Porsche Boxster Spyder: A Tale of Two Roadsters 2016

It's the essence of Porsche enthusiasm to be of two minds about the 2016 Porsche Boxster Spyder. While we have wonderful memories its predecessor, the 2011-2012 "987" model Boxster Spyder, which combined a modest power boost, lighter weight and sharply tuned suspension to create a truly great driver's car, the latest iteration boasts a larger engine, substantially more power and takes a slightly less hardcore approach. The 2016 Boxster Spyder is the fastest, most powerful, most formidable version of Porsche's mid-engined convertible yet. But is it good

A beast of a Boxster

Power is provided by the 3.8-liter flat-six from the 911 Carrera S-that's right, Porsche's so serious about the Spyder that it finally dropped a 911 engine into a Boxster-rated at 375 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. As a result, the 2016 Spyder gets a massive 55-horsepower gain over the first Boxster Spyder, and 45 over the top-spec Boxster GTS. A 6-speed manual is the only transmission; no PDK dual-clutch automatic available. Porsche claims a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 180 mph

The 2016 Boxster Spyder's design cues mesh quite well: the front and rear fascia, taken from the Cayman GT4, add 10mm of length while contributing to the 72 pounds the Spyder loses over the GTS. They also give the Spyder a more aggressive look. The Boxster is already a good-looking car; add the classic "streamliners," that run from the headrests and the result is flat-out gorgeous

The manual top in the previous Spyder was fussy, but when down gave the car a pure roadster feel. For the 2016 Boxster Spyder, the top is more refined; think of it as a mostly manual version of the soft top available on standard models. After electrically unlatching the top, you manually fold and stow it in just a few steps. The roof is lighter than those on other Boxsters thanks to the loss of the mechanism, but still allows you to hit top speed with the roof up or take it through a car wash - two things you couldn't do in the previous Spyder

More knife than scalpel

With peak torque at nearly 5,000 rpm and horsepower at just under 7,000 rpm, this is a car that begs to be revved hard. Thanks to the 3.8-liter, those revs produces a glorious noise; the 2016 Boxster Spyder sounds like it has an angry 911 spirit animal living amidships-one constantly demanding more from your right foot. Though the new Spyder hits peak horsepower 500 rpm sooner than the 987 (while providing nearly 40 more lb-ft of torque at the same rpm), it's happier high in the rev range. Mash the gas at lower speeds and it can feel like it's waiting to spool up to deliver the Spyder's considerable power

Helping to wrangle that power is the Sport Chrono package from the GTS; optional on that car but standard here along with dynamic transmission mounts to aid cornering. Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) and a mechanical differential lock are also standard, providing "targeted brake interventions" to either rear wheel while inside of a curve to further aid steering performance. The variable power steering rack is the electric unit found in the 911 Turbo, and is not only quicker than the hydraulic one in the last Spyder, but the rest of the current Boxster line. Thanks to the steering and the 911-sourced brakes, this is an easy car to drive fast. And because of its softer suspension, it's more easy-going than the previous Spyder

A matter of perspective

Still, we are of two minds; simultaneously appreciating the 2016 Boxster Spyder for the truly epic car that it is while longing for the vastly more engaging 987 Spyder. Where that car was basically a roofless Cayman R, the 2016 Boxster Spyder is distinctly different from the current and raw, Cayman GT4 track-day special. It's suited more to an enthusiast who wants something to take to Cars & Coffee on Saturday morning, then tear through some nice back roads on the way home. Starting at $82,000 and available this fall, it's hard to nail down the car's competition - perhaps the Jaguar F-Type S Convertible, which costs about the same and comes with a tick more horsepower, a more luxurious interior, optional all-wheel drive, and a top that you don't have to get out of the car to stow

Porsche has built an awesome car in the 2016 Boxster Spyder-it's just different than the last one. The earlier model was a precision instrument; a dance partner with which you had a running conversation where you discovered and expanded your limits. The new car? It's better in every measurable way - quicker, faster, stickier, sexier, yet more comfortable and more useable. But it's lost a bit of edge. It may be a disservice to compare them - they share a name but not a mission. Buy a 2016 Boxster Spyder because you want a top of the line mid-engined convertible, with that excellent 3.8-liter from the 911 Carrera S. But keep your 2012 Spyder, too

