Luxury cars

, ,

Jay Leno interviews Lamborghini president, gets tour of sexy concept cars

Breaking the tradition of Jay Leno’s Garage, the comedian, talk show host and car collector recently intervierwed Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann at the Concours d’Elegance during Monterey Auto Week in Pebble Beach, California. Leno and Winklemann walk around the Urus and Sesto Elemento concepts, and discuss the Italian manufacturer’s plans for the marque’s 50th anniversary celebration in 2013. The automotive gala will be a Grand Tour of Italy with more than 300 Lamborghini vehicle invited from around the world. Winkelmann provides details about the Urus concept and and SUV production version. Leno mentions his Lamborghini (of course) and the two automotive icons share a few laughs. James RaiaA sports, travel and business journalist for more than 45 years, James has

Read more
, ,

Acura ILX, 2013: Luxury, performance, strong value for new sedan

A new model for Honda’s upscale brand, the 2013 Acura ILX is the carmaker’s smallest offering as an entry level luxury vehicle. It’s only been available in the United States since May, 2012. Six models are offered: a base five-speed automatic, five-speed auto with premium package, five-speed auto with technology package, six-speed manual with premium package, a base hybrid and a hybrid with a technology package. The hybrid models are Acura‘s first and feature a 1.5-liter four-cylinder with a gas/electric powertrain. The 2013 ILX in one respect made an inauspicious debut: Combined with its distant 2012 Honda CR-V sibling, the manufacturer recalled 172,000 units because of faulty door latches. The Weekly Driver Test Drive As a luxury sedan priced at

Read more
, ,

Jaguar XKR-S, 2012: Stylish, fastest model of iconic sports car

The 2012 Jaguar XKR-S is likely the last, extremely fast model that retains much of the automaker’s traditional “E-Type” sports car styling. The sensational race-bred Jaguar E-Type sports car arrived for 1961 with a potent inline six-cylinder engine. It was sold as a coupe or convertible and was known to most Americans as simply the “XK-E.” Many still feel that it’s the most beautiful sports car ever built. But the E-Type began to lose some of its luster when government regulations forced it to detune its engine and add such items as clumsier bumpers and smoothly faired plastic covers over the headlights in 1967. The E-Type went from 1971 through 1975 as a heavier-looking car with a potent, but often

Read more
, ,

Audi allroad, 2013: Smooth, versatile crossover returns to United States

The German Audi allroad returns to the United States for the first time since 2005 as a roomy car-like crossover vehicle. Or call it an oversized station wagon, if you like. Despite its German engineering, I found during a media preview of the allroad near Denver that this vehicle has a very American feel. For instance, while precise, the electromechanical steering almost feels a little too light. Some may like that feel, but those looking for a firmer “German feel” may look elsewhere—although the nicely built allroad is plenty solid, in the best German tradition. The allroad may look much like an off-road vehicle, but isn’t. Still, it easily tackles rough roads with its supple, all-independent suspension and Audi’s superior

Read more
,

Rare 1957 Ford Thunderbird convertible set for national TV auction

An original, unrestored 1957 Ford Thunderbird, which has been driven 20,000 miles, had one owner and garage kept, will be auctioned May 19 on national television as part of Dana Mecum’s 25th Original Spring Classic Auction. Sold new at O’Shea-Rogers Ford in Lincoln, Nebraska, the Thunderbird is still painted in its original factory-applied Starmist Blue paint. The V-8 powered Ford classic is offered with its original porthole hardtop and wide whitewall tires and is documented with the original bill of sale and a signed affidavit attesting to its actual mileage. James RaiaA sports, travel and business journalist for more than 45 years, James has written the new car review column The Weekly Driver since 2004. In addition to founding this

