2017

IMG_0090_1v

2017 Renault-Sport R.S.01 GT3 by Gtronix McChip-DKR

by

One of our favorite engine tuners from Germany is heading out onto the racetrack!  Big news for the growing McChip-DKR best known for making unstoppable turbos! The 2017 RenaultSport RS01 GT3 looks like it might not need much extra boost — but the track will be the judge.   2017 Renault-Sport R.S.01 GT3 by Gtronix McChip-DKR   MCCHIP-DKR made A STUNNING ANNOUNCEMENT Secrets are made in order to be disclosed in a well timed manner. Mcchip-dkr in Mechernich recently revealed a big surprise with regards to the upcoming racing season 2017: A team named Gtronix-mcchip-dkr will be launched in the …

Keep reading

2017 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid – First Drive Review w/ Video [60 Photos]

by

Ioniq launches for 2017 as the first direct Prius rival in years.  Yes, I hear you — there are dozens of Prius rivals! And you are right: hybrids and EVs have gained traction in midsize sedans, luxury cars and SUVs at a rapid clip recently.  But no car actually tries to out-do Prius in 2017.  Not the cancelled Honda Insight.  And not the plug-in Chevy Volt, or battery-only VW eGolf. The reasons for this are many.  Mostly because Prius has beaten them all.  Ridiculously good mileage – no matter what.  A formula that surprisingly has never been cracked by another …

Keep reading

2017 Lexus ES350 – HD Road Test Review w/ 2 Videos – By Tom Burkart

by

The Lexus ES was refreshed for the 2016 model-year to enhance its styling and luxury equipment, along with a new build location as the first Lexus to be made in the USA. Its upgrades are fairly skin-deep, however, so we worried this car would be left behind by all the new midsize luxury models.  Vehicles like the Lincoln Continental or C-Class are all significantly fresher than the ES350 outside and in.  The ES has a huge target on its back — even from upstarts like the latest Avalon, Acura TLX and even Kia Cadenza. These rivals often have the latest turbo …

Keep reading

2017 Genesis G90 1

2017 Genesis G90 5.0 Ultimate RWD – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

The hunt for the elusive Luxury buyer is on with the all-new Genesis division. We recently tested the G80 sedan, and came away mightily impressed – a dynamic, stylish, beautifully-equipped competitor to the BMW 5 series. But for the price of a lowly turbo 4-cylinder Bavarian, the G80 had 5.0-liters of rip snorting V8 muscle. While Genesis is on safari for luxury brand competitors, it doesn’t stop at the G80, because with the larger G90, the brand is taking on the big game – Lexus LS, BMW 7-series and Mercedes S-Class. So, does it come home with a trophy, or …

Keep reading

2017 Hyundai SANTA FE Ultimate – Road Test Review – By Tim Esterdahl

by

  Overlooked by many consumers, the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe is the sleeper pick by many journalists as the best full-size CUV on the market. Why the disconnect between consumers and critics? No idea, it is really that good. The Hyundai Santa Fe has been around for years and in 2012 a longer-wheel base model called the Limited hit the sales rooms. As opposed to the smaller Sport model, the Limited offers a third-row – a key item for family shoppers. It also received a different grille design, optional 19 inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust tips and its overall shape …

Keep reading

1952 Mercedes-Benz W194 4

This Exact 1952 Mercedes-Benz W194 Won Lemans

by

Just parked up on the lawn in front of the Mercedes stand!  Read into the details of W194 number 7 and you quickly learn this exact car won LeMans. Impressive!   Of course, this tanker aero design hides a Super Light alloy spaceframe with giant structural sills.  Escape was via the future-icon gullwing doors. This car went on to race at the Nurburgring and as a timer in the Carrera Panamericana.   1952 Mercedes-Benz W194 Number 7

1957 Fiat-Stanguellini 1200 SPIDER AMERICA 8

1957 Fiat-Stanguellini 1200 SPIDER AMERICA [24 Photos]

by

  I promise you have never tripped over something so lovely.  This TINY Fiat Stanguellini is even tinier than a doorstop.  Its ultra rounded nosecone/intake is a joyous production version of the rocket/jetage themes in high auto design of the era.  1957 but conceived in the hearts and minds of the world’s car-designers together about 1953.  Tailfins, streamlined aero and UFO-like body shaping. Without advanced CAD-CAM there was no way to know what truly worked in wind tunnels.  So if it looked right, it would fly right was the old adage. This 1200 Spider America flies right.  A bite-sized dream. Is …

Keep reading

2017 Nissan ARMADA Platinum – Road Test Review – By Tim Esterdahl

by

In a segment long dominated by the Chevy Tahoe and the GMC Yukon, the 2017 Nissan Armada arrives to take them both head on. With a huge interior and plenty of horsepower under the hood along with a very unique style, it is bold challenger, yet does it truly measure up? Yes and it might just surprise many large SUV buyers. Fresh off a one-year hiatus, the 2017 Armada is back with new looks, improved V8 and loads of safety and security tech. It continues Nissan’s push to be more than a low-budget volume seller and instead be a major …

Keep reading

2017 VW Golf R 6-Speed Manual – HD Road Test Review

by

How does the Golf R’s halo/hero status match up with reality in your garage? Well, it scores huge with 5-second sprints and a $36,475 price right off the bat.  Then you get Golf R into its race mode and HANG ON for its throaty brummm up redline/supralegal speed. It’s been a thrilling few months of hot hatch and performance car reviews around here – so we feel well-placed to judge this hot hatch king.  Focus RS will be the main competitor for comparisons, but also feedback on how Audi S3 differs too.  Longtime Subaru WRX fan/owner helps to appreciate Golf …

Keep reading

2017 GMC Acadia DENALI – Road Test Review – By Tim Esterdahl

by

  GMC angling to be a “premium brand” these days — a long way from their trucks’ deserved reputation as rebadged Chevrolets.  GMC has definitely changed, but not everything makes sense. The 2017 GMC Acadia Denali is a perfect example of this. It is essentially a rebadged Chevrolet Traverse with upgraded features and luxury. Do these luxury features push it to another level above the Traverse? Absolutely, yet they may do more harm than good. The 2017 GMC Acadia is one of several SUV models offered by GMC these days as the brand works to find complements to its better-selling Yukon Denali and Sierra …

Keep reading

2017 Rolls-Royce DAWN - Inspired by Fashion 8

2017 Rolls-Royce DAWN – Bespoke Inspired By Fashion

by

  The Dawn might be the best Rolls-Royce yet! Stunning grace and top-down proportions.  Swapping the Wraith’s heavy, buttressed roof lightens the look of the car dramatically.  The tail of the Dawn is then perfect for a perfectly horizontal tonneau cover and trunklid.  Truly elegant. This Inspired By Fashion creation is from the RR Bespoke team.  Andalusian white paintwork is a shimmery spectacle in bright sunlight.  THe cabin wears blue silk detailing featuring a profile headshot of the Spirt of Ecstacy.  So, looking at her from the side, that is. Little details, of course.  But the roof in bright blue …

Keep reading

2017 Mercedes-Maybach S650 2

2017 Mercedes-Maybach S650 Convertible [24 Photos]

by

The new Mercedes-Maybach strategy is to offer multiple special variants of production Mercedes models.  It makes more sense than the stand-alone Maybach brand — but appeals to the same types of people. People who want/need to one-up their wealthy neighbors. Yes, this S650 looks quite different than an S550 Cabriolet.  It is a gilded, glittery dream versus that plebian weakling! But the S650 basically looks and feels exactly like the S65 AMG. Same grille and lower brightwork garnish, same seats and cabin with stenciled woods. Different wheels and perhaps different suspension tuning for the slightly-quicker V12TT engine variant also mark …

