Luxury Cars

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

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

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

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

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

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

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2022 Audi A3 Review by Ben Lewis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Celestiq Teasers Enhance Art Theme, Cadillac Confirms July Debut

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

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

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

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Cadillac Celestiq Interior Images Tease Vibrant Elegance, Bentley Like Luxury

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

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2022 Kia EV6 Wind Review by Ben Lewis

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

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Cadillac Celestiq Teases More Metal In New Images, Looks Promising

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Maserati GranTurismo Folgore Lights Up Rome

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Maserati Celebrates Racing History With Trio Of MC Edition Models

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

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

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When one looks at a McLaren offering, chances are good that track-ready performance and Ferrari slaying styling will immediately leap out into mind. While the British supercar maker has primarily delivered the goods, for the most part, the firm also knows that it needs to expand its reach to appeal to a broader range of buyers. The recently unveiled Artura was McLaren’s first leap into the green vehicle market, and for GT buyers, the company has unleashed the all-new McLaren GT, but is it finally the perfect balance of supercar daring and GT elegance?   Exterior Styling Looks Slick The …

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Cadillac InnerSpace Concept Previews Luxury Filled Autonomus Future

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It wasn’t too long ago that roadways in the U.S. were once home to the personal luxury coupe. Having their heyday in the 70s and 80s these models packed loads of luxury into a typically sleek (there were a few design misses in those days) package that happened to have two doors and sporty driving manners. These original status symbols faded away in the 1990s, but the all-new Cadillac InnerSpace concept not only revives the idea in a spiritual way but also brings autonomous driving into the mix too.   InnerSpace Concept Is Sleek and Elegant Styling Statement A key …

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Mercedes EQXX Concept Makes Splash, Previews Multiple Production Bound Features

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Mercedes-Benz is preparing to make radical changes on its future lineup of all-electric vehicles, and the German luxury carmaker has previewed this future with the all-new EQXX concept which will preview a whole trove of production bound technologies that will eventually make their way to future EQ models.    A Whole New Look Is Coming One of the things that many observers will notice is that the EQXX is previewing a brand new front fascia design for the lineup. The grille less space is smooth and aerodynamic and even the hood-mounted metal tri-star is gone. Fans of the star will …

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2021 Lexus RC 350 F SPORT review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested and loved the all-new Lexus IS 500 F SPORT Performance, with a massively powerful and sonorous 5.0-liter V8. It was a fantastic sport sedan. But maybe you like the svelte lines of a coupe. And don’t really need all that power, but still want something quick and sporty – and with all that luxury and goodness of Toyota’s premium division? Well have we got a car for you! The Lexus RC 350 F SPORT. Let’s take a look. Sporty, Smooth and Sophisticated The RC has been with us for several years now, yet it still turns head …

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

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With Volvo‘s reputation so entrenched in vehicle safety, it can be easy to forget that the Swedish luxury carmaker is also trying to build a name for itself in the green vehicle market. The Recharge series is an attempt to introduce customers to electrification gradually, and we enjoyed our last exposure to the Recharge when we had a chance to drive the XC90 Recharge. But with the XC90 sharing a platform with the S90 sedan, it was only a matter of time before it too received the electrification treatment. But will it deliver the same positive vibes that the XC90 …

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

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Mercedes-Benz and their AMG sub-brand are on a quest to lure in more customers thanks in part to a revamped model lineup and some new thinking in the way they promote their models. Unfortunately, part of this new thinking involves some shuffling in the lineup with Mercedes axing the A35 AMG from our shores in the process of writing this review. What will we miss out on with the model gone from our shores?   Spunky Character Defines A35 Formula For starters, we’ll no longer get to see the A35’s design-focused personality. The standard A-Class already has some impressive design …

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

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Winter may have much of the United States in its winter clutches, but as they say, it’s always summer somewhere and Maserati is attempting to make consumers flashback to warmer weather and even driving through curvy coastal roads with the all-new MC20 Cabrio which is set to add a new flavor of fun to the lineup.   Dropping The Top In The Name Of MC20 Style As the name implies, the MC20 Cabrio is at its core, an MC20 convertible with the performance-packed two-door now having the ability to generate open-aired driving thrills on-demand. Like other recent Maserati products, the …

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

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It’s not often that a track-focused limited edition model visits the office, but we always look forward to learning more about it. That was precisely the case when the 2021 Lexus RC F Fuji Edition came to visit. But while the slick carbon fiber visuals, burbly V8, and elegant interior made an excellent first impression, it ended up falling just short of being the right mix of track performance and street capability.   An Artist Known By A New Name If the introductory visual presentation looks familiar, it’s because the newly renamed Fuji Edition was once known as the RC …

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

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The Maserati Ghibli promised to be a whole new beginning for Maserati when it made its appearance in 2013. The Ghibli was supposed to be a smaller sedan alternative to the Quattroporte and allow Maserati to target the BMW 5-Series, Audi A6, and the Mercedes E-Class while reaping the rewards of higher sales at the same time. But it appears that the Ghibli experiment will be ending with a report suggesting that Maserati will not make a 2023 version and will use the 2022 model to play its proverbial swan song.   Ghibli, What Happened? The report comes from the …

