USA Topic Hub

2018 VW Tiguan S 2.0T FWD 7 Seater – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

We recently tested the new Mini Countryman, and determined that while it’s the largest Mini yet, it still is Mini, in brand and spirit. So, now we have the all-new 2018 VW Tiguan, a big step forward in size over the previous model. Big enough to squeeze in a 3rd row of seats. But it leaves us wondering: Has the Tiguan gotten too big for its britches? One look and you know the new Tiguan is shopping at the big and tall SUV store. 10.6 inches longer, and riding on a wheelbase 7.3 longer, it’s not only a much larger …

Jan 02, 2018 Read more

2017 Shelby 427 DAYTONA Secret Weapon COUPE CSX2605 [70 Photos!]

A big block motor was a highly experimental concept in 1964 and Carroll Shelby kept it in his back pocket. The lengthened, re-engined monster was Shelby’s Secret Weapon for the 1964 LeMans 24 Hours. “”..it could have topped 200 miles per hour at Le Mans. Weighing about 2,200 pounds with world class aerodynamics and the power of a big block, the car had tremendous performance potential. However, destiny intervened. The truck carrying CSX2286 to Le Mans was involved in an accident that damaged the Shelby too much to be repaired in time for the race. It never ran a lap …

Nov 30, 2017 Read more

In Pictures: First USA Bugatti CHIRON Delivered!

Morning honey-bee! This gorgeous two-tone Bugatti is officially the first ever car delivered to America. The key handoff took place in Pebble Beach (where else?) but it is presumed the $3-mil was not in cash. That would be too large a briefcase for one man to carry. Generously, the total price already includes tax and shipping. CHeck out the beautiful specimen via the seaside photoset below. 2017 Bugatti CHIRON

Aug 20, 2017 Read more

2017 Jannarelly Design-1 Heads to First Owners!

A great startup launch story for Jannarelly Automotive this year. From prototype to production in just a matter of months is a huge achievement. The first ever JD1 is now in its happy owners hands in France, but the second is headed to NY! The US distributor Vandouble is handling orders for the machines stateside, with around a six-month delivery timeframe. Production is sold out until February 2018, Jannarelly tells us, so get your order in soon to be among the first owners. As a recap, we have a mid-mounted V6 driving the back wheels and flyweight carbon construction to make the …

Aug 15, 2017 Read more

Top 11 Hot Hatchbacks in the USA for 2017

This spring has been a renaissance for hot hatch testing here at Car-Revs-Daily. We’ve had the great pleasure of flogging the two reigning champs: the Focus RS and Golf R — and realized these pocket rockets are a speedfreak’s dream come true. So tight and nimble. So ferocious on throttle. And so affordable versus a big V8 in Camaro or Mustang! Affordable to buy and also to insure and own. They make spouses less furious than an impractical two-seat coupe. And they are actually useful at transporting big things via their fold-down back seats. The market for hot hatchbacks has …

May 01, 2017 Read more

2017 Honda Civic Type R – Nurburgring Record Video & Photos

The new CIvic Type R is on full boost now. Its US launch is two months out and production is in full swing. This must mean the first shipment is already on a giant boat headed stateside! Excitement for the most-powerful Honda Civic of all time is palpable lately, especially with the Si launch just last week. To prove that AWD is not necessary to take on the Focus RS and Golf R, Honda took the new Civic to break some records on track. This is now the quickest front-driver of all time around with a 7:43:80 time. Watch the …

Apr 24, 2017 Read more

2017 Honda Civic Type R – 20-Photo USA Debut Gallery w/Video

Check out the most intriguing hyper-hatch in ages! Here is a 306HP turbo to the front wheels — making it the fastest Honda of all time! The engineering upgrades list to manage that power is long…. but majors on grip and adjustability. Drive modes and adjustable suspension will give supreme control. We absolutely crave its exterior design. It is so massively aggressive. So carefully modified for the track. You can sense that none of this body addenda — like the giant front splitter or artful rear wing — is there for looks alone. This is a purposeful car that came to …

Apr 12, 2017 Read more

2018 VW Golfs Debut USA Facelift For Six-Strong Model Line

The new Golf is bringing the global model upgrades to the USA at last! In fact, the lead time/delay between the Euro debut and the USA arrival is actually much shorter than before. [It took almost three years for the Golf 7 to arrive in USA.] The six-strong 2018 Golf lineup arrives stateside around September of 2017 as 2018 models. The e-Golf is on a slightly different timetable but also adds these revisions. The freshening includes standard LED DRLs, full LED tail lights new wheels and upgraded cabin infotainment. The Golf R brings a fresh 7-speed DSG versus the current …

Apr 11, 2017 Read more

1965 Prince INFINITI R380 – First-Ever USA Show for Porsche-Beating Racer [50 Photos]

Infiniti has adopted the design and sports credentials of the Prince marque from its glory days of the 1950s and 1960s. The firm is best known for creating the Skyline and was acquired by Nissan in 1966 — the same year a pair of these stunning, magnificent beasts took one-two in the Japanese Grand Prix. It was a pride match for the locals in Japan. Porsche 904s and 906s beating Skyline front-engine racers on Japanese tracks that inspired the entire vehicle. Mid-engine endurance racer. With a 1964 Brabham spaceframe to start from, the company crafted its ultra-shrieking straight six making 200 …

Mar 14, 2017 Read more

2017 Jannarelly JD1 Arrives in USA! Rear-Engine and Road-Legal from $90k

Very exciting news today! The shockingly beautiful mid-engine Jannarelly JD1 is now in low-volume production, and coming to not just USA tracks near you… but also the roads there and back! This marks a big difference between Radical, Ariel and a few other boutique supercars. The US market is both a holy grail and a huge barrier-to-entry in the supercar business. If your car can’t be sold in the US, you have to cut volume projections in half. Thrilling news then that Jannarelly has a new US distributor established in VanDouble. This Bedford Hills, New York firm promises hands-on help …

Oct 18, 2016 Read more

2018 Audi Q5 – Paris Debut for Fresh Facelift

A fairly light facelift here for the Q5 upgrades the design outside and in, plus relocates its production to Mexico for the first time. Neither the new look nor the new factory is exactly promising, if we’re honest. 2018 Audi Q5 – Paris Debut PRESENTING THE ALL-NEW Q5 – THE FIFTH ELEMENT FOR AUDI AT PARIS 29/09/16 New Q5 sets standards in connectivity, ride comfort, handling dynamics, efficiency and driver assistance All-new version of the best-selling Audi SUV worldwide Up to 90kg lighter than its predecessor Luggage capacity increase of 10 litres Increased interior space, headroom and rear kneeroom One …

Sep 29, 2016 Read more

2016 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.8T SEL Premium – HD First Drive

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

Sep 02, 2016 Read more

2017 Jaguar F-Pace S – USA First Drive Review, Video and 140 All-New Photos!

Hopping behind the wheel of SUCH a gorgeous new truck moments after the first examples hit America? A huge rush. Crowning an F-Pace arrival with top-spec engine and a hot street style? A double win. A Lush, Plush Rush This truck is double-take inducing in any form. So low, so lean and so new. Yet ours is extra special. Bright white over black everything. Gloss-black detailing all around on the test F-Pace S extends to every inch of the car: nose, grilles, wheels, hoodvent, lower accents and the entire windowline is dripping wet gloss. We’ve captured every angle in a …

