Fun Cars

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

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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 …

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Concept Debrief – 2010 Citroen SURVOLT – Design Analysis in 110 Electrifying Photos

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What makes the 2010 Citroen Survolt such an achievement in sports-car design? Consider that its proportions almost perfectly mirror those of the Lotus Exige — but the curb appeal of the vehicle tells the brain to expect pricing in the $200,000 ballpark versus the Lotus at $75,000. In terms of the Survolt’s mission as a concept car, we can think of the car in the same league as the Ranult DeZir. Part tech showcase and EV R&D tool, part brand roadmap and design superstar. The Survolt found a joyous receptionin 2010 – and four years have done nothing to dull …

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Audi Shits Bed in LA? Second Take on 2014 Audi Prologue Concept + 50 New Photos

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Updated 11.23.14     Audi Shits The Bed. ? What kind of headline is that? Despite being so brash — it seems a bit nicer than the original, which was: Audi Prologue is Worst LA Debut. We have to be honest, the latest press photos of the Prologue look better than the car does in real-life photos — which is rare. Usually any ultra-lux concept will look far more interesting in the real world. The Audi Prologue is a nightmare scenario for Audi’s supposed design resurgence for more than a few reasons. The lack of real-life impact is just the …

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2014 Scion iM Concept Heading for US Showrooms in 2015 to Battle GTI and Focus ST

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Scion is looking to expand its model range in calendar 2015 with two new models: one based on the Mazda2 sedan, and the other being this remarkably cool 5-door hatch shown in LA as the iM concept. You might be asking yourself if the production iM, set to be revealed in NY in April 2015, overlaps with the xB and xD. We certainly were. But we believe the answer is that the iM production car will be more advanced in the chassis department and more powerful than Scion’s box-car twins. This means a more-modern automatic transmission than the four-speeds in …

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HD Road Test Review – 2015 Cadillac Escalade Luxury AWD – Long Live The King

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INTRO   The 2015 Cadillac Escalade is the ultimate in look-good, feel-good luxury SUVs. After a week driving the Escalade around Georgia and the Carolinas, we really came to love the big truck and never ceased to be amazing by its performance and tech achievements in this fourth-generation model. For many years of the first three generations of Escalade, SUV buyers seemed to bow down to the king Caddy for its prestige appeal — with the actual changes and upgrades from the Denali seeming less-than-complete. The risk of paying the Cadillac premium is that car-guys might see through the blingy …

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2016 JAGUAR F-Type AWD and Manual-Transmission Choices + R Cabriolet

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  The Jaguar F-Type is becoming a legendary machine for the black cat brand! The 2016 range will extend to 14 models, not including the just-launched F-Type R Cabrio! This is big news, and largely comes from two new powertrain options: AWD and stick-shifts. Until now, all F-Types have been auto-shifted via the exceptional eight-speed ZF box with paddle controls. This will stay the transmission of choice for the AWD models, which include the S Coupe and Cabrio with the 380-horsepower V6 engine, along with a new AWD option for the top R trims. At the other side of the …

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2015 Fisker Rocket Is Shockingly Sexy Mustang via Galpin Auto Sports

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Henrik Fisker’s design talent has never been in question. To see his ideas for a hot Mustang meet reality via Galpin Auto Sports is very gratifying — because the result is gorgeous! Most special elements outside the stunning widebody front and rear fenders? The new nose is a very appealing take on the 2015 Mustang’s design, and the rear end with giant Rocket badging is nothing short of breathtaking. 2015 Fisker Rocket Mustang The 2015 Ford Mustang ‘Rocket’ is Here! “When Henrik Fisker showed me his ideas, I got chills – it’s literally the most beautiful Mustang I have ever …

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2015 Koenigsegg Agera One:1 Back in USA Via Manhattan Motorcars

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Great to see the Koenigsegg crew expanding the reach of their incredible hypercar brand – both with the new One:1 and the latest distribution deal with Manhattan Motorcars. The biggest updates to the One:1 are a huge leap in power — up to more than 1350 pound-feet of torque from the twin-turbo, 5.0-liter V8 at 6000 rpm — and the incredible new downforce package. This comes from a race-ready splitter and active aero front and rear. The new rear wing is one of the most beautiful on any car of all time – with two gorgeous flying buttresses straking back …

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2015 Chrysler 300C and 300S Bring Stylish and Functional Improvements (120 Photos!)

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  How to refine an icon? Porsche has struggled with this for more than 50 years of 911’s at this point – and Chrysler is learning the fine art with its bold and butch 300 sedan. As a real touchstone vehicle for Chrysler since its reveal in 2005, the rear-drive, 120-inch-wheelbase of the Chrysler 300 has languished a bit in recent years while the auto world has rapidly progressed around it. This changes for 2015 – with updates to the cabin and powertrain that bring the 300C and 300S bang up-to-date with the latest from Cadillac in the CTS, Hyundai …

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Update2 – Best of Awards – Chevrolet Chaparral 2X Vision Gran Turismo

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  We did not know what to think of the first teaser images of the Chevy Chaparral Gran Turismo prototype. Sure, the idea of leveraging Chaparral’s Chevy engines connection was fascinating, but would the vision of GM Design really capture the innovative spirit of these amazing namesakes? After the official reveal in LA last night – we can only say Yes. In many ways, the Chevrolet Chaparral Vision Gran Turismo is the best-yet of the 20-strong fleet of racing prototypes developed for the legendary GT6 racing game. It is one of the only to actually throw out all conventional limitations …

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Update1 – 2014 Lexus LFC2 Concept Cabrio Is Truly Miraculous – A Design So Beautiful It Makes Audi Weep

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 A design to make Audi weep? Yes indeed. The Lexus LFC2 made a huge splash today in LA as a highly stylized and clever look at a future RC convertible. But while the main proportions and packaging say RC very clearly, the detailing is divine and clever and fresh from all sides. Let’s break out nsome favorite elements, starting at the nose. Here, we have a very cool and chic interpretation of the RC’s singleframe grille — but this time with elegant waterfall elements flowing cleanly into the F Sport style of zig-zag lines in the lower portion. It is …

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3.9s, 455HP 2016 Cadillac ATS-V Coupe and Sedan Are Twin-Turbo, eLSD RocketShips!

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Whenever a fresh pair of high-performance cars’ tech specs can elicit a “holy shit!” from your scribe — sitting solo in the office — you know something amazing is coming. The ATS-V Coupe and Sedan photo and specs caused numerous swear words in excitement, raised eyebrows at the amazing ducktail rear spoiler, smiles about the cool blacked-out grille treatment shown on the ATS-V Coupe, and impressed with the meaty rubber shown on the back wheels of the ATS-V Sedan. The final bit of major icing on the cake for these new executive supercars?  455-horsepower to really put the smack onto …

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

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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 …

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Update1 – 2014 Audi Prologue Concept – World Debut and Design Analysis

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  There has been much speculation about what Audi was teasing for LA – and the wait is now over. The concept is called the Prologue and is a giant A9-sized two-door coupe. This much we knew – but few expected the car to be an actual two door, but rather a four-door coupe as is in vogue. Overall, however, when asked about what the Prologue previews — Audi is keen to say “Everything.” Even the name points to the pre-read status of this car for all future Audi designs – from the 2016 A8 to the 2016 A4, all …

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Iconic Classics - 1955 Aston Martin DB3S Earned $3

Iconic Classics – 1955 Aston Martin DB3S Earned $3.7M At RM Monterey 2012

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Aston Martin classic buyers come in similar taste preference buckets as new Aston buyers: either conservative Silver and Green rule the mind, or wild shades and racing liveries. This fire orange example of a pristine DB3S falls into the latter camp very spectacularly. Emblematic of Aston’s resurgent post-war mission to take on the world’s best in racing, the DB3S is best known today as one of the most beautiful racing roadsters of all time. 1955 Aston Martin DB3S RM Auctions Monterey 17 – 18 August 2012   Lot 214 1955 Aston Martin DB3S Sports Racing Car To be auctioned on …

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Toyota Rally Racing Hall of Fame – 101 AMAZING and RARE Photos!