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

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The lumps keep coming for Mercedes-Benz and AMG. First, the ongoing pandemic forced Mercedes-AMG to not ship V8 engines into the U.S. for the 2022 model year, and it now appears that poor sales are potentially forcing the spunky A35 AMG sedan to bail from our shores after 2021.   A35 AMG Receives Neuralzyer Treatment Fans that have followed the Men In Black film series will undoubtedly remember scenes where agents use a neuralyzer to wipe and alter the memories of those pointing at it to cover up their activities. While Mercedes reps aren’t planting new memories into buyers, they …

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

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Ever since the current generation Aston Martin Vantage made its way into dealerships a few years ago, rumors have swirled about whether it will once again receive a V12 engine. Aston Martin denied the rumors at first claiming that it wouldn’t fit (we didn’t believe them) and it appears that our suspicions were proven correct, with the British sports car maker revealing that it will indeed be putting a V12 into the new Vantage, but it appears that it will be the last time the Vantage will be paired with it.   Cryptic Teaser Video Points To Swan Song The …

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Bentley Continental GT Mulliner Blackline Embraces Noir Vibes, Expands Customization

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The Bentley Continental GT and GT Convertible are still a very luxurious way to celebrate the finer things of life, especially when equipped with the Mulliner Package. But what if you’re a discerning buyer that wants to blend all of this world-class performance and luxury with the noir styling that can only come from sinister black accents. The British luxury carmaker thinks it has found a perfect balance with the all-new Mulliner Blackline edition.   Noir Is In Style Like other blackout packages that we have seen from other automakers, this one takes the existing chrome pieces and replaces them …

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2022 Kia Stinger GT-Line RWD review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the Kia Stinger GT2 V6 and came away massively impressed. Mildly refreshed and featuring a 368-horsepower twin turbo V6 that loves to sing at high rpms, it was a thrill ride. But we also knew that the more affordable 4-cylinder turbo model was getting even bigger changes – how does going from a 255-hp 2.0-liter to a 300 hp, 2.5-liter sound? Sounds like a reason for a road test! Wow-house Design For those Stinger lovers on a budget, the first thing you should know is that the 4-cylinder GT-Line is almost impossible to tell from the much …

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

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In our recently published review of the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible, we pointed out that the LC 500 had the potential to emerge as a true world-beater in the Grand Touring segment if it received the right amount of upgrades. Lexus appears to have been listening to some of this feedback from consumers and has introduced several minor updates that aim to keep the LC lineup fresh for 2022.   Bespoke Build Options Add Exclusivity, Shuffles Equipment Around While these updates do not focus on the dysfunctional infotainment technology that constantly haunts the LC lineup like a ruthless specter, …

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

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When the Lexus LC 500 coupe first made its appearance a few years ago, it proved that Lexus was indeed capable of designing a sharp-looking Coupe that could be a contender to rivals from BMW and Mercedes as well as select Maserati models. The exterior styling looked like rolling artwork, and the interior was comfortable and well insulated from the outside world. But while it functioned well as a coupe, some wanted a droptop. Lexus has delivered the 2021 Lexus LC500 convertible. But is it the ultimate toy?   LC500’s Exterior Styling Has Us Longing For The Quiet Days Of …

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

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Rolls Royce is riding a wave of success, especially regarding its Black Badge lineup of ultra-luxury models. Black Badge alone represents about 30 percent of Rolls Royce’s global sales, with the company planning to offer Black Badge versions of nearly all of its models (Phantom excluded). That includes the newest member of the Black Badge family, the Ghost Black Badge sedan.   Ghost Back Badge Adds Sinister Charm To Exterior Styling The Ghost Black Badge largely follows the exact patented blueprint that has defined other Black Badge models. Black is the color of choice here, with the large chrome grille …

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

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The Mercedes SL roadster has always been an iconic marque in the droptop luxury roadster segment. The two-seater was the benchmark for the segment and did a good job projecting Mercedes’s influence in the luxury car game for the bulk of its existence. But the outgoing SL represented a decline, with the roadster suffering from a sales slide and some signs of aging. Mercedes aims to change all that with the 2022 SL, which will be the most significant change that the model has seen.   AMG Infused Exterior Styling Gives This SL More Visual Bite A significant change for …

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Lucid Motors Unveils DreamDrive ADAS Platform, Promises Conditional Automated Driving

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Lucid Motors just began full-scale production of its Air EV sedan. Still, while the Air already comes with an impressive array of standard equipment, the company revealed that the Air will eventually debut an all-new DreamDrive ADAS platform that promises to bring automated driving to the next level.   Conditional Automated Driving Is No Longer A Dream Before we get into some of the core essentials that define the DreamDrive system, it’s essential to reveal that the system will not be available at launch, but it will eventually come to the Air via an Over The Air update (OTA). The …

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

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Growing up as a kid, I always had a solid drive to learn new things, which helped me be very adaptable in various aspects of my life and allowed me to participate in a multitude of roles during the first few years of my time in the working world. That would later extend to my press career, where I learned to hone my driving skills. But something always seemed to be missing, like the critical piece in a Lego set needed to complete whatever model one is working on completing. To help fill that proverbial void, I traveled to BMW’s …