Aug 08, 2016 Read more

HD Road Test Review – 2016 Lincoln MKX EcoBoost AWD – Best of Awards

Who makes the best sport SUVs? ‘Ze Germans! It is the Germans, without a doubt. The Germans have really defined the genre with their excellent Macan Turbos and X550i’s — with little serious competition from Japan or the US. At least since the Infiniti FX and original, RWD Cadillac SRX faded. Something about an SUV cargo area, megalux cabin, corner-hungry handling and shouty 5-second sprints to 60-mph! The combo is magic. There is a new hotshot on the block. Just moved in. Named MKX. The 2016 Lincoln MKX EcoBoost AWD. I know, I know. I understand your incredulousness. A truck as fast and …

May 11, 2016 Read more

2017 Smart BRABUS Twins Revealed – 20% Power Bump, Quicker Steering and Sport Exhaust

The new Smart twins are actually quite promising in their first major redesign since the brand was started in the late 1990s. The microcars have been as popular as polio in the US market in their ten years on the market, so the US arrival of the on-sale-now generations to America was never a top priority. That still stands: there is no official timeframe for them to jump the pond. A November arrival in 2016 seems plausible. We hope the ForFour will join the unloved ForTwo in the back corner of Mercedes-Benz service loaner folder. Only for clients they hate …

Apr 24, 2016 Read more

Hands-On with Apple CarPlay + List of VW USA Models Offering Full Smartphone Integration

Nowadays, distracted driving is on the rise. Android and Apple phones can be used for navigation but people also use them to text while driving. With technology evolving, it was only time before our phones became a part of our in-dash infotainment systems. Not surprisingly, both Android and Apple have created Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to simulate your phone on your current infotainment systems. For 2015 and on, some cars come with either Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, or both. My car has the option for both, but since I own the much superior iPhone, I have the option to …

Apr 14, 2016 Read more

493HP 2016 BMW M4 GTS Media Launch in Barcelona – 300 Cars Coming to USA!

Gorgeous launch photos and lineage recap from BMW’s media drive event for the new M4 GTS! This new water-injected turbocharger system ups power to a stout 493HP to go along with its track-attack grip setup, aero package and lightweighting regime. One particularly awesome detail? The power-extendable chin splitter! We’re not sure if the splitter is manually extended or power operated. The GTS does come with a special toolkit for customizing its shock stiffness and height or different racetracks. That rear wing is also remarkably beautiful up close. Beautiful and deeply functional! Especially in its most raised angle… pinning …

Apr 14, 2016 Read more

Update2 – Road Test Review – 2016 Volvo S60 T5 Inscription

Update1 – Additional info from Volvo Cars US in Performance article section. Update2 – Clarifies that S60 Inscription is the new LWB model, and the only one imported from China. Solid experience in any business can make you a bit cocky. You know your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats intimately. A brilliant skillset for any field. One that helps you achieve results faster and better than others. In the car reviews business, that often means you think you know a car pretty well… without even driving it. From other models in the brand’s lineup, from previous generations and from reviews you have read.. …

Mar 16, 2016 Read more

2017 MINI Cooper Convertible – 80 New Photos of Ragtop

Updated 2.24.16 with 77 new photosThe new MINI ragtop is here and vastly improved! An all-new and wider platform houses two new engines, an all-new cabin and some sweet new tech and style options. The Cooper and Cooper S both run turbo engines for the next-gen model, with standard six-speed manuals or six-speed automatics available. But there is a big difference for the S in this generation: a whole extra cylinder! That;s right, the base MINI runs a 1.5-liter triple! This new modular engine series powers all future BMW’s; the 340i just revealed its 3.0-liter version of the same engine, …

Feb 24, 2016 Read more

3.3s 2017 BMW R nineT Scrambler – Air-Cooled Boxer ThrillRide! USA Arrival + Specs

All you need to know? Aircooled boxer engine, race-bike fast — but wearing any tires across any terrain you’re brave enough to ride! A two-in-one exhaust cannon is said to really shout out like a racebike on full throttle…. ThruuuMmmm… Brummm! 110HP is the top R90 output, and 124-mph the Vmax. The new R nineT is set for a USA arrival around August of 2016 as a 2017 model-year bike. To kick off the excitement, here are a few animations of the various looks and modes of the bike…. plus a cool 90 pics of this butch new BMW bike. …

Feb 21, 2016 Read more

2016 MINI JCW Hardtop – USA First Look – Sweet New LEDs, Wider Stance Mark Out New $31k Bulldog

Updated 2.15.16 with first USA photos from Daytona Cool to see and hear the new MINI sports flagship at Daytona the other week. It might have lagged the BMW M-livery M5 and M3s off the line for the IMSA Hot Lap Experience shown in the below video…. but it definitely looked like it was enjoying every second on that high-speed racetrack! The new look is most recognizable thanks to the new full-moon LED DRLs, LED fogs and smart bi-xenon projector beam main lamps in front. We even hate the tail less than before: in JCW guise, the too-large rear lamps shrink into …

Feb 15, 2016 Read more

2017 Audi Q7 Visualizer – Colors, Cabins, Pricing and Options Guide

The new Q7 is already burning up the sales charts in the Audi USA lineup! Beset as the brand is with many woes at the moment, the SUV lineup is still a shining beacon of hope. And cash. Lots of cash! The Q7 in its all-new 2017 generation appears completely immune to the dieselgate saga. After all, the TDI variants were only ever a 9-percent slice of the model’s sales. The new Q7 really leapfrogs its Touareg and Cayenne cousins for this generation. Where those two are the lightest of light facelifts for 2015’s refresh, the new Q7 is …

Feb 02, 2016 Read more

First 2016 Ferrari F60 America Delivered + F60 Speedster Renderings

Ferrari just delivered its first F60 America in Palm Beach. This 10-unit special edition celebrates Ferrari USA in the best way possible — a future collector classic! The F60 America is a fully redesigned F12 custom — sharing no bodywork with the hardcore V12 hero coupes. Nor does it share the roof of its sibling — this F60 is a pure spyder meant for sunny days only. The F60 America is a double-edged sword as a loyalty perk to its ten most loyal clients. Sharp on one side from its devastating beauty and all-new design elements in front and back. …

Jan 27, 2016 Read more

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 – Air-Sprung Crossover In US Dealers Now! $45k Pricing, RWD or 4Matic + 9-Sp Auto

The new GLC just started arriving to Mercedes dealerships here in the USA — and seems like an outstanding all-new SUV for the brand. The GLK and its boxy look is exiting the lineup of a half-dozen ‘Benz jeeps’ this year, making room for everything from the baby GLA to this GLC, up through the GLE and GLE Coupe and the top GLS for 2017. The GLC, as its name implies, is aligned in shape and tech with the C-Class. This brings a massive set of benefits for performance drivers — particularly in its standard rear-drive setup. Just one engine and …

Jan 14, 2016 Read more

5.1s 2017 JAGUAR F-Pace SUV – USA Photos, Colors/Wheels Visualizer and Pricing – From $42k!

