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2018 Hyundai Elantra GT Base Automatic – Road Test Review + 2 Videos

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There are cars that are simply better than they have to be. They go beyond just beating their obvious rivals and into another level of long-term partnership potential for their drivers. Such is the case with the five-door Hyundai Elantra GT.  This variant of the best-selling sedan shares much of its drivetrain cabin, but none of its exterior or platform design. It enters a market segment that has more strong rivals than ever.  Focus and Cruze hatchback might be easy to beat.  But how about the new Civic Sport 5-door, Mazda3 and VW Golf?  Those are some seriously good global …

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2018 Nissan 370Z Roadster Touring Sport 7 A/T – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

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Although summer is a memory in the rearview mirror for most of us, there’s still plenty of time to enjoy a roadster – in fact, cooler weather and leaves changing color make fall one of the joys of owning a drop top. And if you’re looking for joy in a roadster, look here. The 370Z is getting to be a senior citizen in the sports car world. The coupe appearing in 2009, the roadster in 2010. Mind you, there have been updates, including a facelift – but the basic vehicle is pretty much the same, even as its approaching it’s …

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2017 VW Golf Alltrack S 10

2017 VW Golf Alltrack S w/ 4Motion – HD Road Test Review

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Wagons are back! Have you heard? Small families and bachelors alike are rediscovering how easy, smooth and practical they are versus the endless line of mini SUVs.  Wagons have better mileage, handling and — sometimes — even long-roof style. There are places where the Golf Sportwagen’s low ride height is simply not ideal — even with that car’s optional 4Motion AWD system.  For mountain states like Colorado or Vermont, there can never be enough tall, 4×4 wagons to choose from. Subaru has had this market on lock for decades now with their big Outback and smaller Crosstrek wagons. VW is …

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2017 KIA Soul Turbo – HD Road Test Review + Video

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The Kia Soul is a runaway  success. It is the best-selling global Kia vehicle in the brand’s history.  And it has outlasted its Nissan Cube or the Scion xB box-car rivals in the marketplace by being better. This acclaim is perhaps why the Soul still wears its original sheetmetal — albeit revamped slightly for the exterior of this latest iteration.  Fresh LEDs, bumpers and trim details are all this car needs to be fresh in 2017. If the core package was so right-sized and right-priced, it does make sense to keep it humming along nicely with the same look. Beneath …

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Best of NYIAS – 2017 Toyota FT-4X Concept

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Welcome to Toyota getting hip with the kids! Since Scion was politely folded into the Big T proper, there are many products in the pipeline that still embody that wacky Scion spirit. The FT-4X is one of those, and looks set for arrival to showrooms within about a year at the most.  This machine is a heavily redesigned and off-road-optimized version of the sexy new C-HR subcompact crossover.  The FT-4X is far more than just a tall-roof variant.  (Although that is its core nature). From a tread perspective, the FT-4X rides far higher, with grippier rubber and longer-travel suspension.  Likely-standard …

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2017 Fiat 124 SPIDER – Road Test Review + HD Drive Video

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It is 124 Spider week here on CRD! Carl Malek got the joy of hooning the Abarth 124 around Monticello, New York while we were flinging the 124 Lusso around Charleston, SC. Both cars are absolute heroes.  Is any 124 Spider one of those rare cars that you’d love to drive 1000 miles at the drop of a hat? Yes, yes it is. His Abarth slid in with pricing in the mid-30s, while our midspec model with automatic transmission kissed 32k out the door with a few options. For these prices, there is nothing else on the road that will bring …

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Double Drive Review! 2016 MINI Cooper S CLUBMAN – 8sp Automatic versus 6sp Stick

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  For years now, the number of manual transmissions has been dropping in favor of the automatic transmissions. True car enthusiasts have bemoaned the loss of the stick while automakers pander to growing consumer demand for automatics (plus, many drivers can’t drive a manual). However, with the Mini Cooper Clubman, the manual vs. automatic debate is at the heart of the car. Is a Mini Cooper, well, a Mini Cooper without a stick? Nope. A few weeks ago, I reviewed a 2016 MINI Cooper Clubman S manual and enjoyed all of its quirkiness including the thrill of getting off the …

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Road Test Review – 2016 Buick REGAL GS

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  We want to love the Regal GS. Its looks are crisply European, as is its dashing corner grip and unflappable high-speed poise.  But remember the old Pirelli slogan “Power is nothing without Control” ? Well, the Regal GS inspires a flip in that phrase: Control is nothing without powerrrrr. Since writing up our first test impressions of the 2015 Regal GS with “Deeply Disappointing” in the headline, we have had more than ample chances to change our tune. An invite to a Buick Regal GS track day appeared out of thin air, and then a fresh 2016 model for …

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1987 Toyota BJ-74 Land Cruiser RHD TURBO Automatic with White FRP TOP 15

1987 Toyota BJ-74 Land Cruiser RHD TURBO Automatic with White FRP TOP

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Not clear what kind of strange mood your snapper was in during the Mecum walkthrough.  Whatever it was, we came home with some curious finds! This certainly fits the bill! Freshly restored to as-new condition outside, the truck looks stellar with its white details over shiny blue-black metallic paint. The cabin is a delightful throwback — also looking absolutely crisp and clean.     1987 Toyota BJ-74 Land Cruiser RHD TURBO Automatic Mecum Auctions Lot S168.1 // Kissimmee 2016 // Jan 15-24 1987 Toyota BJ-74 Land Cruiser Trans Automatic HIGHLIGHTS – From the Unique Collectibles Collection – Turbo Diesel engine – …

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2016 Hyundai TUCSON Limited 1

First Drive Review, Video and Pricing – 2016 Hyundai TUCSON Limited 1.6T AWD DCT

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First spin in the new Tucson and verrrry impressed!  The loaded test car ran a superb turbo 1.6 through a new dual-clutch 7-speed automatic — creating a bit of a GTI in a crossover shell. Granted, as you can see in the pricing by trimline below, the Tucson does get a bet pricey with the upgraded engine and automatic, plus another grand for AWD. Base for the Tucson Limited is $32k. Which would seem crazy for the old Tucson. But this new model is completely redone — now becoming the widest car in its class and one that feels massive …

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Subaru Tokyo 2015 – All-New VIZIV Future Concept and Impreza 5-Door Concept

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Subaru has a new flagship design concept for the Tokyo Auto Show in early November. And despite its familiar VIZIV name, this masculine and high-tech design theme is very fresh. This third VIZIV Concept Future is an interesting preview of a future LWB Outback with seven seats. The powertrain and seating layout are much more Forester size for this sporty concept car, but the intention is a three-row variant of the large Outback platform, versus the smaller Impreza/Forester footprint.  Or perhaps just a super-lux future Forester. The cabin is shockingly advanced, as is the powertrain. A next-generation hybrid is paired …

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

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

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Update1 – 2016 Lexus RX350 and RX450h Are All-New Inside and Out

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Updated 9.8.15 With 101 Real-Life Photos The all-new Lexus RX is here and stunning! As Lexus’ all-star sales champ, the RX redesign for 2016 is an all-important step in keeping the Big L’s sales and market share near the top of the luxury brand ranks. To fend of new competition from all sides in this five-seat crossover segment, the RX is dramatically redone in almost every way. First off, the style. DESIGN ANALYSIS Wearing Lexus’s new design brief and its interesting, unique and captivating creases and angles, the RX is far more exciting to look at than it has been …

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HD Road Test Review – 2015 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Automatic is 5.5-Second Hero!

