car Week REVEALS List – Pebble Beach, The Quail & Concorso Italiano

This is crunchtime for car writers and news junkies alike! America’s Goodwood, aka Pebble Beach, has gone from a concours to an all-out supercar auto show extravaganza. What we learned on a trip to the event in 2014 is that Monterey Car Week is actually a full week of performance joy! The classics and icons are peppered throughout the experience, of course, but mainly take center stage on the oceanfront fairway only on Concours Sunday. Until then, there are ride/drive events, VIP receptions, press events and media previews galore at the Quail, Concorso Italiano, RM Sotheby’s in downtown Monterey.. and …

Aug 16, 2017 Read more

Bell & Ross Debuts BR03-94 DESERT TYPE – Haute Chronos in Gunmetal Ceramic/Tan Calfskin

Baselworld 2016 is ramping up! A who’s who of the timepiece world is converging in Basel, Switzerland from mid-March to show their new haute chronos. Bell & Ross unboxed a trio of adventurous new flavors on their well-loved design theme: the Desert Type. Intended as vaguely military, vaguely fashion-focused item, the pieces also celebrate an adventurous traveller’s life in general. A BR03-94 with the classic BR face style is the entry model of the Desert Type collection, and moves up to a full chronograph option of the same 42-MM size. A smaller 39MM BR03-92 rounds out the range with a slightly lighter and more unisex …

Jan 27, 2016 Read more

LARTE DESIGN 2016 Infiniti QX80 Missuro is Whitehot in New Image Set + Animated LED Demo

The QX80 has been a favorite of Larte Design (and ours!) for years. LARTE has been designing aero kits for the 400HP supertruck in many forms since 2011 or so. This is their baby. So of course, when the 2015 model debuted in Pebble Beach with a plush QX80 Limited pack and new LED lighting, the LARTE folks were quick to take note. Since those first QX80s started turning heads in Monaco with wild styling mods, Larte has expanded globally — with Cali and German offices doing great tunes on the Lexus LX570, Merc GL, Tesla Model S, QX60, QX70 …

Nov 19, 2015 Read more

600HP, 4.0s 2016 Bentley BENTAYGA First Edition Debuts with Carbon-Fiber Aero Details

Like a dream come true from the Bentley Bentayga configurator and Inspirator apps, the new First Edition is a gorgeous showpiece flagship for the whole line. The first Bentayga you see will be the best; a breathtaking evolution on the super-SUV theme. 608 copies of the First Edition will be allocated to markets worldwide, with all other specs to follow. 2017 Bentley BENTAYGA Colors and Options Configurator + Sexy Black Brightware Specification Bentley INSPIRATOR App Is World-First Intelligent Configurator with Facial-Recog Emotion Mapper 2016 Bentley BENTAYGA First Edition BENTLEY DEBUTS BENTAYGA FIRST EDITION AT EXCLUSIVE VIP CUSTOMER EVENT First …

Nov 16, 2015 Read more

985HP MANSORY S63 Black Edition Coupe – Upgrades Detail + 20 New Photos

MANSORY is getting pumped for its home auto show: the IAA in Frankfurt next week. The big reveal this year will be a Black Edition S63 AMG Coupe. This blacked-out stunner has dramatic exterior and interior changes from every angle. In addition to the expected new bumper and intakes up front, new fender slashes behind the lead axle promise functional cooling benefits as well as the massive style they bring. A full de-chrome for the windowline and glasshouse is dramatic and effective, as are the rear wheel brake cooling ducts. Around back, a dark carbon-fiber finish for the diffuser meets …

Nov 10, 2015 Read more

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

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

Nov 10, 2015 Read more

2016 McLaren 650S Spider Al Sahara 79 by MSO is White Gold Custom for Dubai Auto Show

McLaren Special Operations does a fantastic job of creating a sense of exclusivity and urgency with their custom models. Unlike the deeply unimpressive special Wraiths or Astons lately, MSO models appear to justify their time, effort and extra expense — to buyers and the wider car world alike. Even though we know a 675LT Spider is coming next year, this 650S Al Sahara 79 makes clear that it is the hottest sub-P1 model in the lineup for the time being. This may explain the huge take rate for their services — especially in the Middle East. Nearly one in four …