In case you hadn’t heard: Jaguar is on a villainous quest for growth in the USA. From 2016, the lineup includes the all-new XE sedans, now-alloy XF and facelifted XJ. F-Types hard or soft. And by summertime, the coup de grace. The F-PACE SUV! Looking as wild as a concept, as pricey and posh as a Cayenne Turbo, and with a cabin so delicious you will want to move in? Plus SERIOUS speed. That ‘Pace, Grace and Space’ adage definitely applies to the aluminum feline crossover. The slowest V6, for example, makes 340HP but shoots the F-Pace to 60-mph in an official …

Jan 14, 2016 Read more

5.0s, 380HP 2017 Jaguar XF-S V6 – USA Media Drive Gallery + Visualizer

Check out this stunning new design via 100 media drive photos from Sedona, Arizona. The best part of the new design? Bringing the XF-R’s visual heat to all four engines in the US lineup. Yep: two V6 tunes and even a brand-new turbodiesel for 2017. The 2.0-liter turbo four is expected back in the USA offering for 2017, sliding a few grand cheaper than the $52k base of the new 2016 XF V6s. Both the XF 35t with 330HP and the XF-S with 380 are available with rear or AWD. All scream to 60-mph in 5.2-seconds or quicker, too. Mighty impressive. The …

Jan 12, 2016 Read more

2017 Audi A4 Allroad – $50k Ski Wagon Set for Fall 2016 USA Arrival – Blah Exterior, but Hoorah Interior

The A4 Allroad has carved a nice little niche for itself in the US market, where it replaced the standard A4 Avant among most shoppers seeking a low and sporty wagon. The current Allroad will gain all the new tech and style of the A4 sedan, but wears a more butch stance all around. A very macho nose redesign brings vertical grille slats, some rough-rough fender flares and even a brushed-alloy chin spoiler in the nose. We are trying to get on-board with this next-gen A4 appearance. Really trying. And the Allroad has generally been a great showcase of …

Jan 11, 2016 Read more

Concept Debrief – 1999 RINSPEED X-Trem M.U.V.

Flashbacks can be good…. and they can be bad. The one thing both have in common: a livid, full-color reminder of something you otherwise never think about. Livid and vivid certainly describes the Rinspeed X-Trem MUV from 1999. The firm was embracing a bit of Americana in the late 90s, and this monstrosity was the ultimate expression of the bright, loud and obnoxious USA, at least as seen from new Geneva. Less an expression of actual American wants/needs for trucks, and much more a reflection of SoCal life as seen on tv and movies. The whole machine attempts to embrace …

Dec 18, 2015 Read more

4.2s 2016 Lotus ELISE 220 Is Quickest Ever! USA Arrivals in March; No Fatties T-Shirt Optional

Shocking speed from this new Elise 220 from Lotus! Just 4.2-seconds to 60-mph for its estimated $60k US price makes it one of the most rapid machines for the money. And that is just in a straight line! Put some curves in the road course, and the Elise will walk away from most American metal — regardless of price or power ratings. The new Elise Sport is the base model below the 220, but is down about 80 ponies from the 217 of the top road-legal Elise in 2016. Even so, the Elise Sport’s 6-second blast to 60-mph will …

Dec 10, 2015 Read more

2017 MINI RAGTOP Bares All Ahead of March 2016 USA Arrival

The new MINI ragtop is here and vastly improved! An all-new and wider platform houses two new engines, an all-new cabin and some sweet new tech and style options. The Cooper and Cooper S both run turbo engines for the next-gen model, with standard six-speed manuals or six-speed automatics available. But there is a big difference for the S in this generation: a whole extra cylinder! That;s right, the base MINI runs a 1.5-liter triple! This new modular engine series powers all future BMW’s; the 340i just revealed its 3.0-liter version of the same engine, but as a six-cylinder. A …

Oct 23, 2015 Read more

3.1s, 204MPH 2016 McLaren 570S Coupe – Portimao Launch and USA Pricing from $185k

The 2016 McLaren 570S is firmly in production and headed to a garage near you! Enjoy these latest press photos from sunny Spain, plus the final tech specs. VERY impressive power and pace: 3.1s is the official 60-mph sprint, on to a screaming 10.9-second quarter mile and up to a 204-mph top speed. Pricing for the 570S is from $185k in the USA, and we highly encourage you to explore the animated buyers guide and color visualizers via the ‘Very Similar’ links below. Especially for the MSO nose and tail in bare carbon. 2016 McLaren 570S Coupe – Portimao …

Oct 22, 2015 Read more

Track Drive Review – 2016 Buick Regal GS – Flypaper Handling Is Now $3k Cheaper!

Autobahn Country Club might be my “Happy Place.” Recalling this track’s frisky bends, howling tires and full-throttle straightaways brings a smile instantly. Buick invited us to flog their performance flagship, the 2016 Regal GS, around the Illinois track and autocross to show off the machine’s latest updates: new colors and a price that is much more approachable. How approachable!? A cool $3,300 off the base price for the GS takes the entry level to $35k versus near $38k before. Three drivetrains continue for 2016: FWD auto, FWD manual and AWD automatic. The GS AWD we tested out still comes in …

Oct 15, 2015 Read more

2016 Volkswagen Passat USA Shows Boss New R-Line, Tech Updates at NYC Reveal

Clearly not the greatest time to roll out a new vehicle, but the 2016 Passat is welcome anyway. These are the premium and sexy upgrades we have wished for to set the Passat apart from normal Camrys in the mid-size sedan segment. Available LED head and taillamps are suitably Audi-esque in their execution quality. And even with carry-over panels, the larger wheels and fresh nose is a bit eye-catching. This nose is new from the A-pillar forward, but might take a VW fan to recognize over the current US PAssat nose. Crucially, the vehicle now looks its size — a …

Sep 21, 2015 Read more

600HP 2016 BMW M6 Competition Coupe Salutes Hardcore GT3 Racecar + Coming to USA!

Almost all the curb appeal, but a fifth of the price? Yep, the new M6 Competition Edition is a faithful recreation of the all-new GT3 racer. No word on US availability of this machine, but pricing around $110k will be a snip versus the half-mil for the privateer racecar. Actually, the embossed cabin emblems prove that the M6 Comp Coupe will be coming to America. 2016 BMW M6 Competition Edition BMW M6 Coupe Competition Edition. The new BMW M6 Coupe Competition Edition to be presented by BMW M GmbH at the 66th Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA) from 17 – 27 September 2015 raises …

Sep 15, 2015 Read more

2016 INFINITI Q30 Makes Global Debut Ahead of January Arrival to USA Showrooms

This is a big year for Infiniti. A bevy of new products hope to invigorate the range in its core US market, but also establish a foothold in the premium compact markets of Europe and China. To that end, the new Q30 is a big next chapter for the firm. It joins the new 2.0-liter turbo engine option on the 2016 Q50 and a production-spec Q60 (coupe) coming in January. The Q30 comes in two flavors stateside: the base, Premium and Sport. The Q30S wears a unique nose clip with beautiful swirls around its lower grille/jawline. Special wheels, boxed twin …

Sep 14, 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

2017 Audi A4 Arrives to USA in March – Updated With 150 New Images

Updated 9.7.15 With 150 New Images We’ve been scouring the web for a closer look at some real-life photos of the next A4. The initial renderings left much to be desired, both in terms of style and believeability. This next batch is a mixture of photos, new official renders, and stills from the launch video. Overall, there is definitely a fresh stance to the new model — especially so thanks to the new double check of LED DRLS in front, plus low/light LED pipes in back. The lamps then are pretty sexy. But what about the rest? Nothing great to …

Sep 07, 2015 Read more

Ferrari Cavalcade 2015 Galleries + LaFerrari FXX K in Fly Yellow!