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Fantastic speed has never felt so bittersweet. Guard Green with the standard 18-inch alloys help the 2015 Mustang EcoBoost blend into traffic nicely. Humming along the highway with 32-mpg, you might forget what a honed sportscar the new Mustang is. But when alone with an endless stretch of road ahead of you, this Mustang turbo delivers excellent results. A 5.5-second sprint to 60-mph was a hugely gratifying time. Keep it nailed and the EcoBoost Mustang roars ahead at speeds to make the WRX and Scion FR-S blush with embarrassment. Why all about that pace? It proves the 2.3-liter, 310-horsepower EcoBoost …

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smart fortwo cabrio 2015

2017 Smart ForTwo Cabrio Revealed Ahead of US Arrival In Summer 2016

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The 2017 Smart Cabrio is official ahead of its public debut in Frankfurt next month, with the first confirmed timeframe for its US arrival. The overall rollout has been extremely slow so far, but US Smart showrooms are finally close to clearing their inventory of the existing — and deeply unpopular — model. Why bother bringing Smart back at all ?  And why start with this cabrio? Smart is coming back mainly thanks to a new four-door variant of the rear-engine city car. The larger model is expected to eventually compete with the Fiat 500 and base MINI Coopers, in …

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HD Road Test Review – 2015 GMC Yukon Denali XL 4×4 with New 8-Speed Automatic

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Denali lovers have never had it so good: this swanky trimline now extends beyond the Yukon and into the full range from GMC. But for many shoppers, the sweet spot of the General Motors truck range is the Denali XL. Nearly all the tech and luxury of the Escalade, with a less shouty overall presence on the roads. This paradox of the Denali being more humble, yet costing similar to the Caddy is plain for all to see. The idea is that everyone knows the Denali is Caddy-plush, and costs about as much, too. For a big swath of buyers, …

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2016 Cadillac CTS-V Sedan

2016 Cadillac CTS-V in 50 New Pics + Colors, Wheels, Options and Pricing

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Updated 7.20.15 With 40 New Photos + Option Details Cadillac’s new performance superhero is very close to buyer hands!  The firm just released a beautiful new image set from Milwaukee Art Museum and Road America racetrack in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. We also have a full look at the configurator and options for this 3.7-second M5-fighter. A base price of $84,000 can bump up to $102k with the big option packs like the carbon fiber upgrades for $5k, Recaro race seats and PDR recorder for a few thousand each. We’re surprised by the six total colors available, but happy to report …

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2015 Honda Civic Type R European Dynamic Launch 12

2015 Honda Civic Type R – European Launch Gallery in 104 Gorgeous Photos

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  Are you sitting down? Get ready to be absolutely floored with adrenaline via the all-new 2015 Honda Civic Type R’s intense design and visual fury at speed. On sale now in European markets, this is not a total ****tease for US and global Honda fans. The turbocharged engine under the hood of this Euro-exclusive Civic Type R is just the first salvo for Honda’s resurgent performance. Honda of America is visibly excited about turbo power energizing its upcoming range. Davis Adams of Honda PR is freshly home from the Slovakia track launch of the 2015 Euro Type R, and …

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2015 Bell & Ross BR 03 RAFALE Is Ceramic Special With Fighter-Jet Tech Transfer

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Welcome to the latest Bell & Ross showpiece: the BR 03 Rafale. Revealed at this year’s Basel World convention, this 500-unit run takes the Bell & Ross aesthetic and identity well into the future via all-new style and military technology transfer. The most striking element of this $6,200 watch is its case, which eschews the typical milled alloys and stainless steel of most watches from this hot French marque. By swapping metal for ceramic, the Rafale promises to be a real featherweight on the wrist. The big-watch trend takes some time to get used to on your wrist. You learn …

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2015 IVECO Vision Concept Van 6

2015 IVECO Vision PHEV Concept Shows Futuristic Design + Cabin Tech Innovations

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Your packages have never traveled in such comfort and style! The 2015 IVECO Vision Concept finally brings a cool sci-fi, Hollywood-ready look to a full-size van. Its surfacing and proportions take a bold look into the future of IVECO van designs — pairing brutal and aggressive lighting and nose to friendly, flowing forms to van roof-lines that are usually far boxier. But before we look at the cool design and tech of the IVECO Vision, there is one thing to note first thing: the IVECO Vision is absolutely gigantic. From some angles, the concept appears to be only slightly larger …

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2015 MINI Cooper S Hardtop 4-Door – HD First Drive Video + 150 Photos

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With a base price of $25,000, the 2015 MINI Cooper S 4-Door Hardtop overlaps closely with an unlikely competitor: the new Focus ST. Both are fun-running favorites with a cultlike following, and both achieve 60-mph in the low 6.0-second range through six-speed manuals. Though the Cooper S is down 65 horsepower versus the Focus ST, the MINI’s Cooper S upgrade is more important than ever for 2015. As with the MINI hardtop, the base Cooper runs a three-cylinder to the Cooper S’s turbo four. Power is up from 134 horsepower in the Cooper to 184 in the Cooper S, a …

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2015 Honda S660 Is JDM Mid-Engine Targa With Turbo Triple Engine + 6-Speed Manual

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Honda’s renaissance in sporty cars might be topped by the NSX supercar, but the effects of a sporty focus runs up and down the range. This K-car is a very positive step forward for Honda, even if it is primarily aimed at the Japanese Domestic Market. With style and LEDs like much pricier and more powerful sports cars, the S660 is the most affordable way into a mid-engine, open-top thrills. Weight distribution is 45-percent front, 55-percent rear, promising much of the light nose and nimble thrills of the Porsche Boxster for perhaps a quarter of the price. Power comes from …

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2016 Lexus RX 2

2016 Lexus RX350 and RX450h Are All-New Inside and Out in 84 Images!

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The all-new Lexus RX is here and stunning! As Lexus’ all-star sales champ, the RX redesign for 2016 is an all-important step in keeping the Big L’s sales and market share near the top of the luxury brand ranks. To fend of new competition from all sides in this five-seat crossover segment, the RX is dramatically redone in almost every way. First off, the style. DESIGN ANALYSIS Wearing Lexus’s new design brief and its interesting, unique and captivating creases and angles, the RX is far more exciting to look at than it has been in years. The noses are characterized …

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2015 Subaru BRZ Series

First Drive Review – 2015 Subaru BRZ Series.Blue on Video in Crystal White

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How fantastic does this BRZ look! Despite the pouring rain, the pearlescent Crystal White paint of this Series.Blue BRZ really pops with its LED accents glowing inside Texas Motor Speedway. The nose feels pointer on this recalibrated suspension with its STI wheels, body kit and underbody aero fascias — but the rear-drive all-star is still a joy to drift. A perfect driving position, steering and shift linkage are delightful as ever, while the blue lather and suede of the seats offer a bit of premium appeal to this 500-unit special edition. 2015 Subaru BRZ Series.Blue   2015 Subaru BRZ Series …