Keep reading

2017 Porsche Panamera TURBO Exterior 19

2017 Porsche Panamera TURBO – Startup/Exhaust Video + 44 Photos

by

  The new Panamera Turbo is all about headline numbers versus the rest of the range. 3.4-seconds to 60-mph. 190-mph top speed. All-new 4.0-liter twin turbo V8 with 550HP and a snarl worthy of the Porsche crest. The exterior is indeed very evolutionary from up front.  New PDLS+ and LED matrix lighting sets the car apart as the new model, as do the new intercoolers behind every nose hole.  Intercooler as fashion statement!  They are bright silver so definitely stand out to the eye — in the best way.   Around the side and rear end, the car looks much …

Keep reading

2017 VW Jetta GLI 2.0T 6MT – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

Crave the delectable deliciousness of a German Sport Sedan, but don’t have the coin for an Audi, BMW or Benz? We’ve got a solution for you. The Jetta GLI sedan. Yes, a Jetta. With all the heavy-duty incentive, low-low financing, come-on-down-to-your friendly V-Dub dealer ads for garden variety Jettas, you might have forgotten VW’s love letter to the Sport Sedan. And it’s a tough world for sedans these days. With the heat for crossovers and the newfound interest in hatchbacks, the pickings for the discerning sedan driver on a budget are few. In the spectrum of things, there’s the hard-edged …

Keep reading

2017 Maserati LEVANTE 4

2017 Maserati LEVANTE at Amelia Island Concours [22 Photos]

by

The new Levante in Blu Emozione paintwork is gorgeous and quite unique in its design.  We love its serious, toothy nose and sharky hood/grille edge.  Not as sure about the rear three-quarter angle or the slightly narrow-looking rubber. The truck is even more special on the inside, where it is lined with Zegna cashmere, leathers and suedes from roof to floor.  Quite pretty.  Not a huge back seat but decent trunk room versus F-Pace or the Cayenne/Macan. The Levante starts from $74k  with 350HP while the S kicks off from $84k with a tuned V6TT making 424 ponies.  2017 Maserati …

Keep reading

2017 Mercedes-Benz G550 4x4 15

2017 Mercedes-Benz G550 4×4 at Amelia Island Concours [45 Photos]

by

  Ever wanted a truck that was so outrageous it might stop traffic dead on sight? Welcome to the G-Class 4×4-squared. This G550 4×4 even upstages the G65 parked right beside it.  This “normal” twin-turbo V12 G-wagen looks like a child’s toy parked next to the 4×4! The G65 and this G550 are actually priced pretty similarly.  The 4×4 comes in G550 and G63 variants, with this G550 coming in at about $220k.  The G65 is just a few thousand more and will be MUCH quicker.  But not nearly as outlandish.   2017 Mercedes-Benz G550 4×4

DSC_0084 copy

2017 Porsche 718 Cayman S – Autocross Drive Video

by

The new 718 Cayman and Cayman S certainly are not baby Porsches any more!  These are proper track stars in any configuration.  The price gap between the Cayman and 911 is now pretty wide — about $75k ($54k base) plays about $90k and up for the big brother. As ever, most of the goodies you will really want are optional and can take the price of the 911 in particular easily into the 130s for a Carrera 2S. So Cayman seems like a viable, smart choice. Power from the new 718 Cayman S comes from a turbo four for the …

Keep reading

2017 Porsche 911 GT3RS 6

2017 Porsche 911 GT3RS – 180MPH Ride Along

by

  Hearing and feeling the 911 GT3 RS pull a smooth-yet-violent launch start followed by savage fullthrottle all the way to 180-mph was a life highlight we got to enjoy this weekend. Granted, the queasy stomach feeling from all the launch and acceleration G-force did ruin me for mere mortal vehicles. Even Focus RS felt a but slow getting out of this Porsche. The other most memorable element?  The ring in your ears from the boxer six at full chat.  Not sure if it is the fuel pumps or the simple engine harmonics — but this is a heavenly sound …

Keep reading

2018 Lexus LS500 6

Design Analysis: 2018 Lexus LS500 at Amelia Island Concours [23 Photos]

by

A car whose in-person effect was knee-weakening? This new LS500. So, so new and so revolutionary for the Lexus icon.  Wait until you see this car’s unreal side sculpting and ultra-LWB, fastback-like proportions.  Its nose wears a next-gen level of sculpting throughout the bumper and hood.  The grille almost takes a back seat to the intensely low, long and muscular fenders and slim LED headlights.  The new DRL’s little lashes are intriguing too. The LS and its ultra low new nose and long hood lead the eye to the windshield.  Check out the rake angle!  This is seriously streamlined and likely …

Keep reading

2017 Mercedes-AMG C63S Cabriolet 25

2017 Mercedes-AMG C63S Cabriolet at Amelia Island [25 Photos]

by

Even parked up between the V12TT SL65 and S65 AMGs… this new C63 Cab has real style and presence.  Massive wheels and fenders are overflowing with performance and aggression from all sides. The C63’s active exhaust and Sport+ mode engage a deep, ripping bark from the exhaust was enough to draw a crowd of hooray’s from the Ritz parking area.  Its cabin impressed too.  Far better looking than new SL… The C43 starts at $61k while the C63 is priced from $73k in the USA. 2017 Mercedes-AMG C63S Cabriolet  

1930 Alfa Romeo 1750GS Testa Fissa 4

Amelia Island 2017 – 1930 Alfa Romeo 1750GS Testa Fissa [27 Photo]

by

Here is a stunning racer that stands proud even in a line of million-dollar one-offs at Amelia Island Concours 2017. What really spoke to us about this Alfa Romeo is its artful, graceful and yet quite serious racing bodywork.  The chassis is fully shrouded for aero smoothness — right down to the louvered frame section down below, covered arrow steel for the front suspension, and teardrop tail with zero shutlines.  It is basically a one-piece clamshell for most of the metal!  Even the windshield is a nice flip of metalwork. Quite special in the flesh.  This car raced extensively in …

Keep reading

2018 Lexus LC500h Exterior Amelia 14

2018 Lexus LC500h at Amelia Island Concours [44 Photos]

by

Kicking off the slew of posts we have to write from the always-fun Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. Amelia Island’s tight layout in the Ritz Carlton hotel in northeast Florida makes for a thrilling sensory overload.  Every step means a one-off car you’ve never seen, never imagined.  Needless to say, you can’t believe your eyes — so much HOT metal! Amelia excels in new-car promotions as well as the pre-war etc Concours categories.  After all, 10k rabid car fans in one place?  Oh, and they are wealthy!?  Let’s do a ride-and-drive! Alfa, Rolls, McLaren, Porsche, Infiniti and Jaguar were the stands. …

Keep reading

2017 Ford Explorer PLATINUM Exterior 33

2017 Ford Explorer Platinum 4×4 – HD Road Test Review

by

As recently as ten years ago, all you had to ask for was a seven-seat SUV. The options were pretty limited and you found your way into various full-size Suburbans or Expeditions. These days, car shoppers have to get a lot more specific.  There are over 50 SUV and crossover models capable of seating seven.  But they are certainly not all equally capable. The Ford Explorer aims to be one of the largest mid-size SUVs out there – one with real seating in the third row and decent luggage room with all seats up.  The Explorer is very-much an SUV versus a …

Keep reading

2017 Nissan Sentra NISMO – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

Is the new Sentra NISMO heir to the SE-R throne? That depends on who you ask. And really, ask the right person. Why? Well there’s a lot of snobbery, and it seems to come from people who haven’t taken the trouble to even drive the car. And they’re missing out. From the enthusiast camp, the issue seems to be the expectations based on the NISMO name – that you should expect BMW M Division, Mercedes AMG level commitment to performance. While we think that’s true in the GT-R NISMO and 370Z NISMO, when it comes to models like the Sentra …