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Class of 2016: New Cars Ready to Roll

2016 LEXUS RX

2016 ACURA NSX

2016 CADILLAC CT6

2016 HONDA CIVIC CONCEPT

2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU

2016 MAZDA MX - 5 MIATA

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Ford Shelby GT-H 2016

To properly celebrate the 50th anniversary of the fabled Shelby GT350-H, a rental-only performance car available through Hertz, Ford, Shelby American and Hertz have once again teamed up to create a modern take on that legendary Mustang that was revealed in New York. Roughly 140 versions of this new version, now named 2016 Shelby GT-H, will be produced, once again dressed in the classic black and gold livery. As before, they’ll be exclusively on offer through Hertz, this time as part of its Adrenaline Collection at select airport locations in the continental United States starting on Memorial Day Weekend.

Our goal was to give everyone a chance to add some fun to their travel with a distinctive American pony car,” said Doug White, Ford Performance Parts manager. “So Ford Performance and Shelby American sharpened the handling, improved the performance, sweetened the exhaust note and added distinctive Hertz styling to the Mustang. Anyone who rents a limited-edition Ford Shelby GT-H will enjoy a very special driving experience

Looks hot, drives cool

To be built at the Shelby American assembly facility in Las Vegas, the 2016 Shelby GT-H ups the adrenalin ante of a standard Mustang GT both cosmetically and functionally. A megadose of Shelby body bits that range from a carbon fiber front splitter and vented polycarbonate hood to bespoke rocker sills and a rear spoiler get set off by requisite Shelby, Hertz and Ford Performance badging while the cabin gets custom Shelby GT-H floor mats, door sill plates, head restraint covers and a dash plaque. The cars also are fitted with a Ford Performance Handling Pack that brings unique dampers, lowering springs, sway bars and a staggered-wheel kit that features matte-black alloys wrapped in meaty (255/40 front/275/40 rear) Z-rated Michelin Pilot Sport tires along with a Ford Performance cat-back exhaust kit that includes chrome dual outlets.

The 1966 Ford Shelby GT350-H became a legend from the moment it was introduced,” said Joe Conway, Co-CEO of Carroll Shelby International and CEO of Shelby American. “Ten years ago, the 2006 Ford Shelby GT-H earned the same ‘rock star’ status when it was introduced at the New York Auto Show. We worked closely with Ford Performance to make the 2016 Shelby GT-H the most exciting Mustang ever to wear the iconic Hertz black and gold livery

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2016 Bentley Continental GTC 2dr Convertible For Sale Price $282,580

About This 2016 Bentley Continental GTC 2dr Convertible

Bentley Beverly Hills is proud to present this 2016 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible in Hallmark and Beluga - Vehicle options include: - 21" Directional Sport Alloy Wheels in Dark Tint - Adaptive Cruise Control - Exterior Hood in Dark Gray Metallic - Contrast Stitching to Diamond Quilting - Neck Warmer - Ventilated Front Seats with Massage - Wind Deflector - Deep Pile Overmats to Front and Rear Bentley Beverly Hills is an OGara Coach Company. The O'Gara Coach Company is the leading Factory Authorized Dealer for Aston Martin, Bentley, Bugatti, Lamborghini and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and is known for its extensive inventory of world-renowned pre-owned vehicles. Respected as one of the most successful luxury automotive outlets in the world, O'Gara Coach Company continues to set unmatched records in luxury and performance sales as well as service. Where Luxury is Never Compromised.

Details

Year	2016
Make	Bentley
Model	Continental GTC
Trim	2dr Convertible
Mileage	30
Engine	Twin-Turbocharged 6.0L W12 Engine
Exterior Color	Hallmark Metallic
Interior Color	Beluga
Drive Train	All Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic
Body Style	Convertible
Stock #	16B9095
VIN	SCBGJ3ZA9GC056927
Price	$282,580
DPR	1  55  79

O'Gara Coach

• 8833 W Olympic Blvd.
• Beverly Hills CA 90211
• (888)318-9965

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Porsche Cayman GT4 revealed 2016