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2015 nanoFlowcell QUANT F 25

Updated With 45 New Photos – 2015 nanoFlowcell QUANT F

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Quant is back in Geneva this year with a new evolution of the Quant E from 2014 – now packing 500 extra horsepower, a new transmission and drivetrain, a bright red color outside, new LED headlights and fresh wheels. The 2014 nanoFlowcell eSportLimousine prototype was recently approved for road use in Europe, so production reality is coming along nicely for this cool supercar. Imagine a Tesla Model S crossed with a Porsche 918 Spyder, and you have the $350,000 estimated price point of the eventual production model.    2015 nanoFlowcell QUANT F   10.02.2015 nanoFlowcell AG presents new QUANT F …

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5.7s, 167MPH 2015 Honda Civic Type R Scorches Into Geneva With 300HP Turbo VTEC

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The 2015 Honda Civic Type R is official! This is it ladies and gentleman — the hottest-ever Honda road car since the original NSX. And it is about time!  Honda is relaunching the NSX as a 2016 model with turbo power, and the latest McLaren-Honda F1 car is also packing forced-induction for 2015. It all really comes together on this new Type R Civic, however. Very exciting performance stats are just the opening salvo — the real track joy will come from its incredibly tossable and tight-handling chassis tune.   2015 Honda Civic Type R   A HOT-HATCH ICON REBORN: …

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2015 RINSPEED Budii Bringing i3-Based EV Wackiness To Geneva

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  Rinspeed is a reliable Geneva Auto Show attendee – typically with one of the most avant-garde designs on the entire showfloor. This year, the concept is called the BUDII and is based on the BMW i3. A new style and complete infotainment redesign takes the dashboard completely out of the picture, in favor of an adjustable-side steering column. This column on a robotic arm can also fold itself away for automated driving modes. This next skill of the Budii also reveals one of its most interesting aspects: the periscope-style rising sensor pod to allow a birds-eye view of the …

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2016 Toyota Avalon Brings New Suspension Tuning, LED + Tech Upgrades and Top-line Touring Trim

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  The 2016 Toyota Avalon is refreshed for Chicago including a number of tweaks to the current style and trim levels, plus a loaded Touring trim to top the model line with sporty dark-grey wheels and grille. All 2016 Avalons benefit from enhanced chassis tuning — with the suspension now delivering a better sport and comfort ride compromise than the current model. Shifted a bit too far toward sporty springs in its 2012 refresh, the Avalon in this generation was never too happy either cruising or handling tight bends at speed. We hope the new model addresses this unhappy handling …

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2015 nanoFlowcell QUANT F Headed to Geneva With New 1000HP Powertrain

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Quant is back in Geneva this year with a new evolution of the Quant E from 2014 – now packing 500 extra horsepower, a new transmission and drivetrain, a bright red color outside, new LED headlights and fresh wheels. The 2014 nanoFlowcell eSportLimousine prototype was recently approved for road use in Europe, so production reality is coming along nicely for this cool supercar. Imagine a Tesla Model S crossed with a Porsche 918 Spyder, and you have the $350,000 estimated price point of the eventual production model.    2015 nanoFlowcell QUANT F 10.02.2015 nanoFlowcell AG presents new QUANT F in …

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2005 Chrysler Firepower

Concept Flashback – 2005 Chrysler Firepower Was HEMI Viper With An Automatic

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As we wrote that headline, it seemed to come across as a scoffing sacrilege to have a Viper chassis with a V8 and automatic. But truly, the opposite is true. The Firepower’s time has come. Three reasons: — Corvette sales this generation have been split 70/30 in favor of the automatic transmission. —-> Viper does not offer an automatic — For nearly all owners, a 6.1-liter V8 would be more than plenty to give true supercar performance —-> The Viper’s 8.4-liter V10 is a major cost center for the vehicle, which in this generation stickers from $100,000 and up. — …

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2016 Cadillac CTS-V in 99 New Images + Roaring Dynamic Video!

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  The above 45-second CTS-V promo video is heaven. The super-sedan category has a very potent new entry in the 2016 Cadillac CTS-V. Revealed today online ahead of its public showing in Detroit in two weeks, the new CTS-V is powered by a supercharged 6.2.-liter V8 making a stonking 640-horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. Let’s repeat those numbers. 640HP, 630 Ft/LB. That is a cool 100 over the BMW M5 and 60-plus more than the E63 AMG S-Model. The rear-drive sedan has a limited-slip diff in back along with the latest eight-speed automatic from the Corvette Z06. The one …

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Concept Flashback - 1989 Mitsubishi HSR II Innovates With Six Active Aero Wings

Concept Flashback – 1989 Mitsubishi HSR II Innovates With Six Active Aero Wings

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We’ve been pouring through the Mitsubishi back catalog today for a few Concept Flashback articles. The real all-star of the Mitsu lineup of show cars in the last three decades? It is this – the 1989 HSR II. HSR stands for Highly Sophisticated-transport Research and was a follow-up to a 1987 concept of the same name. The HSR II is far more beautiful, however, and also more innovative. Sure, as a 1989 Japanese exotic, the HSR II is packing a twin-turbo V6 along with 4-wheel-steering and 4-wheel-drive. This goes well with its ABS brakes, independent suspension and electronically-adjustable dampers all …

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Update1 – 640HP, 200MPH 2016 Cadillac CTS-V Revealed + Tech Specs

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  The super-sedan category has a very potent new entry in the 2016 Cadillac CTS-V. Revealed today online ahead of its public showing in Detroit in two weeks, the new CTS-V is powered by a supercharged 6.2.-liter V8 making a stonking 640-horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. Let’s repeat those numbers. 640HP, 630 Ft/LB. That is a cool 100 over the BMW M5 and 60-plus more than the E63 AMG S-Model. The rear-drive sedan has a limited-slip diff in back along with the latest eight-speed automatic from the Corvette Z06. The one that is .4-seconds-quicker to 60-mph than even the …

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fxx evo

RM Arizona 2015 Preview – 2005 Ferrari FXX Evoluzione

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This FXX Evo needs no intro. Fantastic. The one downside of buying this car will be the temptation to drive it on the roads in the USA, where it is not street-legal until 2030. A possible single-type exception might be possible depending on the state where you reside — but this one is likely to head overseas, where rules tend to be more flexible. 2005 Ferrari FXX Evoluzione    2005 Ferrari FXX Evo RM Auctions Arizona 15 – 16 January 2015 Lot 253 2005 Ferrari FXX Evoluzione $1,600,000 – $1,900,000   860 bhp, 6,262 cc rear-mounted longitudinal 65-degree V-12 engine …

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chevelle ss

Mecum Kissimmee 2015 Preview – 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle LS6 Super Sport

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Do you like classic musclecars? Then you are in luck this week – we are featuring a dozen of the finest available from the Mecum Florida auctions in January 2015. Kicking things off is this triple black Chevelle SS. We think of the Chevelle as the Camaro’s stronger and meaner older brother — so clearly not one to mess with at the lights. The 454 badges show and tell the power of this machine loud and clear, as does its bellowing V8 roar on hard throttle. 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle LS6 Super Sport 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle LS6 Engine 454/450 HP Trans …