Keep reading

b17aa0102

2017 Brabus 550 Adventure G-Class 4×4² – Geneva Debut

by

Brabus starts with G550 4×4-squared mod with one of the most pumped-up factory trucks of all time: the G-Class 4×4.  This widebody, lifted offroad special now has a huge bump in power, sound and jungle capability.  Brabus sells the complete vehicle — which is convenient one-stop shopping for the world’s millionaire travelers!     2017 Brabus 550 Adventure G-Class 4×4² World premiere at the Geneva Auto Show 2017   BRABUS 550 ADVENTURE 4×4²   The exclusive extreme off-roader with 404 kW / 550 HP, 800 Nm of torque and exclusive BRABUS equipment   BRABUS 550 ADVENTURE 4×4²: The world’s largest independent …

Keep reading

2017 Fittipaldi EF7 Vision Gran Turismo By Pininfarina 3

2017 Fittipaldi EF7 By Pininfarina – Geneva Debut LIVE

by

What if Sony’s Gran Turismo physics engine was SO GOOD at predicting which cars would win races… that you could designa car expressly to excel in Vision GT and have it be a world-challenger right from the start? That is the idea behind the Fittipaldi EF7 by Pininfarina.  This concept car launches the new Fittipaldi Motors today in Geneva.  Aiming to rival Ferrari and McLaren and the rest, the EF7 takes a design-led approach that is holistic: light and ultra strong chassis, race-levels of grip and speed, and aerodynamics to make the EF7 unbreakable on any track surface. We love …

Keep reading

2017 McLaren 720S Reveals Active Aero and Hyperflowing Design [w/ Track Video)

by

Hyper-flowing? That is not a word and is vague at best to describe the milky, smooth and rounded look of the new 720s.  The machine actually looks like a direct successor to the F1 flagship of the 1990s.  In a great way! But the look is certainly evolved even versus the latest P1 that just wrapped up production.  The ideas for this new Super Series McLaren are to leverage P1-style active aero, new chassis software for the full-hydraulic suspension that can tweak each corner massively in milliseconds, and overall make the most of the revised V8TT.  This 4.0liter unit now …

Keep reading

1AQ2Y7059 copy

2.8s 2017 Mercedes-AMG GT Concept – LIVE Geneva Debut in 40 Pics

by

Does this car live up to its preshow hype!?  YES! A four-door fastback supercar with the space of Panamera but the speed of 911 Turbo? Quite a potent blend. The concept wears much body adornment and even a hybrid ERS powertrain teaser.  But this shape is certainly en route to buyers VERY SOON with the standard (!) turbo V8s we have come to know and love from AMG. Look for pricing around 200k when this car makes its way to showrooms about a year from today. Worst thing about it so far?  The name?  This is the AMG GT … …

Keep reading

1AQ2Y7223

2017 Bentley EXP 12 Speed 6e Concept – Geneva Debut w/ Video

by

We can’t wait for the next generation of ‘small’ Bentleys to start arriving!  No longer saddled with its Audi and VW platform, the Bentley range is set to take a big leap up the performance charts. The revolution started with the Speed 6 concept and now continues with this hybrid Speed 6e cabriolet. Its beauty is nothing short of a stunning!  Still a high bathtub shape in profile, but look closer.  Intricate details like the lower sills and even the hood are carved out, scultped for aero and cleanly proportioned like no recently Flying B. The cabin of this two-seater …

Keep reading

2017 Citroen DS7 Crossback – Yay or Nay?

by

And now… for something completely different! Citroen is a favorite around here thanks to its wild designs, brave vision and often-odd product lineups.  Long a hero of urban France, the brand actually has great reach into central/south America and much of Asia.  One place in Asia, in particular.  No prizes for knowing it! The CHinese market has embraced Citroen’s designer flair and euro drive manners.  Especially its upscale DS brand. This new DS7 Crossback is the closest thing to a globally-competitive flagship SUV from any of the French brands.  This five-seater is stunningly luxurious, high-tech and high-style. A 300HP plugin-hybrid …

Keep reading

INFINITI - Project Black S FIRST image R - 6 March 2017 4k

2017 INFINITI Q60 Black S Concept

by

Buckle up, bros! THe hottest-ever Infiniti just debuted with the Black S badge.  This race-ready M4 GTS rival is packing ERS hybrid tech to rocket the machine out of corners — even faster than stock!   The Red Sport 400 — aka the red S in the Q60S badge — is already a hero over here.  Adore.  SuperCoupe of the Year. SO this variant with its extreme aero, grip and powertrain upgrades? Nothing short of elation. More details to follow. 2017 INFINITI Q60 Project Black S Concept     Mar 3, 2017 Introducing Project Black S – an exploration of …

Keep reading

IMG_4399

2017 Audi S3 – Photo Slideshow + 50 Extra Pics!

by

  50 pics of the new S3 that didn’t make it into the review — but too pretty not to share! In addition, a video slideshow of the review pics (not these..) for those who want to just lean back and soak it in. That mansion in some of the pics is Drayton Hall, a home completed in 1742.  This makes it one of the oldest surviving structures in the United States. 2017 Audi S3 Quattro S-tronic – HD Road Test Review       2017 Audi S3   2017 Audi S3 Quattro S-tronic – HD Road Test Review

2017 Audi S3 Quattro S-tronic – HD Road Test Review

by

This big question you have for yourself when spending near $50k for a compact exec car is:  does the performance upgrade make up for its lack of scale? For the same money as the revised 2017 S3, you can find yourself in a (small-engined) fullsize luxury car like Genesis G80 or even Audi’s own A6. While that is a rational thoughtline for your brain, it all goes out the window in real life. The money spent upgrading an A3 to this S3 quattro sedan with S-tronic all goes directly to your cheeks.  To help you smile bigger, and laugh harder! …

Keep reading

2017 Maserati LEVANTE By Brabus-StarTech

by

Levante is pretty intense in the flesh.  A macho chin and shark nose up front, but ultra low roof tapering to nothing in the back. But how to take some of Maserati’s trim and style choices up a few big notches? StarTech to the rescue.  This Brabus brand has a full line of Levante parts available for shipping worldwide.  Pick a few or go for the works…! Granted, finding tires for the 23s on this Geneva showtruck might be tricky.  Such is life… in the fastlane.   Scratch that: this truck runs centerlock 21s.  More info below the gallery. 2017 …

Keep reading

2017 Cadillac ATS 3

2017 Cadillac ATS 3.6 Performance – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

Drive this Cadillac and you’ll never want an Electric Vehicle. Ever. We’ve been having this discussion lately. While some of our friends are having eye-watering fantasies about driving the new Tesla to 60 mph in under 3 seconds, we’re rather meh on the whole deal. And you can blame this Cadillac ATS for that. The Caddy doesn’t try to redefine the sport sedan segment – and it doesn’t need to. What the ATS does is remind you about everything a great sport sedan brings to the table, lays it out in front of you, and invites you to dig in. …

Keep reading

2017 KIA Soul Turbo – Road Test Review – By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman

by

Kia sells a full lineup of excellent vehicles, from small economy sedans and crossovers, to mid and full size sedans and Suv’s . They even build a luxury sedan rivaling some of the best from Japan and Europe.  They have many hybrid models, and even a fully electric car.  But their best-selling model is the Soul. This compact crossover is designed to appeal to the young Millennial generation, but even this old greybeard find it an engaging vehicle that provides a lot of features, roomy interior, gas mileage economy in a fun package. For 2017, Kia has upped the fun …

Keep reading

2017 VW Golf TSI SEL (Wolfsburg Edition) – Road Test Review w/ Video

by

Three tentpole themes define the VW Golf SEL for 2017:  its discreetly sporty drive manners, its intense build quality, and how the SEL might be sweet spot of the Golf line.  Some clarity into the SEL vs Wolfsburg trims, too. This post is centered on the very-good performance drive video below.  We start outside the car and hop in to floor it down some country roads.  Then a right turn into one of the twistiest roads we have here by the Atlantic Ocean here in South Carolina.   Fun to Drive There we find the Golf’s mid-spec 1.8-liter turbo plays very nicely …