Ferrari’s whirlwind summer is still booming – with more global activities and launches than ever before this year. The IPO of Ferrari could come any day this Fall. We’ll have around a week’s notice, per NYSE schedules. The media site is full of gorgeous snapshots into the fast life of Ferrari owners lately — including the week-long International Cavalcade, visit to the Green Hell, and even a special birthday gift: an FXX K in Giallo Modena for an American buyer. She started hitting Fiorano hard right after the presentation ceremony — achieving a 1-min, 20-second lap that is close to …

Sep 06, 2015 Read more

4.0s, 641HP 2015 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG Coupe – 65 New USA Photos + Tech Specs and Color Visualizer

While the new AMG GT-S is clearly the sportiest supercar in the Merc lineup, and various G-Class SUVs can top the S65’s overall price… this model is the spiritual flagship of Mercedes. It epitomizes everything Mercedes-Benz aspires to be — the sum of all its learnings as the inventor of the automobile. As such, a base price of $234k is a cool hundred grand above the quicker and much more exciting GT-S two-door. In addition, the S-Class Coupe packs a gigantic four-seat cabin. The back seat with 43 inches of legroom is limo-large. Only a chopped 10-cubic-foot trunk capacity — …

Aug 29, 2015 Read more

2016 Ford Focus RS Pricing Leaked – Here’s What You Need To Know

2016 Ford Focus RS Pricing — Here’s What You Need to Know The Internet is a great place for car lovers. Not only do we get seemingly up-to-the-minute, behind-the-scenes updates about cars that are coming down the pipeline — it seems like we get leaked prices, too. It took Ford long enough to reveal the specs of the upcoming 2016 Focus RS. As such, it seemed like it was going to take forever for the American carmaker to unveil the new model’s pricing. But thanks to a digital mishap, the pricing for the new car leaked online late …

Aug 19, 2015 Read more

~540HP 2016 BMW M4 GTS Concept Is Real-Deal Production Car with Innovative Hydro Turbo Boost Chiller

Here is a confusing ‘concept’ production car… the Concept M4 GTS is actually well on its way to first US owners next Springtime. The big tech change beside lightweighting and aero upgrades is a new water-cooled turbo system. Shared with the M4 MotoGP car, this feature is an innovative way to make huge boost that can sustain hours of track abuse without losing power. The cooled charge is very different from a more basic intercooler spray. Where a spray is helpful, the cooling all happens outside the closed boost and turbo system. BMW’s charge cooler actually atomizes water into the …

Aug 13, 2015 Read more

Atelier Vitesse Launches AuDessus Bespoke Carbon-ization Services From New DC HQ

An American startup challenging the likes of the world’s top tuners and car customizers!? Joining this Euro-heavy crowd of allstars like Brabus, KAHN, TopCar, Mansory and many more — Atelier Vitesse is breaking conventional rules right off the bat. And its not s bunt: this new dream-factory is not even in California — but based in Bethesda, Maryland outside DC. Proximity to the huge loot up and down the east coast will be an asset for the firm, but their services are not a volume play. The firm will makes its way by creating and embodying the wildest custom supercars. …

Jul 01, 2015 Read more

TVR Inks New Sportscar Deal with Gordon Murray and Cosworth – 2018 Launch Possible!

If there are two better names than Gordon Murray and Cosworth to attach to the TVR rebirth, we cannot imagine them. All are icons of English performance — and together promise great things. A new sportscar announcement today includes no new sketches or even outlines of the upcoming new TVR, but it does signal work behind the scenes. The car will be designed and produced using iStream from GMD and engine mechanicals via Cosworth. iStream is intended to be a highly robotized assembly system using the latest in 3D printing and materials to give low-weight and high-strength components. The iStream …

Jun 03, 2015 Read more

Refreshed 2015 BMW 6 Series – USA Pricing for All 16 Models + 150 New Photos

The new BMW 6 series is official! The full range is now priced and build-able for USA shoppers — who can choose among 13 unique models of coupes, cabrios and Gran Coupes. Up that total to 16 if you include the M6 in each bodystyle. Overall, the M Sport package is the must-have choice, but there is a Black Pack for the regular trimlines this year. This flips the chrome C-shapes in the bumpers and on other trims to gloss black, as shown in the below UK image of red cabrio nose. As before, the four-doors are the sweet spot …

May 28, 2015 Read more

2015 Lamborghini Aventador SV Joins Hypercar Big League With New Sub-7-Minute Nurburgring Lap

Updated 5.19.15 with 20 New Photos + Nurburging Fast Lap Video The new Aventador SV just locked in a seriously impressive Nurburgring fast lap: a time of “under 7 minutes” makes it very close to the 2010 Pagani Zonda R and its 6:47 laptime — yet this Aventador SV is fully road-legal! Also included below are a dozen fresh photos from the car’s USA reveal the other month in Amelia Island, Florida. The cabin is quite something — with the carbon-fiber seats a particularly pleasant surprise for their grip on the body, rigidity on the move and their overall design …

May 19, 2015 Read more

ALPINA X3 – Gorgeous M Sport Styling and Performance Tweaks

PART FOUR of FOUR The Alpina X3 My favorite Alpina upgrade of this four-pack? Easily this aggressive X3 makeover. Versus the stock X3, the Alpina is virtually unrecognizable. Granted, comparing the Alpina X3 to the base model is not a fair comparo. This Alpina truck started as the X3 M Sport, which is already a little-known way to make the humdrum design really pop with some M style. The fact that there is no X version of the X3 (yet) helps to make this Alpina SUV ultra unique and exclusive. 2015 BMW X3 xLine 2015 BMW X3 M Sport …

May 19, 2015 Read more

2015 ALPINA B3 – Digital Wheel Colorizer and USA 3 series Upgrade Showcase

PART THREE of FOUR The Alpina 3 series Now on to the ever-popular 3 series: a sedan so incredibly fun to drive, you are shocked when people buy anything else! The 3 series is arguably the most improved by the ALPINA style. Even outside the core design tweaks and green/blue paint colors, the Alpina 3 series is *thisclose* to its M3 and M5 siblings on overall stance, traction and visual aggressiveness. ORIGINAL: The import and BMW distribution of the ALPINA B6 and B7 to the US is big news. They are all extremely rare and extremely cool, especially the new …

May 19, 2015 Read more

ALPINA B4 Mods Available for USA BMW 4 series Owners

PART TWO of FOUR The Alpina 4 series The import and BMW distribution of the ALPINA B6 and B7 to the US is big news. They are all extremely rare and extremely cool, especially the new ALPINA B6 Gran Coupe. These ALPINA specials are a fantastic M car alternative, with more engines, xDrive and even diesel engines able to Alpina-fied. But the great thing about the ALPINA upgrade catalog is that all the parts that make these complete models are also available indivudally. There is a slight benefit to this for current BMW owners: you can target specific upgrades and …

May 18, 2015 Read more

ALPINA B5 Mods Available for USA BMW 5 series Owners

PART ONE of FOUR The import and BMW distribution of the ALPINA B6 and B7 to the US is big news. They are all extremely rare and extremely cool, especially the new ALPINA B6 Gran Coupe. These ALPINA specials are a fantastic M car alternative, with more engines, xDrive and even diesel engines able to Alpina-fied. But the great thing about the ALPINA upgrade catalog is that all the parts that make these complete models are also available indivudally. There is a slight benefit to this for current BMW owners: you can target specific upgrades and install them over time. …

May 18, 2015 Read more

Tesla Model S by LARTE Design – Gorgeous Exterior Makeover in 60 Photos!