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228HP, 5.9s 2016 MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop World Debut

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  The new MINI JCW is here! Revealed online ahead of its global showing in Detroit next month, the next-gen JCW is a pretty stout upgrade over an already-intense predecessor. Power is up 10-percent to 228-horsepower, while torque is up 14-percent to 236-pound-feet from an all-new turbo four. The big news with this engine is its giant jump in displacement: up 25-percent over the previous engine. That means the power is easier to achieve without huge throttle needed. Good on the track, but even better for real-world road power and responsiveness. The six-speed manual sprints to 60-mph now in 6.1-seconds, …

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2015 chevy ss

4.7s 2015 Chevrolet SS Upgraded With Magnetic Suspension and New Six-Speed Manual

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The Chevrolet SS is what happens when a Camaro SS meets the full-size Impala. It has the performance chops to drift with the best muscle-cars, but also to blend smoothly into fastlane traffic anonymously. Perhaps a bit too well? The SS is handicapped only a year after its launch by looks that fail to excite and vaguely recall the previous-generation Impala, to some eyes. These facts make its amazing performance and 415-horsepower V8 the car’s main selling points. The new magnetic ride control and no-cost six-speed manual will definitely help the SS appeal to its core buyer segments — and …

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RM Arizona 2015 Preview – 1969 Shelby Mustang GT500 Convertible

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So easy to forget how quickly the Mustang evolved between 1965 and 1972. The style of this 1969 is cool but a bit polarizing in some places – where it tends to look less pure than the 1965-1966 cars but less well-resolved than the wider and lower 1970 and onward. Even so, this car is a clear trendsetter and there are awesome details like the milled dual-chamber center exhaust element, or the NACA ducts in the hood, to delight the eye. The one catch with this particular car is the transmission: it is an automatic. 1969 Shelby Mustang GT500 Convertible …

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HD Track Drive Review – 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T Is Powerful But Huge And Floaty

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HD Track Drive Review – 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T Updated 12.3.14 With Additional Photos We were slightly embarrassed to come back from Chicago the other month with zero in-focus photos of the Challenger R/T we took for hot track laps. Luckily, another chance presented itself. Certainly a cool machine in the flesh — but the R/T is a luxury car without the sharp handling of the latest Mustangs and Camaro’s. It takes a few ticks toward the Hellcat for the Challenger to add suspension composure to this menacing muscle-coupe style. PREVIOUS We were thrilled to get in the new Challenger …

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2015 BMW X6 M Sport vs xLine in 350 New Photos

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Okay, we admit defeat! Usually, the main gripe when new cars launch is that there are far too few photos of the vehicle. Or they are not photos at all: but digital renderings that often do not show the car in real-world detail. But with the latest BMW X6 photo batch, we raise the white flag. 350 photos is too many for any editor to process. But in the name of completeness, we have faithfully included them all here. The car looks most amazing in M Sport trims versus the xLine, which has a somewhat busier lower nose, more chrome …

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Update1 – 2015 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 First Drive + Colors Guide

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Updated 11.19.14 With 12 New Photos   Enjoyed a chance to meet the 2015 Colorado Z71 this week, and it is really handsome and macho in real life. Initially, the GMC Canyon seemed like the better-looking of the two, but side by side, the Chevy was my clear preference. A lack of LED lighting in the nose of the Colorado is the only demerit that comes to mind. Otherwise, the wide style and fender flares are rough and ready to get muddy. To be fair, the Colorado Z71 and Canyon All Terrain we compared are the most loaded versions of …

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2016 Fiat 500X Lounge Is Right-Sized City Softroader with 4 Doors!

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Updated 11.17.14 The 500X Cross looks just about *perfect* to answer to wishes of all Fiat dealerships across the US — compact, city-friendly but now a four-door and arguably a bit more handsome than even the original 500. Included below is a mega photo pack of the 500X Cross — which is the off-road guise with chunkier bumpers and gravel-proof plastic sills. Also below are the wheels and trim personalization options, interior photos and UK pricing. No word yet on US pricing or arrival time-frames, but we’d predict around a June 2015 arrival to the US as a 2016 model. …

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500x cross

2016 Fiat 500X Cross AWD Trim Looking Svelt and Handsome in 75 New Photos

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Updated 11.17.14 The 500X Cross looks just about *perfect* to answer to wishes of all Fiat dealerships across the US — compact, city-friendly but now a four-door and arguably a bit more handsome than even the original 500. Included below is a mega photo pack of the 500X Cross — which is the off-road guise with chunkier bumpers and gravel-proof plastic sills. Also below are the wheels and trim personalization options, interior photos and UK pricing. No word yet on US pricing or arrival time-frames, but we’d predict around a June 2015 arrival to the US as a 2016 model. …

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Best Base SUV Trim? 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo from $29,000

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We all know the new Jeep Grand Cherokee is the best truck ever to don the seven-slat grille. Watching the SRT GC’s launch control starts are intoxicating, and the latest LED style of a pinched horseshoe in the headlight graphic is very appealing. The top-spec Summit trim even brings some heavenly new open-pore woods and fine leathers to the cabin – but at a price. The top Grand Cherokee’s become quite expensive in the higher trim levels – even kissing $50,000 for the diesel engine in some trims. What about a GC for the rest of us? The 2014 Laredo …

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2015 BMW M3 in 64 New Photos From Road America + Options and Colors Guide

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Updated 11.7.14 Quick caveats about these new photos: Only about half are from Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin — with the rest from a German track drive event. There are a handful of M4 shots in here as well.     PREVIOUS Building a new M3 is remarkably simple – the main choices you need to ponder in advance are: – Manual transmission or M-DCT transmission? – Willing to stump for $8000 carbon brakes? – Willing to upgrade the wheels to the 19-inchers (to avoid looking like a 320i rolling on mini skateboard runners). Besides that, the rest of …

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Challenger 2015 gif header

HD Track Drive Review – 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T Is Powerful But Huge And Floaty

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Updated 10.28.14 With Track Drive Video We were thrilled to get in the new Challenger for some hot laps around Autobahn Country Club — and extra happy it was a V8! But despite being near the top of the range of many Challengers for 2015, this R/T automatic was greatly outclassed by serious sports cars. The R/T felt fast, but also enormously floaty and very heavy around all corners. There was an odd sense of height in the car at all times – like it was riding too high and had a lofty center of gravity as well. In corners, …

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

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

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

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

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Zero to Hero in the 2015 Chevrolet Impala CNG SuperCruise

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The Chevrolet Impala is a critical test-bed for two future GM technologies in 2015: a bi-fuel CNG option and the forthcoming SuperCruise automated highway driving system. We caught up with a 2015 Impala LTZ featuring the shield grille that comes on LTZ cars with the Safety tech option package – and this is still the best-looking full-size sedan from Chevy in decades. The current setup does not yet incorporate lane-keeping and automatic steering, but that is certainly in the pipeline. The Cadillac CT6 is tipped to debut a true SuperCruise functionality next year — with on-ramp to off-ramp highway driving …

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2016 Fiat 500X Makes Paris Debut With Optional AWD and 9-Speed Automatic