Nov 10, 2015 Read more

LARTE DESIGN 2016 Infiniti QX80 Missuro Debuts New Dual-Mode Exhaust + Rotora 8-Piston Brakes

The QX80 has been a favorite of Larte Design (and ours!) for years. LARTE has been designing aero kits for the 400HP supertruck in many forms since 2011 or so. This is their baby. So of course, when the 2015 model debuted in Pebble Beach with a plush QX80 Limited pack and new LED lighting, the LARTE folks were quick to take note. Since those first QX80s started turning heads in Monaco with wild styling mods, Larte has expanded globally — with Cali and German offices doing great tunes on the Lexus LX570, Merc GL, Tesla Model S, QX60, QX70 …

Nov 05, 2015 Read more

2017 Volkswagen TIGUAN Is Truly All New in R-Line or Standard Style + Concept GTE PHEV

NOTE: VW clarifies that this the European-market Tiguan. The US model may differ with a caveat like that — a la Passat USA vs Passat EU. Oh my. The only word we can think of? FINALLY. Volkswagen has been in USA reboot mode since 2012. But the results on the showroom floor are exceptionally underwhelming, so far. The boring and tired model range is designed so conservatively, and launch so slowly (1.5-years after Euro rollouts, 2.5-years after concept debut at times), that they feel old upon arrival. And ancient shortly after that. 2015 Volkswagen Golf R and Golf Sportwagen …

Sep 14, 2015 Read more

985HP MANSORY Black Edition S63 Coupe Debuts Before Frankfurt with Giant Rear Wing!

MANSORY is getting pumped for its home auto show: the IAA in Frankfurt next week. The big reveal this year will be a Black Edition S63 AMG Coupe. This blacked-out stunner has dramatic exterior and interior changes from every angle. In addition to the expected new bumper and intakes up front, new fender slashes behind the lead axle promise functional cooling benefits as well as the massive style they bring. A full de-chrome for the windowline and glasshouse is dramatic and effective, as are the rear wheel brake cooling ducts. Around back, a dark carbon-fiber finish for the diffuser …

Sep 07, 2015 Read more

2016 Lexus LX570 Debuts Stunning New Cabin and Escalade-Proof Exterior Flash!

The 2016 Lexus is now as stunning inside as a Range Rover! This is big news for the unstoppable seven-seat SUV in the face of big competition from the new Escalade, Navigator and even the fresh QX80 Limited. Cabin tech and giant flatscreens look ready for South Beach and beyond inside the new LX570, which packs a host of new safety tech as well. The compact new steering wheel and fabulous finishes are perhaps the best ever seen from Lexus — befitting its place at the top of the Lexus lineup with the LS600h. The LX570 pricing is likely to …

Aug 13, 2015 Read more

One-Off MSO McLaren 570S Debuts Ahead of Pebble Beach Concours

McLaren is loading up its precious cargo ahead of Pebble Beach concours week with more than one special model to show stateside for the first time. The latest is the 2016 570S by MSO, a one-off custom showcasing the bespoke design and engineering of the McLaren Special Operations division. Painted a moody purple color called Mauvine Blue, the MSO 570S also includes a special cabin treatment as well. This color combination shows the infinite palette available to McLaren buyers. MSO also has a new ready-to-wear line to showcase with a Ventura Orange 570S for the concept lawn. Wearing a variety …

Aug 10, 2015 Read more

2016 Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4-Squared Priced from $265k, Arriving In December

The incredibly cool and macho new G500 4×4-Squared is officially available! Orders are open now for this new flagship, with pricing from $230k Euros and 422 horsepower via a new twin-turbo powertrain. The 4.0TT is shared with the AMG GT and delivers better power, efficiency and torque profiles than ever before. This engine is standard on the 4×4-squared as well as the standard G500 for this year, hitting 60-mph in just 5.9-seconds for the normal truck and up to 7.4-seconds as the 4×4-squared. The Squared’s biggest change mechanically is the addition of portal axles. Shared with the AMG 6×6, …