Read more
, ,

Volvo XC60, 2012: New style dispels rocky SUV crossover reputation

The boxy Volvos of the 1980s almost seem like classics, and few would have guessed  then the automaker would make a premium, sporty crossover such as the 2012 Volvo XC60. Although large and heavy, the mid-sized XC60 has shapely sculpted styling, with sexy chromed exhaust outlets, and drives much like a smaller sports sedan. In fact, it’s based on Volvo’s athletic S60 sedan architecture. The firm steering is quick, handling inspires confidence during hard driving, backed by stability and traction control systems.The ride is a bit firm, but supple. Powerful anti-lock brakes have a nice pedal action. Rivals include the BMW’s popular X3, and other formidable competitors such as the Acura RDX, Audi Q5, Infiniti FX and Mercdes-Benz GLK350. The

Read more
, ,

Infiniti FX35 Limited Edition, 2012: Stylish, high-performance SUV gets jolt

When the Infiniti FX was introduced in 2003, the luxury performance SUV was a novel, if strange, idea. Now, nearly every brand has some version of a sporty crossover, which means many drivers are looking for sports car performance with SUV functionality. Although not the sales leader it once was, the Infiniti FX continues to offer unique styling and competitive performance. For its mid-cycle update, Infiniti has given the 2012 FX a mild makeover. Most noticeable is a revised front fascia that gives the FX a decidedly more aggressive appearance. To generate additional interest, Infiniti is also offering a Limited Edition of the FX35. With only 500 available in the U.S., the model features Iridium Blue paint and 21-inch graphite

Read more
, , ,

2013 Nissan GTR vs. 2012 Audi R8 vs. 2012 Jaguar XKR-S

By David Colman It isn’t often one has the opportunity to sample three of the fastest sports cars in the world back-to-back on Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. But such an opportunity occurred during the recent Western Automotive Journalists’ 20th annual Media Day at Laguna Seca Raceway. The urge to compare the Nissan’s GT-R to Audi’s R8 and Jaguar’s XKR-S proved irresistible. 2013 NISSAN GT-R Even though this supercar has been on the market for a while and is in its second detail revision, I never had a chance to drive it. “That’s why we brought them out” said Nissan PR chief Tim Gallagher, “Because we know many of you haven’t been in one yet.” Gallagher requisitioned two GT-R Black Edition

Read more
, ,

Lexus ES 350, 2012: Fast, plush sedan remains luxury class leader

The Lexus ES 350 is in the wondrous midsize luxury class. It includes tough competition among well-heeled vehicles ranging from the Buick LaCross to the Volvo S60 and the Acura TL to the Hyundai Genesis. For 2012, the Lexus ES 350 remains largely unchanged from the 2011 model, with only one available trim. It's a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 268 horsepower, 248 pound-feet of torque and has a standard six-speed automatic transmission. The Weekly Driver Test Drive Without changes, Lexus must be confident in the Lexus ES 350, the high-brow sibling of a Toyota Camry. There was plenty of evidence for that theory during my weekly drive. Quick acceleration to substantial comfort to smooth driving, the ES 350 continues to

Read more
, ,

BMW recall: 1.3 million 5 and 6 series for potential electrical system failure

BMW is globally recalling 1.3 million 5 and 6 vehicles manufactured between 2003 and 2010 due to potential problems with a battery-cable cover that could result in the electrical system malfunctioning, the vehicle failing to start and as well as the potential for charring or a fire. The German manufacturer said it isn't aware of any accident or injury triggered through the technical fault. Vehicle owners will be notified in writing. Repairs will take approximately 30 minutes and will be free of charge to the customer. BMW didn't elaborate on the anticipated costs it will face related to the recall. A BMW spokesman said the recall is a precautionary safety measure as no accidents have been reported. Nine cases of

Read more
, ,

Buick Verano, 2012: Luxury sedan with good looks, value price

The Chevrolet Cruze is an unqualified hit on several levels. But can the 2012 Buick Verano, which shares the same platform with the Cruze, be more than a rebadged GM project? For readers who like jumping to the last chapter before reading the whole book, I am not going to spoil the ending, just read on. The Verano is neither a rebadged Euro-market sedan (like the Regal) nor a “pure” Buick design like the LaCrosse. It splits the difference between the two designs, marrying a conservative design with a few discrete Buick cues such as the signature waterfall grille and the silly do-nothing portholes on the hood. The overall impression is of a clean, classy car with signature Buick styling