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Of all the any forms of motor racing, rallying has been Toyota’s true center of excellence. This hall of fame showcase extends back to the 1957 Toyopet Crown in the Australian Rally – when is a deep set of roots. From there, the Celica, Supra and Celica GT-Four have all been world-beating rally cars in their decades. By the late 1990s, Toyota’s Corolla GT-4 rally machines were so dominant that they ran Mitsubishi and later even Subaru out of the World Rally Championship. Rallying in this sense has a broad definition, one that definitely includes the Paris-Dakar and dozens of …

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Best of SEMA 2014 – FORGIATO Wheels + Now Selling 3 Corvette C7 Widebody Demo Cars!

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Forgiato was a real stand-out at SEMA 2014 — and that is hard to do in an endless product and customization expo. Many of the coolest cars (and trucks) there were running Forgiato wheels – even far away from the actual booth of this custom wheel expert. After spending some time on Forgiato.com — we came away shocked and floored at how customized you can be with the wheel builder and the 1000-car visualizer. Very cool stuff for those seeking the absolute end-all in huge wheel style. Some of the wheels are so gigantic from Forgiato that they look best …

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2015 Toyota GT86 CS-R3 Rally Car in 1080P Video + 80 Photos

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   You have the hear this amazing works-prepped racer at full chat!  Click the above video to HD for maximum effect…. How ironic — or at least mildly amusing — that Toyota would take the GT86 rallying before Subaru and its BRZ. But then you realize: Subaru has their all-star WRX rally hero already in place. For Toyota, the GT86 and Scion FR-S program is not just an amazing rear-drive sportscar for a new generation of drivers. It is a platform for all aspects of fun and racing, including Rallye Deutschland. Prepared by TMG and available for sale to other …

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4.8s, 155MPH 2016 Volkswagen Golf R Sportwagen LA Debut – Huge Tease or USA Fast-Wagon Heaven?

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  VW USA really, really needs some cool halo models in the lineup. Endlessly bashed for not bringing over European-market cars, one can’t help but feel a bit bad for the VW of America team. They are full-time apologists who are not running the show whatsoever — and that is not an enviable position for anyone. So the announcement that the Golf R Variant will make its debut in LA is bittersweet. On the one hand, the Golf R is indeed coming to the USA. The Jetta Sportwagen is now the Golf Sportwagen — so a Golf R Sportwagen Variant …

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Hero Racecars – 2001 Bentley Speed 8 LMP1 Winner Laid Bedrock for Modern Flying B

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  You have to hand it to the Volkswagen Group for their skillful rebirth of the Bentley brand in the early 2000s. Long mired in Rolls-Royce’s shadow with shakey engineering expertise and wobblier cars, Bentley sought greatness by going back to its roots in grand style. This meant competing in LeMans – where Bentley had dominated for a few years in the 1920s with its supercharged Speed 8 models — innovative technology that delivered crushing pace when the blowers were attached to such enormous engines. Specific output in this era was barely 10-percent of what it is today; with a …

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2015 Bentley Grand Convertible is New Ragtop Mulsanne Flagship

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Know the phrase Rags to riches? How about Riches to Ragtops!? Bentley is feeling huffy about Rolls-Royce hoovering up its resort clientele — and will respond to the Phantom Drophead Coupe and upcoming Wraith Cabriolet with a salvo of its own: the Mulsanne Grand Convertible. In the grand tradition of ultra-plush Monaco cruisers, the Mulsanne GC cuts a dapper and unique silhouette. A giant cabin is still on offer, with true space in the back seats. The contrast-finished brushed alloy of the hood and windshield surrond is a great accent to the Grand Convertible’s sun/fun lifestyle positioning. The launch venues …

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2016 Toyota Mirai FCV Gets Race-Prepped As Japanese Rally Championship PreRunner

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  The world’s first hydrogen racecar? Not exactly. But certainly one of the first hydrogen rally cars — that is a sure thing. As the course pre-runner for the Japanese Rally Championship in Shinsiro, this TMG-tuned Mirai is a fresh take on the Prius EV and hybrid theme. So, if the Mirai did not actually compete, what is the point? The point is that the Mirai is absolutely ready for primetime. It has been exhaustively crash-tested and this rough-course racing environment is a huge vote of confidence from Toyota in the Mirai FCV’s essential Toyota-ness: the core tenets of Quality, …

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2016 SHELBY GT350 Mustang Makes REAL-LIFE Debut! 180 New Images + 3 New Videos

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The good folks at Mustang6g.com attended a live GT350 reveal today and scored some amazing new photos of the hottest Mustang yet — plus three videos you have to see the believe! Or in the case of this first video — hear to believe. The flat-crank V8 engine sounds heavenly in this latest track driving video. A deep bellow becomes a staccato bark at high revs — promising huge aural drama along with that huge lump of horsepower. Other news? The Mustang GT350 will employ magneto-rheological suspension tech that crosstown supplier Delphi has until-recently withheld from GM competitors… As well …

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Concept Flashback – 2010 Renault DeZir Was Anti-Furai With Lusty, Sexualized Curves

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  Designers are like all other artists: their work evolves but also can take sweeping and abrupt changes. A designer’s cars might take unique shapes in certain years, only to go wild in the other direction right afterwards. Such is the 2010 Renault DeZir concept — designed when Laurens van den Acker was freshly recruited away from Mazda. Van den Acker’s ‘Nagare’ themes at Mazda were all about sharp creases formed out of a wind-swept surface. He designed a half-dozen Mazda’s with this theme intact – and it is perhaps epitomized best in the Furai concept hypercar. If the Furai …

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Update1 – 220 High-Res Photos – SEMA 2014 – CARS Gallery

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Updated 11.17.14 with 120 New Photos SEMA 2014 – CARS Gallery    

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2016 SHELBY GT350 Mustang in 33-Photo OFFICIAL DEBUT + Startup VIDEO

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  Thrilling times for the Ford Mustang!  The 2016 Shelby GT350 just made its online debut with a screaming 500+ horsepower via a flat-plane-crank V8 engine that screams like a LeMans racecar. This naturally-aspirated engine is set to take the track fight directly to the door of the 505HP Camaro Z/28 and its 7.0-liter V8 — but with handling and aero tweaks that the Ford Mustang crew hopes will make the Mustang first to the checkered flags. The new GT350 wears a huge widebody to house its massive new rubber and largest-ever brakes — with Brembo calipers clamping nearly 15-inch …

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Road Test Review – 2015 Hyundai Genesis 5.0 RWD

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2015 Hyundai Genesis 5.0 Review By Ken Glassman   If you got behind the wheel of the new Hyundai Genesis 5.0 and didn’t know who manufactured the car, you’d swear you were driving a German luxury car, like the E-class Mercedes, or 5-Series BMW, or Audi A6. Only after looking at the price tag would you know that it couldn’t be one of those European makes, because a similarly equipped German sedan would cost at least 6 to 10 grand more. The Genesis is both an outstanding car in its own right, and an outstanding value. V-8 engines are becoming …

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2014 Scion iM Concept Car Takes Shape as WRX-ified 5-Door Hatch!?