Jul 11, 2015 Read more

First Look: 2016 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Debuts New Performance Design and Fresh Cabin Tech

The Jetta GLI is new for 2016, with a design that actually looks (kinda) new! Hooray! The current Jetta is a bit of a joke in the car-enthusiast community. On sale since the beginning of time immortal, the vehicle is stale and dorky and nerdy. Not even a default “hot chick” car at this point. It is more like a jumbo Corolla — but with atrocious mechanical and electronic gremlins present from day one. It is heavily, heavily decontented to achieve a base price point of around $20,000, and this overall de-cool-ification unfortunately drowns out the fresh 1.8-liter turbo …

Jun 10, 2015 Read more

2015 Mercedes-Benz Concept PHEV Van – Hybrid Tech May Join USA-Bound Metris in 2019

It is Mercedes Van day here at Car-Revs-Daily! We’ve spent a few hours this morning learning about the MB van ranges — and came away fairly perplexed but very impressed overall. Confusing? Slightly. The Metris mid-size commercial and tourer (with seats) vans that are coming to America in September are part of a 40-strong lineup of vehicles from this platform. There is the Euro work-van Vito, the family hauler Viano, luxury V-Class and the campers called Marco Polo. Not just lots of names — we counted at least 10 engines available, and options for front-drive, rear-drive or AWD. That is …

Apr 17, 2015 Read more

2016 Scion iM Debuts in NY With Focus Size But Fiesta Pricing

Scion just rolled out two brand-new 2016 models for the subcompact and compact segments — with this iM hatchback being the firm’s shot against the Kia Forte5, Ford Fiesta and Chevrolet Sonic. The single-trim entry price of below $20,000 is set to be fairly well-equipped and roomy versus the rivals mentioned; the iM is almost the exact same size as the Ford Focus and VW Golf. But those expecting a credible threat to those car’s performance might be underwhelmed. The chassis seems fairly promising with a double-wishbone independent rear suspension paired with sport-tuned electronic power steering. Big rubber and a standard …

Mar 31, 2015 Read more

2015 Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4² Debuts Hardcore Off-Road Kit, New 4.0L V8TT and LWB Options

A concept only in name, the new G500 4×4² does what it says on the tin: four-by-four — squared. A giant wide-track design and 37-inch tires run much of the hardcore offroad tech from the AMG G63 6×6, but under the skin of the standard G-Class. This G500 runs the latest 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 from the AMG GT, but retuned to have rock-crushing torque at all times versus peaky high-rev horsepower. Even so, 422 ponies is plenty when riding this high off the earth below! Mercedes calls this a concept, but the G500 4×4-squared is almost a sure-thing for limited-production …

Feb 23, 2015 Read more

Update1 70 New Pics – 2015 Porsche Boxster and Cayman GTS Feature Ripping Exhaust!

BIG news about the new 981 Porsche Cayman and Boxster GTS! They feature a roaring, stonking and rip-snorting exhaust note. In perhaps the least-kept-secret of the last year, the Cayman and Boxster are officially available with a new top-level GTS trim level. In addition to more focused dynamics and style all around, the GTS models pack 340-horsepower each. (Edit: the Boxster appears to have ten fewer ponies than the hardtop Cayman.) Even so, this is a pretty substantial leap for the 911’s siblings, which until now have been capped well below this total — even in the Boxster and Cayman …

Feb 02, 2015 Read more

Houston Auto Show Debuts – 2015 Mazda3 Ti Edition Rocks Gloss-Black Body Styling

The new Mazda3 Ti Edition joins a revised Mazda6 and CX-5 on Mazda showroom floors early this year, but had an advanced outing at the Houston Auto Show. This fall, the Mazda range gets really thrilling: the new 2016 MX-5 and hot CX-3 will join in the Zoom-Zoom fun. Production-ready with a window sticker, this new Mazda3 Ti Edition jazzes up the exceptional Mazda3 with some really cool style additions: titanium metallic wheels are joined by a sweet body kit all around in contrast gloss-black. The lower splitter, side sills and rear diffuser are all a pure and silky dark …