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2021 BMW 330e Sedan Review by Ben Lewis

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2021 BMW 330e Sedan review by Ben Lewis We recently tested the Audi Q5 PHEV Plug-in hybrid, and found it gave near the performance of the pricier SQ5, with a price and efficiency closer to the base Q5 – especially when the federal and state tax breaks were added in. So, we were equally excited to driver the BMW 330e – the 3-series sport sedan with plug-in hybrid powertrain. While the previous gen had a similar version, the 2021 features the all-new 3-series that came out a couple years ago. Was this another plug-in we could love more than a …

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

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The Volkswagen Arteon had alot on its plate when it first appeared in the U.S. in 2018. Not only did it have to replace the languishing CC in the U.S., but it also showed that top-notch Volkswagen design could move beyond the GTI and Golf R hot hatches and into other nameplates that might not have as much firepower under the hood. But does the Arteon truly succeed in finally bringing cohesive luxury to buyers in this regard? We followed up our west coast encounter of the Arteon with a sequel here on the east coast to see if the …

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2022 Porsche Taycan Gains Android Auto And New Colors

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The Porsche Taycan and its shooting brake sibling, the Taycan Cross Turismo, were designed to carry Porsche into a green future thanks to their clean lines and their advanced lineup of driving technology. But even these futuristic super EVs need an update once in a while to keep rivals like Tesla from snatching their vaunted spot in the EV sales race. Porsche has delivered the goods and has announced some new tech upgrades and a few splashes of extra color for the 2022 model year.   Vibrant Colors Infuse Depth Into Taycan Pallette Charts The Taycan has always been a …

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2022 Kia Stinger GT2 RWD V6 Review by Ben Lewis

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It’s hard to believe that the Kia Stinger debuted 4 years ago as a 2018 model. There was so much talk about it – here was an up and coming brand, breaking free of the inexpensive–but-rugged reputation, and getting ready to soar. And they brought out a rear-wheel-drive performance sedan to take on the likes of BMW and Mercedes! So, we really looked forward to getting back into a 2022 Stinger. Was it as good as we originally thought? How has it aged? And should you be stopping by the Kia dealer on your way to the Audi or BMW …

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Audi Skysphere Concept at Pebble Beach 2021

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The Skysphere Concept is an unusual and highly experimental design ethos from Audi.  In being so very unlike their current range it seems to make a bold statement about the elegance of cab-backward, front-engine GTs.  Or at least those are the proportions, but that long hood is surely filled with batteries and motors in this case. None of Audi’s current quattro-intensive range approaches this level of dash-to-axle ratio and this ultralong hood is a striking addition.  The glasshouses for the front and rear lighting elements are interesting and the tactility of the 3D badge up front is quite something. It …

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Bentley Motors at Pebble Beach Concours 2021 Villa and Concept Lawn

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Bentley brought a powerhouse fleet to their Pebble Beach Villas in 2021! We even get a look at the Bacalar concept from the concours lawn.  Aside from the bubble canopy in back it looks fairly production-ready in its details.  The new Flying Spurs and Conti GT’s are also very very appealing.  After you enjoy this 50-photo gallery shot by JC, read some our full drive reviews of Bentleys over here.    Gallery – Bentley Motors at their Pebble Beach Villa and the Concours Concept Lawn   Road Test Review – 2021 Bentley Bentayga – A Nip And A Tuck For …

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

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Monterey Car Week is well underway, and with all the glitz, glamour, and flair on display, it would seem a bit lacking if the folks at Bentley did not find a way to draw eyes to its booth. The British luxury carmaker has a strong reputation for always showing off something truly extravagant and expensive to attendees. The firm has not been disappointed with the debut of the all-new 2022 Bentley Flying Spur Mulliner.   Mulliner Has Ultra Luxury Appointments For The True Jet Setter Unlike the Mulliner Driving Package on other Flying Spur models we have experienced, this particular …

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

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When Volvo revealed that it would not be offering the V90 station wagon in the U.S., we thought about what customers will be missing when they step inside their local Volvo dealer. In addition to the V90, the Swedish car firm is also discontinuing certain trims of the V60 as it focuses on enhancing the appeal of its rugged Cross Country models. But while the Cross Country will be the only V90 variant sold in the U.S. from now on, does it have what it takes to carry on the family legacy?   Exterior Styling Retains Core Essentials, Enhances Trail …

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2021 Toyota Avalon TRD Review by Ben Lewis

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We’ve always liked the Toyota Avalon. Toyota’s flagship full-size sedan has always exceptionally, comfy, roomy, well-turned out. Ok, kind of a Grampa car. What it really hasn’t been is exciting to drive. Toyota has been on a tear lately, though to make their vehicles a lot more fun, and after we tested the Camry TRD, (Toyota Racing Development is their in-house racing arm) we were so impressed, we hoping the company would do the same magic with the Avalon TRD. One Bad Grampa Ok, we have never had an Avalon that got this kind of attention before! The massive front …