Making its first public appearance at the Geneva Auto Show in March, the 2016 Porsche Cayman GT4 is the most intense version of the mid-engine two-seat coupe unleashed on the street. The first Cayman to carry a "GT" designation, the car was developed by Porsche's motorsport division to demonstrate its commitment to build "truly industry-leading two-door sports cars." With enhanced aerodynamics, suspension bits from the 911 GT3, a 385-horse version of the 911 GTS engine and a 6-speed manual transmission, it's clear they're serious about that making good on that claim

Visual cues distinguishing the exterior of the new Cayman GT4 include a bolder front fascia with a deeper splitter and larger air intakes, upgraded side air inlets and a prominent fixed rear wing. Inside, this high-velocity hauler matches a smaller-diameter multi-function sport steering wheel with deeply bolstered sport buckets covered in leather and Alcantara

Stunning on the street or circuit

While the 2016 Cayman GT4's 3.8-liter naturally aspirated flat-six does spot the 911 S engine 15 horsepower it boasts 45 more ponies than the 3.4-liter in the current Cayman GTS. Mated exclusively to a 6-speed manual gearbox, it has the power to send the new GT4 streaking from 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds and on to a top speed of 183 mph making it 0.1 tick quicker to 60 mph and 6 mph faster than a Cayman GTS. In addition to liberally borrowing upgraded chassis/brake components from the 911 GT3, the Cayman GT4 rides nearly 1.2 inches lower than a standard-spec car. Hard-core enthusiasts looking to bolster the GT4's capability will be able to add more edge with lightweight composite seats, a set of carbon-ceramic brakes and a bespoke version of the Sport Chrono Package that features a Track Precision app. As the ultimate proof of concept, Porsche recently lapped a Cayman GT4 on the North Loop of the fabled Nürburgring in 7-minutes and  40-seconds - exactly the same pace as a 2011 911 GT3

The 2016 Porsche Cayman GT4 is set to arrive in the U.S. this July. With a starting price of $85,595, Porsche's latest legend-in-the-making is a modest $9,300 more than a 2015 Cayman GTS but nearly $46,000 less than today's 911 GT3

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2016 Bentley Continental GTC 2dr Convertible For Sale Price $289,665

About This 2016 Bentley Continental GTC 2dr Convertible

Bentley Beverly Hills is proud to present this 2016 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible in Ice Metallic and Beluga - Vehicle options include: - Please contact Bentley Beverly Hills for more information regarding this vehicle. Bentley Beverly Hills is an OGara Coach Company. The O'Gara Coach Company is the leading Factory Authorized Dealer for Aston Martin, Bentley, Bugatti, Lamborghini and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and is known for its extensive inventory of world-renowned pre-owned vehicles. Respected as one of the most successful luxury automotive outlets in the world, O'Gara Coach Company continues to set unmatched records in luxury and performance sales as well as service. Where Luxury is Never Compromised.

Details

Year	2016
Make	Bentley
Model	Continental GTC
Trim	2dr Convertible
Mileage	25
Engine	Twin-Turbocharged 6.0L W12 Engine
Exterior Color	Ice Metallic
Interior Color	Beluga
Drive Train	All Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic
Body Style	Convertible
Stock #	16B9097
VIN	SCBGJ3ZA9GC057737
Price	$289,665
DPR	3  86  115

O'Gara Coach

• 8833 W Olympic Blvd.
• Beverly Hills CA 90211
• (888)318-9965

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Hyundai Tucson First Drive: A wallflower blooms 2016

It's a familiar scenario in family dynamics: The youngest is stuck with the hand-me-downs while the older kids get the latest stuff. The thinking goes that the smallest of the pack will eventually grow into the "new" things. Call it familial trickle-down economics
We see parallels in the automotive industry, where pricier flagship models are christened with the latest technology and amenities. Yet eventually, those hot new features become available even on the brand's entry-level cars, and though they may seem familiar within the automaker's lineup they'll still be relevant to buyers who have gone years between buying a car