Jan 23, 2015 Read more

2015 Subaru Legacy B4 BLITZEN Concept Debuts at Tokyo Auto Salon

As a current Legacy GT owner, you can bet we were floored to see how sweet this sixth-gen Legacy B4 Blitzen concept looks! It is a luxury sports styling concept – with the standard 175-horsepower boxer engine. But the all-new front and rear fascias are very convincing, as are the carbon-fiber accents in the sills, wheels and rear spoiler. Favorite details are the gloss-glack mesh grille and the integrated LED styling accents in the outer bumpers. 2015 Subaru Legacy B4 BLITZEN Concept In third-generation and fourth generation Legacy, has been planned and developed as a special specification car ‘BLITZEN’ …

Jan 09, 2015 Read more

2016 Kia Sorento SXL Adds Quad-LED Fogs for LA Debut

Updated 11.25.14 The updated Sorento is likely to arrive in the US market some time in the spring of calendar 2015 as a 2016 model. The 2015 Sorento is already available at dealers, which is why we speculate about the 2016 model year. Kia calls this the third-gen Sorento, as Europe is less concerned with model years than we are in the USA. Overall, the styling update is a big success. It is paired with a new refinement on the road, an all-new cabin, and a much larger third row of seats than before. The design upgrade really helps …

Nov 26, 2014 Read more

2015 BMW X6 M Sport vs xLine in 350 New Photos

Okay, we admit defeat! Usually, the main gripe when new cars launch is that there are far too few photos of the vehicle. Or they are not photos at all: but digital renderings that often do not show the car in real-world detail. But with the latest BMW X6 photo batch, we raise the white flag. 350 photos is too many for any editor to process. But in the name of completeness, we have faithfully included them all here. The car looks most amazing in M Sport trims versus the xLine, which has a somewhat busier lower nose, more chrome …

Nov 24, 2014 Read more

European-Market 2015 Volkswagen Passat Is Luxury Sedan For Contract Killers on a Budget

Updated 10.9.14 We had some seriously scathing things to say about this new 2015 Passat for European markets when it debuted the other month online. Overall, the new Passat is not nearly as dull and lifeless as it seemed in VW’s initial renderings. In real life, the detail in the new design is pretty fresh up front and in back. A new-to-VW LED style is seen in both the head and taillamps, and is the most successful part of the design. Overall, the wagon is far more appealing in its quest to bring some of the low-roof / long-hood look …

Oct 09, 2014 Read more

70 New Photos! 2016 Kia Sorento Debuts in Paris With Jaguar-Baiting Style at Ford Prices

Updated 9.29.14 with 70 official (Euro-spec) 2016 Sorento photos! The updated Sorento is likely to arrive in the US market some time in the spring of calendar 2015 as a 2016 model. The 2015 Sorento is already available at dealers, which is why we speculate about the 2016 model year. Kia calls this the third-gen Sorento, as Europe is less concerned with model years than we are in the USA. Overall, the styling update is a big success. It is paired with a new refinement on the road, an all-new cabin, and a much larger third row of seats …

Sep 29, 2014 Read more

2015 Toyota TUNDRA Bass Pro Shops Off-Road Edition Debuts – Available in Gulf States Only

Long-time readers of this site may recall how much we hated the Ram Mossy Oak Edition. It seemed overtly hateful with its camo-print exterior and hunting theme. A bit less animosity today toward the new Tundra Bass Pro Shops Off-Road Edition, which could seem as close-minded as the Mossy Oak. After all, Bass Pro Shops is a regional retailer with a heavily partisan corporate stance. But instead of Ram’s shameless Mossy Oak edition, the Tundra BPS Off-Road Edition actually proves its value in extra equipment: cool wheels, off-road tires, fender flares and jumbo exhaust pipes. Ram Trucks response to our …

Sep 25, 2014 Read more

Introducing Novitec SPOFEC for the Rolls-Royce Ghost: More Style and Power + Lower Ride and Dual-Mode Exhaust!