Keep reading

2017 Nissan Maxima SR Midnight Edition – HD Road Test Review

by

Is the coolest Maxima in ages also the best? We found out over a week of driving the 2017 Maxima SR Midnight and came away impressed, if full of caveats.  And understanding some of the fanboy hate for the Maxima’s drivetrain these days. We didn’t get too bogged down by worries about how true a 4DSC the Maxima really is in this generation.  You see, describing Maxima as a four-door sports car sets some pretty unrealistic performance expectations. Let’s explore this complex car for what it is: a stylish and comfortable full-size sedan that is blessed with a standard 300-horse V6. Breaking …

Keep reading

Vaeth GLC_9

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC By VAETH – Not Quite GLC500 But Style Is Hot

by

Slammed stance, great grip and pipes… annnnd it’s a diesel.  Wham.  Slight disappointment but an interesting look regardless. For example, why not remove the 220d from the trunk?  And why with this deeply lowered suspension… are there running boards?  The hood is definitely open in these pics, by the way. Oh well.  The power bump is modest but also well-priced for an ECU reflash. 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC By VAETH VÄTH LAUNCHED A GLC Photos: Jordi Miranda VÄTH in Hösbach near Aschaffenburg gained worldwide recognition with their two business segments, automobile technology and engine technology. Vehicles from Mercedes-Benz and AMG are …

Keep reading

2017 Nissan TITAN Pro-4X V8 - Exterior Photos - By Ben Lewis 14

2017 Nissan TITAN Pro4X V8 – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

  The full-size pickup truck is as American as BBQ, and it sells like hot cakes. But it’s not something just Ford, GM and Dodge have noticed. While Nissan and Toyota both have made strong inroads in the compact pickup truck market, they’ve long wanted a slice – even a sliver – of that huge Full-size pie. Well for 2017 we have an all-new bigger, better, Titan. Did Nissan get the recipe right, or are they going to end up being extra crispy? Well, they’ve certainly given it their best shot. Outside of the Nissan badge on the hood, this …

Keep reading

2017 Ford Ranger By MR Car Design 7

2017 Ford Ranger By MR Car Design Is Global Raptor Junior

by

Wow, it is hard to get used to saying Ford Ranger again!  But we’ll need in a few years here in the USA. Global truck guys, of course, have never lost their Ranger.  This upfit by MR Car Design is Germany is a fun Raptor Junior of a baja upgrade. 2017 Ford Ranger By MR Car Design A dazzling FORD RANGER by MR CAR DESIGN Photos: MR Car Design e. K. The experts of MR Car Design in Erftstadt, near the Rhine, are very well-respected for their exclusive tuning, as well as for the refinement of sports cars and luxurious …

Keep reading

fostla AMG S 63_6

2017 Mercedes-AMG S63 Coupe By FOSTLA.de Is Dripping Blue Chrome

by

Have you ever seen a real car that looks more like a digital dream?  A rendering — too good to be true. Well, this latest wrap by Fostla.de achieves a rare blue chrome matte blue that is as unique as it is seductive.  These new matte finishes are still highly metallic and have more of a satin look than a dull effect, in the flesh.   2017 Mercedes-AMG S63 Coupe By FOSTLA.de   FOSTLA.DE reveals an AUTOMOBILE METAMORPHOSIS Photos: fostla.de Fostla.de, located in Hannover, is the first place to look for a truly spectacular vehicle makeover and a significant upgrade …

Keep reading

DSC_0242

2017 Lexus RX350 – Design Analysis Video with 40 New Photos

by

Here are some very pretty photos and an informative video walkaround of the best-selling Lexus RX.  Count the vehicle as a solid follow-up to the smooth, comfy and quiet Lexus crossover hero.  As dull/proven as the powertrains are, it is really the exterior design of the new RX350 that future-proofs such a familiar machine. The cabin will seal the deal among previous owners not wild about the new full-frame grille!  It is much more luxurious and one of the smoothest-riding SUVs we’ve ever driven. For a half-dozen more articles and drive reviews of the Lexus RX, be sure to check …

Keep reading

2017 PAGANI Huayra Roadster – Official Debut

by

  Pagani’s latest creations always shake the Earth a little bit for hypercar fans.  This is a machine that makes a 918 Spyder feel like a Boxster. And so it is for the most beautiful Pagani yet: the Huayra Roadster. Twin rooves come standard: a glass targa panel and a soft-top kit for the frunk. Both promise an easy way to enjoy the AMG V12’s 770HP right over your ear. Added bonus for the Huayra Roadster?  You have a much better view of the rear wings and their g-force reactive moves around corners.  These slim planes of carbon create active …

Keep reading

2017 INFINITI Q60 Red Sport 400 - Oaks Photoset 1

Widescreen Mega Gallery – 2017 INFINITI Q60 RS400 in 130 Original Photos

by

The Q60 Red Sport 400 could be our favorite car of the year.  Granted, we are early in 2017.  Would love to drive something as joyful as this RS400! We just crowned the Q60 RS400 our SuperCoupe of the year in the full review over here. But with 2200 words and five videos.. that URL got pretty crowded. So here is a photo-focused post.  Just 130 beautiful photos of this beautiful car.  Enjoy!   Photo Slideshow Video     2017 INFINITI Q60 RS400    

2017 INFINITI Q60 Red Sport 400 - Exterior Photos 20

2017 INFINITI Q60 Red Sport 400 – HD Road Test Review

by

The Infiniti Q60 is a rolling climax.  This is a car whose excellence is the stuff of dreams.  Made real, this design and powertrain come together to become the stuff of legends. One week with the car is far too short.  We can still hear its ultra-smooth twin-turbo surge toward its redline.  Still feel its back wheels break traction in the smoothest, most nonchalant drifts and burnouts ever.  And still see its stunning beauty as it becomes more special, more breathtaking from each angle. With pricing from $51k but power that nearly matches the BMW M4 costing $25k more, the …

Keep reading

Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing celebrate 10 years of collabor

2018 Mercedes-AMG GTR x Marauder AMG Twins for Miami Boat Show

by

The new AMG Marauder 50-foot race-boat will need to be extra special to upstage the 2018 AMG GTR! This hottest-ever AMG GT is a personal favorite thanks to its stunning design and performance.   Being bright green helps us go from like to LOVE. Here is the release for the cigarette racing collaboration – plus the launch image pack for the GTR. 2018 Mercedes-AMG GT R Driving Performance on land and on the water Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing celebrate 10 years of collaboration by unveiling the stunning new 2017 50′ Marauder AMG inspired by the Mercedes-AMG GT R  Feb 16, …

Keep reading

MANSORY Geneva Showstoppers – Top Five Wildest One-Offs

by

If you ever ask yourself, ‘ Hey, I wonder what Mansory has been up to lately,’ you are in for some fireworks. Mansory’s exotic customs are some of the most lavish and exclusive in the world.  And the latest set does not disappoint! Most striking are the cars they use as their starting points.  Seriously special metal to begin with… then gilded and leathered and ostriched to the max! Gatorskin cabin? Cobalt inlays? Diamonds to match? They do it all. For 2017, Mansory is bringing their new Rolls-Royce Dawn, Bentley Bentayga, AMG GT and a pair of G-Wagens.  Their G63 …

Keep reading

USA-Bound 2017 Lotus Exclusive EVORA 410 Honors Submersible Bond Esprit

by

Two pieces of cool news in this new Lotus Exclusives special:  a salute to one of the coolest movie cars of all time AND news that a US-legal version of the Evora 410 is headed to the USA around May of 2017. The Lotus Exclusive team rebodied parts of the Evora Sport 410’s nose and tail to make it a true homage to the 1970s Lotus Esprit S1 that James Bond used so deftly to escape the bad guys on a mountain road… before driving off a cliff! Oh no! But wait: in one of the greatest Bond (and action …