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Fiat has big plans for the 500X, a four-door off-roader sharing a name and styling themes with the popular 500 line of mini cars. This machine is a logical next move for Fiat as the 500 enters its third year on the US market. Under the skin, the 500X shares major platform and chassis pieces with the upcoming Jeep Renegade mini SUV, and benefits from the Jeep’s AWD and automatic transmission requirements. Both features are relatively critical to the 500X achieving sales volume in the US market when it arrives in Spring 2015 as a 2016 model. Perhaps even more …

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2015 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 Quick Drive Shows Lively and Very Handsome Mid-Size Truck

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Enjoyed a chance to meet the 2015 Colorado Z71 this week, and it is really handsome and macho in real life. Initially, the GMC Canyon seemed like the better-looking of the two, but side by side, the Chevy was my clear preference. A lack of LED lighting in the nose of the Colorado is the only demerit that comes to mind. Otherwise, the wide style and fender flares are rough and ready to get muddy. To be fair, the Colorado Z71 and Canyon All Terrain we compared are the most loaded versions of each – so base models will not …

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Part Two: First-Ever Production 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 With Tadge Juechter

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PART TWO: The Z06 Coupe! This is the first-ever production Z06 Coupe, which was sent right from Bowling Green to Chief Engineer Tadge Juetcher in Michigan for drag times and road proving. As The Tadge rolled into Autobahn Country Club in the new Z06 Coupe, we were on the car in seconds. In terms of customer deliveries, the record-setting automatic transmission option discussed below will be about a month behind the Z06 Coupe. The order books are loaded – with more than 5000 pre-0rders taking months to clear before a car ordered today will see an owner’s driveway. But for …

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Updated with 30 New Photos – 2015 MINI 5-Door Answers the Call of Back-Seaters Everywhere!

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Updated 9.23.14 What is the back-seaters’ call? “Let us out!” ? That is not exactly the MINI Cooper’s fun-loving style! Back-seat whiners have typically just wanted to stretch their legs a little bit, but been stuck until one of the fancy front-seaters will move their tush and let the seat slide up to an open slice of door. The 2015 MINI five-door hatch promises modest solutions to both problems via an extra set of rear doors on the silly-fun urban classic. The latest MINI model is far more approachable in every way, with its turbocharged standard triple delivering more MPG …

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2015 INFINITI QX80 Pebble Beach Photos + Specs, Options, Pricing, Colors

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UPDATED 9.1.14 with 2015 QX80 Photos from Pebble Beach   When planning this article, I cannot help but think of the QX80 is a ‘reliable Range Rover,’ a smoother and better-handling Land Cruiser, or an Escalade with actual class. But throwing sand never wins any points in life. So let’s stick to the high road with this newly-renamed QX56 model for 2014. A few extra packages enter the fray for 2014, including a huge number of laser/radar and sonar-based active safety elements as standard — and even more with the optional Tech Package. 400-horsepower through a seven-speed automatic continues with …

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Update2 New Photos! 2015 Nissan 370Z NISMO Facelift

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UPDATE2 – 8.24.14   The lack of LED lighting in the 370Z Nismo really struck me as odd when briefly testing the 2014 model in October of last year. Here is a car that is too-cool-for-school in almost every other way, but still lacking one of the most sought-after pieces of aesthetic technology? That is rectified for 2015, with the new 370Z NISMO not just tacking on some Pep Boys mods: the entire front clip and nose aerodynamics have been redesigned. The red accent on the chin spoiler is sinfully delicious, as are the aforementioned LEDs themselves. 2015 Nissan 370Z …

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Best of Awards – 2015 INFINITI Q70S and LWB Q70L Win Best Design Refresh

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Best Facelift? That is not a category many would aspire to win. Certainly not Argentina’s embattled President, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, who sulked mightily in the corner of the McLaren P1 GTR launch event on Friday in Pebble Beach. But for many luxury sedans, a great facelift can be the breath of life they need to earn new buyers and keep previous loyal owners happy at the same time. 2013’s best luxury sedan facelift would certainly go to the Mercedes-Benz E350 — a car so new-feeling that its sales have jumped mightily, but so carry-over that it is almost hard …

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

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

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Updated With 44 Real-Life Photos – 2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe Includes Overboost and 5.6s 0-60 Sprint.. As a 2.0T!

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Updated With 44 Real-Life Photos Talk about a huge letdown. The ATS Coupe packs an unbelievable amount of dullness into a two-door shape. What a snooze this car is. The latest media drive photos only confirm our earlier assertion: http://www.car-revs-daily.com/2014/07/03/op_ed-2015-cadillac-ats-coupe-is-boring/ Cadillac really dropped the ball on every single CTS and ATS trim and style decision. This car looks about as cool as a rented Impala Classic. 2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe One of the most promising elements of the Cadillac ATS Coupe is that it adds platform rigidity and performance focus to this new contender in the hotshot exec coupe segment. …

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Updated With Pricing and Colors – 2015 Chevrolet Colorado Brings Cool Style + Big Power

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Updated With Pricing and Colors 8.7.14     The 2015 Colorado looks amazing! These all-new midsize Chevrolet trucks stand tall with their big Silverado brothers. Z71 off-road packages raised the ride height, while the extra-short overhangs will surely be an asset off-road. Capabilities will vary across the Colorado line, with engines topping out with a five-cylinder…. Just kidding!  The top engine is the excellent 3.6-liter V-6 best known from the Cadillac portfolio, but this time delivering great torque and even 302 horsepower through a standard six-speed automatic. Even the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder has ‘bulked up’ – producing 193 horsepower and …

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4.2s, 203-MPH 2015 Aston Martin RAPIDE S Also Nabs New Dampers, Torque-Tube and 8-Speed ZF Transaxle

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Even more thrilling news from Aston! The technical upgrades to the Vanquish and Vanquish Volante also join the Rapide S saloon-car for 2015. This brings an enormous leap in agility and pace at all times thanks to the latest and greatest ZF Touchtronic III automatic transmission. Mounted in back on the rear axle, this transaxle setup creates an exceptionally balanced sportscar with weight distribution balanced exquisitely. A transaxle layout is the best method for a supercar sedan – as shown by the previous Maserati Qauttroporte and other heroes with four doors over the years. The Rapide S also brings new …

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3.6s 2015 Aston Martin VANQUISH Adds Amazing ZF 8-Speed Auto for 201-MPH Vmax

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Thrilling news from Aston Martin today! The 2015 Vanquish brings a hefty set of upgrades and updates – including the best-ever automatic transmission from ZF. Dubbed Touchtronic III in its Aston duty, this amazing box is a wonderful complement to the new 2015 adaptive/adjustable dampers and a new torque tube as well. The eight-speed auto optimizes the 568-hp V12’s power to great effect in all scnearios. This includes the 60-mph sprint, where the 2015 Vanquish nails a 3.6-second pace. This is down more than 0.6-seconds versus the current car. Great stuff! The full details are out – below is nearly …

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2015 Audi S8 with 520HP and 3.9s to 60MPH Is The Quickest and Definitely The Coolest A8

