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
You might not be a big fan of VW right now. Diesel has once again become a dirty word, and while the automaker struggles to make things right with the government and the buying public, the brand has been getting the stink eye in a lot of ways. We’re going to look past the diesel models, because there’s also a lot of goodness in the VW lineup, and we think there are an awful lot of folks who design, make, and sell the brand that had nothing to do with the problems going on. Right now, VW needs a new …
With all the attention and fanfare that the revamped 2016 Volvo XC90 has received since it was unveiled to the world a year ago, it can be easy to forget about the other SUV in the Swedish automaker’s lineup the 2017 XC60. With the spotlight currently on its bigger brand sibling, does the XC60 still have what it takes to stand out in the hearts and minds of SUV buyers? Or has it fallen behind the times? The exterior styling of our Osmium Grey Metallic tester is an exercise in smoothness and elegance with Volvo designers even adding subtle …
Volkswagen brought out the CC model in 2009, and it was an immediate hit styling-wise, as it separated itself from the more upright and boxy Passat that it was based on. And since that first model, the styling hasn’t changed much, which is a good thing, since it is still a striking timeless look. The long arc of the roofline gives the CC a low, long, sleek look that reminds one of a Mercedes CLS, or Audi A-7. Like the lines on a true coupe, the frameless doors make interesting visuals, like a four-door-coupe. And there is enough chrome around …
REVIEW: 2016 VW Tiguan AWD – Fun Drive, Boring Design In some cases cars are designed so perfectly their popularity can carry them for years and well beyond when they typically receive updates. For the 2016 VW Tiguan, this is not the case and the all-new 2018 model, set to arrive next summer, is desperately needed. The fact is there is nothing wrong with the Tiguan per se, yet there isn’t really anything that exciting either and that’s a problem. The compact crossover market these days is hot with many great models from all manufactures. Typically, these vehicles provide ample room, …
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 …
If you’ve read our other tests of Kia vehicles, you might remember that we’ve been noticing a distinctively German feel to these Korean Vehicles, much of it owing to the stewardship of Kia/Hyundai Honcho Peter Schreyer, who previously penned much of Audi’s goodness. When we tested the Kia Optima SX we found loads of Audi-ness in the overall feel of the car. And now with the all-new Sportage SUV, we’re tasting hints of Porsche and BMW in the mix as well. Has Kia created the Korean Kayenne? Well, from first glance, it will definitely catch Stuttgart’s attention. And a …
A thorough video blast-off for this all-new GLC. Nearly a quarter-hour of hard starts in Sport Plus for the nine-speed auto and 270-some foot-pound boosted tourbo four. Along with the video? A gorgeous photoset of more than three score. All alongside a gorgeous yacht club on Lake Lanier, Georgia. 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4Matic
2016 has brought a stormy spring to our beloved Mitsubishi. From the firm’s recent troubles with emissions, to the ensuing merger with Nissan, the company has forged through some pretty turbulent waters. But can models like the recently updated 2016 Outlander allow Mitsubishi to tap into the recent surge in SUV/CUV sales? Or does it get lost in the shuffle? The exterior styling of my Cosmic Blue tester is certainly an improvement over past iterations of the Outlander, but it ends up being disjointed and unbalanced. On the one hand, the front fascia embodies the sporty spirit that once defined some …
The CUV sales boom is in full force. Many automakers are revamping their product plans to take advantage of this renewed level of demand. Mazda is one of these companies and has invested large amounts of money and effort into revitalizing its CUV lineup. The 2016 Mazda CX-3 is the first fruit of this renewed effort, and promises to bring Mazda’s trademark levels of sportiness and vigor to the compact CUV segment. But has this focus on driving perfection blunted its capabilities in the process? The exterior styling of the CX-3 incorporates many of the cues that made their debut …
Baby Bimmer? Mighty Mini? X marks the spot. We recently tested the new Mini Clubman, and came to the conclusion it was as much a less-expensive BMW (sort of a squashed Sport Activity Vehicle) as it was a supersized Mini. So now, here we are, testing the new BMW X1. And that’s really interesting, since it shares the platform with the Clubman. And in many ways, it’s a radical departure from where BMW has been. The question is has BMW lost the melody, or did they manage to get us all singing along? BMW isn’t going to give away the …
For years now, the number of manual transmissions has been dropping in favor of the automatic transmissions. True car enthusiasts have bemoaned the loss of the stick while automakers pander to growing consumer demand for automatics (plus, many drivers can’t drive a manual). However, with the Mini Cooper Clubman, the manual vs. automatic debate is at the heart of the car. Is a Mini Cooper, well, a Mini Cooper without a stick? Nope. A few weeks ago, I reviewed a 2016 MINI Cooper Clubman S manual and enjoyed all of its quirkiness including the thrill of getting off the …
Pardon us while we get all Existentialist on you. But is Mini as a measure of size, or a state of mind? That’s what’s got us scratching our heads with the latest Clubman S. This is actually the second generation of the Clubber, the first was a longer wheelbase version of the existing model, with a small suicide door on the passenger side to help passengers pile in and enjoy the extra room. It actually made a lot of sense, it gave a bit better ride, and introduced Mini drivers to the joys (accessibility) and horrors (visibility) of split …
What looks like a box on wheels, rides like a car and can scale the side of a mountain? Why a 2016 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk can and its off-road prowess is downright surprising. When Jeep launched the Renegade, it was a bit of a shock to many with its European-like styling, odd-looking taillights and its flat front grille punctuated by two round headlights. Frankly, it just doesn’t resemble what most in the U.S. think of when they think Jeep. While the exterior looks are subjective and non-traditional Jeep, inside it is closer to a Jeep and especially the Patriot kind …
GLC with just 241-horsepower? YES! This RWD crossover is strikingly sexy and well=packacged for 2016 and beyond. A nine-speed auto and sporty moves are shown in stark relief below…… Click, porfa.