Keep reading

2017 Genesis G80 5

2017 Genesis G80 5.0 Ultimate – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

Heads up: you need to be on the lookout for 5-0. In this case, it’s not Steve McGarrett and his task force careening around on Oahu. It’s a luxury sedan from Hyundai’s newly-minted Genesis division, and in this case, it’s looking to take on the existing marks including the highly-prized BMW 5-series. And you know what? We might opt for the G. It’s that good. First, some housekeeping. The name Genesis has been around for a bit. In 2009, we had the first Hyundai Genesis sedan, and then it was freshened up for 2015. For 2017, though, the Hyundai has been …

Keep reading

2017 Jeep Cherokee TRAILHAWK – HD Road Test Review Plus 2 Videos

by

True or False: The Cherokee Trailhawk is just as serious an upgrade as any M car from BMW — but tailored to making the Jeep unstoppable offroad versus chopping its track laptimes. Preposterous comparison?  M car versus Trailhawk package? We might have thought so too until spending a week in the Trailhawk and testing out its off-road drive systems (on video below!) on some deep mud/clay here in South Carolina. The transformation of the Cherokee in off-road beastmode is as dramatic as any Sport Plus on a high-performance car.  Perhaps even more-so for how intense the drivetrain becomes in its 4Low …

Keep reading

Der neue Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet: Streng limitiert: Open-Air-Luxus on- und offroad

2017 Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet – Ragtop V12TT G-Wagen!?

by

HOLY ****!  You are not going to believe the latest G-Class mutant from Mercedes-Maybach. It is dubbed the G650 Landauletand incorporates the hardcore suspension and chassis mods from the 4×4-squared, a monster V12TT powerplant… and an open-roofed limo cockpit! So much to take in.  Soak up the official details and 25 photos of this incredibly fun new way to spend $750 large. Love it! 2017 Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet The new Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet: Strictly limited: open-air luxury both on- and off-road 13. February 2017 Stuttgart *Fuel consumption combined: 17.0 l/100 km, CO2 emissions combined: 397 g/km Stuttgart. A …

Keep reading

2018 Dodge Durango SRT

4.4s, 475HP 2018 Dodge Durango SRT Revealed + Video

by

  There is something hypnotic about watching the new SRT Durango churn all four wheels in a hard burnout!  The video below is the perfect intro to such an awesome machine.  The best part of this burnout!!?  He never actually moves an inch! But the idea of the SRT392 engine with AWD and all the Hellcat-inspired suspension/grip upgrades seems insanely smart.  The numbers speak for themselves.  A 4.4-second launch matches the SRT392 itself thanks to the four-paw grip. The SRT Durango also has a giant tow rating and herculean bellow for all seven passengers to enjoy! 2018 Dodge Durango SRT …

Keep reading

2017 VW Golf SportWagen S 4Motion 7

2017 VW Golf SportWagen S 4Motion – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

Is the Golf Wagen 4Mo the cure for Diesel-departum depression? If you’re a VW fan, you know by now that the diesel (TDI to the faithful) is a goner. And that’s a big bummer to Wagon fans. We know a lot of VW Wagon owners who just looooove the great fuel economy of the TDI – making it an especially adept long range cruiser, and a great alternative to a small crossover. While you can’t get that TDI Wagen (or is it wagon?) anymore, for 2017, VW is sweetening the deal by offering the Golf SportWagen for the first time …

Keep reading

HD Road Test Review – 2016 Dodge CHALLENGER R/T Scat Pack

by

What is the best part of driving a near-500-horsepower car every day? Is it the thunderclap of this 6.4-liter V8 on startup that makes you feel as powerful as Thor?  Or might it be the savage ingear power on the highway? Or is it the sheer bloodlust feeling of all that HEMI power beneath you?  Knowing that a floored throttle — or anywhere close — will create a riotous crackle of engine, exhaust and squeeling tires is quite intoxicating. For us mere mortals, driving a car with such godlike power and pricing of about $40k is the absolute dream come …

Keep reading

2017 BUGATTI Chiron – Factory Tour Shows Incredible Build Process

by

How does one create the highest-performance vehicle in the world?  Despite being faster than any other road car once built, the Chiron takes a very measured few steps into this world.   Hand-assembly over two months and extensive testing at every step of the way is not a fast process — but is required to make sure these bleeding-edge pieces of technology are ready for primetime. And quality is critical: most of the 70 or so cars the Molsheim plant can produce annually will head to far corners of the globe.  Repairing any issues is not a simple trip down to …

Keep reading

2017 VW Jetta 1.4T SE Manual – HD Road Test Review

by

The Jetta has been the target of scorn for many years here at Car-Revs-Daily.  We quietly laughed at each redesign on the Jetta’s descent into bland hell over the last decade. All the while, longing for the cool little sedan of our memories.  The one from the clever “Synchronicity” ads with the windshield wipers/world timed to the beat.  The one almost as big and nice-driving as a base BMW.  The one with an unpretentious exterior and surprisingly high-quality cabin. The 2017 Jetta is well on its way back to greatness.  Three levels of turbo gasoline power are available, and we’re …

Keep reading

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum 4WD 9

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum 4WD – Road Test Review + New Photos!

by

  The new Pathfinder is quite the looker in this flashy Sandstone paintwork! It is quite unusual for a family crossover to attract as much attention as this beauty received in our care for a week.  The facelift definitely works at reinvigorating the Pathfinder’s style, then. But the 2017 refresh for the Pathfinder is actually more than skin-deep. An all-new 3.5-liter V6 is the big news under the redesigned hood – upping the tow rating to 6000-pounds and juicing the 0-60 times as well. Is the refresh enough to make the Pathfinder top of the class with the Toyota Highlander, …

Keep reading

2017 GMC Acadia Exteior Photos 12

2017 GMC Acadia SLT-1 FWD – HD Road Test Review

by

You know the shorthand details on the all-new 2017 Acadia from GMC:  it is 700-pounds lighter and overall far more carlike than its predecessor. While still seating six or seven with its three-row seating. Another few changes slipped out of the big news, though: the Acadia is gorgeous now, and runs a gorgeous 26-mpg highway via its standard front-drive, four-cylinder power. This is pretty huge news versus the Acadia’s at the top of the range with their big V6 engine and ubiquiotus AWD and huge wheels.  A rarity in the car-reviews business, then. We have ourselves an entry-level model to …

Keep reading

2017 Infiniti QX30 24

2017 Infiniti QX30 Premium AWD – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

Is the best new Mercedes an Infiniti? It might be. Because sneaky folks that they are, Infiniti started with a fine small SUV, the Mercedes GLA250, and then kept the good bits, massaged some of the other bits, and did a pretty major overhaul of the exterior and interior. The result is a unique blend of performance and style.  But is it enough to lure buyers of the three-pointed star to the sideways Pac Man? Well on looks alone, yes. While the GLA has that Euro-sensible look, like a taller hatchier version of the CLA sedan, the QX30 in comparison, …

Keep reading

2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit – Road Test Review – By Carl Malek

by

In the sport of mountain climbing, reaching the summit is always the endgame. All of the blood, sweat and careful planning needed to reach this tiny patch of real estate is certainly worth it once you get there. Jeep aims to replicate this feeling with the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee model lineup. Like the fore-mentioned rock formation, the Summit represents the pinnacle of Jeep luxury and capability. But can it still stand out against a crowded field of luxury SUV contenders aiming to take advantage of low fuel prices and increased demand from a new generation of customers?     …