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For many years, one of the core elements of the Audi A8’s appeal was its refined and ultra-classy ‘outsider’ appeal. Versus the once-staid S-Class and now-staid BMW 7 series, the A8 was a breath of fresh air. For the ultra-luxury limo set of shoppers, the A8 represented a ‘Mac’ type of aesthetic and usability, versus its very PC-type logic and functions of the other big German luxury sedans. The Audi’s shared German engineering, driving feel and performance instantly put the car ahead of the Lexus LS in many enthusiasts’ minds. A refined and measured exterior and interior design seemed as …

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2015 Hyundai Elantra Sedan Brings Classy LED and Tech Updates – Features, Photos and Pricing

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Fresh off its JD Power Initial QUality Study victory, the Hyundai Elantra Sedan is updated for 2015 with some refined and classy LED additions front and rear, plus a tech suite upgrade inside. The Elantra’s fluidic sculpture design of the Elantra is still one of the best in the compact segment – along with the Mazda3 and Dodge Dart as perhaps the other two coolest compact sedans available. Making a small sedan sporty, low and wide on the road is not an easy thing. Just take a look at the Ford Focus or Fiesta sedans for evidence of the unpleasant …

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2015 BMW X3 xLine vs M Sport, Pricing + Specs with 100 New Real-Life Photos

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Updated 7.28.14 with Pricing, Specs and 100 New Photos Hooray! The 2015 BMW X3 debuted last night in a sneak peak at the Chicago auto show – and all seems well for this glamorous new five-seat crossover. Why the elation? I hated was not a fan of the previous X3. Sometimes my own critiques are so scathing that the words echo and reverberate in my head after I type and publish them. What do I mean? Well, I called the previous X3’s LED and nose look a “zombie-like stare.” Accurate? Maybe, maybe not. Memorable? Perhaps too much so. The X3 …

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Updated with 60 New Photos – 2014 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Gets RESULTS with 580HP and 3.9s Sprint

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If the goal of the Z/28 is to get some respect for the Camaro’s performance and track speed, the goal of the ZL1 is to get results out on the street. With 580-horsepower from the supercharged LSA V8, an available automatic with fool-proof launch control, and magnetic shocks as standard — the ZL1 is the easiest performance bargain on the market. Notably, the way the Z/28 has delivered most of its sheer pace is through weight reduction and detail handling tweaks over the ZL1. Dropped luxuries like the optional Kicker audio and ZL1 subwoofer will be missed, along with all …

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Updated with 50 New Photos – 650HP 2015 Corvette Z06 Convertible ~3.0s to 60MPH with Manual or 8-Sp Automatic

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Okay folks, get ready for the new Z06 Convertible — up close and very personal! Chevrolet commissioned two favorite photographers to handle a moody professional studio shoot for the grey car below. Outstanding details are visible in these high-glam shots, despite the indoor lighting being almost non-existent. The next set is perhaps even more amazing, with complete credit to CorvetteForum.com member Gene Sanchez Leeds. Mr Leeds snapped more than 100 photos of the Z06 twins at the New York show in April. The work is quite breathtaking in its detail and quality, with 25 of the best featured here. NY …

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2015 Dodge Charger R/T With Painted Front Bumper Is Less Terrifying, More Premium and Sporty

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Whisper it – but my favorite of the Dodge Charger/Challenger has always been the Charger. Not only do I prefer the name – I just like its style and long/low/wide scale better than the retro two-door. The latest updates for the 2015 model-year look thorough and helpful for improving the current Charger’s weakest link: its cabin. New performance pages from the SRT stable are included in this R/T model – along with a totally redesigned interior with more configurable digital screens in between the main gauges of the instrument cluster. On the outside, the car is still as scary as …

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2015 Range Rover Evoque Gains 9-Speed Auto, Refreshed Info Tech and Boosted Engine HP

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The 2015 Range Rover Evoque’s updates are a bit deeper than first reported at Geneva with the loaded Autobiography trim level. It now appears that the full US range of Evoques will benefit from an exterior refresh as well as a tech suite update inside. The exterior changes are extremely subtle, and include new Range Rover Sport-style wheels and grille detailing. The Autobiography model shown here will offer gloss black for all these brightwork accents (orange car) or the normal satin silver shown on the grey model. The other changes include a new accent element for the foglamp surround up …

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2015 Dodge Challenger Is Sporty At All Levels – 6.4L Scat Pack, 5.7L V8 RT and Even V6 Super Track Pak!

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The biggest news for the 2015 Challenger is thew engine/powertrain advancement in all trim levels — not least the 707-horsepower SRT Hellcat supercharged. But there are huge, huge benefits inside the cabin to close deals with shoppers. While the exterior is barely-altered in the sheetmetal shapes of the body – the cabin is completely fresh in every way. Big upgrades to drive-ability come with the latest eight-speed ZF automatic up and down the range, which will help with the sometimes-lungy downshift style of the existing model. Perhaps even more notable than the Shaker, 392 and SRT is how great the …

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2014 Kia Optima Hybrid Updated With New Grille, LEDs Front and Rear – Specs, Features and Pricing

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The Kia Optima is a run-away success for the brand: since its latest design debuted, sales of the model are nearly double what the nameplate has ever achieved before. To keep this momentum and address buyer priorities, the Hybrid model has rounded out the base and turbo engine options. For the current model-year, the Hybrid brings a few updates both outside and in. The LED accents in the nose are a Hybrid exclusive, as are the lower double fog-lamp elements. These are not nearly as cool as the quad-LED setup in the SX-L trim, but are still pretty nice elements …

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

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2015 VOLVO XC90 Powertrain Well, here is some good news! So far, we have seen the new XC90’s interior luxury and infotainment solutions. The luxury looks good, but the info touchscreen is a bit short of the Tesla 17-inch ideal. Under the hood? This has been another worry – will dropping the inline-6, turbo six and V8 engines hurt the XC90 in power-pad American showrooms? The answer is a big No! The range-topping plug-in hybrid powertrain is teased today, and it looks awesome. Called T8 for twin-engine 4+4 shorthand, the T8 brings 400 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque. Through …

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2015 Lexus NX200t and NX300h Are Ultra-Modern Inside and Out

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The 2015 Lexus NX200t and NX300h instantly make all other compact crossovers look 1000 years old. This is a seriously new and innovative take on the design of Lexus SUVs – and we love it. The surfacing is the most-notable point, with interesting creases throughout that make light bounce around inside the door panels and fender flares. It is totally fresh in a way that a mainstream, or even luxury model, has not been in at least a decade. Overstating things a bit? Perhaps – but the NX200t is extremely good-looking. This is one car where the F Sport trim …

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2014 Overfinch Range Rover Sport To Debut at Salon Prive With +40HP and Extra-Loud V8 Bellow

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If there are two certainties in the JLR supercharged V8 in its latest Ford-Coyote-derived 5.0-liter supercharged setup, it is the huge power and huge wall of sound it is capable of delivering. Not supercharger whine these days either: it is all induction up front and exhaust bark out back. Through the amazing ZF eight-speed automatic, the stock powertrain is nothing short of remarkable. Both the speed and the noise are standard features on cars like the F-Type R – but not available on the Range Rover Sport yet. This changes with the launch of the very exclusive Overfinch Range Rover …

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Track Test Review – 2014 Mazda MX-5 Club Hardtop at Road America Autocross