When you drive a $100,000 car, you have dozens of fantastic options — supercars, limo’s, SUVs, you name it. But once you are hooked on the spooky-fast Tesla Model S, it is hard to go back to a regular 911 or AMG. But how to update the Model S details to match the coolness of other cars that can hit 60-mph in under four seconds? The Model S just needs a few tweaks to dramatically up its style and road stance. Larte Design’s new bodykit elements create a fairly stunning transformation via just a dozen pieces. The front bumper is …

May 05, 2015 Read more

2016 Ford Taurus Revealed in Shanghai – USA Model Likely Near-Identical

First look at the 2016 Taurus today — from perhaps the most unlikely of places: Shanghai. This most-American of full-size sedans is making its debut in Shanghai on Monday in specific China-market shape, with localized details for the entire exterior and interior. The back seat brings a full limousine-like infotainment setup to the rear armrest – as customers in this segment and market are known to prefer. The China-market-Taurus also reveals a new configuration of the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine first seen in the F-150. With twin turbochargers and close to 300 horsepower, the 2.7-liter EcoBoost is likely the top …

Apr 18, 2015 Read more

2016 Mercedes-Benz METRIS Vans – Arrival in USA This September Priced From $29k

Article three of the mid-size Mercedes van deep-dive! We’ve looked at this model range with awe — Mercedes has three dozen cars on this general platform, a dozen engines and three drive configurations. Bonkers! The USA is getting a customized and simplified choice of commercial vans from this large pool. We are not getting the lux V-Class, as the Metris is considered a commercial vehicle and will be sold alongside the Sprinter. The USA models will all be rear-drive with a standard turbo four mated to a seven-speed automatic. The engine makes 208 ponies and 258 pound-feet of torque for …

Apr 17, 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 Ford Focus RS Escapes Auto Show Cage to See NYC Sights

Updated 4.14.15 With 22 New Photos Great to see the new Focus RS in the wild — with its Nitrous Blue paintwork far lighter and brighter than the traditional RS shade of navy blue. Car looks stunning – with performance to match when it arrives in US showrooms in Spring 2016. 2016 Ford Focus RS PREVIOUS Ford Performance is rolling deep into Manhattan next week – with a broad range of high-performance models. A threatening gang indeed — with the Nitrous Blue signature color atop the 2017 Ford GT concept, the 2017 Ford Raptor and the 2016 …

Apr 14, 2015 Read more

Nitrous Blue 2016 Ford Focus RS Coming to NYC Next Week! USA Showrooms Next Year

Ford Performance is rolling deep into Manhattan next week – with a broad range of high-performance models. A threatening gang indeed — with the Nitrous Blue signature color atop the 2017 Ford GT concept, the 2017 Ford Raptor and the 2016 Ford Mustang GT350R. But one of the most exciting vehicles to wear this scorching blue hue? One of the first to arrive in showrooms, too — the 340-horsepower 2016 Ford Focus RS. With all-wheel-drive and dynamic torque vectoring at the back for a drift-mode plaything, the Focus RS is set to be the hottest Ford hatch ever made. Competing …

Mar 25, 2015 Read more

Porsche E-Mobility Push Feeling Odd, Despite New Cayenne S E-Hybrid At Amelia Island

Porsche is diving head-first into the vat of battery acid these days – with the Panamera S E-Hybrid refreshed with quad-LEDs in the headlamp ring and the new Cayenne S E-Hybrid sharing the square-LED quad DRL setup of the top-line Cayenne Turbo and Cayenne Turbo S. Proudly on display alongside the 918 Spyder and a few Porsche PHEV plug-in stations on the lawns of Amelia Island Concours, the E-Mobility Porsches are promising and smoother, quieter and more serene than anything else to wear the Porsche crest. This is largely thanks to softer suspension tuning in standard drive modes, alongside a …

Mar 19, 2015 Read more

2015 Porsche 911 GTS Club Coupe – USA Debut in 59 Amelia Island Photos

The risk with so many special editions of one car is major buyer and auto journalist fatigue. See Aston Martin for a prime example. But Porsche seems to really excel when it comes to special editions that actually do feel special. This latest 911 GTS Club Coupe celebrates 60 years of the Porsche Club of America — and builds in C4S styling and wide hips, the SportDesign ducktail spoiler, and a handful of other goodies as standard. 60 cars will be made, with a base price of $136,000. 2015 Porsche 911 GTS Club Coupe – USA 2015 Porsche 911 GTS …

Mar 15, 2015 Read more

2015 Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 SuperVeloce Makes USA Debut in Amelia Island

An Atlantic Oceanside debut on a sunny Spring evening – what could be more fitting for the most rabid, rapid bull ever freed from the Lambo stable? Yes. This is it the new 750-horsepower, naturally-aspirated legend. With a new nose and almost all-new tail with vents, scoops and wing like a pure race-car, the new SuperVeloce takes this legendary badge into proud new territory. The new Aventador SV is available to order now. Enjoy these 50 fresh pics from the Lambo reveal, plus the SuperVeloce’s tech specs toward the foot of the page. http://www.lamborghini.com/en/home/ 2015 Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 SuperVeloce …

Mar 14, 2015 Read more

Racing Icons – 1954 Mercedes-Benz ‘Blue Wonder’ Race Transporter in 69 RARE Photos

Part publicity stunt, part engineering exercise — and all fun and playful. The 1950s Mercedes-Benz Racing Division needed a rapid transport vehicle to supplement the big trucks with closed canopies that typically moved racecars and teams among the European circuits. Lower, faster and far more nimble than the big trucks, the Blue Wonder could navigate under any bridge or within any narrow city streets — areas typically off-limits for a heavy heauler. Powered by a race-ready engine from the 300SL and plopped into Mercedes sedan chassis, the ‘Blue Wonder’ was billed as the fastest transporter in the world. A top …

Feb 24, 2015 Read more

2016 Range Rover EVOQUE Refreshed With Full-LED Lighting, New Cabin and All-New Infotainment

Remember how much excitement the Evoque generated just a few short years ago!? Looking like a production Range Stormer Concept, but sized at the affordable side of the Land Rover catalog — the Evoque really packed a wallop in the cool-SUV poker game. But reality is a harsh mistress. The Evoque took almost two years to finally arrive in the USA, by which time most of the excitement had worn off. Still cool, make no mistake. But not gotta-have-it cool. And then you sit inside. It is respectable in the front, but woefully tiny in the rear seat. The low …

Feb 23, 2015 Read more

Concept Flashback – 2012 Jeep Mighty FC

The 2012 Jeep Mighty FC is hilarious to behold, and a really cool concept idea overall. Beyond the many Jeep pickup truck conversions and concepts, the Forward Control recreates an actual Jeep production truck from the mid-1950s to the late 1960s. Overall, the Mighty FC builds on Jeep’s very impressive concept repertoire: this truck is not just a runner, but it hit the Moab Jeep Jamboree for some extreme off-road proving. Versus most concept cars that are barely rollers, this is an impressive level of engineering. Two things: How!? and Why!? How? The Forward Control is created by the very-simple-sounding …

Feb 09, 2015 Read more

~340HP 2016 Ford Focus RS Runs AWD and DTV! Official Debut + Drift Video

The new Ford Focus RS is official, and officially stunning! With a new 2.3-liter turbo engine and an extreme new AWD setup, the wildest part of the new Focus RS might be under the metal. But that metal is also pretty intense: wide-body fenders, a giant splitter up front, deeper sills and a rear end to honor the Ford RS legacy. That means a giant Rallycross wing and huge coffee-can exhausts mounted inboard for max visual and aural impact. Best news of all? This new Focus RS is coming to America! Check out the video below to see and …

Feb 03, 2015 Read more

2015 Volvo V60 Cross Country – Updated With 20 New, Real-Life Photos from Houston

First details today on the newest Volvo – a US-bound V60 Cross Country! The new V60 XC is a tough and rugged version of the V60 sportwagen, and will ship to the US with standard AWD and the 250-horsepower T5 engine. Some have asked if the V60 Cross Country is necessary, considering the presence of the XC60 SUV in the lineup. There is certainly some overlap, but the V60 XC will appeal to a sportier customer and have pricing a few thousand less than the taller XC60 SUV. More models are a good thing for Volvo in the US – …