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Updated 11.16.14   Something about the fat rear tires and floating wide-body fenders of this Scion iM concept just screams WRX, does it not? In all likelihood, this is just a sportified version of a future Scion xD — reborn from the bones of the Toyota Matrix. But how sweet would a Scion WRX hatchback be…..! We thought it was a tC previously… so why not go for being wrong twice =]   2014 Scion iM Concept PREVIOUS First look this morning at the very promising Scion iM concept car for Los Angeles! The ‘iM’ name of this hot new …

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Chevrolet Chaparral 2X Vision Gran Turismo Is Exciting Next-Chapter Concept Racer

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  Thrilling news from Chevrolet! The GM Design entry to the Vision Gran Turismo series will be a Chaparral-inspired racer called the 2X VGT. Set to debut in LA on Wednesday of this week — we are thrilled to see how Chevy has evolved the Chaparral racers’ world-beating aerodynamics for the 21st century! Chevrolet Chaparral 2X Vision Gran Turismo Previews CHEVROLET TO SHOW CHAPARRAL VISION GRAN TURISMO CONCEPT 13/11/14 Boundary-pushing, Chevy-powered race cars changed motorsports design DETROIT – When racers Jim Hall and Hap Sharp founded Chaparral Cars in 1962, few could have guessed how they would shake up the …

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Track Car Showcase – E90 BMW RS-M3 by RS Racing Team

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Now here is a team after our own heart — photos in an Air Force and NASA museum!? Yessir.   BMW RS-M3 by RS Racing Team UNCOMPROMISING BMW RS-M3 from RS-RACINGTEAM The in-house sport model of the 3-series, named M3, offers BMW since 1986 now. Developed and also originally produced (E 30 and E36 M3) by BMW-subsidiary BMW M GmbH, the variants of the 3-series model leaves the assembly lines of the parent company again. Their proverbial power creates everywhere a furore. On the flags of RS-RACINGTEAM Company, based in Viernheim, in southern Hessen (near Mannheim) the conspicuous letters stand: …

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Tuner Showcase – SLS AMG Black Series By McChip DKR

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Tuner Showcase – SLS AMG Black Series By McChip DKR     SLS 6.3 AMG – „SPICED UP“ by MCCHIP-DKR   The fact that mcchip-dkr stands for high developed made in Germany chip tuning, for ECO-optimizations coming from its own development center or for the combination of both has become famous largely beyond the city limits of the German town of Mechernich. The performances of these software experts are accompanied by a more of power, less of consumption, engine protection with a more of driving fun. By the way, the activities of this company are not only restricted on passenger …

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Tuner Showcase – SLS AMG Stage 2 Mc700 By McChip DKR

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CODENAME „MC700“: SLS POWERED by mcchip-dkr.com Up to 706 HP and 793 Nm are possible! The wish „to give a further boost” for Mercedes-Benz SLS 63 AMG almost seems to be lese majesty. Thankfully, there are still always bright heads, which are able to persuade experts, such as current top dog of the Mercedes-Benz-portfolio, namely the noble SLS 63 AMG. This car is considered to be THE undisputed synonym for luxurious sportiness. Thus, the MCCHIP-DKR team in Mechernich-Obergartzem, under the proven supervision of Danny KUBASIK, has once again succeeded in making red applications to perfectly fit at this matt grey …

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Tuner Showcase – Chevrolet Spark by KBR Motorsport

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If this one doesn’t make you smile… you may have a heart of stone. =] Chevrolet Spark by KBR Motorsport     SPARK by KBR Motorsport Developed in Europe and having been manufactured since 2010 in Asia by General Motors Korea, subsidiary of General Motors, former Daewoo, two years ago the Chevrolet Spark replaced the Matiz. Since the small- and microcars are getting more popular, prominent tuning services sometimes also have to deal with such “babies” to tune them up. The same happened with KBR Motorsport located in Erftstadt. Let us start with tires and wheels. The Spark got in …

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

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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 …

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3.7s 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat in 60 New High-Res Photos!

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  Updated 11.10.14 You can tell how exciting the Dodge and SRT teams are about this car — even from a mile away, the performance of the Charger SRT Hellcat is visibly and audibly awesome. Great job on these photos, too, Dodge — looking fantastic! Favorite features: the special hood with front intake and rear outlet vents, a la the Viper, the clean and un-adorned grille design, and the razor-sharp front lower bumper element. This piece forms a deep and three-dimensional painted splitter element that is sexy as hell. In back, the spoiler and fender vents in the back bumper …

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Concept Flashback – 2013 VW Design Vision GTI Wants To Eat Your Babies

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This is the meanest-looking Golf GTI… ever.   Wow. Very impressive design ideas inside and out. Design Vision Volkswagen GTI Concept – Exterior Gallery Design Vision Volkswagen GTI Concept – Interior Gallery Design Vision Volkswagen GTI Concept – Animated Gallery

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What To Watch: NISMO GT Academy Is High-Quality, Big-Budget Reality Competition!

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Updated 11.10.14 The new season of GT Academy is online and watchable via the below YouTube embed! To celebrate, we’ve paired the episode with some of the coolest NISMO cars from SEMA 2014. Mostly, relaxing for me is commercial-free online television of some kind. Just stumbled upon the latest for GT Academy, and feel compelled to share this exciting series. Imagine a mix of a few shows like Toughest Soldier Challenge, TopGear, … and … America’s Next Top Model…. and you will get an idea of what GT Academy offers viewers. Instead of shooting or pouting, these guys train to …

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2015 Lexus NX200t F Sport and RC350 Chrome Wrap by 360 Elite Motorworks

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How amazing is this NX200t from 360 Elite Motorworks for SEMA? Perhaps the best aspects are the custom bodywork elements – with the rear diffuser particularly cool. Overall the upgrade shows the huge style potential in the NX crossover’s design — which is unique and original from the factory but not nearly as bad-ass and cool as this one.  360 Elite was introduced to the Lexus world this summer with a gorgeous chrome-wrapped RC350 F Sport for NY fashion week — but this NX200t shows what the team can do with more time and budget flexibility!     2015 Lexus …

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InstaBuilt 2015 Lexus RC F by VIP Auto Salon: Coolest Wheels, Worst Photos

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  Sometimes we really do not understand the tuner world. Here is a car created with Lexus and crowd suggestions across the last month and a half — but now that the vehicle is finished, there are exactly zero real, high-res photos of the car. Anywhere. The Lexus media site has photos that are such unbelievably poor-quality video stills that we are reluctant to post them. Pretty embarrassing – because the car is really cool and the Vossen wheels are stunning. Oh, the kicker? @LexusUSA on Instagram shot a stop-motion video of the Seafoam green exterior wrap process. So where …