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

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Bentley reps have repeatedly told us that the company is looking to transform into an all-electric brand by 2030. While the company has touted its environmental plan and some of the promises that come with it, Bentley currently only has one green model in its arsenal (the Bentayga Hybrid.) With the winds of change blowing ever harder, the company has unveiled its second green-tinged model, the all-new 2022 Flying Spur Hybrid.   Flying Spur Hybrid Is Like Looking Into A Mirror With the Flying Spur lineup benefitting from a recent redesign that completely rebooted the design language, it should come …

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

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Maserati‘s three-model lineup is soldiering on for 2022. Still, the Italian luxury carmaker chose to go in a unique direction for its updates this time around and has actually done some quick housecleaning to simplify the trim ladder for buyers, with the GT and Modena trims being added into the mix for the new model year.   So What’s Being Replaced? In this instance, the outgoing GranLusso and GranSport monikers were a prominent part of the brand’s identity for the past few years. In theory, they were supposed to project a higher identity in the minds of buyers, but they …

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

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The Rolls Royce Dawn and Wraith might be leaving the U.S. However, these two models are still primed to be potent players in the international market, and that includes the bevy of special Collection models that the British ultra-luxury carmaker intends to produce. The latest addition to this series is the Landspeed Collection, and unlike other entries in this series, this one aims to deliver a bit of historical redemption.   Rolls Royce Revives History With Landspeed Collection As mentioned, the Wraith and Dawn Landspeed Collection editions are out for redemption, with the duo revisiting a forgotten slice of history. …

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2021 Mercedes AMG GLE 53 Coupe Review by Ben Lewis

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So, here’s a challenge to many manufacturers – with SUV’s being so popular, how do you keep things fresh? One trend we’ve seen are the “coupe-like” SUV’s, which trade off some of the utility (and headroom) for a racy profile. It’s especially popular with the Europeans, with everything from VW’s Atlas Cross Sport to BMW’s X4 and X6. Mercedes won’t be left out either, so we’re now enjoying GLE Coupe. But with a coupe, you’re driven by passion, so we were especially excited to get our grabby little hands on an AMG GLE 53 Coupe. Big vehicle, larger-than-life performance. This …

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Rolls Royce Taps Its Coachbuilding Past With Wild Boat Tail Custom

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Remember back when Rolls Royce was just as well known for its one-off coach-building creations as the world-class luxury that defines its current lineup of luxury cars? We wouldn’t blame you if you said no with that aspect of its past being MIA since the introduction of the wild Sweptail way back in 2017. But the iconic British ultra-luxury carmaker didn’t want that side of itself to slip away and has not only announced the creation of the Rolls-Royce Coachbuilding Department but also unveiled its first project, the Boat Tail.   Nautical Themed Boat Tail Sails Into Luxury Like other …

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2021 BMW 540i xDrive Review by Ben Lewis

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SUVs, SUVs, everywhere. With SUV/SAV/Crossovers pretty much the standard for family transport, it’s easy to forget that the Europeans like Audi, BMW and Mercedes made their name here with sedans. Some were 2-doors, some 4-doors, even wagons! But for a long time, the epitome of luxury was the 4-door premium sedan. And at the head of that class for enthusiasts has always been the BMW 5-series. Mercedes were ultra-luxury, but a little staid. Audi technically advanced but a bit spartan. The Bimmer though, that was a driver’s car. So now we have the 2021 540i, the 7th generation 5-er, with …

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

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While the four-door sedan as we know it has certainly faded from importance when looked at the broader scope of things, it can still draw the right amount of attention, especially when it comes with the right mixture of luxury, style, and technology. Bentley may be focused on enhancing its position in the utility market with the 2021 Bentayga. Still, it also wants to make sure that fans know it has not forgotten about the stately sedans and coupes that helped make the British ultra-luxury carmaker into an icon that continually pushes the envelope of luxury and technology. The 2021 Bentley …

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

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It’s got to be tough to be a brand like Audi. First of all, you’ve got Mercedes and BMW always gunning for you. And then, brands like Lexus. And the excellent Acura TLX we tested – another upstart. And then, you have to worry about your sibling…in this case the recently refreshed 2021 VW Arteon. Does VW’s handsome luxury flagship have what it takes to lure buyers out of those fancy, shiny dealerships? Let’s see. Simply Gorgeous You don’t see a lot of Arteons – frankly the brand is busy selling lots of SUV’s and churning up interest in their …

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Rolls Royce Phantom Oribe Embraces Pottery, Celebrates Collaboration With Hermes

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When it comes to covering all the details, it’s hard to argue that anyone can top Rolls Royce and some of the energy they put into making their cars special pieces of automotive jewelry. This is particularly true regarding its Bespoke division, which helps create special one-off customizations for a very elite club of wealthy one-percenters that manage to shine even above the established pool of the world’s elite. Their latest creation is the Rolls Royce Phantom Oribe. While we have seen Bespoke tackle some exciting builds, this particular example takes things in a very interesting albeit creative direction.   …