Not really sure what to say about this M2 reskin that is the BMW brand’s big debut at this year’s Villa d’Este concours in Lake Como, Italy. It certainly has some expressive lines, deep shaping and a deconstructed aesthetic. It is fabulous to see versus the absolutely repulsive BMW Vision Next 100 from a few weeks ago. Both in style and substance. But while deconstructed, in a way, the design of this upgraded 2-series is a wide miss. It feels like a fiberglass redo OVER and above the existing design, versus a holistic exercise in itself. A frozen glasshouse, doorlines …
We all remember the first Audi TT. Its out-of-left-field bold styling left everyone shocked with how stylish it was. This was a huge departure from the bland, traditional Audis of the late 90s. It wasn’t as much of a sports car as it was a fashion statement but thousands of people bought the TT. Fast forward to 2016 with the third generation of the TT. Audi is still trying to make the TT into a stylish, future-thinking sports coupe. After driving it, I have some interesting results. Exterior The original TT was such a hit because it segmented Audi …
The RS6 might not have crossed the pond to the USA, but now you can one-up that flagship via a massive new aerokit from Prior Design. At least in terms of pure curb appeal, this PD600R widebody will make any A6 or S6 a fastlane king. Check out the gorgeous new PD600R in its element around Monte Carlo via the gallery, plus an itemized upgrade list and links to buy below that. PRIOR-DESIGN PD600R Widebody Aerodynamic-Kit for AUDI A6/RS6 With our PD600R Widebody Aero-Kit installed, the car is 8cm wider on the front & 10cm at the back. Complete …
FORD PERFORMANCE RELEASES “PROJECT RX”: BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE FORD FOCUS RS RX DEVELOPMENT SUMMARY The Ford Focus RS RX was designed to be the ultimate rallycross vehicle in the FIA World Rallycross Championship. Collaborating with UK-based M-Sport and Hoonigan Racing Division, Ford Performance engineers implemented the same high-tech instruments and procedures used on production vehicles to develop the Focus RS RX for competition. The first of a four-part documentary, episode one of “Project RX” highlights the design and development of the vehicle between Ford Performance headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan, and the M-Sport …
When BMW first unveiled the i3, it brought several innovations to the electric vehicle segment, while also allowing the company to launch its green minded i brand. However, with the current trend towards bigger batteries, the tiny i3 found itself slowly falling behind rivals when it came to driving range. BMW has rectified this flaw with the unveiling of the updated 2017 i3. Known formally as the 2017 BMW i3 (94 Ah) the second chapter of the i3 doesn’t focus so much on its long moniker, but rather on giving buyers more driving range than before. This is made …
Here is another new Jag that absolutely wallops the competition. Brutally competent. Ruthlessly efficient. Stylishly elegant. Very fast with a 5.2-second sprint to 60-mph, yet never too shouty about it. The new 2016 XF is stunningly good. This mid-range model lives between the base Ingenium diesel here in the USA and the top XF S with its 380HP and sport exhaust. 340 ponies are always on tap thanks to the supercharged engine configuration. Same goes for the worlds-best ZF eight-speed automatic. And the lightweight, part-aluminum chassis that drops hundreds of Lbs versus its arch-rivals the 535i and Mercedes-Benz E350. How …
Review: 2016 Volvo XC60 T6 Is Safe, Family SUV When it comes to safety few automakers go to the same level that Volvo does and the 2016 XC60 is a perfect example of this. From the built-in booster seats for children, to the host of alert systems, this SUV is perfect for safety-conscious families. The 2016 Volvo XC60 is a 5-seat, SUV with a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged/supercharged engine which produces an impressive 302 HP and 295 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine is mated to an 8-speed transmission which is geared for a low-end pop off the line with a …
Review: 2016 VW Golf GTI Improves on Technology While Keeping Superb Drive While VW may be mired in a diesel scandal, this doesn’t mean the rest of their gas vehicles should be overlooked. A great example is the critically acclaimed 2016 VW Golf equipped with a turbocharged gasoline engine and featuring updated technology features. The big news for the 2016 VW Golf is all-new technology features found in a new 6.5” touchscreen infotainment screen and part of VW Car-Net. This was a big need in prior Golf vehicles and VW stepped up to fill this gap. The new touchscreen is …
A fantastic range-topper for the new TT twins: the RS! Power is up by 60Hp over the previous TT RS via a new turbo five-cylinder engine. Ultra-short new ratios for the launch gears of the DSG twin-clutch auto rocket the new TT RS Coupe to 62-mph in just 3.7-seconds. The ragtop is not far behind. Various trim options for the deep lower splitter, all-new bumpers and grilles front and rear make unique statements. The black is dark and menacing, while the silver effect (as shown on the red Coupe below) is just as modern and mean… but a bit brighter. …
The new Cayman has arrived! Just in time to make anyone who ordered the Boxster Spyder or Cayman GT4 feel like a fool? Not really. This new generation has new styling, all-new cabin tech and a vastly changed powertrain duo. Swapping to standard twin-turbo four power for the Cayman means this will be a very changed Porsche versus its flat-six predecessors. Pace is way up across the board, and pricing is sharply down. The entry price in Euros is now below the 718 Boxster for the first time, unlike the previous hardtop premium that made no sense. But justifying a …
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 …
It is difficult to describe how small this car is. The 1959 Berkeley Sports Twosome SE492 is about the size of a normal carnival bumper-car. And perhaps only slightly larger than most PowerWheels children’s toys. Its 70-inch wheelbase meets extremely low and narrow overall dimensions — and is literally dwarfed by some of the bigger classic cars parked nearby. The concept of a lightweight and cheap English roadster was taken to new millimeter-small dimensions during the 1956-1960 production run of the Berkeley automotive venture. The engine of this SE492 is an air-cooled triple making just 30 horsepower. A four-speed automatic send …