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2014 PAGANI Huayra Carbon Edition in 200 Amazing Photos

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How is Pagani’s sales team performing in the face of the all-new P1 and LaFerrari? So well!  They are in heaven right now after the US import process finally approved the Huayra after about four years of effort — and more than one real-life crash test. Wrecking a million dollars on purpose!? The US market really is worth it for Pagani — and we are thrilled to have them. Pagani’s huge rise to greatness has avoided the key pitfall of many hypercar brands: unsustainable growth. Luckily, the hand-crafted carbon-fiber chassis and bodywork of the Huayra makes any kind of volume …

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AC Schnitzer BMW 128i and 135i Upgrades Gallery – E82 Coupe and E88 Cabrio

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The BMW 128i and 135i are rare and amazing gems – and now are some of the most affordable performance bargains on the market. In the US from 2009 to 2013, the 128i and 135i are eager for more of a performance stance and focus — and AC Schnitzer is happy to oblige. AC Schnitzer BMW 128i and 135i E82 Coupe AC Schnitzer BMW 135i E82 M Coupe AC Schnitzer BMW 128i and 135i E88 Cabrio

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Tuner All-Stars – BRABUS AMG SLS Widestar + Full SLS Upgrades Catalog

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So you have an SLS and you love it. You are waiting for delivery of a new AMG GT in Summer 2015. How to spice up your still-awesome supercar so that it feels fresh, even faster, and is more distinctive in the valet lot? Brabus. The name in Mercedes tuning means the car will hold its value, and hold your heart for years to come. Check out the full Brabus SLS catalog below and we guarantee something will catch your eye. Perhaps time to cancel that AMG GT? BRABUS AMG SLS         BRABUS AMG SLS Roadster   …

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2015 Toyota Camry Colors and Trims – Visual Buyers Guide

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  For perhaps the first time ever, there is a huge amount of style variety in the best-selling Toyota Camry lineup. After writing up full XSE and XLE reviews, we realize that a trims and colors guide would be really helpful for many prospective owners. To achieve that, we spend a while on Toyota.com getting eerily familiar with the seven trim designs  — screen-shotting it all along the way! (There are nine price levels, but seven distinct flavors thanks to the V6 option for the XLE and XSE)   Below please find the visual trim comparison, XSE color guide and …

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Hypercar Heroes – 1988 Porsche 959 Komfort Brings $1.5M at Gooding Pebble Beach 2014

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The 959 is just coming out of a bit of limbo period – too young to be a true classic, but too old to have appeal among the trendiest supercar owners. But the 959 appears to have firmly graduated to greatness and rapidly appreciating values. This 959 Komfort with tastefully updated dark alloys and tinted windows brought in $1,45-million at Gooding and Company’s Pebble Beach 2014 auction — well above its $900,000 – $1,100,000 pre-sale estimate. It is easy to see why — the car is stunning and flawless. 1988 Porsche 959 Komfort   Gooding & Co. Lot 35 Pebble …

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World Debut: 203MPH PP-Performance M6 RS800 GranCoupe Is Fastest. BMW. Ever.

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Where are the really terrifying tuned BMW M cars? Special creations that will wipe the floor with anything factory-made — and are one-of-a-kind in their brutal appearance and overall power outputs? They are at PP-Performance. This new RS800 M6 GranCoupe is a GT-R killer, and one that is so loud and proud of its 800-horsepower that even 911 Turbo S drivers will clear the fastlane to let it flash past. 203-mph is a huge achievement over the factory M6’s drag-limited 186-mph (once the 155-mph limiter is disabled), and can really only be achieved with a combination of M-DCT’s broad gear …

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SEMA 2014 – 2015 Hyundai Sonata by BISIMOTO and Sonata JP Edition + TOCA Genesis

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These Sonatas are all pretty tasty – with a full track makeover from Bisimoto and a dark street-fashion widebody from John Pangilinan. They are both authentic in their missions and show the all-new 2015 Sonata Sport in its most extreme configurations! Included first are a few real-life snaps of the 2015 Genesis by Toca — which is a dark and menacing VIP mod for the hot-selling Genesis full-size luxury car. Are any of these as sweet as the AR550 Genesis? That is up to you… but the Ark Performance car is the clear favorite for thisguy. 2015 Genesis by Toca …

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Photo Poll! SCION Tuner Challenge 2014 Picks Speedhunters FR-S Widebody As Best, Do You Agree?

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Which is your favorite among these three awesome custom FR-S Scions? The Speedhunters is in white, with GT Channel in grey and Super Street in yellow. We especially love the winning white FR-S for a few of its really subtle but very cool details — things like the vintage JDM mirrors far up the hood, and the paintwork that recalls the legendary MCI sponsor livery of many old Toyota Baja trucks. The colors have outlasted MCI as a company and are now firmly a part of the Toyota Racing Development lore and culture. Great to see them applied here.   …

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AC Schnitzer BMW X4 Revealed Today In Zurich With Exterior and Engine Mods For All Trims

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The X4 only seems silly until you fire up the engine and go for a drive. In the 5.3-second xDrive35i trim, this crossover is sportier and more fun to drive than you would ever believe. So how to make the exterior match the rapid and playful dynamics? How about a few of these all-new goodies from AC Schnitzer, and a power bump up to 360-horsepower via a 30-minute ECU reflash you can perform in your driveway? A medium UPS box from AC Schnitzer Germany might be your favorite Christmas present this year. Yep. Your X4 is no longer a crossover …

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Tuner All-Stars – BRABUS AMG SLS Roadster + Full SLS Upgrades Catalog

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So you have an SLS and you love it. You are waiting for delivery of a new AMG GT in Summer 2015. How to spice up your still-awesome supercar so that it feels fresh, even faster, and is more distinctive in the valet lot? Brabus. The name in Mercedes tuning means the car will hold its value, and hold your heart for years to come. Check out the full Brabus SLS catalog below and we guarantee something will catch your eye. Perhaps time to cancel that AMG GT? BRABUS AMG SLS Roadster   Catalog C/R 197 Aerodynamics & design Complete …

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JAGUAR Confirms AWD F-Type + New Bloodhound SSC Partnership

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  We *love* the F-Type R Coupe after some time at the wheel last month — and are happy to share that this range-topper will now offer AWD traction. Truly a stunning machine with the best soundtrack since………  Top Gun? I dont know about that, but Jaguar also announced a partnership with the very-boring-indeed Bloodhound SSC world record project that has not delivered a single actual run in seven years. We are so sick of reading about Bloodhound that we even tweeted to the SSC crew that it was starting to seem like vaporware. But things are progressing, and the …

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2015 Ford Mustang RTR Spec 5 Widebody Joins ‘Ready to Rock’ Custom Fords Catalog

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These RTR Mustangs seem a bit out of nowhere — but are quickly taking the attention of enthusiasts and fighting for street-cred dominance with the Roush RS2 Mustang, Hennessey HPE700 and even Ford’s King Cobra with Ford Racing parts. Around since 2009, RTR stands for Ready to Rock — and these ponies certainly are. Overwhelmingly a style kit, the RTR upgrade does employ the familiar supercharger route to deliver huge horsepower gains to the Mustang GT’s 5.0-liter V8. The RTR kit is available for the EcoBoost and V6 cars as well. Not exactly click-to-buy like the Roush parts, nor sold …