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

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It’s not often that Rolls Royce brings the ax to members of its bespoke model lineup. But if you’re a fan of either elegant coupes or true open-top luxury convertibles, you’re not going to like hearing that both the Dawn and the Wraith will be leaving the U.S. after the 2021 model year concludes. So what led to their demise, and will they be replaced?   Simplifying The Lineup First reported by the folks at Motor1 and later confirmed by a Rolls representative, the departure of the Wraith and Dawn will sadden some but will also help better the company …

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Aston Martin Debuts Pastel Collection, Limited To California Market

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Summer is rapidly approaching and that means adding some lighter colors into your closet to help prepare for the sunnier side of the year. But what if you want to add some extra color to your garage and have the checkbook required to do it? If this is you and you happen to live in California Aston Martin might just have a fashionable solution to your summertime fashion worries with an all-new Pastel paint collection.   Five Flavors of Summer Style The infusion of color comes courtesy of Aston Martin of Newport Beach (one of the biggest Aston dealerships in …

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

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The Tesla Model S showed the world that a luxury EV sedan could be desirable and luxurious. Tesla’s achievement served as a springboard for countless other firms, and these days the pool of competitors has grown considerably. One notable absence was Mercedes-Benz, with the iconic German luxury brand taking its time to make a Model S competitor. But after nine years, the three-pointed star has unveiled its long-awaited contender, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS, which aims to raise the bar and finally bring the fight to Tesla.   EQS, It’s A Looker While the bulk of the attention will be focused …

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

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The very notion of Korean design might seem like an established lexicon of premium fashion, but it wasn’t too long ago that it once was relegated to the background. That was also the case with Hyundai and Kia (Genesis was not a brand yet), with both brands being content with making budget-friendly but very plain automotive entries. But fast forward to 2021, and the scales have completely flipped. Genesis is rapidly becoming the lovable new kid in the luxury car landscape. K-Pop music is hot on the U.S. music charts, and Hyundai and Kia have made massive strides in design …

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2021 Lexus ES250 AWD Review by Ben Lewis

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We still remember when Lexus launched in the US in 1990. It was a bold move – the Toyota company creating an upstart to take on the biggest luxury names in the market, including Mercedes and Cadillac. And its success is legendary, where it seems like Honda’s Acura, and Nissan’s Infiniti have never been able to quite get that cache. Why the history lesson? Well, there were two models when Lexus debuted, the LS400 and ES250. And now the ES250 name is back! So, if you’ve been waiting, your wishes have been fulfilled. Even more interesting, the ES250 is unique …

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Bentley Unveils 2021 Continental GT Speed, Creates Wildest Version Yet

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The Bentley Continental GT Speed has always been one of the fastest ultra-luxury cars that money can buy. A silky smooth W12 engine and timeless styling have always been enviable trademarks. But how can you make this inviting package even better? Bentley thinks it has the answer with the updated 2021 Continental GT Speed. Buckle in to hear all the latest details on this very special Continental.   Updated Exterior Styling Adds Depth, Bespoke Interior Captivates The GT Speed’s exterior styling retains much of the standard model’s core identity, but Bentley designers added more aggressive touches to make the GT …

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

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When it comes to Lexus, the company is usually pretty straightforward in its products, with the current lineup trying to make Lexus into a luxury brand that embraces its performance heritage. But the brand’s history is also marked by an occasional twist into intriguing projects that ultimately failed to gather momentum. One of these involved iconic British brand Allard and the last remaining fruit of this bizarre venture, the Allard P4, is primed to cross the auction block in England.   Allard a Retrospective The story of this unusual prototype requires us to go back in time to 1945 when …

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

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When Porsche first debuted the Taycan EV, it promised that more was in store for the moniker and that it would spawn its own lineup of variants. Porsche has delivered the goods and has unveiled the 2021 Taycan Cross Turismo, which brings elegant wagon styling and increased capability to the futuristic EV.   Wagon Shape Enhances Cross Turismo’s Flair The 2021 Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo is not the first design-focused wagon entry that we have seen from Europe, but it’s perhaps the most futuristic-looking one that we have seen yet. The front fascia is typical Taycan, but Porsche designers have …

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2020 Kia Cadenza Technology Review by Ben Lewis

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With the huge popularity of SUVs/Crossovers/SAVs, we sometimes forget just how good a traditional luxury sedan can be. And one of the nicest – and smartest values – is the Kia Cadenza. Let’s take a look at the Kia we call “The Big Easy”. (Hey, it’s Mardis Gras…) Fresh Face For 2020, Kia’s handsome full-size gets an update to keep things fresh. While the “Tiger Nose” grille shape is still there, the grille has a new deeper waterfall design, the reshaped hood enjoys power creases, while there are also standard LED headlights, redesigned LED daytime running lights and new integrated …

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

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The current generation Lexus IS certainly has plenty going for it. A major revamp of its exterior styling helped the sedan bring some much-needed freshness into its flanks, while a set of interior tweaks improved its technology game. But perhaps the one thing that has been missing is a true range-topping engine. The naturally aspirated V6 was the default choice, but its age is getting harder to hide, and it couldn’t hold the mustard against a world where turbocharging is increasingly becoming the new normal. The Japanese luxury brand is out to change that and has unveiled the 2022 Lexus …