SPOFEC!? That is short for SPirit OF ECstacy. Get it? It is like a super-acronym. Using a similar strategy of unique branding by marque, the Novitec Group is rolling out hits left and right these days. Just a few weeks since the debut of the Novitec Torado (Lamborghini) and Novitec Tridente (Maserati) specials, here we have a SPOFEC Ghost that has everything hip buyers might want. This includes 22-inch wheels, a new controller module for the air-ride suspension to lower the car at speed or on demand, a dual-model exhaust to hear the V12 sing, an aero upgrade kit and …

Sep 23, 2014 Read more

2015 Lexus RC350 Sends 306HP to 8-Speed Auto, AWD, 4WS and Adaptive Suspension!

Updated 9.9.14 Now we have the comparison between the silver RC350 shown in these latest Lexus photos and the F Sport version from Pebble Beach! The final 2015 Lexus RC350 F Sport looks **thisclose** to as sexy and fast as the top-flight RC-F — which is a great thing for buyers and Lexus sales alike. Available AWD is new to the RC350, as is the paddle-shifted automatic with eight gears, the latest adaptive suspension with adjustable settings, and an all-new four-wheel-steering setup. Very promising indeed! The only change visible on this pre-production car is a lack of the LED low …

Sep 09, 2014 Read more

2015 Lexus RC350 F Sport EXCLUSIVE: 8-Speed Auto, AWD, 4WS and Adaptive Suspension!

Updated 8.22.14 The final 2015 Lexus RC350 F Sport looks **thisclose** to as sexy and fast as the top-flight RC-F — which is a great thing for buyers and Lexus sales alike. Available AWD is new to the RC350, as is the paddle-shifted automatic with eight gears, the latest adaptive suspension with adjustable settings, and an all-new four-wheel-steering setup. Very promising indeed! The only change visible on this pre-production car is a lack of the LED low and high-beams shown on the final concepts, plus missing parking sensors. These two features are likely to be options on customer cars when …

Aug 22, 2014 Read more

2015 BMW X3 xLine vs M Sport, Pricing + Specs with 100 New Real-Life Photos

Updated 7.28.14 with Pricing, Specs and 100 New Photos Hooray! The 2015 BMW X3 debuted last night in a sneak peak at the Chicago auto show – and all seems well for this glamorous new five-seat crossover. Why the elation? I hated was not a fan of the previous X3. Sometimes my own critiques are so scathing that the words echo and reverberate in my head after I type and publish them. What do I mean? Well, I called the previous X3’s LED and nose look a “zombie-like stare.” Accurate? Maybe, maybe not. Memorable? Perhaps too much so. The X3 …

Jul 28, 2014 Read more

2015 Volkswagen Passat Debuts Blah European-Model-Only Redesign

This car looks a lot better in thumbnails than up close. If you are fretting about how lame and old all VW of America’s models are — do not fret. This face is coming “soon” to our de-contented US Passat, as well as the on-again CrossBlue SUV that US dealers have been clamoring for since 2009. VW is out of new ideas. They have nothing new in this Passat design outside, and so little inside that it might as well be the current model. The EuroPassat even borrows the full-width dash-vent-fake idea from the new Chevy Malibu. Pathetic. As …

Jul 05, 2014 Read more

Update1 70 Real Life Photos – 2014 Maserati Ghibli S Q4 Debuts All-New Configurator

The new Maserati Ghibli (pronounced ‘ghee-blee’) 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. 1967 Ghibli 2014 Maserati Ghibli – White Wheels Brake Calipers 2014 Maserati Ghibli S Q4 – Black 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 …

Jun 18, 2014 Read more

2015 BMW X6 Debuts Tech-tastic 445HP xDrive50i and New Rear-Drive sDrive35i

One issue with BMW’s rapidly-evolving technology suite in all models is that the existing cars can feel a bit left-behind by mid-cycle. Luckily, BMW is also rolling out models far quicker than Mercedes-Benz and especially Audi/VW. While the new GTI has finally – finally! – arrived in US dealerships this week, BMW has made its long-time best market a priority, especially for the Spartnburg-built X5, X4, X3 and X7 models. We truly get them first. The gravy train keeps rolling and even picks up speed today, with the second-gen X6 debuting online ahead of its expected arrival in stores by …