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Best of SEMA 2014 – 825HP 1965 Ford Mustang HOONICORN By RTR and Autosport Dynamics

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Who would argue against this beast winning a Best of Award! This drift special shows amazing workmanship and bonkers performance focus. 1965 Ford Mustang HOONICORN By RTR and Autosport Dynamics   Ken Block’s Hoonicorn RTR (4 photos) Mustang RTR and Vaughn Gittin Jr. teamed up with Ken Block and Hoonigan to create a completely unique, one-off, world’s first performance all-wheel drive 1965 Ford Mustang notchback. The retro-modern AWD “Hoonicorn RTR”, was revealed for the first time publicly in the Ford Motor Company booth at SEMA This jaw-dropping vehicle shares the spotlight with Block in his upcoming Gymkhana SEVEN video project. …

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RM Monterey 2014 – 1964 Ferrari 250 LM by Scaglietti Brings $11.5M

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When SEMA becomes too much to handle, where to we turn for comfort and a little much-needed class? This 1964 Ferrari 250 Le Mans — one of the first mid-engine Ferrari’s ever made. Despite bringing more than $11-million this August in California, the only way is up for a car as special as this. 1964 Ferrari 250 LM   RM Auctions Monterey 15 – 16 August 2014 1964 Ferrari 250 LM by Scaglietti To be auctioned on Friday, August 15, 2014 Sold for $11,550,000 Chassis no. 6045 Engine no. 6045 320 hp, 3,286 aluminum-block V-12 engine with six Weber 38 …

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RM London 2014 Highlights – 1956 Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Competizione Tour de France by Scaglietti

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  With many high-dollar supercars that are sold at auction, the outside world might have a hard time appreciating their finer detail. What makes one model worth exponentially more than another? But to those in the know, the “old masters” of the (post-war) car world are racing Ferrari 250GT’s. Any 250GT, really. A 250GT with racing influences in their design/construction or track time under their belts will always bring huge money. FOr this 1956 250GT Tour de France, anyone can appreciate the glamor and beauty and iconic design from all angles. This is one that takes no concours experience to …

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RM London 2014 Highlights – 1982 Ferrari 400i Earns $58k In Great Condition

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The Ferrari 400i is one of our all-time favorite Italians — one that seems timeless in its design appeal and practical enough to drive every day. This car is in fantastic condition but has one big demerit (or advantage, depending on your perspective…). What is this thing? The three-speed automatic versus a manual transmission is a let-down, even if it barely stunts the performance from the 4.8-liter V12 engine’s 310-horsepower. 1982 Ferrari 400i London 8 September 2014 Lot 167 1982 Ferrari 400i Automatic To be auctioned on Monday, September 8, 2014 Sold for £36,400 Chassis no. 38627 Engine no. 00523 …

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Best of SEMA 2014 – 800HP Hyundai Genesis Coupe by BloodType Racing in 35 High-Res Photos

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It is easy to drum up excitement around a new model like the Ford Mustang or the Lexus RC — but bringing an existing vehicle to the top echelons of tuner vehicles takes much more work, creativity and quality execution. A fantastic example of a long-term plan to make a Supra and NSX-stalking night racer is this Genesis Coupe from Blood Type Racing. An amazing widebody, front and rear wings larger than surfboards, and even custom LED lighting comes together to make the Genesis Coupe a star of SEMA 2014. The performance upgrade is far deeper than this candy red …

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2015 Ford Mustang KING COBRA Is 625HP Factory-Parts Cobra Jet Upgrade List!

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Exciting news from Ford today — a special set of factory upgrades to make any Mustang GT into the ultimate sprint car. The early quarter-mile time Ford recorded with the all three KC packs? 10.97-seconds — a blistering pace. There are three varieties of King Cobra upgrade packages: the Drag Pack, Handling Pack and Super Pack — with the Super pack housing the giant supercharger upgrade to create a venomous dragstrip king. To get you in the mood for Mustang Cobra excellence, we’ve included a 1979 Mustang Cobra, a 2004 and a 2012 Cobra Jet down below the 2015 Ford …

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2016 MazdaSpeed MX-5 Racecar Revealed Ahead of Global Racing Series

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How incredible does the new MX-5 look in a tracksuit?! This car is a precursor to the 2015 MX-5 Cup – a global racing series for the 2015 MX-5 to battle it out for milliseconds on racetracks all over the world. Of course, the new MX-5 racer will be very relevant to current MX-5 owners. The MX-5 is the most-raced car model of all time in SCCA and track day events across the US. 2016 MazdaSpeed MX-5 Racecar   MAZDA WAVES GREEN FLAG ON 2016 GLOBAL MX-5 CUP RACING SERIES 05/11/14 November 4, 2014 (LAS VEGAS) – The Mazda MX-5 …

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2015 Hyundai Genesis AR550 ARK Performance in 26 New Photos + Tech Specs

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Updated 11.5.14 With 26 New Photos What the what! Looking for specs on the 2015 Tucson on Hyundai Media, and what is staring me in the face on the homepage but an extremely tuned Genesis! Have you ever seen a SEMA concept so well-executed and well-timed? The new Genesis is absolutely killing it on the sales charts: the combination of 7 series proportions and 3 series pricing is really a huge, huge hit with shoppers. But how to convince the skeptical? How about a performance upgrade to shade even the M5 and E63? Enter, Ark Performance and the AR550 Genesis. …

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SEMA 2014: Corvette Team Launches Z06 Concept Performance Parts Line for Stingray Owners

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Chevy today launches a new parts and factory accessories line called “Z06 Concept.” This a great idea, and can be thought of as similar the BMW M Performance. They are factory parts for cars already in your driveway. There has already been clamoring in the Corvette community for the spoiler and rear lights of the Z06 among Stingray owners.  Chevy answers the call! Also included here are photos of the Camaro Commemorative Edition at SEMA this week and in showrooms this Spring. Camaro owners also have a route to 1LE and ZL1 performance parts — featured soon in a separate …

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

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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 – …

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

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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 …

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Best of SEMA 2014 – Honda Fit in 7 Race-Ready Customs!

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Which is the right Fit for you? Have fun with one, or collect them all for special Fitness dominance! Just kidding. Honda brought a mad fleet of custom 2015 Fits to SEMA this year, winning awards and shocking crowds with amazing stances, sweet LED headlights on the Tkin, roll-cages galore and even a front-bumper-mounted exhaust outlet on the Kontrabrands Fit!! Great details on an easy-to-love 2015 Fit, and for some, a roadmap to Stage 3 Cross/Fit! Speaking of, CrossFit would have been a good name for the awkwardly-badged HR-V…..? But for now, the Fit is star of the show. We …

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2015 BMW M4 – HD Track Drive Review + 150 New Photos in 5 Colors

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 Updated 11.4.14    It takes more time than we had to fall in love with the BMW M4. Too perfect? That seemed to be my impression after hopping from the GT-R to the RC-F to the M4 and others within minutes of one another. Time was so tight at Autobahn Country Club that we came home without a single snap of this stunning new BMW. Why? The car was swamped with people trying to drive it. Perhaps only the Challenger Hellcat or the BMW i8 were more in-demand that day. And as these reviews show — there were some stunning …

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2015 BMW M4 Safety Car in 30 High-Res Photos + Now Raceable in GT6!