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2021 BMW X5 X Drive 45e by Ben Lewis

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Amazing how quickly time and technology change things. It used to be an EV was a golf cart, and a hybrid was one of the agrarian looking Toyota Prius models. The good thing is, there are a lot of talented engineers that work for the automakers, and the vehicles we get today are exciting and fun – no matter what may be under the hood. And a perfect example of today’s performance hybrid is the 2021 BMW X5 with the all-new 45e plug-in hybrid system. If you were expecting something for the Birkenstock and Bean Sprout crowd, the X5 will …

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Steinmetz 1

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

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Cadillac is on the cusp of debuting the most potent track ready models it has ever offered the 2022 Cadillac CT4-V and CT5-V Blackwings. While the duo represent just how far the brand has come in the world of luxury performance sedans, it also makes one look back at the V-Series range and in particular some of the early ancestors that helped play a role in the creation of this special performance focused sub-brand and what they brought to the table. One of these concepts was the Steinmetz Catera concept which previewed what would happen if a healthy dose of …

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2022 Blackwing lineup

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

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Cadillac certainly ramped up our expectations when the luxury car brand revealed that it would be teasing the 2022 CT4-V and CT5-V Blackwings at the Rolex 24 event in Daytona. With the past few teasers only offering heavily veiled glimpses of the two we weren’t expecting anything too wild. But Cadillac gave us a very unexpected surprise with this latest teaser offering our first fully unveiled look at the duo before they make their official debut in February. Here’s three things to know about Cadillac’s newest performance superstars   Familiar Styling Defines Blackwing Experience For buyers hoping that the Blackwing …

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Cadillac Teases Celestiq Flagship Sedan, Confirms Novel Dimming Sunroof [Video]

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The race to electrification is heating up, and Cadillac is out to show the world that it still has what it takes to bring the fight to the Germans in a rapidly developing segment. The Lyriq was the first stanza in this push, but the luxury brand has now added a crescendo to the mix with the first ever teaser of its upcoming Celstiq flagship sedan. Electrifying The Flagship It wasn’t too long ago that American flagship sedans were known for being floaty luxury filled barges that were filled to the brim with coddling extras, but lacked the motivation to …

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2020 Genesis G70 Sport 2.0 T Road Test Review: Will We Miss The Manual Transmission?

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The sport sedan segment has been one long dominated by benchmarks like the BMW 3-Series, Mercedes C-Class and even the Audi A4. Many attempts have been made to try and usurp this trio from their respective pedestals for years. Some have come very close to achieving that goal, while others promptly flamed out and settled for low sales numbers. The 2020 Genesis G70 is the latest contender to try and do the seemingly impossible task of toppling Germany’s finest. But can it channel its inner Sam Darnold and lead Genesis to a New York Jets worthy upset win? Or will …

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2021 Lexus IS350 F SPORT by Ben Lewis

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We have a lot of vehicles that we like. And then the manufacturers manage to tweak and massage, and Boom! You get something really special. We felt that way with the larger-engined Subaru Crosstrek we tested recently.  And there was something about the latest Civic Coupe that just felt perfect. And now we’re ready to add the Lexus IS350 F SPORT to that list. Already a very good sport sedan, the changes for 2021 make it, as they say ….”just right”. Evocative Looks First impressions matter in sport sedans, and the IS350 F SPORT makes us feel all tingly. Slightly …

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A trip back in time, we take a retrospective at the 1974 Jaguar XJ12 PF Concept

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With our focus on concept cars and their links to current products, it’s also important to look back on concept cars that helped play a key role in either their history, or their continued existence (in the case of Porsche and its 1993 Boxster concept.) This theme carries through with the latest entry to this particular sub-theme, the 1974 Jaguar XJ12 PF. This obscure design exercise not only highlighted the international connections between auto companies, but could also be considered a key stepping stone for Jaguar models of the period. Britain and Italy create an interesting XJ fueled collaboration Jaguar …

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Hellfire and unholy levels of performance define insane 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT63 S [Video]

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It’s not too often that the fires of hell craft a piece of machinery that’s the perfect combination of otherworldly temptation and world class performance. But Mercedes-Benz has done just that with the 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT63S. The “S” is one of the heavy hitters in Mercedes-Benz’s lineup, and was the most powerful Benz money could buy before it was usurped by the ultra limited 720 horsepower AMG GT Black Edition. But with that model being a pure two door, the GT63 aims to bring some of this track slaying performance into a distinctly four door flavored package. But does …

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Ambition and luxury, what happened to the 2006 Chrysler Imperial Concept?

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Another week, and another Chrysler concept enters the spotlight in our ongoing concept and show car focused series. For those that missed us last week, you can forgive us for catching Teofino Lopez’s shocking upset victory over Vasyli Lomachenko on ESPN (we’re big fight fans at the Metro Detroit office) but with the dust having fully settled from that epic clash, it’s back to our weekend task of dissecting concept vehicles from years past to find out what happened to them after their time on the show circuit, and whether they had a lasting impact in current vehicle offerings? This …

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2020 Hyundai Genesis G90 Ultimate Review – With major revamp, can it still be a luxury bargain?