Here is a vehicle whose beauty is only surpassed by its rarity. The 1954 Siata Torino 200CS. It has the elegance of many Maserati’s, but also the purpose and aeronautical inspiration that made the Aston Martin DB3 and DB4 such hits. And what is this!? No cutlines whatsoever in the back bubble fastback?! Hidden headlamps? These might be the second-ever application of pop-up headlights since they made their first aero-inspired appearance in the Cord 810 of the 1930s. The elegance of a pure, clean upper hood edge would come in vogue by the 1970s, and ride the wave through the …
While all the attention these days is on its faster brother, the 2016 Ford Focus Hatchback Titanium isn’t so quickly overlooked. With its fun to drive size, quick acceleration and plentiful cargo room, the Focus is a great commuter or around town vehicle and probably not the best choice for long road trips. Hatchbacks hold a special place in the automotive landscape with plenty of fans and critics of its size and styling. Fans love the size, fun to drive sporty aspect of it and its versatility of holding 5 with cargo room. Yet, critics see SUVs as better options …
So tiny. So elegant! The Lotus Seven in the flesh is unreal in its engineering purity and basic beauty. The cabin with basic lower seat cushions but hardbacked pieces for both perches? Or the giant, one-piece front fenders. And the elaborate, contrast-creme weatherstripping between its central body and fenders? All exquisite. Kiawah 2016 Highlights – 1963 LOTUS Super 7 Cosworth
Review: 2016 BMW 340i xDrive – Exhilarating Driving Performance For years, BMW has boasted that it builds the “Ultimate Driving Machines” and while critics and competitors have increasing sought to counter that claim, a recent weeklong drive in a 2016 BMW 340i only confirmed that claim. If driving, real fun, spirited driving is at the top of your buying list, the 340i has to be a top choice. Delivered to me in a Melbourne Red Metallic, the iconic looking 340i certainly had all the distinctive character and desirable appearance attributes reminiscent of BMW models over the years. While I’ve watched …
REVIEW: 2016 Mini Cooper S Clubman Is Unique, Sporty Drive … Once Inside Cabin In a world of mega – huge trucks, large SUVs and big sedans – there is the 2016 Mini Cooper S Clubman. It is a drastic departure from other cars on the market with its unique styling, sporty powertrain and zippy turning radius. Now with more cargo room, the Mini Cooper Clubman is simply a great drive, albeit if you are OK sacrificing some entry/exit ease and long-drive comfort. Without a doubt, Mini Coopers are uniquely different – even refreshing – compared to an automotive market …
If any sports car is really universal, it must be the Porsche 911… AND the C7 Corvette! The new Corvette is so, so amazing to drive that its appeal transcends borders and cultures like wind, water or sunlight. The seven-speed stickshift, the standard targa roof panel, the 4-second launches, the big trunk, and the big V8 howl. All these things make the Eurotrip in full working order, and have perhaps an even larger impact on those more familiar with grimey diesels than a clean cut of American sirloin. It is interesting to know what BBM Motorsport would do to their C7 …
Any time the words “Smurf” and “Blue” make it into an official press release, it is usually good for a belly laugh. We were seriously loving the color and black alloys, contrast-red rollbars and the slammed KW stance of this Clio already. But then they go and mention the Smurfs. And we’re back to feeling silly! That laughing, delightful character is a big part of any Clio’s appeal. This one just happens to be a battle-Smurf! Deadly serious, regardless of its skin tone! 2016 Renault Clio by WALDOW Performance WALDOW Performance reveals the Renault Clio 4 – The Real …
What a freaky machine to find in your inbox on a bright Monday morning! A jumbo A8L with six doors, giant glass moonroof and six giant seats. While jaded about the car and what it stands for, we can’t help but like the way the cabin turned out. The three rows of seats are slightly more functional than the Maybach Pullman, which has two rear-facing seats in its limo compartment’s midsection. This A8L Extended has more practicality and comfort for all its riders, but much less throne-like legroom for the money seats in the wayback. The 2016 Audi A8L Extended is …
‘Dead On Arrival’ is a better cliche than VW’s botched choice words to introduce this car: VW Says: “”” ‘ Iconic’ is, perhaps, a word bandied around all too freely but, when applied to the mould-breaking Golf GTI, it can be used with genuine justification. “”” Forgive the slight lack of enthusiasm here. But the GTI Clubsport Edition 40 is really not doing it for me. A bump in power to 265 ponies, and 290 on a brief turbo overboost, is great from the Golf R-derived turbo 2.0-liter four. The car delivers a seriously underwhelming 6.3-second sprint to 62-mph …
The new Tiguan is a great shining hope for VW lately, and they could use a win. Here is the loaded Euro-spec model in its first photoset. Around Berlin and a fun off-road park, the next-generation model is defined by much greater scale all around. Wider and much longer, with the roof looking quite chic and low. The new Tiguan’s style is also a close preview of its larger, US-made CrossBlue. The CrossBlue is set for launch as a seven-seater, with a fastback 5-seat model likely for 2019. The Tiguan as we see here will spawn a few variants itself: …
Action-packed New York auto show this year! Much new and very hot metal to see and touch, with highlights including the new GT-R, the 911R, Civic Hatchback and Prius Prime. MX-5 RF (retractable fastback) is cool too, as is the new 718 Boxster and Buick Encore with its sharp and premium new LEDs. Also included below is the first look at the new Subaru Impreza, Jaguar F-Type SVR and 2018 VW Tiguan. #NYIAS Live – Showfloor Mega Gallery