Jun 05, 2014 Read more

BMW Debuts Solar Carport and Triples Carbon-Fiber Output at Hydro-Powered Washington Factory

The BMW i strategy is full-steam ahead — literally. Hydroelectric power in Washinton state is making it the global carbo-fiber manufacturing hub for the BMW Group, with an extra $200-million investment announced today. This will double the facility’s output and will help BMW meet strong i3 and i8 demand, as well as support the supply chain for the expected new BMW i models. i5 and i2? i4 and i1? It really could be anything. No announcements or even concepts have indicated which number BMW might be next on the i-Makeovers list — so it really is anyone’s guess. But considering …

May 09, 2014 Read more

Volkswagen Debuts Striking Jetta CC Concept in Beijing – Dubbed New Midsize Coupe + Golf 400R and New Touareg

Signs of life from Volkswagen? Glad to see someone in the Wolfsburg Emergency Room is yelling “Clear!” before brandishing the defibrillator paddles. Just in time too: Volkswagen of America’s sales hit a brick wall last summer and have been in double-digit free-fall ever since. The range is a mess of unwanted and ancient models. Great stuff from Volkswagen in Beijing today – including a Golf 400R and the latest Touareg refresh. But the really striking news? A Jetta-sized CC model that is a low-roof four-door sedan they are calling the New Midsize Coupe. But we will likely pronounce it “2016 …

Apr 19, 2014 Read more

2015 Nissan Versa Sedan Debuts Ahead of NY Show — Priced from $12k And On Sale April 16th — Same Day As Debut!

Well, this is innovative! Very rarely can an auto show launch be synced with the availability of the actual road cars. The rare exception is when deposits are taken by executives — and even then, usually only in cases where the public floods the auto show stands with checks in hand. Even these cash buyers have to wait months to actually take delivery. And even in the deposit or cash-sale scenario, it is exceptionally rare. The Citroen DS in 1955. The Ford Mustang in Queens, New York at the World’s Fair 50 years ago exactly. A few Ferrari and Lamborghini …

Apr 12, 2014 Read more

2014 MINI Hardtop Debuts Four Theme Packs to Kickstart Your Wild Imagination — Arriving Now from $23k

Okay, perhaps $35k is a better price cap for that bold claim — which we are eager to prove if need be. It is far more than Union Jack flags on the roof and mirrors these days at MINI, as well, even though that classic staple remains available. Vivid Green: gives accessories a youthful, fresh look with striking dashes of rich green against a black background. Speedwell Blue: adds a touch of sporty flair and a sense of tradition, thanks to a reinterpretation of the red, white and blue of the Union Jack, combined with a warm brown tone. John Cooper Works …

Mar 22, 2014 Read more

Porsche Debuts 4.6s Boxster and Cayman GTS Range-Toppers

Porsche Debuts 4.6s Boxster and Cayman GTS Range-Toppers In perhaps the least-kept-secret of the last year, the Cayman and Boxster are officially available with a new top-level GTS trim level. In addition to more focused dynamics and style all around, the GTS models pack 340-horsepower each. (Edit: the Boxster appears to have ten fewer ponies than the hardtop Cayman.) Even so, this is a pretty substantial leap for the 911’s siblings, which until now have been capped well below this total — even in the Boxster and Cayman S. The larger displacement engine also will assist on two other Cayman …

Mar 19, 2014 Read more

2015 Alfa-Romeo 4C Spider Debuts Welcome Style Enhancements via Classier Headlamps — US Arrival Pushed to 2015 At Earliest

The 2015 Alfa-Romeo 4C Spyder’s headlamps finally look like an OEM effort, which is always a plus on any exotic sports car with pricing expected to be in the $65,000 range when it ever arrives stateside. We have no data to confirm this, but have a strong hunch that even those who have shelled out $600 for F-150 aftermarket headlight kits are not pleased with the tacky and police-attracting appearance. The 4C’s production lamps with odd LED dots in random places reminded one on-looker of a bad venereal disease. There is nothing less erotic than a bad venereal disease to …