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When the first generation Genesis G90 appeared on the scene, it was trying to rid itself of a fresh identity crisis that dated back to when it was formerly known as the Hyundai Equus. The Equus was a flagship sedan with potential, but it didn’t get the flashy state of the art fashion designs that its rivals got. Instead, its exterior design was more akin to a bland sweater or cardigan that your relatives got you for Christmas at the last minute. It did the job, but kept people from really noticing its inner talents. The G90 was a welcome …

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Volvo swings for the fences, but comes up a tad short with 2020 Volvo S60 T5 R-Design

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When Volvo announced that it was preparing the all new S60, we were curious to see how it would fare out in the real world. The S60 represents the most serious effort that Volvo has put into dethroning segment benchmarks like the BMW Series, Mercedes C-Class, and the Audi A4. But while the rapid growth of crossovers has indeed put some pressure on this segment, the stakes are still very high in the luxury sport sedan segment, and bragging rights are still the ultimate trophy to strive for. But does the S60 have the tools to do what no other …

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2020 Lexus ES300h – Road Test Review – By Matt Barnes

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The Lexus ES is moving upmarket. Can it step up to the task? The seventh generation ES was new for 2019 with the 2020 model receiving a few minor updates. Moving forward, the ES will have to cover for its traditionally sportier sibling with Car and Driver, reporting that the GS is going out of production.   Exterior You’d be forgiven for mistaking the Lexus ES for a sports sedan. The updated design is beautiful, sporty, and luxurious. The ES is longer and lower than the previous generation with the wheels pushed out to the corners. It is a gorgeous …

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2021 BMW 4-Series convertible breaks cover, features giant grille and canvas convertible top

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The 2021 BMW 4-Series certainly made waves when it first debuted thanks in part to its gigantic twin kidney grilles, as well as some of the technology improvements that the model brings to consumers. With the coupe having its time in the spotlight, BMW has decided to address the needs of sun lovers with the unveiling of the 2021 BMW 4-Series convertible. While the front fascia continues to dominate the narrative with the fore-mentioned grilles (a throwback to vintage BMW offerings) the convertible also makes a big change for 2021, with the hardtop being pitched for a lightweight canvas piece. …

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The best Cadillac sedan yet? CT5 shoots for a bullseye

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The Cadillac CTS certainly left a big pair of shoes to fill when it was taken out of production recently. The model originally started as a tweener model to compete with the BMW 3 and 5 Series before eventually being given more freedom to go after bigger game. Along the way, it also spawned a coupe and even a station wagon to go along with the spicier V8 powered V variants. However, it was not enough to help Cadillac snatch the sales crowd from the Germans, and sales slid. Cadillac decided to go for a full reboot with the CT5, …

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Rolls Royce stretches the definition of opulent luxury with 2021 Ghost Extended

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September had little time to get into full gear when Rolls Royce took the cover off of the revamped 2021 Rolls Royce Ghost. The second generation Ghost promised to bring a higher level of sophistication, luxury, and technology to the “entry level” model in Roll’s bespoke lineup. Perhaps fittingly, Rolls execs chose the dying days of September to reveal the newest member of the Ghost family, the Ghost Extended. As the name implies, the Ghost Extended is the extended wheelbase version of the Ghost, with the variant adding 6.7 inches to the length of the car. This extra length allows …

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What changes are in store for the 2021 Lexus IS? We compare old vs new to find out

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When Lexus took the veil off of the 2021 Lexus IS, it certainly appeared to be a noticeable improvement over the outgoing model which was really starting to show its age, and was falling behind rivals in a number of categories. But what can buyers expect in terms of changes, and is the new model indeed better than the outgoing IS? To find out, we spent some time behind the wheel of a 2020 model, and it certainly answered alot of our burning questions.   Fresh Styling Rules The Day: One of the most obvious changes that buyers will notice …

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Genesis confirms G70 facelift is coming, will appear in 2022

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When the world was first introduced to the all new Genesis G80 a few months ago, it (along with the GV80) signified a radical departure for the brand in terms of design. But left out of the shuffle was the Genesis G70 which debuted just before the brand formally pushed forward with their new design theme. The upstart luxury contender was keen on righting this wrong, and has formally introduced the 2022 Genesis G70. As expected, the second generation G70 adopts the G80’s front fascia design, and that helps create a more unified and aggressive face. That’s enhanced by the …

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Rolls Royce unveils heavily revamped 2021 Ghost: luxury sedan

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If you see a 2021 Rolls Royce Ghost cruising its way down a quiet boulevard, chances are that you might mistake it for its outgoing predecessor versus being anything radically new. The Ghost is one of the most successful models in the company’s history, and as a result, designers did not want to rock the boat too much when it came time to make the 2021 Ghost. As mentioned earlier, the core design of the 2021 Ghost does not stray too far from its predecessor, with the new model only sharing the Spirit of Ecstasy badge and the door mounted …

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Rolls Royce Ghost to debut September 1st, will feature 152 LEDS in dashboard [Video]