A survey came out this morning letting Americans know that Germany prefers PHEVs to hybrids or full electric cars. GKN certainly found the insight! Everyone would prefer PHEVs if given the choice! In that vane, the new 330e from BMW is the most evolved form of super-efficient, fast cruising with plug-in battery tech. Married to a twin-power turbo four, the car produces extremely respectable pace: 5.9-seconds to 60-mph from its combined 248HP and 310 pound-feet of torque. Effective, everyday MPG will be at least the 50s in normal use. A slightly smaller gas tank (and trunk) is the main compromise. …
Imagine loving a 70s Porsche so much that you rebody the entire machine in carbon fiber and ramp up the power to a very-modern 300 ponies? First off, how could anyone not love their vintage 911 this much?! Secondly, the upgrades here are so loving and thoughtful that they deserve a big salute. A weight savings of almost 400 pounds is pretty sweet no matter what the starting point. So is the 3.6-liter, air-cooled boxer engine! Classic style for the lights, of course, but updated to the latest high-dollar Osram LED optics. Same for the new li-ion LITE-BLOX racing battery, modern seats and …
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.. …
The world’s most curious supercar made a glittery debut in Geneva and is now on the way to the New York auto show! This return to the USA for Spyker is a pretty big deal. As we all know, this market can be make-or-break for low-volume manufacturers. Spyker’s new Coventry factory puts in in great company: Morgan, Aston Martin, McLaren and Jaguar are fairly closeby. Hopefully this localization helps Spyker navigate its way back onto US roads as well as our auto shows! On to the main event: the new PRELIATOR! This means warrior in Latin and marks the third …
In the TechArt world, Magnum is shorthand for every Cayenne upgrade in the catalog! The team has been finalizing their style,. performance and tech upgrades for this third-generation Cayenne MAGNUM over the last few months — and the results are pretty intense! The exterior upgrades fit all 2015-current Cayenne models, while the optional suspension and exhaust mods also enhance everything from the Cayenne S Diesel to the full-fat Turbo. An extra 120 horsepower come from all-new turbochargers, engine breathing and cooling on the Turbo — with 640HP available at all times, and the massive 700HP coming on steam with the …
The world’s favorite KTM car pro’s have a new special for us! The X-BOW GT Black Edition is an all-black, all-carbon flagship of the street-going KTM ‘Crossbow’ lineup. Wimmer RST has this gorgeous new special on display in Geneva this week along with the championship-winning X-BOW GT4 racecar. The new X-BOW Black Carbon is even upgraded versus that racecar, however. In addition to the CF tub, the new Wimmer special integrates carbon fiber for dozens of other components. The entire undertray is a new carbon-fiber execution delivering race levels of grip on the road. Exposed-weave carbon fiber now takes the …
TechArt just launched its new bodywork, suspension, exhaust and cabin mods for the new 2017 911 Turbo and 2017 911 Carreras — and makes them more mouth-watering than ever! The beauty of the TechArt programs for the 911 is that they are subtle, yet very convincing. Without the TechArt badges, the quality and integration into the original Porsche designs helps the parts disappear into the whole machine. This is in contrast to many of the very-obvious aftermarket upgrades out there. The favorite among this group? Has to be the bright blue C2S. This TechArt stunner has the curb appeal to stop …
Ready for 5000 German words you cannot possibly care about!? Let’s dive in to the BMW Next 100 Years press conference and new-concept debut, while stripping out 95-percent of the unintelligible corporate babble below. First things first: BMW Group and BMW pressclub have new websites. Yay! But they do not work as easily as the previous ones. Boo. At least the zip files do not create unmoveable, undeletable 3GB desktop bombs like BMW USA PressClub’s. The renderings do turn from brown to pink when saved on a PC tho. Bonus — some fails live on! Dear BMW. Flatten …
So, so much hotness in here. Aston Martin DB11, Huayra BC, Apollo Arrow, Remac Concept One, Ferrari GTC4 Lusso, new Spyker and Zenvo’s….! Our favorite is split between the new Apollo and the DS E-Tense. Geneva 2016 – Showfloor Mega Gallery – Part Two
Hypercar buyers are spoiled for choice these days. But the Apollo Arrow warrants a second look even among Chiron deposit-holders. Apollo is an all-new expression of the Gumpert brand and core knowledge. The relaunch was in January and the coming-out party definitely in Geneva! Power and performance are insane. Race-ready — for real. The car is FIA-homologated for numerous race classes in exactly the same spec as the Euro road-legal stunner. Airjacks and roll cages included! But let’s take a closer look first at the obviously hot, shamelessly whipped and sliced new design. From the front it catches you by surprise. …
VW just revealed its next-gen flagship super-Passat: the Phideon. Riding on a next-gen premium platform, the Phideon is a long-wheelbase sedan the size of the S-Class, but with a lower roof that VW refers to as a four-door coupe. On that note, one of the Phideon’s best initial impressions is its premium proportions. A long-looking hood, improved dash-to-axle length and fairly short front overhang all send the right signals loud and clear. That being said, it is not as rear-drive in appearance as even the Hyundai Genesis. The design itself is familiar, if a bit angle-sensitive as shown on these preview images. …
Ferrari presents a new video and photo tribute to the vast mountains of sand in the Middle East with this glamourous new Cali Turbo video! It is a stark reminder of the natural beauty of the landscape, and its unique nature versus anywhere else on Earth. And also a great reminder of the new California’s beauty and potent performance…! These cars may or may not include the new Handling Speciale package, but look like they are having a ball outside Dubai regardless! https://youtu.be/xzOQpOGD1YU 2016 Ferrari California T – Deserto Rosso Ferrari Reveals Deserto Rosso Ferrari Pays Tribute …
Not just Rangies… but S-Classes and Audi A8’s too! The superlux livery market just found a new favorite: the XC90 T8 Excellence. Plugin-hybrid to ease your (guilty) conscience? Check. SUV-easy entry and exit, plus jumbo cargo bay? Check. Individual, 787-first-class seats in back with a full-length console and nap-ready headrests? Check. 4×4 grip for ski holidays or slushy commutes home? Check. Subtle to the point of almost disappearing behind the bright window-edges and deep-tinted glass all around? Check. The new XC90 Excellence certainly looks great on paper as the next favorite limousine for the Davos crowd. The Excellence order …