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Track Test Review – 2014 Mazda MX-5 Club Hardtop at Road America Autocross The next MX-5 is in the home stretch of development in Japan ahead of an expected debut some time in 2014 or early 2015, with deliveries to America set to start shortly afterward. The next MX-5 will spawn an Alfa Romeo Spider twin, with both built to quality standards Fiat could not dream of achieving without Mazda’s Hiroshima-based talent. Development of the MX-5 is the cornerstone of Mazda’s sports car teams these days – and for good reason! The MX-5 is the ultimate track-day thriller: with enough …

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2015 Ford Edge Debut in 200+ Photos – Standard EcoBoost + Better Dynamics, Tech and Style

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The first-ever global Ford Edge has arrived! The 2015 model will be sold in 110 markets across the world, which is a first for any Ford truck or SUV. Other firsts keep rolling in with this all-new model – including a standard EcoBoost turbo in 2.0-liter flavor making a healthy 245-horsepower and 270-pound-feet of torque through the standard six-speed automatic. This six-speed is the SelectShift auto – a traditional torque-converter automatic that promises smoother city coasting than the sometimes-unpleasant PowerShift twin-clutch unit. It also pairs well with the standard front-drive or optional all-wheel-drive of the new Edge in all three …

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2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class in 40 New Photos – C300 and C400 Both 4Matic As Standard

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Update 6.20.14 The new C-Class is looking very sharp in these photos from London and the English countryside! Please disregard the engine badges and driving position of these photos – our American-market launch cars are the C300 4Matic and C400 4Matic — both with standard all-wheel-drive to start. Down the road there is likely to be a rear-drive C250 model as well. The C400 4Matic is set to be one of the year’s best cars – it brings air suspension to the mid-size luxury class for the first time ever. Air springs are heavenly on the latest crop of Mercedes …

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2014 ZENVO ST1 Colorizer Shows Potential of Crisp, Lean and Aggressive Design in 40 Colors

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2014 ZENVO ST1 Colorizer Shows Potential of Crisp, Lean and Aggressive Design in 40 Colors We’re huge fans of the ZENVO ST1 here at Car-Revs-Daily. The ST1’s design is amazing – clean and pure but quite aggressive and obviously exotic from all angles. With pricing at or above a million dollars, the ZENVO team is of course open to custom orders. With that in mind, we took to Photoshop to imagine the ST1 in some classic and ultra-modern hypercar colors. It really looks outstanding in all the yellows and a few of the neon greens. 2014 ZENVO ST1 Colorizer   …

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Configuring Your Supercar Hero – 2014 Porsche 911 GT3 Visual Buyers Guide

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  With the previous post showing the Porsche 911 GT3 in all its high-res glory, now is time to make some choices. Tough choices – like what color your new Porsche lover will take, how much leather is in the cabin, and how posh you want your GT3’s headlights to be. My choices are outlined explicitly below, and view-able the Porsche configurator. You can work backward from these choices to make it your own, or start from scratch. Here are the six most critical options to select, in my opinion: — Fanciest LED headlight option (This is open to debate. …

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2014 Porsche 911 GT3 Technical Specs + 50 High-Res Wallpapers

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    Included below are the full specs of the 2014 Porsche 911 GT3, pricing for which starts at $130,000. Also, more than 50 high-resolution wallpapers of this 9000-RPM boxer barn-stormer. The 911 GT3 is masterful track car that can moonlight as a classy way to take a date for a night on the town. The thrills will start before you even make it back to bedroom! 2014 Porsche 911 GT3 Technical Specs Engine PDK Engine layout Rear engine Cylinder layout / number of cylinders Horizontally Opposed / 6 Displacement 3.8 l Horsepower 475 hp @ rpm 8250 rpm Torque …

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2014 Nissan 370Z Coupe – Colors, Specs, Options and Prices from $30k

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Can we be real for a second here? The Nissan 370Z NISMO is an awesome sports car. But if it were my hard-earned, I would snap up the standard 370Z almost any day of the week over not just the NISMO Z-car, but also the Scion FR-S, Subaru BRZ and WRX, the Focus ST… almost anything. For the 330-horsepower + rear-drive value equation, only the Hyundai Genesis Coupe gets close. Yes, the Mustang and Camaro exist. But they would not be my personal choices with a V6. The BMW 228i M Sport would be the only other rear-drive coupe on …

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2014 Lexus GS350 vs F Sport vs GS450h – Buyers Guide Info and Model Comparisons

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Something about the GS is quite special on the roads. This car looks wide, brand-new, and clearly a flagship Lexus. But it is not immediately clear which: none look this good, this rear-drive and wide. Relatively clutter-free taillamps help plant the GS from the back, where this base-model GS350 looks more than worth the price. But how to tell them apart! GS350 versus the GS350 F Sport versus GS450h? Very subtle differences to the untrained eye, but the F Sport adds some intrigue to the nose and grille that is only clear up close. In addition to the wind slashes, …

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Update1 New Photos! 2015 Nissan 370Z NISMO Facelift Arrives In July

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UPDATE1 – 6.11.14 The lack of LED lighting in the 370Z Nismo really struck me as odd when briefly testing the 2014 model in October of last year. Here is a car that is too-cool-for-school in almost every other way, but still lacking one of the most sought-after pieces of aesthetic technology? That is rectified for 2015, with the new 370Z NISMO not just tacking on some Pep Boys mods: the entire front clip and nose aerodynamics have been redesigned. The red accent on the chin spoiler is sinfully delicious, as are the aforementioned LEDs themselves. 2015 Nissan 370Z NISMO …

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2015 BMW X6 Debuts Tech-tastic 445HP xDrive50i and New Rear-Drive sDrive35i

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One issue with BMW’s rapidly-evolving technology suite in all models is that the existing cars can feel a bit left-behind by mid-cycle. Luckily, BMW is also rolling out models far quicker than Mercedes-Benz and especially Audi/VW. While the new GTI has finally – finally! – arrived in US dealerships this week, BMW has made its long-time best market a priority, especially for the Spartnburg-built X5, X4, X3 and X7 models. We truly get them first. The gravy train keeps rolling and even picks up speed today, with the second-gen X6 debuting online ahead of its expected arrival in stores by …

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2014 Bentley GT Speed W12 Easily Wins Fastest, Most-Sideways Award at Road America

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How can an all-wheel-drive supercoupe be ‘most sideways,’ you ask? The Conti GT Speed was giving demo rides with none other than Bentley Works GT3 driver Jamie Morrow at the helm. This polite and dapper gentleman turns into a car-hurling beast on the track — with lurid Scandinavian flicks rocking the car off-balance and the huge, huge W12 Speed’s engine power pulling around corners in a perma-drift heaven. It was absolutely magnificent. A man in a Breitling watch and an official Bentley pay stub can certainly push the car he knows so well to the limits — better than a …

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192HP, 6.8-Second 2015 MINI 5-Door Answers the Call of Back-Seaters Everywhere

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What is the back-seaters’ call? “Let us out!” ? That is not exactly the MINI Cooper’s fun-loving style! Back-seat whiners have typically just wanted to stretch their legs a little bit, but been stuck until one of the fancy front-seaters will move their tush and let the seat slide up to an open slice of door. The 2015 MINI five-door hatch promises modest solutions to both problems via an extra set of rear doors on the silly-fun urban classic. The latest MINI model is far more approachable in every way, with its turbocharged standard triple delivering more MPG and also …