A seat at the table

For the 2016 Hyundai Tucson, its day in the sun has arrived. The newly matured SUV is set to go on sale this month with a price that spans from $23,595 for a base model to nearly $35,000 for a loaded Limited Ultimate. For 2016, Hyundai's smallest and least-expensive crossover SUV has been given a full revamp. From its striking "Fluidic Sculpture 2.0" design to higher-strength steel, advanced safety features and a more efficient engine, the Tucson enters its third generation with so much appeal that it might just cause envy among its older siblings, the Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport SUVs. It certainly aims to do that among its raft of small SUV competitors, which include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue and Mazda CX-5
Like those other compact crossover SUVs, the 2016 Tucson remains a 2-row, 5-passenger hauler aimed at singles, young couples, empty-nesters and buyers in general who desire room for their active and busy lifestyles, but seek the maneuverability and good fuel economy of a smaller vehicle. And in a year in which Hyundai's crossover SUV sales are down 14.5 percent while the rest of the segment booms, the all-new Tucson couldn't come soon enough. While most of its rivals have been reborn or significantly refreshed in the past few years, the Tucson has gone six years between generations
That time frame has seen advanced powertrains, gee-whiz amenities like motion-activated power liftgates and driver-assist systems such as lane-departure warning, automatic braking and blind-spot monitoring trickle down from premium models to those who just graduated from eating at the kids table. The latest Tucson arrives available with all such features and more

New engine, new transmission

One of the biggest changes for this new Tucson is under the hood. While the base version uses a mostly carryover 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with a 6-speed automatic transmission, the three other trims -- Eco, Sport and Limited -- come with a 1.6-liter turbocharged and direct-injected 4-cylinder mated to a 7-speed twin-clutch automatic. This drivetrain replaces the previous 2.4-liter/6-speed automatic. The setup is already being used in the Hyundai Sonata Eco sedan, but it's a first in the small SUV segment. Hyundai says the benefit of a twin-clutch is a better blend of performance and fuel economy
Both powertrains come standard in front-wheel drive (FWD), and all-wheel drive (AWD) is optional. Worth noting is that Hyundai has kept the "lock" feature on AWD models. When engaged it splits torque 50/50 between the front and rear wheels. You're unlikely to conquer the Rubicon in one of these, but the feature could just get you out of a sticky or slippery situation amid mud or snow
One of the first things you notice in the new Tucson is actually a lack of something: noise. Like every other car maker, Hyundai is going to great lengths to make its vehicles quieter in the quest to minimize the dreaded NVH: noise, vibration and harshness. Great strides have been made with this latest Tucson

Steering to a better place

Here's another area where Hyundai has needed help -- more so than others: steering feel. A lack of it can result in what automotive critics deride as "numbness." Yet another fault can appear when modern-day power-steering systems aim to artificially stiffen or relax effort. The result can feel, well, artificial
Thankfully the Tucson's steering is improved over past models. It still doesn't feel as connected to the road as the athlete in this segment -- the Mazda CX-5 -- but for most drivers it will be more than fine. For those who do want to firm things up, the 2016 Tucson features the new Drive Mode Select, which enables you to toggle between Eco, Normal and Sport. In addition to adjusting power delivery and shift mapping, the system provides more resistance to steering, which makes for a more sporting experience when roads twist and turn

The department of power

In terms of power, the new Tucson's optional engine is adequate and feels about average in this class. It just does more with less thanks to turbocharging. At 175 horsepower, this 1.6-liter 4-cylinder has 7 fewer ponies than the larger, outgoing 2.4-liter 4-cylinder used in higher-trim Tucsons. But the gain comes in fuel economy, and it's impressive. Where the former model with that engine topped out at 28 mpg on the highway, the new one earns up to 33 mpg in Eco trim. It isn't quite class-leading -- the CR-V is rated up to 34 mpg with an automatic transmission, while manual shifters are blessed with a 35 mpg gold star in the Mazda CX-5-but it's impressive nonetheless
Power delivery itself is good, and the new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission felt smooth enough to pass for a traditional automatic. When we needed to pass slower vehicles on a 2-lane road, the Tucson was eager to kick down a gear or two -- especially in Sport mode -- but we would not turn down a few more horsepower to inspire more confidence in such situations

New, improved, and a true contender

Suspension work is another area in which the new Tucson is improved. While both front and rear setups are 20 percent stiffer than the outgoing model, this new SUV's ride was compliant on a variety of roads, including miles of gravel. We never felt punished in it
In fact, we quite relished our overall first blush in the new Tucson. And that goes for the front passenger seat as well, which now offers power adjustability. Beyond just powertrain improvements, the new Tucson showcased its new maturity in every other aspect, ranging from enhanced cargo space to its evolved infotainment system. (We'll touch on all those aspects in our forthcoming full review
Over a couple hundred miles and a few hours of driving, the new Tucson acquitted itself as a highly adept, highly advanced crossover SUV that will more than hold its own against entrenched rivals. It may remain the smallest sibling in Hyundai's SUV lineup, but it now brings maturity, head-turning design and leading-edge technology to the table