Mar 17, 2014 Read more

Lexus Debuts RC GT3 and F Sport Coupes! 2015 RC350 F Sport Runs 306HP Through 8-Sp Paddle Automatic + Dynamic Suspension and 4WS

At a time when a variety of extremely competent machines are close, close behind the BMW 435i: the Lexus RC certainly represents the most focused effort to date. This broad strategy now ranges from the base RC coupes, to the RC350 F Sport, up to the Goliath RC F. But is that the top of the range? Oh no. Not this time. The RC GT3 takes all the torque-vectored rear-drive promise of the RC F — then strips out all the cushy luxury every Lexus generally delivers in spades. The RC350 F Sport promises a highly engaging rear-drive layout even …

Mar 01, 2014 Read more

Hottest LA Debuts: Ford Edge Concept Is A Thinly-Disguised Production Model

[Orig Published on: Nov 26, 2013 @ 10:47] Ford cares about your feelings. I recall reading a report a few years ago about Ford’s styling team using a new concept car strategy. The goal of this strategy is to avoid disappointments in the transition from dreamy show car to boring real cars. Limiting this unpleasant feeling is important for car brands, especially if a concept is very well-received. Car mags love to describe in all the gritty details how much the show cars have been watered down in order to make production. It turns out, avoiding this disappointment is really …

Feb 15, 2014 Read more

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

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 …

Feb 14, 2014 Read more

Happy St. Valentine’s Day! BMW Debuts 225i Active Tourer to UK Lovers

This is big news. BMW has been working on smoothly transitioning its lower-range models to a new front-drive setup. Why? It is simply much better for packaging and cost-to-build reasons. Furthermore, buyers who might snap up a BMW at Ford prices might not really mind which wheels take more of the drive energy. Especially if there is extra room in back for strollers, child seats and all. THe UK debut of the 218i, 218d and 225i Active Tourers previews how these cars may ultimately look if they come to America. Will they be soggy-to-drive? No. BMW has proven itself very …

Feb 14, 2014 Read more

Swanky 2015 BMW X3 Debuts In Chicago Ahead of May 2014 Showroom Arrival from $39,325

Hooray! The 2015 BMW X3 debuted last night in a sneak peak at the Chicago auto show – and all seems well for this glamorous new five-seat crossover. Why the elation? I hated was not a fan of the previous X3. Sometimes my own critiques are so scathing that the words echo and reverberate in my head after I type and publish them. What do I mean? Well, I called the previous X3’s LED and nose look a “zombie-like stare.” Accurate? Maybe, maybe not. Memorable? Perhaps too much so. The X3 has indeed been a rougher launch than expected for …

Feb 06, 2014 Read more

Concept Volkswagen Taigun Debuts in Delhi – But Set to Battle Nissan Rogue (*or Juke) and Mitsu Outlander Sport in U.S. From 2015

The Taigun and the Tiguan. Not a good combination for dyslexics – but VW’s mini SUV concept does show great progress in refining the brand’s chiseled future SUV look. It is also hugely important because of its size. Typically, VW has not imported its smallest cars to America because they would all price themselves out of consideration for most shoppers. The Euro-only Up! is just adorable and would sell like ice-cold water bottles at Burning Man — but importing this Euro-made mini-car ould push prices past $20,000. Not a good set of options, then, to increase sales volume for VW …

Feb 05, 2014 Read more

Hottest LA Debuts: 2014 Range Rover LWB Autobiography Black

The LWB Range Rover is a legend in America. For many, it was the breakout car for the brand in the early 1990s. Adding serious lounge space in the back of the County models really made this a cultured Suburban or Tahoe substitute in posh cities. The all-new Range Rover is quite exceptional in many, many ways. In addition to a forthcoming Hybrid model, this new Long Wheelbase version seems like a good choice for shoppers. The change on the exterior from this added length is very subtle, with the LWB Range Rover looking just as posh as ever in …