Keep reading

DSCN4395

2017 Ford Fusion Sport AWD – Road Test Review – By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman

by

  Ford launched the Fusion back in 2006, slotting in between the smaller Focus sedan and the larger Taurus. It was an excellent offering in the crowded mid-size sedan marketplace and it was well received by the press community, and buying public. The second generation came along in 2013, with improvements and more model options, and sales got even stronger.  For 2017, a mid-cycle update brings a new model to the Ford table with the Fusion Sport. Unlike the Lexus F-Sport designations, which mainly consist of a lot of badging, and styling modifications, Ford has really put the extra money …

Keep reading

2017 Honda CR-V 1.5T AWD Touring – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

  An exciting new twist with the 2017 CR-V.  Five of them, in fact!~ Honda’s really got us spinning with the all-new CR-V. And while it already was one of the very best, they’ve done a lot of things – big and small – to make sure it keeps its leadership position.   Twist 1: It will turn heads: CR-V’s have always been modern, contemporary vehicles, but not Wowzers. Until now. First of all, the new CR-V looks noticeably bigger, and it is. Give partial credit to the smaller HR-V being offered so its big brother can stretch out. The …

Keep reading

2016 INFINITI QX60 3.5 AWD – HD Road Test Review – By Tom Burkart

by

  Is carlike handling and seating for seven too much to ask for in the luxury car market?  Mainstream brands seem to have this formula pretty well nailed with the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot. But name a three-row, car-based crossover from a luxury brand that really delivers easy access, kid-friendly tech and a price less than $75k! Sure, there is the Mercedes-Benz GLS or the Audi Q7.  But both of those big, heavy trucks drive like forklifts around town and in carpool lanes.  Yes, you have the Lexus GX460 or Range Rover Sport to consider.  But those third rows …

Keep reading

2017-Honda-Civic-Sport-5-Door-1sd

2017 Honda CIVIC Sport 6MT Hatchback – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

Civic loyalists, your car is back! If you’ve wanted a performance Civic hatch, it’s been a long wait.  The last one was in 2003! In Si form, that Civic five-door was a neat little car.  We especially liked the rally-style shifter mounted high on the center console, the sport bucket seats, and the large (for Honda) 2.0-liter with i-VTEC. And while not a nose-bleed revver like the smaller Civics, it was still fun to drive hard. But that was 14 years ago! And while we’ve had plenty of enjoyable Civics to drive, they’ve only been offered in Coupe and Sedan …

Keep reading

b17aa0003

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class by BRABUS – First Look

by

Well that didn’t take long!  Brabus has revealed their first steps at refining the W213 E-Class today, with upgrades to the aero, styling, power and sound.  Mostly plug-and-play modules for the ride height and the engine power mods — which is great for overseas clients to do themselves.  Also some design upgrades and added aggression via a new performance exhaust.   2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class by BRABUS Red-hot:  Exclusive BRABUS refinement for the new E-Class Mercedes-Benz continues the long success story of the E-Class with the W 213 model series, and BRABUS (Brabus-Allee, D-46240 Bottrop, phone + 49 / (0) 2041 …

Keep reading

2016 VW Golf R Lapiz Blue by Lyndon Johnson 5

2016 VW Golf R – Road Test Review – By Lyndon Johnson

by

You read the headline correctly: This is a review of a 2016 VW Golf R — not a 2017. Why are we just now getting to review this model? Because when a car is this good, every media outlet wants to drive it. Luck of the draw meant we got this Lapiz Blue example of the 2016 Golf R late in the calendar year. That’s how it goes sometimes. The Golf R is now available as a 2017 model, with an MSRP starting a little bit north of $35K and topping out at $40,475. We hear you saying it: “Forty-large …

Keep reading

2017 Chrysler Pacifica – HD Drive Review – VAN OF THE YEAR Award-Winner

by

Forget what you know about minivans. Forget being sure that the Odyssey or Sienna were top of their class for quality, luxury and comfort. They are not. Both Odyssey and Sienna are firmly outclassed by the new Chrysler Pacifica. To an extent that is shocking! This fact is clear in the first block of a Pacifica test drive: the van drives like a luxury car, is quieter than some luxury cars, and has tech to shade any other family machine on the market. We have 50 photos, an HD drive review and section headings of Exterior, Interior, performance and Pricing …

Keep reading

_DSC6204

2017 Nissan Vmotion 2.0 Shows Razor-Sharp New Design Direction

by

Vmotion 2.0 is Nissan’s big concept reveal at Detroit this year, and it is pretty mouth-watering! This is wholly a design and automated-driving prototype — one that does not directly preview any particular production model.  More than that: it actually previews all of them.  The Altima is next up for a big refresh from Nissan, and it is likely to wear much of this chic new style when it materializes as a 2019 model. Will it also integrate the ‘Nissan Intelligent Mobility’ tech that is at the core of this vehicle?  Namely, the ProPILOT auto-driving functions? Yes, yes it will. …

Keep reading

2018_Lexus_LC_500h_012_D5B9420A809AF85753E19B93ABAFBF4F24B578E4

471HP, ~3.8s 2018 Lexus LC500 Pricing and Options Announced

by

The stunning new LC500 has a pricetag and options list!! The car is making its first appearances at Lexus corporate offices this week ahead of its showroom arrival around April or May of 2017 as a 2018 model. Two variants: the Lc500 making 471 ponies and the LC500h making 354HP for its full hybrid drivetrain are priced from $93k and $97k, respectively. A handful of very desirable options are not to be forgotten when pricing out this hot supercoupe: the Touring pack at four grand and the Sport packages at a few grand more. The Sport pack includes a limited-slip differential …

Keep reading

2017_NAIAS_2018_Lexus_LS_500_009_AC00A447A81271D3136EE23C323147B340D4C794

2018 Lexus LS500 Debuts All-New Flagship with 4.5s Turbo 10-Speed and Standard LWB

by

The new Lexus LS just debuted in Detroit with some shocking advancements in style, luxury and performance. First things first: the powertrain of the creamy cruiser is now a 3.5-liter twin-turb oV6 making 415 horsepower.  Through the standard 10-speed automatic, the new LS promises a brisk flash t o60-mph in just 4.5-seconds. The machine is longer than before: its 123-inch wheelbase is up 1.3-inches versus even the LWB LS460L/LS600hL from the existing generation.  A lower rear roofline but much more enveloping rear seating keeps legroom limo-huge. The design itself is also a big leap into the future.  With a nose …

Keep reading

2017 BMW M4 Competition Package Convertible 20

2017 BMW M4 Competition Pack Convertible – First Drive Photos/Video

by

Inviting some hate with this string of VERY hot and desirable cars! While rocking the absolutely astounding 2017 Q60S Red Sport 400 from Infiniti as my test car, I found myself behind the wheel of a car costing $18k more.  And wearing bright Alpine White over gloss black of the BMW M4 Competition Package. Added bonus?  This is the folding hardtop! Such a joyful drive.  With the top down, you can really immerse yourself in the popping and snarking quad pipes of the race exhaust.  The spider-spoke alloys off the M4 GTS looks impossibly large in the M4’s flared, flexing …

Keep reading

2018 Genesis G80 Sport Shows Gorgeous New Style, V6TT Upgrade

by

There might not be any bigger Genesis fans than the good folks here at Car-Revs-Daily.com.  Just check out the love-fest of reviews at this link if you are skeptical! But what have we wished for?  More grip and sportier style.  And of course, a 20-percent bump on horsepower is always invited! The G80 Sport addresses all these wishes and more.  Under the sexy new hood, the new 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 puts out a stout 365HP and oodles of low-end torque.  Rear or AWD are set to be offered on the G80 Sport when it arrives midyear as a 2018 model in …

Keep reading

2017 KIA SOUL! Turbo DCT – HD Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

The Kia Soul has been one of the most successful small ‘utes in history.  Those engaging Hamster commercials did a great job of renting some space in our minds. When the Soul was redesigned, we saw the hamsters hit the gym, slim down, and start dressing like Daniel Craig in the Bond films. But what happens when the carmaker introduces the turbo, double-clutch 2017 Kia Soul! (pronounced “exclamation”)? Hamsters on steroids! And we have to give Kia credit for putting the loveable Soul on the juice, because they could probably sell every one they make already. It’s a great little …