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Mercedes-AMG GT 2016

Ready to commence a new chapter in the illustrious Mercedes-Benz AMG saga, the eagerly anticipated 2016 Mercedes-AMG GT has now been revealed. Designed to be as comfortable on a race track as it is on a cross-country drive, this high-intensity newcomer matches a light, strong and rigid core structure largely crafted from aluminum with equally lightweight bodywork and competition-inspired powertrain/suspension elements - features that should ensure its status as a primo performer on every level

Claiming it will position Mercedes-AMG more aggressively than ever before as a dynamic sports car brand, Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH notes the second vehicle to be developed independently by the organization is manufactured according to the motto "Handcrafted By Racers" and directly "fulfills our high aspirations with regard to driving dynamics, agility and sportiness."

Looks that thrill

While sharing a similar overall design theme with the outgoing Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS, the bold bodywork on the new Mercedes-AMG GT brings its own distinctive character to the party. Dubbed a consummate combination of beauty and intelligence by Gorden Wagener, Daimler AG's Vice President Design, the car's powerfully sculpted lines and elegantly edgy proportions recall not only the SLS but a number of other iconic M-B sports cars. Its long hood, short deck, flowing roofline complemented by large air intakes, functional side vents, retractable rear spoiler and an aggressive 19-inch wheel/tire fitment speak openly to the power within. 

Those visuals get amped up further in the hotter GT S with subtle touches that include gloss black accenting on the front splitter as well staggered-size (19-inch/20-inch) alloys that can be wrapped in optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. Although conventional front-hinged doors replace the "gullwing" units on the SLS, either version of this new Mercedes-AMG effort will have no problem turning heads and grabbing eyes wherever it goes. 

AMG power in two strengths

As detailed in an earlier engine-tech story, the newest member of the Mercedes-AMG family will be fitted with a new AMG-designed, front-mid-mounted 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 that makes 456 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque in standard form and 503 horses/479 lb-ft of twist in GT S configuration. Backing both versions in this rear-drive coupe is a balance-enhancing 7-speed AMG SpeedShift DCT dual-clutch automatic transaxle that includes steering-wheel-mounted paddles and multi-mapping modes that can be punched up using AMG Dynamic Select controls on the center console. The GT S version also comes with a Race program setting as well as an electronic locking rear differential that functions even more efficiently than the conventional mechanical unit found in the GT. 

Drawing on the "technological DNA of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG," the aluminum-intensive double wishbone suspension setup in the new GT has been tuned to provide an ideal mix of precision feel and consummate control. Stepping up to GT S spec adds electronically controlled (Comfort/Sport/Sport plus) damping as well as speed-sensitive variable- ratio power steering. The top-line model also offers an AMG Dynamic Plus Package with continuously adjustable engine and transmission mounts that work with the AMG Chassis Controller to enhance overall precision and lateral grip as real-time driving conditions demand. Finally, GT S kit includes larger conventional disc brakes that those found on the GT. However both models can be upfitted with fade-banishing carbon ceramic super stoppers. 

Competition-flavor cabin

The high-performance character of the new Mercedes-AMG GT is found in its hand-crafted passenger compartment, as well, which matches fine Nappa leather with various chrome, carbon fiber and fiberglass accent elements. Deeply bolstered, low-mounted bucket seats flank a prominent center console that houses the AMG Drive Unit with the car's primary function controls. This driver-centric realm also features an AMG flat-bottom multifunction sport steering wheel and bespoke AMG instrument cluster as well as the latest generation of M-B's Comand telematics system with an 8.4-inch screen and touchpad controller. 

On the safety front, the new Mercedes-AMG GT comes with numerous standards found on the new S-Class including Collision Prevention Assist Plus, Adaptive Brake, Attention Assist, Pre-Safe, Parktronic and a rearview camera, while Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist will be optional. The 2016 Mercedes-AMG GT S will arrive here next spring with the GT model to follow in 2016. Mercedes-Benz has not yet released pricing for either model. 

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