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Is there anything cooler than flying M colors on the 2015 M4? Racing it in Gran Turismo 6!  Track tires, M Performance parts and a weight-stripped cabin setup will make this one of the quickest BMW’s in the game, and a fun way to sample the new M4’s return to straight-six glory. With turbochargers and blacked-out trims this time… thanks to M Performance.       2015 BMW M4 Safety Car       BMW M4 SAFETY CAR LAUNCHED FOR PLAYSTATION’S GRAN TURISMO®6   Woodcliff Lake, N.J. November 4th, 2014 09:00am Pacific / 12:00pm Eastern… BMW of North America and …

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Novitec Tridente Maserati GHIBLI Launches With Gorgeous Performance and Style Upgrades

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  Maserati’s latest sedans suffer from what we call the “Cadillac Problem.” Good design, competitive performance, great equipment and true BMW-battling credentials in almost every way. But one huge deficit is present in the Cadillac and Maserati ranges: coolness. The factory cars wear nerdy wheels, nerdy colors and overall seem tailored to a geriatric customer base. Tan with small multi-spoke alloys? Almost all CTS sedans like this sit on the lot for months, and the same goes for the base Ghibli and Quattroporte. They are just old lady cars — and that is never something to aspire to own. They …

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Mercedes-Benz G-Code Concept Is China-Penned GLB Design Study

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  At the opening of its new Beijing R&D Center today, Mercedes revealed a very tasty new concept car to the world: the G-Code SUV concept. G-Code? Mercedes calls this hot new concept an SUC — which seems like an acronym too far! Let’s just say it is a very sporty crossover coupe. A Super-Sport Utility Vehicle? Regardless, the themes shown here are very interesting and fresh versus previous Mercedes SUV ideas and concepts. The flowing and ultra-sensual forms of the body are an extreme interpretation of Mercedes’ latest California-originating design themes — with the sheetmetal appearing like a taught …

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717HP, 3.6s 2015 Hennessey HPE700 Is Quickest Custom Mustang Yet~!

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Limited to 500 copies each – the new Hennessy HPE600 and HPE 700 Mustang upgrades are the hottest so far out the gate for this sweet new musclecar. The upgrade is centered on the powertrain to deliver those headline numbers, but the Hennessey Mustang is also seriously sexy outside with its deep racing splitter and aero treatment all around. This package, like the Roush options, can be ordered from Ford dealerships as well as via Hennessey directly. Difference? The Hennessey upgrade is seriously pricey – with our estimate being +$15,000 for the HPE600 and +$20,000 for the HPE700. Ordering details …

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2015 ROUSH Mustang Supercharger Kit Delivers 600+ Horsepower – Available From Ford Stores!

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The latest Mustang custom kit is here from Roush in the form of a mean Mustang supercharger kit! Sold through Ford dealerships as well as directly from Roush, the bolt-on upgrade costs about $5000 and is good for an easy extra 200-horsepower from the Mustang’s 5.0-liter V8. Roush has three upgrade packages for the 2015 Mustang ready to go: the RS, Stage 1 and Stage 2 — with focus given to styling and performance bumps for the EcoBoost and 3.7-liter base V6 as well as the big V8. 2015 Roush Mustang Roush RS Mustang   Core Components Front Fascia with …

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Best of SEMA – 2015 Lexus RC350 F Sport Rocketbunny Widebody

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Could the Lexus RC be any hotter? We absolutely love the new RC Coupe – and this RC350 wearing a Rocketbunny widebody custom body and Greddy performance parts is sure to be a hero in Vegas this week. We are not personally a huge fan of air-ride and super-low machines with such stance as this example, but it is certainly visually arresting. Favorite detail? The long-tail spoiler. Awesome. 2015 Lexus RC350 F Sport Rocketbunny Widebody   2015 RC 350 F SPORT by Gordon Ting/Beyond Marketing Display Location: Lexus, 21601, Central Hall Description This RC 350 F SPORT hops low with …

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RM Dallas Preview – ORIGINAL 1967 Shelby 427 Cobra Estimated at $1MM+

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All original – right down to this lovely green color – with less than 15,000 miles from new? Fitted with a 427 Ford Police Interceptor V8 with extra torque and durability from new when built in 1966? Yessir!   1967 Shelby 427 Cobra RM Auctions   Sam Pack Collection 14 – 15 November 2014 Lot 188 1967 Shelby 427 Cobra To be auctioned on Saturday, November 15, 2014 Without Reserve $1,100,000 – $1,400,000 Chassis no. CSX 3279   425 bhp, 427 cu. in. Ford V-8 engine with a single four-barrel carburetor, four-speed manual transmission, four-wheel coil-spring independent suspension, and four-wheel hydraulic …

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GEMBALLA GT Cabrio – See and Hear The Amazing Porsche 911 Carrera Upgrade

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  In case the gorgeous new front and rear fascias were not enough to make you love the Gemballa GT Cabrio, check out these audio samples of the dual-mode exhaust below!  (update:  these audio clips appear broken or do not work in every browser. Sorry) Full Power – Exhaust Valve Open / Closed         Startup – Exhaust Valve Open / Closed     GEMBALLA GT Cabrio   An Open Show of Carbon and Emotion   GEMBALLA GT aerodynamic and technology package for the Porsche 991 Carrera S Convertible   The Porsche 991 Carrera S Convertible combines speed …

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Meet 2016’s Hottest Hypercars: LaFerrari Roadster vs McLaren P1 Spider

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We can only take full credit for the McLaren renderings shown here – the LaFerrari Roadster  is from Garrett Bradford’s blog. But pairing up these fantasy renderings seems logical. Both will heavily leverage the folding-top tech from the 458 and 650S cabriolets, with flying buttresses to house parts of the folding hardtop mechanicals and three-piece folding panels to stack compactly above the engine bays. Of course, a flatter tail is definitely sexier — as shown by this unfinished render draft. So, why Spider versions of these hardcore hypercars? It is a natural evolution for both, and allows production of an …

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2010 GEMBALLA MIG-U1 Is Easily Most-Outrageous Enzo Ferrari Custom EVER!