Jan 23, 2015 Read more

2015 Lamborghini Huracan GT3 May Signal Global Racing Ambitions for the Raging Bull

The new Lamborghini Huracan GT3 takes the LP620-2 Super Trofeo car above and beyond all previous Lambo track performance. The new rear spoiler, larger splitters and green-accented details hide big upgrades inside to the overall safety spec: a new FIA-regulated seat, fire extinguisher and roof hatch make the Huracan GT3 even safer at flat out in the Blancpain GT3 series. They may also be a precursor to runs in the Nurburgring 24-hour race and other WEC racing competitions — which would be big news for largely street-supercar Lamborghini. As quick and wild as all Lambo’s are, the firm’s racing …

Jan 21, 2015 Read more

Updated With 50 New Photos – 540HP, 3.7s 2015 BMW ALPINA B6 xDrive GranCoupe

Updated 12.25.14 The BMW 6 Series wears perhaps the most unnoticeable facelift for what we believe will be the 2016 model-year. That does not diminish how cool and exclusive the B6 xDrive GranCoupe is. Nor does it dampen the huge, HUGE sprint and top-end pace of this AWD super-sedan. PREVIOUS Meet the first (and only) Alpina B6 in the United States at the moment. This blue stunner is, in fact, the quickest BMW ever made. The addition of AWD and a huge jump in twin-turbo V8 power means the Alpina B6 is more rapid to 60-mph than any other BMW. …

Dec 25, 2014 Read more

2014 Caterham Seven in the USA! Turn-Key, Street-Legal 280s Available Now From $50k

The dream track car is now alive and roaring around the USA, thanks to Superformance! More than two dozen Caterham Sevens have been sold so far by the Superformance and Hillbank Motorsports distribution network, and more are arriving fresh every week. We explain all the trim levels and specifications below — but here is the shortcut: The engine installation and selection is just a quick option box to tick. The car arrives to you ready to register for plates, and ready to race on the weekends! So hang those elbows out, floor the throttle and get shopping! The Caterham 280 …

Dec 04, 2014 Read more

RM Arizona 2015 Preview – 1989 Lamborghini LM002 – The Off-Road Countach Is USA Street Legal

A bit less of a legend than the 037 Lancia? Perhaps. But almost as appealing. After 25 years to appreciate the LM002’s overt masculinity, dreamer-spec engine and mechanicals, and before-its-time superlux offroader credentials — the LM002 looks like a new shape of timeless classic supercar to us. The biggest news about this Lambo Rambo besides its very fresh paint and excellent interior condition? It is finally old enough to be driven legally in the United States! It might even be time for John Rambo Jr. to hit the big screen, with this his on-screen battle truck…. 1989 Lamborghini LM002 …

Dec 04, 2014 Read more

Update1 – 2016 Mercedes-AMG CLA45 Shooting Brake Shuns LA Debut; USA-Bound?

Updated 12.4.14 with 22 new photos. As you may or may not have noticed, Mercedes and BMW seem to have given the LA show this week a big middle finger. Neither revealed anything significant (Maybach S600 aside) and have both been relatively quiet on the overall announcement front. Detroit and New York are generally the German’s favorite North American shows to make a splash – but here is one curio. The CLA45 AMG Shooting Brake revealed online just moments ago. Would this car not have made a good Los Angeles debut? If it were coming to the US, it …

Dec 04, 2014 Read more

2015 Chevrolet Trax Arriving in January With Base Price of $21,000

Updated 12.1.14 The Chevy Trax is arriving to Chevy dealers very, very soon! As these latest photos and top 20 features below show, Chevy is eager to make Trax in the compact crossover market sales charts! We were pretty far below the Trax’s actual prices in our ballpark below of $19k to $25k — the Trax will actually start from $21,000 as a front-drive and $22,500 with AWD. Simple trim levels at least mean the LTZ AWD will not be much of a jump up the price ladder – with our new estimate being $27,000 with every available option. Fuel …

Dec 01, 2014 Read more

BRABUS Mercedes-Benz SL550 R231 – With and Without AMG Sport Styling

The latest Mercedes SL is, shall we say, more difficult to love at first sight than previous all-star iterations of the machine. There is just something wonky about the nose from some angles. Despite being a technical tour de force as always, the base SL550 is the most-plain of the bunch that also includes the SL63 AMG and SL65 AMG in the US market. BRABUS makes a wicked 800 V12 Roadster for that is the most hardcore SL in recent memory — but is it too much for some shoppers? What the SL550 needs is a bit of extra …

Nov 24, 2014 Read more

2016 Mazda2 Sedan Revealed in Thailand + Gorgeous White MX-5

Mazda is killing it lately — in a good way! It is hard not to feel a bit of pride in their achievements, even as an outsider. The brand is a loveable underdog. The new CX-3 is amazing, while the exceptionally-competent Mazda6 and CX-5 are also updated for 2016 with cooler LED style details, tech updates and on-trend dark wheels. Just when you thought Thanksgiving could not possibly have any more to offer from Mazda, here comes the dapper new Mazda2 in four-door sedan form. This car was revealed in Thailand where it will be sold from early 2015 onward. …

Nov 21, 2014 Read more

2016 Mazda CX-3 – Gorgeous World Debut in 90 Photos + Specs and USA Arrival Details

The all-new Mazda CX-3 is easily one of the best-looking small crossovers on the planet. And it is not a concept. This is the real-deal CX-3 coming to take on the Honda HR-V, Fiat 500X and Jeep Renegade. Where the CX-3 is unique versus the three min-trucks above? It is one that men and women alike would love to own for its sporty style, amazingly wide and low stance, and cutting-edge LED lighting. The above vehicles are fairly emasculating and hard to imagine loving as a testosterone-making gentleman. What the CX-3 represents is another amazing vehicle from Mazda — after …

Nov 19, 2014 Read more

Updated With 70 New Photos – 2016 Audi A6 USA Debut in LA

The Audi A6 and A7 are fresh this Spring with enhanced trims, newly-available engines and upgraded LED lighting all around. Here is a first-look at the USA trim levels, plus the previously-announced European models in a few extra images toward the bottom. The changes to the A7 are not too drastic outside of those sexy new headlamps — with more power for the supercharged V6 engine and a new turbo four-cylinder to lower the cost of entry. Despite the Avant and A6 Allroad shown below, those variants will not be coming stateside for 2016. PREVIOUS The Audi A6 is …

Nov 11, 2014 Read more

2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris Mid-Size Commercial Vans Coming to USA In Fall 2015

Mercedes arrived in Vegas with a surprising four-pack of minivans this year — confusing spectators and commentators alike! Though the vans they brought are all customized in various flavors, they clearly share much with the new V-Class sold in Europe and elsewhere. Our USA-bound versions will be called the Metris and are not the luxury V-Class – Mercedes clarifies — despite the new Metris being offered in passenger and cargo versions. What does this mean? When is a V-Class not a V-Class? It comes down to distribution channels and luxury content. The Metris will be sold alongside Spinter vans in …

Nov 09, 2014 Read more

Volvo V60 XC Coming to USA In February With AWD and T5 Turbo; Pricing From $38,000

First details today on the newest Volvo – a US-bound V60 Cross Country! The new V60 XC is a tough and rugged version of the V60 sportwagen, and will ship to the US with standard AWD and the 250-horsepower T5 engine. Some have asked if the V60 Cross Country is necessary, considering the presence of the XC60 SUV in the lineup. There is certainly some overlap, but the V60 XC will appeal to a sportier customer and have pricing a few thousand less than the taller XC60 SUV. More models are a good thing for Volvo in the US – …