Keep reading

2017 BMW i Inside Future Sculpture Previews HoloActive Gesture Controls

by

Has BMW i just gone off the deep end entirely?  The iPerformance range in the 3 series (330e) and X5 40e is smooth and creamy — literally — on the road.  Yet the plugin hybrid electrics do drive like normal, high-speed BMWs. But my word.  Getting past the clutter of the “BMW i” language and descriptors, not to mention their designs and prices, mean these new innovations are definitely still in their infancy. Case in point? The below press release, which is virtually unintelligible.  It is so up its own a** that you have a hard time knowing the CARS …

Keep reading

161226_VW04_400_PATHED_Edit_Front

2018 VW Atlas R-Line First Look – Arrives May 2017 to USA Showrooms!

by

No big power bump on the Atlas yet, but this R-Line upgrade is the sportiest we’ve seen yet! Available as a style and grip tweak to the 235HP turbo four or 276-pony V6, the R-Line adds unique 20-inch alloys and a very chic new appearance front and rear.  Baby steps! The Atlas itself is en route to production and a showroom arrival by around April of 2017 in the USA.  Yes! It is true.  The truck is on the way! In fact, based on these pics… we’d say it is already in pre-production as we speak!  It cannot come soon …

Keep reading

RM017_069FNgievdgv0vlfult27c8865a2vbr

2017 RAM Rebel BLACK PACK Revealed Ahead of Detroit Show

by

The NAIAS is shaping up to be a whopper — with dozens upon dozens of new machines set to make their first appearances later this week. How to earn some press with all that clutter?  Go for an earoly release! That is RAM’s idea for their latest special edition: the Rebel Black Pack. Hard not to love a black pack, and the Ram Rebel is a terrific starting point. Check out the details and first photos below.   2017 RAM REBEL BLACK NEW RAM 1500 REBEL “BLACK” SHOWN FOR THE FIRST TIME AT 2017 NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW Ram …

Keep reading

2.5s, 830HP 2017 Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabrio By Wimmer RST

by

How do you go from about 550 horsepower to well past 800?  Carefully! Wimmer RennSportTechnik has spent months developing their latest engine magic for the latest 911 Turbo S.  A wholesale revamp of the engine electronics, breathing and even mechanicals was required to have such Bugatti-like boost flowing through the H6TT motor. The results are quite shocking: the sprint pace is shockingly rapid.  Even more than the factory car, which is no slouch.  The overall vMax is stunning too: this machine can do a confirmed 226-mph!   2017 Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabrio By Wimmer RST ONE OF A KIND …

Keep reading

25

2017 BMW M2 Convertible!?! Dahler GmbH Makes Dream Real

by

  In the BMW order books, the M2 is always described as the “M2 Coupe.”  This is a strong indication that a cabrio may be in route.  Otherwise, why specify? Dahler Teknik of Deutschland has beaten BMW to the punch with the first-ever M2 Convertible. How did they achieve this?  By upgrading the bodywork and mechanicals of an M235i (now M240i) or chopping the top off an existing, and genuine, M2 Coupe? We do not know the exact answer to this. But what a specimen to behold regardless. If BMW wasn’t sure about the potential for an M2 Convertible… this …

Keep reading

2017 Ford ESCAPE Titanium FWD – Road Test Review – By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman

by

A third of the auto industry’s sales last year were SUV’s. That means that about 5 million of them were sold here.  At Ford, their leading SUV model is the Escape. Over 300,000 units were sold last year alone, making the Escape the number 2 selling Ford model, behind only the Ford F-150 pickup truck.  The Escape debuted way back in the year 2000, and they have sold more than 2.4 million of them.  After spending a week with the 2017 Escape, it’s not hard to understand why. For 2017, the Escape gets a mid-cycle refresh, bringing some significant changes to the …

Keep reading

2016 Fiat 500L Trekking – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

Are you taking things too seriously? Been following politics? Fighting holiday crowds? Dreading a New Year’s resolution? We have a cure for you. The Fiat 500L. While it is a real SUV, capable of meeting your daily needs, there’s just enough slightly wacky, off-the-beaten-path, Euro-quirkiness to help take you out of the doldrums and put a smile on your face. It started out with the cute as a bug’s ear 500. Enthusiasts rejoiced when the brand added the Mighty Mouse 500 Abarth. And we have many frugal friends enjoying the super-green 500e electric vehicle (especially at the $99/month lease!). For those …

Keep reading

Revised Kia Soul 5

Road Test Review – 2016 Kia Soul + – By Carl Malek

by

When Kia first unleashed the Soul back in 2008, the funky CUV was a bold gamble for the Korean car giant. Boasting boxy styling, youthful vigor, and an ad campaign featuring cute hamsters, the Soul proved to be a hit with CUV buyers, and prompted the company to release numerous variants including the recently launched Soul Turbo model. But has its mid-cycle update helped the Soul stay relevant among millennials? or has it lost a few steps against a new wave of CUV entries that are all vying for their piece of the greater CUV sales pie.     The exterior …

Keep reading

IMG_3608

First Drive Photos – 2017 BMW X4 M40i – Widescreen Gallery

by

The briefest of brief spins in the sexy 2017 BMW X4 M40i! How does this all-new turbo six feel versus the previous X4 xDrive35i M Sport? Far more focused, to be honest.  The new motor series is not just up 20HP/30-pound-feet of torque.  It also gains a biting new exhaust bark in all forms.  That back-bellow and M-style popping on the overrun is cranked to the max in the X4 M40i.  And we adore it. The exterior is also quite sexy with its dark-tinted badges, chrome-free appearance and overall sinister-ness. The grey mirror caps and blocky alloys reinforce this impression …

Keep reading

2016 Volkswagen TIGUAN R-Line 4Motion – Road Test Review – By Tom Burkart       

by

Our reviews here on Car-Revs-Daily.com generally try to be upbeat and playfully informative.  With insightful observations galore and a few critiques along the way. It is usually because the cars manufacturers send our way are all fairly loveable, newsworthy and generally pretty fresh on the market.  We put ourselves in the position of the buyers in that market segment for a week.  A week of driving later.. we’re usually gushing with some form of praise. This Tiguan review will have many of those characteristics, but with a darker edge. The 2016 Tiguan is woefully outclassed by nearly any compact crossover …

Keep reading

2017 Genesis G80 5.0 Ultimate – HD Road Test Review – By Tom Burkart

by

The Genesis launch is in full swing for 2017! No more Hyundai badges to be found anywhere on the two-model range.  Flying wings for the nose and tail are a huge relief for customers who disliked the previous dissonance of two ‘brand’ emblems on the same car. The G80 and its EQUUS-replacing G90 are both lightly refreshed beyond the badge upgrades, however. We were blessed to spend a week in the top G80: the 5.0-liter V8 Ultimate.  This rear-drive sports sedan delivers some SERIOUS heat to chase its 550i and E550 rivals. How do 420 ponies and sub-5-second sprints sound …

Keep reading

2017 Subaru WRX 5

2017 Subaru WRX Limited Sport Lineartronic – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

WRX= love. But CVT= hate. Can they get along? For Subie’s sake!? Few cars are as enamored by enthusiasts as the WRX. While the rest of the world had enjoyed Subaru’s extreme rally car for the street, it wasn’t until 2002 that we got one here. It was worth the wait. While it had a cult following for the in-the-know, the majority of the population had no idea. We have happy memories of terrorizing a Porsche 911 with a silver, bug-eyed 2002 test sedan. It was so unassuming, yet with its turbo-four cylinder and all-wheel-drive, immensely capable and fast. What’s …