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A blast from the past on this one – the 2010 Gemballa MIG U1. Even with the latest LaFerrari hogging the Enzo’s limelight, the MIG U1 is a terrifying level of customization and deeply enchanting levels of race-ready aerodynamics. This is still a very special car – and its Dubai plates show that Gemballa is still starring in these ultra-hot hypercar enclaves like Dubai, Singapore, Miami and Hong Kong.   2010 GEMBALLA MIG-U1     PRESS RELEASE      January 2010   GEMBALLA MIG-U1 – The super sports car in a unique overall concept   In the last 27 years, Uwe Gemballa …

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AC Schnitzer Upgrades Gallery for BMW 3 series F30

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  The BMW 3 series and 5 series are really the core competency of AC Schnitzer. These upgrades center on six key areas: – body styling – wheels – springs – engine mods – exhaust mods – interior decor The monoblock five-spoke wheels are particularly cool. These in a dark finish easily make anything from the 320i to 328i and 335i have the menacing stance of an M car — for far less money. All these pieces can be ordered individually from around the world via the AC Schnitzer website. http://www.ac-schnitzer.de/en/   AC Schnitzer BMW 3 series F30 http://www.ac-schnitzer.de/en/  

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GEMBALLA GT Spider Is Perfect Update For McLaren 12C Spider

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As exclusive as the high-dollar tuning packages for supercars are, would you actually consider one if you owned the car? They are typically unresolved and will not age with the same grace as an OEM model. But every once and a while, there is one that is astoundingly sexy and premium. Such is the Gemballa GT Spider upgrade — with is a full revamp to the nose and nail of the 12C Spider from McLaren. More painted surfaces along with giant twin ducts in each bumper corner are stellar. Looking outstanding on the Gemballa G-Forged-One wheels, these upgrades are an …

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RM Dallas Preview – 600HP V12 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Coupe

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The upcoming Sam Pack collection sale from RM Auctions in Dallas is shaping up to be a big mover and shaker in the world of American classics. As a follow-up to the cool Lincoln concept cars article, here is perhaps the most stunning Lincoln in years: a 1939 custom Zephyr Coupe. The waterfall grille design shown here is perhaps the best-known Lincoln design theme aside from the 1961 Lincoln Continental of JFK fame. The fact that modern Lincolns wear this aesthetic is no coincidence.     A ground-up restoration and customization sees the original engine replaced by a 6.0-liter V12 …

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2015 Z06 Coupe – Visualizer of All COLORS and WHEELS

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PART TWO:The Coupe The new Corvette Z06 is a huge, huge achievement and one of the most exciting cars to ever come from any US automaker. As the first ultra-high-performance Corvette offered with a carbon-fiber targa panel and an optional automatic, the latest Z06 has the broadest possible appeal of nearly any supercar. What do we compare this new 2.95-second supercar most closely with? The Porsche 911 Turbo. That is a lofty but truly accurate competitor for the new Z06, and buyers are already clamoring for the 5000 Z06’s already on order. So in addition to the manual versus automatic …

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2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Convertible – Visualizer of All COLORS and WHEELS

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The new Corvette Z06 Convertible is a huge, huge achievement and one of the most exciting cars to ever come from any US automaker. As the first ultra-high-performance Corvette offered with a softtop and automatic, the latest Z06 has the broadest possible appeal of nearly any supercar. What do we compare this new 2.95-second supercar most closely with? The Porsche 911 Turbo. That is a lofty but truly accurate competitor for the new Z06, and buyers are already clamoring for the 5000 Z06’s already on order. So in addition to the manual versus automatic question, convertible buyers have to pick …

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Hypercar Halloween! 202MPH 2012 Lexus LFA Nurburgring Pack in 110 Scary-Sexy Wallpapers

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Trick or treat! Criteria for being a Halloween Hypercar? Amazing performance, stunning design, delicious details and exclusivity for the ages. What meets these criteria in spades? The 2012 Lexus LFA Nurburgring Package — an orange stunner with V10 legs for miles and a bite to sate even the sweetest tooth. Enjoy these photos – we have never seen many of them published in their full glory, and they are worth considering in detail. Interspersed are the LFA’s official specs from Lexus.com. Overall, the Nurburgring pack brought a fixed rear wing, an extra 10-horsepower, firmer and remapped suspension and transmission, and …

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SCION Thrills With Concept FR-S TARGA TURBO + xB Camper Conversion

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  Great ideas from Scion for SEMA! In a huge Vegas pavilion filled with unreal concepts and one-offs that you might (or might not…) even want to own, here comes Scion. The Cartel Customs Targa FR-S is brilliant and seems feasible both for current owners to pursue as well as for the company itself. The convertible FT86 Open concept looks to have been shelved for now, so why not the next best way to get wind in your hair? The xB conversion camper is also deeply charming throughout. Check out the cabin details and those plush leather seats!  Reminds us …

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Future Classic Feature – 1999 Saab 9-3 VIGGEN Is Thunderbolt Legend – And This One Is For Sale!

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The SAAB 9-3 Viggen is a legend of a car. Named after the Thunderbolt fighter jet, the Viggen celebrated all that made the Saab 9-3 the firm’s most-successful model throughout the marque’s storied history. Front-drive, mad power and turbo antics were all paramount with the Viggen — but in typical Saab fashion, this was not a badge and stickers job. The upgrades list over the standard 9-3 Aero is absolutely huge — with what amounts to an all-new, direct-injected engine just the start of the custom elements in the Viggen.   EXHAUST NOTE VIDEO INTRO The 225-horsepower and 258-pound-feet of …

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AC Schnitzer Range Rover Sport S Is Seductive Style and Performance Makeover

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Have performance parts, will travel long distances at high speeds! The AC Schnitzer upgrade program for the Range Rover Sport is a dapper and subtle way to make the factory truck far more intense looking, sounding and feeling around corners. The various exhaust options let you pick the style that is just right for your RRSS. The key holder inside a cupholder insert of this and other AC Schnitzers is handy, but would be cooler there was somewhere on on the gearknob to mount the key. AC Schnitzer Range Rover Sport S

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2015 BMW X6 M Is New Podium Race SUV From $103k

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PART TWO: The X6 M The X6M is just a bit harder, a bit wider and even wilder than the new X5M — with the rear fender strike and chopped roof design feeling right for its massive new power and pace. PREVIOUS The most powerful BMWs ever made have just shattered the glass ceiling of SUV performance. WIth 567-horsepower through standard xDrive AWD, the new X5 and X6 M have sprint times of just 4.0-seconds along with a devilish M styling overhaul. The grille and front fascia are all-new designs for the X twins, with twin-chrome vertical accents inside each …

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2015 BMW X5 M Revealed! Cayenne-Beating 4.0s, 567HP Muscle Truck Arriving Spring 2015

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  The most powerful BMWs ever made have just shattered the glass ceiling of SUV performance. WIth 567-horsepower through standard xDrive AWD, the new X5 and X6 M have sprint times of just 4.0-seconds along with a devilish M styling overhaul. The grille and front fascia are all-new designs for the X twins, with twin-chrome vertical accents inside each kidney recalling the M3 and M5. Down below, a new trapezoidal shape forms a spiked area of the bumper, creating an all-new look not seen even from the aftermarket so far. Very menacing and mean styles here, with incredible side-view mirrors …

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AC Schnitzer BMW X5 Upgrades Are Gorgeous and Functional!