Nov 05, 2014 Read more

5.2s 2015 Porsche Cayenne GTS First Look! February 2015 USA Arrival

First look at the 2015 Cayenne GTS — the performance-oriented Cayenne with pricing from $96,000 and a new twin-turbo V6 putting out 440-horsepower. Everything about the GTS is performance-optimized, right down to that engine being a cool 300-pounds lighter than the turbo V8 in the Cayenne Turbo. A discount of more than $50,000 versus the Turbo is a nice side benefit, but the GTS runs Turbo-spec brakes and suspension. A unique exterior is still the GTS Cayenne’s best-known attribute, along with a manual-transmission option for a few years there. This year, the custom styling of the GTS is even more …

Nov 04, 2014 Read more

2015 Exige S Automatic Is Quickest LOTUS Streetcar EVER! 3.8s 60mph Sprint, Race Modes and Coming to USA

Lotus has just announced details on the quickest production car ever — the new Exige S Automatic. We cannot think of another street-ready and USA-legal Lotus that has ever been so quick — with nearly all of Lotus’s hottest technology, biggest powerplant and raciest equipment, all on the most-hardcore and lightest model. The latest Exige S is really a king-maker on any racetrack, but also a delight on the roads there and back. It is 50-state legal and priced from about $75,000. In terms of thrills per buck, the Exige S will make a Porsche 911 look like a giant …

Oct 23, 2014 Read more

Updated With 50 New Photos – 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 and CLS63 AMG Refreshed With Standard 4Matic

Updated 10.19.14 Well, would you look what we have here! See, it really does pay to crop photos extra tight (sometimes). You never really know what you will find. Such was my excitement to see the facelifted 2015 CLS63 AMG in the second Mercedes-Benz release about the new 24-LED-per-side MultiBeam headlights. These replace the previous block/bar of lighting in the CLS, which was unique but not exactly welcoming, warm or desirable. The new layout is much like the E63 AMG, but with only a single LED band up the top of the lamp shape. Of …

Oct 19, 2014 Read more

3.1s 2015 Ferrari F60 America Is 10-Copy F12 Spyder Celebrating 60 Years of Ferrari in USA

Welcome to the soft-top F12 Ferrari! We called this pretty convincingly a month ago with the below article… but it is still magnificent to see the car’s details up close. There is a bikini top for the roof of the new F60 America – but it is limited to about 70-mph — far slower than the 202-mph-plus top speed of the amazing F12 Coupe. But for the brave or helmeted, the F60 America’s huge V12 engine will hit the double ton with ease. Only ten of the F60 America Ferrari’s will be made — and all ten are …

Oct 10, 2014 Read more

2015 Volvo V40 XC Adds 245HP T5 Powertrain – USA Imports Coming Soon?

UPDATE: The fine print of Volvo’s release below actually invalidates much of the below editorializing — it looks like the V40 Cross Country may be coming to the States after all!!! Say a big thankyou to the new XC90’s strong initial sales if this does become the case… watch this space for all the updates. PREVIOUS The V40 is Volvo’s smallest model range and is no longer imported to the US market. Is this a total letdown? It is a bit of a disappointment, that is sure. Especially because this platform has housed many of the latest Volvo …

Sep 26, 2014 Read more

AMG GT Starring in New PS4 Racing Game DRIVECLUB from October 8th

The relationship between PlayStation and Mercedes-Benz has been very strong since the AMG SLS was the cover car for GranTurismo 5. That relationship is a three-way affair: among AMG, Polyphony Digital as the GT game developers, and Sony itself in extending the reach of PS4. The new DRIVECLUB game seeks to be a new type of social racing experience — where friends battle one another for track glory both in real-time and as part of championship leagues. Sony hopes to leverage the PS4’s social features in ways that many GT6 drivers do not prioritize. So the AMG GT being …

Sep 19, 2014 Read more

2015 Ford C-Max and 7-Seat Grand C-Max Make UK Debut With Revised Styling and Tech

Very subtle tweaks to the nose of the C-Max and Grand C-Max debuted today for the UK market. No word yet on when the US-market C-Max Hybrid might receive these changes, but a Spring arrival to US showrooms is likely. The Grand C-Max with seven seats would be a welcome car for the US market — but Ford has those bases covered with the Transit Connect Wagon — which is far better-looking than the sliding-door C-Max shown here in a dark tan color. What the Grand C-Max does offer shoppers is a more-sophisticated set of drivetrains and a more refined …

Sep 18, 2014 Read more

5.0s, 84MPG 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 Plug-in Hybrid Joins USA S-Class Lineup

It has taken more than two Hybrid S-Classes to really achieve relevance and technological superiority to the other eco-limo’s on the market — but that time has now arrived. The S550 Plug-in Hybrid joins the Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid as the most socially responsible way to pilot a Mercedes flagship, even during times of greenwashing and uncertainty about the world’s energy future. For the first time in an S-Class, this new Hybrid model is not a cynical niche model. It is a well-rounded and fully-engineered addition to the S-Class, with all of the high-tech electrics integrated into the S-Class …

Sep 15, 2014 Read more

3.7s 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S Brings 503HP, Alloy Chassis Arriving to USA in Spring 2015

Huge news today from AMG! The eagerly-anticipated AMG GT supercar has arrived in full: 100-plus photos and full launch details below. Two trims will come on the AMG GT: the standard with 463-horsepower and a 3.9-second sprint to 60-mph, or the top-line AMG GT S — which is packing the headline 3.7-seconds from its 503-horsepower slugger. The twin-turbocharged V8 lives in an alloy chassis with a very clever diff setup in back. The transaxle layout mounts the seven-speed auto on the back axle — but does not include 4Matic AWD at this time. Style-wise, the AMG GT is a huge …

Sep 09, 2014 Read more

4.4s 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C USA Priced from $54k in 200 New Photos

UPDATED 9.8.14 With Official USA details and 160 new photos. Who knews when one might need this many amazing photos of the all-new Alfa Romeo 4C Coupe — but here they are! The official pricing is mid-way down the photo showcase. 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C PREVIOUS We’ve been pretty bearish on the Alfa 4C’s prospects in the United States – until seeing one in the flesh this week at Road America. This $66,000 sports coupe is deliciously wide, low and sexy from all sides. New USA features include a refined set of bumpers to fit our license …

Sep 08, 2014 Read more

Meet The PAGANI USA Launch Fleet – Five 2015 PAGANI Huayra Hypercars at Quail 2014

Imagine the scene: Brand-new Pagani Huayra Carbon. Golf fairways and greens of The Quail in Carmel, California. Earn morning dew. Rear-drive, twin-turbo AMG V12. Bottom line? The guys who put these cars in place early Friday August 16th have true throttle and impulse control. How amazing would a few effortless wheel-spins be in this icy green surface? REAL-LIFE HUAYRA REACTION? Absolutely fantastic, orgasmic hypercar dreams in the flesh. They are old-school hypercar HUGE, with a wider and lower stance than even the Lamborghini Diablo VT. The detailing of the bodywork is absolutely stellar and a maze of delight for the …

Sep 03, 2014 Read more

Update1 Photos and Video – 3.7s 2014 BMW M5 Jahre 30 Hits 600HP Horsepower, Adds Active M Rear Diff

Updated 8.23.14 with real-life USA debut details. We are trying out a new YouTube intro/branding clip ahead of all the videos — and have the current BMW M6 with M Performance exhaust as the audio overlay (for the time being…). This is relevant to the BMW M5 Jahre 30 edition because it shows what this engine can really sound like with an aftermarket addition. It also shows that the Pebble Beach audio recording of the Jahre 30 is not nearly as vivid. In fact, the Jahre 30 sounds really terrific in person, with much more engine rumble and hum …

Aug 23, 2014 Read more

540HP, 3.7s 2015 BMW ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe Available in USA! Quickest BMW Ever Made?