Trust and affection go hand in hand. When you love a brand, you are willing to follow it to the ends of the Earth if need be. The BMW X5 proved this conclusively — with initial haters eventually loving the SUV’s Bimmer-ness, and its sales success worldwide still quite striking. Volvo proved its brand flexibility in a similar way with the XC90 — a game-changer of an SUV that saved the marque from a possible SAAB-like fate during the industry shakeout of ~2009. In fact, Volvo has long been remarkably flexible in moving beyond its core family sedan and wagon …
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, …
Updated 2.25.16 with official details from AC Schnitzer — who is emphatic about the lightness of the vehicle! Our silly Maus Panzer headline speaks more to this ‘mouse’ of a 2-series that packs a punch like GTR battle tank… Will ACL2 become as fearsome a badge as GT-R? Panzer Maus? M2? PERHAPS! AC Schnitzer has been working its magic brilliantly on the smallest BMWs for years now. 1 series became 2 series, and the team was on it instantly! What they have created is nothing short of the Panzer VIII ‘Maus’ supertank…. at least in its fearsome spirit, if not scale. …
We’re huge cheerleaders of Volvo’s long-deserved reboot. The new XC90 and S90/V90 point strongly toward the 2020 goals of the firm for its entire range. And they are off to a racing start! Sales of the XC90 are through the roof — recording some of the only volume gains the firm has achieved in at least the last decade. The entire line will be fully switched from its current platforms over to the new all-hybrid architectures in the future, but some models will obviously benefit from this before others. The V40 is new enough that it is falling to the …
Here is a pretty cool special-edition that Citroen is bringing to Geneva 2016: the C4 Cactus Rip Curl Edition. This light cosmetic makeover darkens the looks of this funky lifestyle-mobile, adds some funky graphics to the bodysides, and includes the best standard-equipment like a panoramic glass roof and other goodies. But how, one might ask, will a front-drive crossover be the right vehicle for a surf trip? Well, even without AWD or 4×4, the C4 Cactus Rip Curl hopes to park comfortably right on the beach. Standard mud/snow tires join forces with a new GripControl ESP system that enables more slip …
We obviously cover a lot of concepts and dream cars here, but rarely does one captivate the eye and mind more than the 2010 Bertone Pandion. BERTONE: COMPANY SITUATION ANALYSIS First things first: Bertone (pronounced ‘Bear Tony’) is currently restructuring after some lean years in the Italian car business drained its corporate accounts to breaking point. Is this any way indicative of the quality of the firm’s design work? Absolutely, positively not. In fact, it is because of Bertone’s amazing ideas that the firm branched back into actual car factories versus just dreamy, steamy concept cars and prototypes. Full-scale production …
Huge, lux and low are the name of the game for the new 2017 Volvo V90 wagon! Sharing its new platform and powertrains with the wildly-successfully 2016 XC90 SUV and upcoming S90 limo, the new V90 is a major step back into Volvo’s core groove. The looks of the machine are actually far more successful than the S90 sedan, which has some seriously curious tail styling marring excitement about its arrival later this year to US showrooms. 2017 Volvo S90 Where the S90 looks a bit funky, however, the V90 relishes its long-hood, low-roof ethos. Even the back glass is …
18 photos have never packed such a punch! Look. At. This. Beast! Around Laguna Seca for the international press launch, this ridiculously fast and fun supercoupe dramatically ups the ante to Audi and AMG. The closest you can get to this speed from outside Europe? Definitely a pony-car killer, this M2! 2016 BMW M 2 – Laguna Seca When BMW goes for performance glory, everyone else best stand back or be blown clear in jetwash. The new ~$130k M4 GTS reveal is being followed closely by a shadow that maintains nearly 99-percent of the big brothers’ track pace, …
We’re getting very, very close to the first mass-market, mid-engine French sports car in decades! Excluding the Bugatti Veyron and a few race specials, the Clio V6 has been the closest thing to a locally-made track car in ages. Why is this? And how will Renault’s relaunch of the ALPINE brand enhance the firm’s strategic goals, profitability and sales of the Kadjar in China? All that remains a bit fuzzy. But the actual car is now in stark focus — and looks spectacular! Beautiful rebirth of the original Alpine proportions, flowing rear end, and quad-lit nose right off the …
A new sport exhaust for the five-door and SC Cupras for 2016 opens up a shouty new bellow on throttle — and ramps up max power by about 10 ponies. The wagon appears to miss out on the new sport exhaust — but is bumped up to 290 all the same. Vmax? 156MPH! 0-60? 5.7-seconds on its best day, and 6.2-ish like clockwork on other days. Both are a half-second beyond what the fastest GTI can deliver. As before on the Cupra 280, this wagon/coupe/hatch family is the quickest front-drive production car to ever lap the Nurburgring. Standard LED lighting all …
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 …
Imagine your senior year in college. Did any of your final projects merit global attention, countless strategy meetings and even full-scale models? Your ideas, and how you expressed them, drawing attention from one of the largest and most-influential carmakers in the world? We’d bet not. But then, you are not the design whiz that is Eljesah “Eli” Shala, and you did not create the 2020 VW GT Ge “Ground Effect” design study. The start of a exceptionally promising career for Eli began long ago, but is picking up momentum rapidly in 2016. All thanks to the extreme sportiness + eco principles …