Read more
, , ,

Infiniti M Hybrid, 2012: World’s fastest full hybrid combines performance, economy

According to Infiniti, the 2012 M Hybrid luxury sedan features the performance of a V8 engine with the fuel economy of a 4-cylinder. If this sounds too good to be true, consider the numbers: Infiniti claims 0 to 60 in well under six seconds, and up to 32 mpg. Could the M Hybrid be the automotive equivalent of having your cake and eating it, too? The M Hybrid, or M35h, utilizes Infiniti’s new Direct Response Hybrid system, the first hybrid system developed fully in-house by Nissan/Infiniti. The system combines a 302 hp 3.5-liter V6 engine, a 7-speed automatic transmission, and a 50 kW electric motor powered by a lithium ion battery. Total output is a notable 360 hp engine with

Read more
, ,

Audi A6, 2012: Refined sports sedan growls, showcases proud heritage

By Twain Mein Audi introduced the mid-sized A6 sedan in 200. It had an optional 4.2 liter V8 featuring 300 horsepower, swollen fender flares to accommodate low-profile 40-series tires, and a more performance-oriented handling package to compete with the BMW 540i. The A6 4.2 was a practical and roomy sedan with all-wheel drive, luxury, and class leading handling and power. It was voted a Top 10 by Car and Driver in its inaugural year and in 2001. This 4.2 variant is the spiritual predecessor to the 3.0 TFSI (aka, supercharged 6-cylinder) I recently tested. It’s clear that in 12 years, Audi hasn’t sat idle. In fact, the new A6 3.0 TFSI blows away its predecessor. Though the new model has

Read more
, ,

Lexus tops Consumer Reports 2012 best list, Jeep gets top two worst spots

The Lexus 460L luxury sedan has been awarded top honors for best road test, while Jeep has dubious honors with vehicles receiving the worst two scores in Consumer Reports best and worst lists for 2012. Consumer Reports ranked the Lexus LS 460L at the top with a road test score of 99, followed by BMW 135i at 97; Infiniti G37 sedan at 95; Toyota Camry Hybrid XLE; Audi A6 (3.0T); Infiniti M37 and Nissan Altima 3.5 SR at 93. The Audi A8 L, Lexus ES 350 and Nissan Altima 2.5 S all appeared on the list as well with a score of 91 each. The magazine’s list is determined by 50 individualized tests and evaluations. Scores reflect how well a

Read more
, , ,

Academy Awards: Mercedes-Benz joins Hyundai, debuts new hybrid commercial

Mercedes-Benz will join Hyundai during the 82nd annual Academy Awards as carmakers debuting commercials for new 2012 models. In the instance of Mercedes-Benz, the debut will be showcased in a 30-second spot call "Tree of Innovation" and it will be for the S400 HYBRID. The commercial also showcases the company's expanding repertoire of environmentally oriented vehicles. The ad is the first to feature the new "voice" for Mercedes-Benz advertising, Jon Hamm, the Golden Globe winning star of the TV series Mad Men. Hyundai is debuting two 30-second spots for the 2012 Azera. Jeff Bridges, the Academy Award winning actor, is the voice of Hyundai. James RaiaA sports, travel and business journalist for more than 45 years, James has written the

Read more
, ,

Ferrari sets sales record in 2011, new 12-cylinder model set for Geneva debut

The fluctuating economy didn't hurt Ferrari in 2011. In fact, it helped the Italy luxury carmaker establish two sales records, including the most vehicles it's ever sold in one year. Ferrari sold 7,195 cars globally in 2011, an increase of 9.5 percent from the 2010 previous record, 6,573. The record sales number translated into 2.251 billion euros ($2.63 billion) in sales, the first time Ferrari has surpassed two billion euros in sales in one year. Ferrari, owned by the auto giant Fiat, recorded record sales in the United States, Greater China region and in the Middle East in 2011. "We can only be satisfied with these results," said Luca di Montezemolo, the head of the Ferrari brand. was quoted as

Read more
Previous Next