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2014 Hyundai Veloster REFLEX Brings Exclusive White Finish, Turbo LEDs and DCT Auto for $22k

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  The special Veloster Hyundai debuted in Chicago has now arrived in dealers nationwide! The Veloster RE:FLEX is a shortcut way to get the hottest-spec and best-equipped Veloster model available — with standard automatic transmission and all the Turbo’s LED style for only $21,650 before delivery charges of about $800. The interior is offered in red or black leather, along with the latest mobile device connectivity and even the giant glass moonroof as standard. The white and chrome finishes are a nice touch to the Veloster RE:FLEX — and are a sure way to have an exclusive and premium-feeling sports …

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2014 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8L V6 – Road Test Review of FAST and FUN RWD Sportscar

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Does something or someone become more beautiful the more you love it? I think we all know that the answer is: Yes. Such were my feelings after driving the 2014 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8. Coming home, I find some of the most stunning photos and time-consuming angles of any car in recent memory – and the car is looking stellar. Sporty, lightweight, expensive and fast – but most of all, bright red. Was I so smitten that I kept snapping away long after I had the basics for a road test review? It would clearly seem that way. After all, …

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2015 Subaru BRZ Series.Blue Limited-Edition Brings STI Goodies

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2015 Subaru BRZ Series Blue …. Also Available in White. No joke. 500 copies of the World Rally Blue color and 500 copies of Crystal White are the only choices for the top-spec Series.Blue limited edition coming this summer to Subaru BRZ fans. A minimal makeover of the 2015 BRZ will kick off the second-generation cars’ market tenure: underbody aero panels smooth the drag coefficient, STI wheels and body accessories add drama outside, while larger exhaust tips and a shark-fin radio antenna also join the fun for 2015. The cars are also likely to include a bit more NVH material …

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2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR Scoots Around Go-Kart Autocross at Road America

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Alternative headlines? “GSR Aims at Autocross Target, Misses.” “Beetle GSR Drives Like It Has Gorilla On Roof.” The Beetle GSR is supposedly tailor-made for racing and timed laps – it even includes a chronometer stopwatch right in the central dashboard and racing stripes outside. Unfortunately, all who drove it at Road America last week came away with various harsh critiques. Brakes were spongy and non-existent, the tires washed out all sense of grip, it felt pokey, and most damning of all: it handled extremely poorly. My critique that it felt like a gorilla was on the roof was echoed by …

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Updated with Real-Life Photos! 302HP 2015 GMC Canyon Easily Best-Looking Mid-Size Pickup

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2015 GMC Canyon All-Terrain – Article Updated 5.27.14 The Canyon All-Terrain took the stage last week with the GMC team at Road America for the Midwest Automotive Media Association’s Spring Rally – and it looks just as good in the flesh as it does in the previews!   The 2015 GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado are shaping up to be huge news in a stagnant segment: mid-size trucks. Compact trucks? Not a “thing” anymore. Everybody who is anybody is going mid-size. As the Toyota Tacoma grew in size markedly to match the (long-gone; not missed) Dodge Dakota in size, others …

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2015 Nissan 370Z NISMO Facelift Arrives In July With New LED Nose and New Recaros

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The lack of LED lighting in the 370Z Nismo really struck me as odd when briefly testing the 2014 model in October of last year. Here is a car that is too-cool-for-school in almost every other way, but still lacking one of the most sought-after pieces of aesthetic technology? That is rectified for 2015, with the new 370Z NISMO not just tacking on some Pep Boys mods: the entire front clip and nose aerodynamics have been redesigned. The red accent on the chin spoiler is sinfully delicious, as are the aforementioned LEDs themselves. 2015 Nissan 370Z NISMO Facelift Other tweaks …

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Road Test Review w/ Pricing and Specs – 2014 Mazda3 Grand Touring

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We were amazed with the all-new 2014 Mazda3 from the moment we laid eyes on it – especially the slinky and low-slung sedan variant that just arrived this Spring to Mazda dealers nationwide. After some joyful driving of the loaded 2014 Mazda3 s Grand Touring model, it is clear that the praise we shared in the “2014’s Smartest Compact” article was not sufficient. This might be the best car on the market in general, with no caveats for size or price. It is that good. I am struggling to convey how outstanding a machine it is in all regards — …

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2015 MINI Countryman Debuts Dark-Trimmed Style and LED Foglamp Rings

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Okay, these updates probably could have been grouped together, considering the below is almost a complete Search/Replace for Paceman –> Countryman. But such is life. Here are the 2015 MINI Countryman details. MINI USA UNVEILS 2015 MINI COUNTRYMAN WITH WORLD PREMIERE AT NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW 16/04/14   MINI Countryman is currently the second highest selling model in the U.S. by volume, led only by the MINI Hardtop New safety and functional features enhance the premium crossover model Expanded range of paint finishes now includes Jungle Green metallic, Midnight Grey metallic, and Starlight Blue metallic Woodcliff Lake, NJ – …

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2015 MINI Paceman Adds LED DRLs and Foglamps + Blacked-Out Styling Updates

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Most subtle facelift ever? Glad to see the dark headlight style is going mainstream, with a lack of chrome also a big enhancement for the 2015 Paceman. The other largest change is the LED foglamp ring down below, which is pretty disappointing versus a full LED headlamp makeover. Even so, better some LED style than none!   MINI UNVEILS 2015 MINI PACEMAN WITH WORLD PREMIERE AT BEIJING MOTOR SHOW 22/04/14 Woodcliff Lake, NJ – April 21, 2014…As an extravagant individualist in urban traffic, the MINI Paceman is a real eye-catcher. The world’s first ever Sports Activity Coupé in the premium …

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2015 BMW M3 – Configurator Buyers Guide to Options, Colors, Wheels and Best Equipment

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Building a new M3 is remarkably simple – the main choices you need to ponder in advance are: – Manual transmission or M-DCT transmission? – Willing to stump for $8000 carbon brakes? – Willing to upgrade the wheels to the 19-inchers (to avoid looking like a 320i rolling on mini skateboard runners). Besides that, the rest of the options book really writes itself. The level of customization inside with various leather colors really shames the exterior paint finishes available — which seem pretty limited upon first glance. Other options that seem like must-have items? – Adaptive suspension for $1000 – …

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3.7s 2014 TRIDENT Iceni Magna Fastback Supercar … Running 6.6L V8 Diesel Power! Specs + Options Detail

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I certainly like the style of this latest Trident Iceni Magna a bit more now than when I first laid eyes on it. The hyper-rounded and flowing panels recall the best and wackiest TVR Tuscan design elements, but with details all Trident’s own. The black Iceni Magna joins the Iceni and Iceni Venturer family members in a three-strong range.   Official Details below from Trident Sports Cars.   TECH SPECS In Standard Specification the Trident Iceni is equipped with the following: Engine: 6.6ltr Turbo Diesel V8 Gearbox: 6 Speed fully automatic Brakes: Alcon 400mm steel vented discs at the front …

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