Despite the name: this is no Aztek!~ More and more lately, SUV reveals make you think only one thing: what took so long? It started most recently with the Bentley Bentayga, but the theme runs frothy through even the most unlikely brands. Jag F-Type? Will be a HUGE seller? Again. One thinks: what took so long! Of course, $1-a-gallon gasoline certainly helps spike the SUV mood worldwide. But this new ALTECA is prepped for a variety of futures. Big engines, small engines, mini diesels, hybrids… all package-protected and ready to roll out in the coming years. This ALTCA crossover …
The new M2 is taking over MotoGP safety car duties from the 2015 M4 — and looks even more badass in the M livery! Check out how the red stripe lines the massive new intake fangs. Gold wheels, a roll cage, M Performance Parts in carbon-fiber and a few other tweaks round out a gorgeous and dreamy style. 2016 BMW M2 MotoGP Pacecar BMW M – OFFICIAL CAR OF MotoGP™. BMW M2 MotoGP SAFETY CAR. MotoGP and BMW M Division: these two partners have formed an ideal combination for almost two decades. MotoGP is the pinnacle of motorcycle …
Fantastic updates for the Opel Mokka X are set for a Geneva debut next month, and they bode extremely well for its American twin, the Buick Encore! We really like the Encore. It’s punchy turbo engine delivers admirable thrust for the segment, while its very good Quiet-Tuned refinement is a huge step up from the Chevy Trax or Jeep Renegade. This refresh brings an all-new nose, LEDs front and rear, and a total redesign of the cabin tech. The center stack — long the Encore’s sore point — is fresh with a giant new touchscreen and streamlined climate/audio controls. …
There is a new boss BMW in town! The 2017 B7 just came online ahead of its first showing in Geneva next month. A round 600HP is the new entre, with the 100-kph sprint promised at a 3.7-seconds. This may be conservative, with ideal conditions likely to see the new LWB, AWD sedan hit the mid 3s to 60-mph. The Vmax at the top end is 193-mph, with pricing in Germany from 148k Euros. As a nod to Alpinas past, the B7 is offered with an very shouty Deco Kit — with bright ALPINA front letters and a flowing criss-cross …
Always great to launch an updated racecar with a first-place finish in its debut! That’s the story with the new 650S GT3, which just won the Bathhurst 12 Hour. And not just won: the car destroyed its rivals. McLaren sums it up well… “650S GT3 claimed the clean sweep over the course of the weekend with pole position, fastest lap, overall race win and a new lap record.” Hard to beat that concise summary of the new 650S GT3’s debut glories. Almost as hard as it will be for its GT3 rivals. ONE PROBLEM: McLaren GT’s Over-processed Photos …
GT3 is the closest thing we have to an authentic battle-of-the-supercars — and demands a great amount of manufacturer attention. The learnings on track with these cars are some of the quickest tech intros to road cars. Advancements in aero and drivetrain behaviour on track actually translate directly to a street superstar — without just the lip service most race series pay to this tech transfer. And best of all, it is a two-way street. Better turbo and cooling settings on the road for the 675LT have fed directly into the updated 2016 racecar from McLaren GT. McLaren below confirms …
Audi’s RS Q3 is now even hotter than ever! This Euro-only model is now up to 367-horsepower via its turbo five-cylinder engine — and sprint pace to 62-mph is down to an official 4.4-seconds. Both of these are big improvements over the RS Q3 in its previous 310 and 340-pony varieties. Officially, the RS Q3 shot to 62-mph in 5.2-seconds when launched, down to 4.8s for the 340HP 2016 model. The 4.4-second blast is extremely promising — and might correspond to the shorter 60-mph run as quick as 4.0-seconds dead. This new RS Q3 ‘Performance’ model looks extremely cool on the way to …
NanoFlowcell is the stunning startup trying to make energy from ordinary salt water. A revolutionary new battery chemistry is at the heart of the firm’s products to date. Cars like the super-exotic Quant F — a four-seater with gorgeous gullwing doors opening the entire bodyside. Looking like a stretched Porsche 918 Spyder, the main quant prototype is still a stunner. But what about production feasibility? FOr that, the plan has evolved into this slick electric hatchback. A premium model aimed right at the BMW i3, the QUANTiNO majors on realistic goals. Four electric motors — one at each corner — …
This is a really curious one. The Roding Roadster is a bespoke carbon-fiber sportscar running a mid-engine BMW M twin-turbo six-cylinder. Its factory output of about 320 ponies is stocked higher via Daehler Competition. Output is now up to 450Hp — and put down to the pavement via a tweaked grip and suspension setup. The looks are a bit hit and miss — but are a clear expression of ultra-low-volume carbon fiber production methods. 2016 Roding Roadster R1 by DAEHLER Competition Line PRESS RELEASE January 2016 Roding Roadster R1 as exclusive Daehler competition line Based upon long …
Germany’s Wimmer is not just a tuning and car mod company: they also run the KTM automotive sales operation in much of Germany. And they do it very well! The X-Bow GT is the closest this carbon-chassised racecar gets to being usable in daily driving — sans race helmet. The new safety-glass windshield element features clear heating elements to melt off any ice, as well as wiper/washer functionality like a boring road car. Also nice wrap-around side windows to complete the chic decapotable look. But these features can be sorely missed when absent! The X-Box GT is a rare and …
Supercars just passing their fifth birthdays often experience chills or thrills. Chills certainly on being traded in unceremoniously for the latest hotness. Or thrills in the form of massive power and style mods! This new WIMMER RennSportTechnik Turbo showcases the second path. Its engine is upgraded to a stunning 840HP, with commensurate increases in pace. Is it twice as fast as the 480HP stock model? Almost…! 10.1-seconds to 120-mph puts it firmly in McLaren-beating territory, as does its 225+ mph top speed. The gold and gloss black exterior refresh is just as enticing….! Porsche 911 Turbo Cabrio by …
We want to love the Regal GS. Its looks are crisply European, as is its dashing corner grip and unflappable high-speed poise. But remember the old Pirelli slogan “Power is nothing without Control” ? Well, the Regal GS inspires a flip in that phrase: Control is nothing without powerrrrr. Since writing up our first test impressions of the 2015 Regal GS with “Deeply Disappointing” in the headline, we have had more than ample chances to change our tune. An invite to a Buick Regal GS track day appeared out of thin air, and then a fresh 2016 model for …