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Two things come to mind with the new X5 from BMW: the lack of an X5 M (so far…) and an overall bumper treatment that can be very busy and awkward. Where is the clean M-car styling we love so much? AC Schnitzer’s latest upgrades catalog addresses this nicely – with huge wheels, lowering springs and a tasteful bodykit to wrap the front and rear in high-speed style. The exhaust and ECU changes also free up about 50-horsepower for all of the engines, as well as sounding absolutely outstanding!  AC Schnitzer BMW X5 – Exhaust Notes Check out the parts …

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RM London Highlights – 1920 Bugatti Type 23 Was First Rally Supercar + RARE Archive Photos

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When racing in a straight line, the key attributes you want are a long wheelbase and huge power. But when racing up tight mountain roads, with switchbacks every few hundred metres, you want the shortest wheelbase possible. Still with the huge power, but in a nimbler and pointer package. Bugatti has always chased the extremes of performance, and this Type 23 is no different. Chopped short like a Sport Quattro — this Type 23 is hilarious at first. We can see in these extremely rare archive photos a T11 racer and an the enclosed-shell Bugatti T32 ‘Tank’ sharing this same …

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Road Test Review – 2015 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Limited Is Nipping Camry and Mazda6 Heels

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Rave review first-drive here on the new Subaru Legacy! Along with three dozen all-new photos of this newly-competitive mid-size car. It looks like the drive video we shot did not survive its GoPro upload to the computer, so we will write this one up the old-fashioned way! EXTERIOR The new Legacy’s design is shown in its best light with the 2.5i Limited, which wears the latest LED accents and projector-beam lighting from the 3.6R top-line model. As equipped, this 2.5i is actually very handsome and premium. Why the surprise? Well, let’s face it: the base Legacy has been seriously nerdy …

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RM Hershey Highlights – 1905 FIAT 60HP Five-Passenger Tourer by Quinby & Co.

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A top earner at the Hershey, Pennsylvania event from RM Auctions earlier this month? This 1905 Fiat Tourer with a whopping 60-horsepower. 60HP is double what anything else offered in 1905 — with huge power like this making it the Rolls-Royce and Bentley of its era. The Fiat packs triple the 20-hp that the Ford Model T’s “L-head” four-cylinder delivered from from 1910 to 1930. A wheel and triple-pedal setup on the floor also predates nearly any other car with this now-standard control layout. This very car was originally owned by August Anheuser Busch Senior — to give a sense …

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Road Test Review – 2015 Toyota Yaris SE 5-Door Is A Hipsters Delight!

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 2015 Toyota Yaris Review Quick: name the only Toyota (or Lexus) that is imported to the US from Europe? Any guesses? The header here is a solid clue. It is indeed the 2015 Yaris. Designed and built in Europe, the land of hot hatch excellence and cheap/cheerful mini cars, the Yaris embodies all the frisky spirit of the Fiat 500 or the MINI Cooper — but with a giant discount. The 2015 Yaris hopes to sell on more the efficiency and low entry pricing, however. It brings a full suspension redesign, a cabin upgrade and even funky LED lighting on …

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First 2015 NISMO GT-R Delivered To Winston-Salem NC; Witch Trial Soon?

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Is the NISMO GT-R a witch? How else could the car be so insanely fast in a straight line or around any racetrack? It must be witchcraft. Winston-Salem, North Carolina residents are seeking justice today after the first-ever US customer received his dream GT-R this week, rendering all other supercars obsolete. After all, if it can’t be explained… it must be witchcraft! Sure, Salem Massachusetts is where the original witch trials were held … but the NISMO GT-R has sought a change of venue to secure an unbiased jury. Until a verdict is reached, sales of the 2015 GT-R NISMO …

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3.2s, 199MPH 2015 Audi R8 Competition Edition Revealed Ahead of LA Show

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  Audi just released the details of its 60-copy 2015 R8 Competition — a harder, faster and stronger version of the ultimate four-ringed supercar. Based on the R8 V10 Plus, the Competition Edition runs a 570-horsepower version of the 5.2-liter V10 engine from the Plus with a racing-tuned S-tronic DSG gearbox. The extra power and pace is announced by the R8 Competition’s unique matte carbon styling accents throughout, along with a more soulful engine note and gloss-black detail elements. 2015 Audi R8 Competition   Oct 28, 2014 , HERNDON, Va. Limited-edition Audi R8 competition to debut at Los Angeles Auto Show …

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HD Road Test Review – 2015 Toyota Camry XSE Is FAST and QUIET!

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  Fast and Quiet? Yep. A variation on Fast ‘n’ Loud is what most sedan shoppers actually prefer in their daily drivers, and the Camry XSE nails these benchmarks better than any other mid-size sedan. INTRO Can you imagine how tough the Camry is on competing cars like the Accord and Fusion? As far as we see it, the Camry gets better and better every year — without one slot in the armor of this best-seller to sneak an arrow through? The only area where the previous Camry let its competition get some ideas was with the overall exterior design, …

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Concept Flashback – Lexus LF-LC in 77 High-Res Photos – Future LF-C?

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When looking closely at the 2011 and 2012 Lexus LF-LC concepts, you see clear influences all around toward the latest RC. You also see the design from these advanced studies throughout the Lexus line for 2015 – with everything from the GX to the ES and LS wearing a giant spindle frame grille and arrowhead lighting elements. There is more to these beauties than just the nose, however: they share the exact proportions and hard-points with the vaunted LF-A supercar. Are these designs intended as a second-generation LF-A? Something like an LF-C with hybrid power from the Toyota TS040 LeMans …

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Hypercar Hall of Fame – 2011 Bugatti Veyron L’Or Blanc Really Is White Gold

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  What if that enchanting effect of light dancing on paint could be immortalized? Kept flowing forever in perfect for an artistic dream in glowing white? That is the result with the 2011 Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport L’Or Blanc. The one-of-a-kind porcelain inlays create a Veyron that is unlike any other Bugatti — and unlike any other car. There is real artistry in creating the ‘white gold’ effect shown on this masterpiece, and Bugatti details the process below. We estimate that the design and creation of L’Or Blanc took at least 12 months — from the time the Veyron was …

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Best of Awards – 2015 BMW X4 xDrive35i M Sport in HD Drive Video + 50 Gorgeous Photos

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The BMW X4 and X4 crossover coupes are easy to write off as silly fashion cars. But in the flesh, they are undeniably sexy and far cooler than a normal SUV. The X435i is simply the best SUV we have ever driven. It is a car that would fit hip commuters and track junkies alike — with room in the trunk for pups and in the back seat for pals. Love it. And in a dark color, the X4 is even sexier than this too-popular red. In fact, the X4 is so good — we recommend everyone at Cadillac spend …

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50 New Photos! 2015 Lexus NX300h and NX300h F Sport Are Best-Looking SUVs of the Year

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Updated 10.24.14 with 50 New Photos These latest photos from the UK show the hybrid NX Lexus in an absolutely beautiful light. The complex and emotional creasing of the surfaces is endlessly entertaining to the eye, while the practicality of this mid-size crossover pair belies their base price in the mid-$30,000 ballpark. It is surprising and welcome to have an F Sport version of the Hybrid. This is definitely a car to worry both the BMW X3 and X5. The Lexus NX will be in dealerships in just a few months, with a December arrival projected nationwide. 2015 Lexus NX300h …

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RM Hershey 2014 Highlights – 1956 Ford F-100 Panel Truck

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In the auction world, you either go where the money is — or where the collection is. In the case of the Sam Pack collection in Dallas this November, you go to the collection. Same applied here with the Hershey, PA auction earlier in October for the Jeffrey Day estate. A charming collection of mostly pre-war vehicles is specked with stagecoaches from 1860 and curio’s like this F-100 panel van. The more utilitarian models in many millionaire’s collections carry some form of sentimental value. And how could this baby blue Ford not be special? We just wonder: how many cases …

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