Meet the first (and only) Alpina B6 in the United States at the moment. This blue stunner is, in fact, the quickest BMW ever made. The addition of AWD and a huge jump in twin-turbo V8 power means the Alpina B6 is more rapid to 60-mph than any other BMW. Ever. This includes the M6, 1980 M1, 2015 M5 Jahre 30, i8, M4, M3…. Everything else is slower. THE PRIVATE DEBUT As well as the USA reveal of the Vision Future Luxury concept and M5 30th Anniversary, BMW’s Pebble Beach villa was packed with all the hottest metal in the …

Aug 20, 2014 Read more

Update1 – 2015 VOLVO XC90 – 400HP Twin-Engine PHEV Dubbed T8, 316HP T6 Also Coming to USA

Updated 8.12.14 with additional platform info from Volvo More info from Volvo today about the all-new XC90’s platform – plus the first official exterior image! Granted, it is just a headlight close-up… but we are excited all the same. [ The full exteriors shown here are unofficial renderings. ] 2015 VOLVO XC90 Powertrain Well, here is some good news! So far, we have seen the new XC90’s interior luxury and infotainment solutions. The luxury looks good, but the info touchscreen is a bit short of the Tesla 17-inch ideal. Under the hood? This has been another worry …

Aug 12, 2014 Read more

3.4s Radical SR3 SL Startup Video and 70 High-Res Photos at Atlanta Motorsports Park

Any Radical in the USA is fantastic to experience up close, especially in its native environment: the racetrack. The Radical SR3 SL here is the only two-seat model in the United States – so it is: a) the quickest car around almost any racetrack — including the Nurburgring, where Radical has long held an unbeat-ably quick pace in the 6.44-second SR8. The SR3 SL is no slouch either: its roughly 7:00-second Nordeshleiffe lap is still in the top 20 for any kind of car, racers included. b) one of the only street-legal track cars of this caliber of performance c) …

Aug 02, 2014 Read more

999Motorsports USA SuperSport Mk1 is 400HP Mid-Engine Track Attack Special – Mk2 Available to Order Now!

999Motorsports USA SuperSport Mk1 is 400HP Mid-Engine Track Attack Special – Mk2 Available to Order Now! Think that the open-cockpit Ariels, Radicals or Caterhams are the best-value, quickest and most-thrilling track day cars on the planet? For serious racers with Porsche 911 Supercups and RSR’s all around – there is one American track special that can beat the legend: the SuperSport999. 999 Motorsports USA is the local development and engineering center for this quick lap demon that has swept Asia and France already since 2012. The 14 cars built so far are absolutely purpose-built racers with a mid-engine layout plus …

Jul 28, 2014 Read more

BRABUS 800 V12 Roadster for the Mercedes-Benz SL Is a Savage On Throttle, But A Cosy Lover When Cruising

Driving the V12 Mercedes-Benz SL leaves you breathless and at times emotionally battered by the enormous power. Once unleashed, the V12’s genie does not easily go back in the bottle. This applies to both the forward surge like a tsunami wave, as well as the desire to rip to 100-mph plus at every possible opportunity. Stoplights? Sure. Town center? Sure! That is the SL65’s attitude – always ready. So to up the power to a frankly inhuman 800-horsepower makes it all the more addictive in every way. Good thing there is a plush cabin to let you down and back …

Jul 21, 2014 Read more

TVR Sportscars Brand Chronology 1956-2006 Plus a Roadmap to Global Sales for 2014 and Beyond

TVR is one of the greatest success stories in British sports cars. Not by sales or commercial volume, mind you, but the global popularity of TVR is evidence of: — universal appeal of low-volume sportscars with character — broad appeal of English-language auto journalism with a highly qualitative edge — global appetite for automotive and supercar-themed entertainment content — the power of visceral appeal to an exotic car that is nothing like anything sold locally or by big OEM makes As an American who has lusted after TVR’s since first glimpsing the Tuscan in the pages of BBC’s TopGear magazine …

Jul 18, 2014 Read more

Updated with 50 New Photos – 2015 Porsche Macan S and Macan Turbo

A few new pieces of information about the Macan S and Macan Turbo thanks to this latest photo set from Porsche: — The Macan S on its optional 21-inch 911 Turbo wheels looks as good as the Macan Turbo – with both wearing quad pipes in back. Round for S, squared for Turbo. — The Macan is so fast…. that the photographer could not keep up! Many of these photos are out-of-focus. Here are all the latest Macan photos, specs, pricing and details from Porsche — plus a few of the legendary 1978 911 SC Rallye just for fun. MACAN …

Jul 17, 2014 Read more

2015 Smart Fortwo and Forfour Bring New Dual-Clutch Automatic + 2 and 4-Door Options

If there is one thing the first generations of Smartcars have needed (besides a lot of extra size), it is a second set of doors and seats. Against all odds, the machine is still on sale in the United States in 2014, which finally makes sense when you see the new models. This pair of cars might actually have a chance in challenging Mini and the Fiat 500, so perhaps it is good that the Smart section of Mercedes-Benz showrooms has been retained in the US. Overall, sales of the car have been strongest in Italy and Germany, where the …

Jul 17, 2014 Read more

4.9s 2015 VW Golf R Officially Coming to USA in January – With At Least 290HP!

How about some good news from Volkswagen on this site lately? We are pretty hard on the old VeeDub over here, which is ironic because my first-ever car was a 1975 SuperBeetle named Walter. This was in 1997, mind you, so he was already old enough to drink when I was 16. After a bump on the nose in 2002. 2015 VW Golf R USA Back to VW USA. Pining and wishing and griping will never make the new Scirocco come to the USA – so let’s celebrate what we are getting: the new GTI and the new Golf R! …

Jul 14, 2014 Read more

Official: Volkswagen Mid-size SUV Will Seat 7, Be Built in USA – Name TBD

After much dithering and time-wasting, VW has formally announced Chattanooga as the assembly location of the forthcoming 2016 Passat-based SUV. No new name or production images have been released – leading us to believe the production car will be close in form and spirit to the CrossBlue concept — which is pictured outside the VW Tennessee plant here. NEW MIDSIZE SUV FROM VOLKSWAGEN TO BE PRODUCED IN CHATTANOOGA Jul 14, 2014 Winterkorn: “This model will play a key role for Volkswagen’s presence in North America” Volkswagen Group of America to invest approximately $900 million in the project Second model to …

Jul 14, 2014 Read more

BMW M235i RS by TUNINGWERK Making 400+ HP – Performance Mod Items Available for USA and Global Buyers

The BMW M235i is easily one of the best, most complete sports-cars in the last decade. So fast, so agile and so fun. There really is not much else with this triple threat of track prowess along with smooth and luxurious commuter capabilities. But what if you want to go even more hardcore? To take this incredible engineering package and light the wick with a blowtorch? To make your own GT-R-killer ready for any performance challenge — and delivering a huge grin all the way there and back — look no further than the below catalog from German car …

Jul 13, 2014 Read more

Update1 – Exec Shuffle Analysis – Infiniti QQX Rebadge Architech Johan de Nysschen Joins Cadillac

Updated with Infiniti USA sales figures below. Uh oh! All signs indicate that Carlos Ghosn is furious today. Another key executive is gone just 10 months after the wacky Carlos Tavares was booted from Renault. Former Audi and Infiniti executive Johan De Nysschen has just been announced as the new Cadillac global leader. This is an unusually sudden departure from Renault-Nissan – and an odd hire for Cadillac as well. It is not yet clear if De Nysschen was terminated or recruited away from Infiniti, but his efforts there have been a nightmare overall. Cadillac’s global ambitions are well-known, and …

Jul 11, 2014 Read more