Do you remember the will-they/won’t-they drama around the first JCW Convertible? People wondered if such a hotted-up MINI could handle being roofless. Would its front-drive chassis just fall apart around corners? That was certainly not the case for the eventual ragtop JCW — but the buzz and enthusiast excitement is relatively interesting. Why? It is not present whatsoever for this general of MINI Cooper S JCW. The extreme continuity of the looks for this third-gen new MINI generation are doing the new-gen Coopers no favors. Despite being an all-new chassis with all-new engines and virtually zero carryover from the second-gen MINIs…. …
MINI’s new Clubman is the most desirable model in the revamped lineup. Why? Not just because it is HUGE versus the others, but now for its added capability with its All4 AWD system. The core platform is shared with the MINI Cooper 4-Door, but dramatically wider and longer. How much wider and longer than the 4-Door Hardtop? About a half foot stretch to the sides, and nearly a fool foot of extra length. Most of that bounty heads right to the back seats and cargo areas — making the new Clubman All4 a serious rival to the Countryman. But lower …
Welcome to the hottest Hyundai Veloster ever! Huge news for the 2016 model brings an all-new handling tune and available twin-clutch automatic option for the R-Spec, Turbo and Veloster Rally like our test car. And the changes are SERIOUSLY good! After a week of grins and hooning at full throttle, the Veloster Rally Edition even moves up an entire competitive class in our eyes. From before battling the Ford Fiesta ST or Nissan Juke NISMO, and up to being a credible threat to the VW GTI, Ford Focus ST and even Subaru WRX. Seriously? How!? The 2016 Veloster is not perfect …
Mercedes has a half-dozen all-new models revealed so far for 2016 and 2017. The GLE, GLE Coupe, GLS, GLC for the SUV family are all fresh or all-new. SLC, SL, S-Class Cabrio, E-Class and many more. So they are forgiven for meting out the excitement in auto show season. The Deeetroit show for MB focuses on the SLC and S63 ragtop. But there is MUCH excitement in terms of new models revealed online, but as-yet unseen or driven. The new C-Class Coupe is near the top of the list! This fresh set of 61 new photos of …
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 …
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 …
Audi’s big news for the Detroit show? The new 2017 A4 and Q7 — which are set for arrivals to US showrooms in the next few months. Alongside those dull-looking production cars come massive cabin tech enhancements, efficiency boosts and all-new powertrains. A bit more exciting on the appearance front? This new h-Tron Quattro Concept. Roughly previewing the size of an upcoming Q6 crossover, this latest prototype shows a production-intent hydrogen-electric SUV. And boy is is complex: multiple tanks of hydrogen power advanced electrics for a range of nearly 400 miles, a 0-60-mph sprint under 7-seconds, and AWD grip just …
This is it! The 2017 E-Class in all its official glory. A few variants shown here in this official launch packette: from the most trad to the ultra-mod AMG Sport in bright red. A frozen grey E400 quatromattico GDM model is the wildest shown so far, but points strongly toward the new E63’s menace on the roads. The revamp outside is exceptionally sleek and organic; new flowing lines for the glasshouse and every nose and tail element replace some carry-over elements on the current car. All-new is the slightly more formal C-pillar angle than previously shown: a nice nod to …
We’ve been exceptionally hard on VW USA over the years, even before the ongoing trainwreck that is their emissions scandal. If there is one glaring hole in the lineup, it is the SUV range. Tiguan and Touareg have been eagerly anticipating a CrossBlue SUV to slide between them. With a Passat basis and seven seats, the CrossBlue (name TBD) is actually firmly on the way. Hiring and Chatanooga production-floor mods are readied for this summer, with production penciled in to start September 2016. The showroom arrival, as we all know, cannot come soon enough. December of 2016 as a 2017 …
Here is the next evolution of the SEAT cabrio design concepts from around the turn of the century: the 2001 Tango twins. The Tango itself is a sexy expression of ultra-modern, flowing and intersecting surfaces. There is almost an abstract artistry to the hyper-curved elements of the Tango’s nose and hood. A nice aero strake is also a trademark part of the design theme shown here. The rounded hood and front arch then flows back and downward toward the rear axle. It is a nice look and one that translated directly to a generation of SEAT production cars very nicely. …
The 1999 SEAT Formula helped transition the brand into a new-millenium design mood. This was actually a really exciting time for the brand: the Leon Cupra was starting the earn buyers from previous GTI and Focus devotees as a five-door sportscar, while the Toledo and Ibiza were quite popular as well. This Formula concept was a mid-engined chassis layout with an alloy spaceframe chassis and bodywork, ensuring with the aim of delivering Boxster-like thrills on the road, but at prices below the Audi TT. The design themes shown on this car its main production impact, however, for the SEAT brand. …
Here is a nice surprise reveal from Chevy: the upcoming Cruze Hatch. This new bodystyle builds on the massive improvements of the 2016 Cruze sedan with unique styling for the nose and tail, a giant cargo area of 18.5-cubic-feet with the seats up, and wagon-like utility with them folded down. How big with the seats down? Nearly 50 cubes! That is SUV-big. It is great to see Chevy offering this variant in the home US market. Favorite details? The bumper designs front and rear — with their swirl of painted surface forming claw-like accents to the black lower bumpers. The …
BMW debuted a half-dozen new tech innovations at CES this year, including gesture control and mirror-less exteriors. But the real eye-catcher? The BMW i Vision Future Interaction — a near-production 2017 BMW i8 Spyder. Sans two critical pieces, of course. Yes, the production car will have doors. At first we thought the BMW i VFI Concept hid its doors in the side sills, a la the BMW Technik Z1 model sold in Europe briefly in the early 1990s. Alas, the lack of doors is just to give full view of the new cockpit controls and layouts. This new user …