Keep reading

2017 Toyota Camry Hybrid XLE – Road Test Review – By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman

by

Unless you are a newborn baby, (and someone is reading this to you) or you’ve been living in a cave for the last 25 years, you are familiar with Toyota’s Camry. For decades, it has either been the best-selling mid-size family sedan in the US, or one of the top three. It used to compete with only a handful of competitors, but in today’s world, every manufacturer has an excellent mid-size family sedan. And yet, the trusty Camry still soldiers on, and always lands at the top of the sales charts.  And helping those sales figures is the Hybrid version …

Keep reading

2017 Nissan Armada Platinum – Road Test Review – By Lyndon Johnson

by

The big news with the second-generation Nissan Armada is this: We finally got a Nissan Patrol in America! Perhaps bigger news still is that the 2017 Nissan Armada, Nissan’s largest SUV, doesn’t drive nearly so large as it is. Nissan does the SUV — bigly Riding on a 121.1-inch wheelbase, the 6,000-lb. Armada measures 208.9 inches from bumper-to-bumper and straddles a piece of ground 79.9 inches wide. It stands 75.8 inches tall. It’s a large beast — not quite as large as the also new-for-2017 Nissan Titan, but close. Maneuvering in tight quarters may require your full, undivided attention. Thankfully, …

Keep reading

pa211869

2017 Volkswagen Passat 1.8T SEL Premium – Road Test Review – By Lyndon Johnson

by

  In Europe, they make fun of the Volkswagen Passat Americans drive. Their suspension and materials are superior, they argue. OK, fine. Relish that superiority, Europe. That doesn’t change the fact the ‘Merican Passat remains one of the best all-around midsize family sedans in ‘Merica. Family values I spent a week with a 2017 VW Passat and pretty much fell in love with its practicality and handsome good looks — but mostly its practicality. Some people have criticized this generation of the Passat for being too understated. It takes on Volkswagen’s corporate low-and-wide styling, so the grille and headlights aren’t …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE – By Carl Malek

by

It wasn’t too long ago that the subcompact car segment was once relegated to bench warmer status in the lineups of many automakers. Due to the strong sales of SUVS as well as a relatively small pool of customers to take advantage of, many automakers did not put that much effort into them, and it showed in many ways (anyone remember the Chevrolet Aveo?….No?) Don’t worry your not alone. However, when gas prices spiked several years ago, the renewed demand forced automakers to invest in these pint sized offerings, and it helped transform the segment into a viable and competitive …

Keep reading

2017 BMW M6 GTLM – 19th BMW Art Car by John Baldessari Will Race DAYTONA

by

The BMW Art cars are best as real-world racers. Taking corners in a future legend has appeal today just like it did when the first BMW Art Car emerged from the Paris office around 1973. This latest racing artwork, the 19th in the series? A 2017 M6 GTLM, naturally. The biggest, baddest BMW racecar ever made.  A vehicle so shouty on throttle that the artist put the letters F A S T right along both flanks. 2017 BMW M6 GTLM – 19th BMW Art Car by John Baldessari World premiere of BMW Art Car by John Baldessari at Art Basel …

Keep reading

2016-mazda-cx-9-signature-4

2016 Mazda CX-9 Signature – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

  Is the Mazda CX-9 a Miata for 7? It’s an interesting thing. Used to be, you had needs, you bought a vehicle that fit those needs. Things changed when SUV’s got popular. Suddenly, if you needed a minivan, but didn’t want to be seen in a minivan, you could get something cooler. No more settling. Well, that opened the floodgates. Pickup truck that’s decked out like a luxury sedan? You can get them with more cow on the inside than you can tow on the outside. EV’s that will stomp all over supercars? Here’s your Tesla. Convertible Crossovers? How …

Keep reading

novitec-mcl57-pic17

2.9s, 646HP 2017 Novitec MCL57 McLaren 570S

by

Novitec does McLarens!? Yessirs.  In addition to RR and the Italian exotics, Novitec is bringing their tuning madness to the McLaren 570S.  Ostensibly the tamest car out of Woking so far, these mods prove there is a fierce force with this baby Macca. MCL57 is pretty catchy as a name, too.  MCL by Novitec sounds nice too.   Here are 37 mouthwatering photos.  Each one better than the next.   2017 Novitec MCL57 McLaren 570S NOVITEC now also refines the sports cars from McLaren   Start with the McLaren 570S: engine tuning to up to 475 kW / 646 hp, …

Keep reading

2017 Subaru Legacy 2.5i SPORT – HD Road Test Review

by

The trusty midsize sedan segment of the car business has found itself in an unusual spot these days. SUVs and low gas prices mean the old days where Camrys and Accords sold by the dozen are long gone.  They are now fighting to be a purchase not of necessity, but one of desire. Subaru has stepped up with a serious rival in this high-stakes game.  A car that is still easy to buy and own, but with added pizzazz to make it pop versus the onslaught of new, high-riding competition. Subie’s answer? The new-for-2017 Subaru Legacy SPORT trimline.  The car is …

Keep reading

exige-sport-380-front-three-quarter-2

3.5s, 178MPH 2017 Lotus EXIGE SPORT 380 is Fastest Flyweight Yet

by

Standard carbon aero and a boost up to 375HP are enough to make this latest Lotus special into quite the slayer.  Its on-paper figures are outstanding and up there with a very rarified competitive set. The difference?  This Exige Sport 380 is also pretty light on the wallet!  It is priced at just 90k Euros and is aimed at the UK, German and Japanese markets. No official word on its US potential… but all this kit is certainly available for US Exige clients!  Just not bundled together right out of the factory. But hey, longing for Lotuses that are not …

Keep reading

2017 Hyundai Santa Fe SPORT 2.0T AWD – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

by

Is this sexy new Sante Fe SPORT ready to play in the big leagues? Both Hyundai and Kia have been huge success stories lately, but we still get comments from buyers that hadn’t considered “one of those brands.” Which is sort of understandable, if you only buy a new vehicle every 8-10 years, you might have missed out on the great turnaround of the Korean automaker. And you might be surprised how many crossovers and SUV’s are out there vying for your dollar – even if you’re the cheapskate that only parts with the greenbacks every decade or so. So let us …

Keep reading

csm_geigercars-camaro-50th-anni-stripes_5_03be2f75c0

2017 Chevrolet CAMARO 50th Anniversary Special By Geigercars.de

by

The new Camaro done up right by the German Geiger Cars!  A supercharged engine and eight-speed automatic mean 4-second sprints to 60mph.  A nice match for the full exterior upgrade.   Here are 47 photos and a link!   2017 Geigercars.de Chevrolet CAMARO 50th Anniversary Special

2017 Volvo XC90 – Road Test Review – By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman

by

  It has been a very long time since I’ve reviewed a Volvo. So I was anxious to get my hands on the 2017 XC90 T6 Inscription with AWD.  As I did a quick walk around of the vehicle, the styling showed a fairly generic shape, especially when viewed from the side.  It doesn’t have a long front overhand, nor a steeply raked windshield.  The front end shows the traditional Volvo grill, which in my youth looked outdated, as it was mostly seen on boxy shaped boring sedans. But on the XC90 it looks more stately, sitting between the headlights …

Keep reading

alfa_la_jwp_0350p7kd3aa1e4k35k5k8g3fqh3src

505HP, 3.9s 2018 Alfa Romeo STELVIO – High-Performance SUV Wows LA, World

by

Very big day today out in elle-lay! The new Alfa Romeo Stelvio is the latest big debut for the left coast — and it is a doosey! Meet the new 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio: the range-topping, 505-horsepower SUV that delivers some seriously stonking numbers right out of the gate.  It is named after the knotted Stelvio Pass mountain road made so famous from Top Gear.  And that means Alfa are more than confident about how well this machine can corner! The Stelvio will rival the Maserati Levante, Jaguar F-Pace, BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe up and down the range.  Starting at the …

Keep reading