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Remember the splash that Rolls Royce made a few years ago when it introduced the world to its Starlight Headliner? The ritzy piece of optional equipment transformed the roof of a model equipped with it into a very good representation of the night sky thanks to the use of strategically placed LED lighting elements. Rolls even added a shooting star effect in later models for an extra degree of realism. But how do you top something as elaborate as that? Rolls Royce managed to find a way to do just that. Dubbed (perhaps pompously) the Illuminated Fascia, it uses the …

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Rolls Royce drops the top on elegance with all new Dawn Silver Bullet:

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Rolls Royce made a splash awhile back when the British Luxury car maker revealed that it was launching its Collection Cars line of special edition products. While we have not seen the full scope of what the Collection will bring to showrooms quite yet, Rolls has decided to give the world another compelling appetizer, with the unveiling of the Dawn Silver Bullet. The elegant Silver Bullet brings a number of unique flavors to the Dawn, with Rolls reps claiming that it’s supposed to be “a contemporary interpretation of the classic roadster spirit and driving experience,” and looking at what it …

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2021 Lexus ES: to receive all-wheel drive, limited Black Line Edition variant

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When the 2020 Lexus ES appeared, it helped inject new styling, technology, and performance into the brand’s bread and butter sedan. But while the U.S. Government prevented its advanced video mirror technology from being brought here due to safety regulations, the lack of all-wheel drive was a very glaring omission. Lexus has formally remedied that for 2021, and is even bringing the Black Line trim to the ES for the first time ever. The ES has never had all-wheel drive, but the ES 250 will be the first ES in the brand’s history to have the option. This system allows …

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2021 PRIOR DESIGN Porsche Taycan Widebody

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Just some drool-worth images and official press release on this beauty!  Since driving Taycan Turbo down at Amelia Island Concours 2020 I am a huge fan and this design upgrade is sure to increase the car’s already-amazing curb appeal even more. These are just the renders and they already make me weak in the knees!  Cannot wait to see the real thing. 2021 PRIOR-DESIGN Porsche Taycan Widebody PRIOR-DESIGN PRESS RELEASE: Wide body kit for the Porsche Taycan www.prior-design.de Porsche’s four-door all-electric sports car gets a ferocious appearance Tune an electric car? You can’t do that – or at least nobody would …

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2020 Genesis G70 Sport RWD V6TT – Road Test Review + Drive Video

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Every midsize premium sport sedan thinks it can dethrone the 3 series.   Beat BMW at their own game with the best engineering they can muster to make a relatively practical four-door sedan as playful and fun as the best sport coupes in the world. The 3 series might be king of the comparison tests but in truth all sedans in this price and size category are also chasing another prize: the top-selling Tesla Model 3.  It comfortably outsells the Euro premium brand sedans this size – combined.   But electric performance and the blob-like design of the Model 3 mean it’s …

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2020 BMW M235i xDrive Gran Coupe by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the MINI Clubman and remarked that there’s a lot of BMW under the skin. Well, in many ways, you could say the new BMW 2-series Gran Coupe has a fair amount of MINI under the skin – and just like the Clubby, it’s a good thing. Another way to think of the M235i Gran Coupe is the sedan version of the monster X2 M35i we tested – they share a lot of the same running gear – but going from SAV/SUV/Crossover to Sedan/Gran Coupe (stop with all the different names, please!) creates a very different beast. But …

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Rolls Royce Patent Registration Might Reveal Droptop Sequel To Sweptail:

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When Rolls Royce first unveiled the one-off Sweptail to the world, it immediately set the world ablaze with its seductive styling and a roof line that appeared to draw inspiration from past Rolls Royce offerings. However, a new patent registration appears to suggest that the Goodwood based luxury car maker is preparing a droptop sequel that could indeed make lighting strike twice. First discovered by the folks at Coche Spias the roof of the mysterious Rolls Royce model is arguably its most distinctive attribute. The renderings themselves don’t give us a clear idea on what kind of top will be equipped, with …

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2020 Toyota Avalon XSE Hybrid by Ben Lewis

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It’s interesting how different technologies develop over time. A perfect example is the Hybrid car. With the original Prius, it was a technically interesting, but pretty agrarian little vehicle. Slow and a little clunky, it got very good gas mileage, but you had to be committed to the cause. Come round 2, and Hybrids got better, with little penalty to the driving experience, excellent gas mileage – our 2019 Prius tester averaged over 50 mpg! – but the appeal of hybrids remained in the camps of eco-friendliness. But now the Hybrid has another trick up its sleeve – it’s now …

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Rolls Royce Cracks The Code With Wraith Kryptos: Edition

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It’s no secret that when it comes to customization and the ability to add all kinds of bespoke extras to a car, few can top the benchmark that is Rolls Royce. In addition to their extensive customization suite, Rolls also sells limited edition cars. Each one brings a distinctive flavor to customers, and the all new Kryptos Edition might be the wildest yet. Based on the Wraith, the Kryptos Edition is the latest addition to the firm’s Collection series. The theme this time around is computer coding, and the process of writing and solving them. In this instance, the Goodwood …

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