Here is the seventh Volkswagen concept trying to re-invent the microbus. The difference? This microvan may actually be produced for limited sale in EV-heavy markets like the US west coast, Atlanta and Washington DC. Really? Not for profits, but as a knee-jerk reaction to being caught lying/cheating. So yes, the Budd-E might make it to US showrooms in some decontented form. Perhaps as soon as 2019 for the 2020 model year. But don’t bet on it. Typically, Volkswagen has claimed a reborn van was a non-starter because it was impossible to make its bluff original face with a front-engine layout. (They …
The only thing we really recalled about the final SAAB concept car was its tail. With backlit red lighting through a screen mesh, the PhoeniX reminded us of a nasty reborn Pontiac Bonneville SSEi. Cheap body cladding and all, unfortunately. Reviewing the PhoeniX design today four years later, the look of this sports coupe is no more appealing. Put simply, this car would have flopped like a pancake on the market. Imagine comparing this with a $50k BMW 435i? It is not just the detailing that is overwrought, but all the surfaces and even the proportions. This thing is …
The 2014 GTI Wörthersee event brought out a few exciting concept reveals: including this very playful Ibiza. If any car’s namesake location points to its mission, it would be this concept! Why? Ibiza (say: eeee-beee-thhaaa) is the Cancun of Europe. Sunny party people flock to this semi-trashy island resort to escape the grey, rainy winters across Europe. They dance to all the latest club bangers, contract some STDs (worth it!), then march home — back to the real world. Would this CUPSTER make sense in just resort mode, or in real life? It does not really matter: the car is …
To bump the twin-turbo V6 of the new C63-S up to its max output of 680HP so far, the outlay for buyers is about $10k. A jump of at least 170 horsepower via only a half-dozen mechanical upgrades, an ECU reflash and big brake kit? The 2016 makes it look so easy. But the previous-generation CLK63 AMG Black Series? That machine was already cranked up to race-baiting for its 517 horsepower. Adding a giant supercharger takes the CLK63 Black by VATH up to 756 ponies and a scary-fast Vmax of 217-mph. Also a scary-spice price of about $70k …
VAETH is quickly becoming a favorite among the German customs scene. Why? The umlaut dots, of course in the name! VÄTH = VATH = VAETH, by the way. All the same powermad crew. For the new C63 AMG sedan and coupe, Vaeth has a $5k stage one mod focused on the engine programming and oil system tweaks. THe result is a bump from the 4.0-liter V6TT’s stock outputs of 477HP and 510HP (for the C63-S) up to a very potent 609 ponies. All to the back wheels via the latest sportshift automatic and active vectoring differential, this will make sideways …
It is very, very challenging to read (and write) about VW’s eco mobility ideas in light of the company’s current emissions scandals. The “diesel issue” — as it is known in German — really puts all the last ten years of innovative, visionary concept cars in the shameful, punishment corner of the automotive universe. What about the “C02 issue”? Oh, that has resolved itself. Not a pattern of lies and systemic fraud. Hooray! Super, super trustworthy company, obviously. Beyond that obligatory caveat… This NILS concept shows how seriously the VAG once took its mission to mass-produce zero-emissions automobiles. VW was actually …
This Riviera had to be a very curious sight thrumming around France, and its namesake golden coastline. 1963 Buick Riviera RM Sotheby’s Paris 3 February 2016 1963 Buick Riviera Without Reserve Chassis no. 7J1105700 Engine no. 7J1105700
Ahh, the Bora. Giugiaro’s dream wedge was approaching production from various marques by the mid-1970s, and for Maserati, represented a swing for the fences. Big leagues. Long story short? It ended badly. But the car? Still quite a fetching design icon from the past — yet lively today and ready for the future. 1974 Maserati Bora 4.9 RM Sotheby’s Paris 3 February 2016 1974 Maserati Bora 4.9 Chassis no. AM117/49-US 0720 Engine no. 2132 Body no. 300 482 320 bhp, 4,930 cc mid-mounted V-8 engine with four Weber 42 DCNF twin-choke carburettors, five-speed ZF manual transaxle, four-wheel independent suspension with unequal-length …
RM Sotheby’s is on a major roll lately — establishing classic cars as a true luxury auction staple, along with fine art of all kinds. The 2016 calendar is filling up fast. Some very exciting recent additions to the Paris auction on February 3rd, 2016…. 1997 Ferrari F50 RM Sotheby’s Paris 3 February 2016 1997 Ferrari F50 Chassis no. ZFFTA46B000106825 Engine no. 45134 Body no. 210 Gearbox no. 380 520 bhp, 4,698 cc V-12 engine with Bosch Motronic 2.7 engine management, six-speed manual transmission, four-wheel independent suspension with coil springs and unequal-length wishbones, and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes. Wheelbase: …
RM Sotheby’s is on a major roll lately — establishing classic cars as a true luxury auction staple, along with fine art of all kinds. The 2016 calendar is filling up fast — with some exciting new additions to the Paris auction on February 3rd, 2016. To kick off the preview, let’s feature this stunningly original and fabulous Kaiser-Darrin Roadster. Brave and innovative, the car was a massive super-GT car with power and prestige unlike its contemporaries. 1954 Kaiser-Darrin Roadster RM Sotheby’s Paris 3 February 2016 1954 Kaiser-Darrin Roadster Chassis no. 161-001031 Body no. 161-1031
Nobody will preach the virtues of a black pack like ThisGuy! A properly de-chromed and blacked-out look can make even the most awful Jetta SportWagen a little bit stylish… so clearly the potential to improve already-modern and stylish rides? HUGE! And the more popular a car is on the roads, the more appealing it is for some buyers to stand up and stand out from the crowd. DIY black packs work wonders in photoshop — and real life — on GM models in particular. We’ve shared many with you here… an ATS black pack coupe dream, CT6 Black Tie limo …