Nov 30, 2013 Read more

All-New 2014 MINI Hardtop Debuts LEDs Galore and Futuristic Cabin Tech

BMW’s MINI is absolutely a future textbook example of how to revive and relaunch a silent brand into a loud, crowded age. While the original 1960s Mini was much more of a phenom inside England, BMW’s ambitions have always been far more global. Spending ten years with the nightmare of Rover Cars Limited taught BMW many lessons in the 1990s about what *not* to do with a classic brand. Divesting Rover and Land Rover helped BMW pivot to a far more logical and promising ownership of Rolls-Royce, Mini, and a few other moribund sports car brands in the early 2000s. …

Nov 29, 2013 Read more

Hottest LA Debuts: 2015 Audi A3 and S3 Spell Trouble For Subaru, Lexus, Ford, Acura…

The $29,000-plus luxury compact market just got very hot under the collar. Audi revealed the 2015 A3 line-up in LA this week, and it is a direct hit for stylish urban executives. Coming in two sedans (the A3 and S3), a PHEV Sportback, and also a cute A3 cabrio —- the A3 is poised to take sales off the books of the WRX, Lexus IS250, Ford Focus ST, and many others. Pricing an arrival time estimates vary, but by summer 2014 seems like a safe bet. 2015 Audi S3 Sedan – Exterior Gallery 2015 Audi S3 Sedan – Interior Gallery …

Nov 26, 2013 Read more

Ford Ka Concept Debuts Funky Style and Affordable Mechanicals in Brazil

The Ka is Ford’s smallest nameplate – literally. Just two letters and a quick sound. I like to pronounce it like a Southie from Boston, someone who ‘Pahhks the kaaah in ahhvaad yaaad.’ Alas, we can’t all be Good Will Hunting. Even so, the Ka’s broad appeal seems like a sure thing with this new five-door layout and cutting-edge technology. Even the style of the simple halogen headlights shows that Ford wants to be with the cool kids from MIT, and perhaps not the book-worms from Harvard. This Ka proves how silly the current model is, unfortunately. Based on the …

Nov 26, 2013 Read more

Hottest LA Debuts: 2014 Ford Mustang Official Homestead Pace Car

Mustang mania is building up! The reveal promises to be one of the most exciting from Ford in years, and the anticipation is palpable! One last hurrah for this generation of Mustangs comes in the 2014 Official Pace Car, which led the NASCAR Miami Homestead race earlier in the month before jetting west for SEMA and the LA Show. Quite a stunner, with huge fender flares that are far better integrated than most Mustang wide-body chops.

Nov 26, 2013 Read more

Hottest LA Debuts: CrossBlue Coupe Wearing Tough New VW Truck Face

Five-seat SUV concept is based off the new MQB architecture and features a plug-in V6 gasoline-electric hybrid drivetrain Concept features dramatic new interpretation of Volkswagen design DNA 415-horsepower gasoline-hybrid concept is capable of 70 MPGe The vehicle can travel up to 13 miles as an EV Top speed of 147 mph; 0 to 60 mph in just 5.8 seconds VW CrossBlue Coupe – Concept – Exterior Gallery VW CrossBlue Coupe – Concept – Tech Gallery VW CrossBlue Coupe – Concept – Interior Gallery Animations

Nov 25, 2013 Read more

Hottest LA Debuts: VW GTI in U.S.-specification, at last!

Nov 25, 2013 Read more

Jaguar Makes a WINNER! 2015 F-type Coupe Debuts Three Gorgeous Flavors, Pricing, Up to 550 HP!

Hooray for Jaguar! If anything, this latest coupe F-type Jaguar is even more beautiful than the white-hot 2014 F-type that is available this month at Jaguar dealers nationwide. The 2015 coupes pack similar trim levels to the drop-top, but a stance and design boldness that is far more intense than expected. 2015 Jaguar F-TYPE Coupe – Debut Gallery 2015 Jaguar F-TYPE R Coupe – Exterior Gallery 2015 Jaguar F-TYPE Coupe – Interior Gallery Animation – downloadable Official Details: U.S. Models and 2015 MSRP1 F-TYPE Coupe $65,000 F-TYPE S Coupe $77,000 F-TYPE R Coupe $99,000 At-A-Glance Originally penned as …

Nov 25, 2013 Read more