Bentley Mulsanne Speed 2015

Previewed before heading on to the Paris Auto Show, the new 2015 Bentley Mulsanne Speed adds to the car's luxury and performance

Understated elegance 

Subtle is the operative term for the Mulsanne Speed's exterior changes, which include a dark-tint finish on its stainless-steel radiator grille, lower bumper grilles and fender vents complemented by a similar treatment on the front and rear lighting elements. These are set off by dual rifled exhaust outlets and solid polished stainless steel Speed badges as well as 21-inch alloy wheels. These bespoke rims - Bentley's first ever featuring a unidirectional design - are individually machined from forged blanks and can be had painted, polished or dark-tinted

Inside, the Mulsanne Speed comes with the full Mulliner Driving Specification enhancements while offering new a new Technical Veneer option that brings Piano Black trim with carbon fiber accents. Options include everything from a 2,200-watt Naim for Bentley audio system in place of the standard 14-speaker unit to a power-activated rear tray tables and a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment package

Overwhelming exuberance

Heart of the Mulsanne Speed is a revised version of the firm's well-proven 6.75-liter twin-turbo V8. A new head design the features revamped combustion chambers, intake ports, fuel injectors and spark plugs plus a higher compression ratio, which raises output from 505 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque in the standard Mulsanne to 530 horses and a record 811 lb-ft of peak twist - which is on hand from a mere 1,750 rpm

A full redesign of the engine management system serves up smoother transitions from V8 to V4 operation on both engine configurations while also improving fuel economy. Backed by a recalibrated ZF 8-speed Quickshift automatic transmission that features a new performance-focused "S" mode, the Mulsanne Speed can streak from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds and hit a top end of 190 mph

To ensure that power can be put to best use, the chassis of the new Mulsanne Speed also gets unique tuning. While retaining the Bentley and Comfort modes, the air suspension adds a stiffer Sport setting that also tweaks the steering for better feel and accuracy. The system also allows the driver to individually adjust the chassis, steering and engine response using a Custom setting

Pricing for the 2015 Bentley Mulsanne Speed is expected to be announced at its global debut in Paris. The first Speed-spec Mulsannes are expected to arrive here sometime during the first quarter next year

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Chevrolet Colorado GearOn Special Edition lands in Chicago 2015

debut at the Chicago Auto Show. Available on extended or crew cab Colorado LT models with long or short beds and rear- or 4-wheel drive, this new member of the lineup will arrive in dealers this spring with a starting price of $32,125

As its name implies, this activity-oriented Colorado features Chevy's patented GearOn system first seen last summer on the Colorado Sport Concept. The GearOn kit includes an easily configurable selection of bed rails/bars, a cargo divider package and tie-down rings. It's all designed to allow Chevy's new mid-size pickup to carry everything from mountain bikes, kayaks, skis and paddle boards to a bed-mounted tent -- all but the latter positioned well above floor level to maximize the amount of usable cargo space. Other related items from the GearOn accessory catalog also can be purchased individually and their cost rolled into the monthly payment if ordered before the vehicle is delivered -- an option open to all Colorado buyers

The 2015 Colorado GearOn Special Edition also features cosmetic and functional upgrades including an EZ Lift and Lower tailgate, off-road assist steps, fog lamps, a rear-window defogger, remote start and Gloss Black 18-inch aluminum wheels. Rounding out the mix is a body-color grille and black front/rear Chevy bowtie emblems

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Cadillac CTS-V boasts 640 horses 2016

Making its first public appearance at the Detroit Auto Show, the 2016 Cadillac CTS-V raises its performance game to an entirely new level. The most powerful and capable production model in the division's 112-year history, the third generation CTS-V matches a bold appearance, awesome power - 640 supercharged horses to be precise - a track-ready chassis and a bounty of enthusiast-grade technology to create an All-American super sedan that's ready to take on the likes of the Audi S6, BMW M5 or Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Sedan

It's a 200-mph road rager

Motivating the 2016 CTS-V is a new 6.2-liter supercharged V8 that shares basic architecture with the LT4 engine in the 2015 ZO6 Corvette. Although the same displacement as the force-fed V8 in the Gen II CTS-V, this new engine is far more efficient thanks to upgrades like direct injection, Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation and a redesigned supercharger that builds boost lower in the rev range. In addition to cranking out 84 more horsepower, it develops an additional 79 lb-ft of peak torque. Backed by a new paddle-shiftable 8-speed automatic transmission that ships that force to the rear wheels, the new CTS-V can streak from 0-60 mph in a mere 3.7 seconds and head on to a top speed of 200 mph

To put that potential to best use, the CTS-V also gets structural and suspension enhancements worthy of its ultra-performance pedigree. They start with supplemental reinforcing in all critical areas that ups strength and stiffness by 25 percent compared to a non-V model. That more-robust foundation anchors a comprehensively tweaked version the top-line CTS chassis, highlighted by the latest Gen III Magnetic Ride Control and Performance Traction Management systems complemented by upgraded variable-ratio Servotronic II electrically boosted power steering, an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, a stouter driveshaft and   bespoke halfshafts, wider front/rear track dimensions and huge Brembo brakes. The final touch is a set of super-stiff, staggered-width lightweight 19-inch forged-alloy wheels wrapped in Z-rated Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, 263/35s up front and 295/30s at the rear

Contoured to cheat the wind

Although its CTS heritage remains clear, this latest V-spec makeover also involves changes to literally every body panel save for its doors and roof. The aero-optimized front fascia features larger air intakes and a unique splitter that adds downforce while an extractor vent in its carbon fiber hood helps cool the engine while reducing lift. Flow-enhancing rocker moldings link the CTS-V's more prominently bulged fenders while the tail sports a functional spoiler and rear diffuser. Buyers seeking more stick with less weight can step up to an optional Carbon Fiber package that brings an even more aggressive front splitter, hood vent, rear diffuser and spoiler

In keeping with its mission, the new Cadillac CTS-V's cabin treatment suitably reinforces the car's high-profile performance theme. Supportive heated/ventilated 20-way power front buckets trimmed in semi-analine leather with suede-style microfiber inserts are standard with more aggressively bolstered Recaro performance seats wrapped in Mulan leather available as an option. The CTS-V's 12.3-inch reconfigurable main instrument cluster gets distinctive V-Series graphics and gauge readouts that work with its standard head-up display and Performance Data Recorder. Other features included in the CTS-V mix are the Cadillac CUE system, voice-activated navigation, Bose premium audio, OnStar 4G LTE connectivity with a built-in hot spot, Bluetooth and Siri Eyes Free

The 2016 Cadillac CTS-V is expected to arrive in showrooms by mid-2015. Pricing won't be announced until closer to the official on-sale date but is expected to start in the $75,000-$80,000 range

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Lincoln Continental

These days, Lincoln isn’t much more than a collection of rebadged Fords, but the Continental concept shows a way back to its past status as a real luxury carmaker.

Unveiled at the 2015 New York Auto Show, the Continental is a flagship sedan that would help restore Lincoln’s reputation if built. If you ever forget it’s a Lincoln, just look at the headlights and grille, which feature tiny repetitions of the brand’s logo.

On the inside, the Continental is just as luxurious as its classic predecessors. Standout features include 30-way adjustable seats, and a fully-reclining rear passenger seat that seems aimed at the Chinese market, where many buyers prefer to be driven rather than drive.

In a nod to efficiency, the Continental is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. It’s part of Ford’s ubiquitous EcoBoost family.

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Lexus GS F set for Detroit 2016

As the newest member of the F lineup of high performance models, the 2016 Lexus GS F, which debuts at the North American International Auto Show, combines the performance of the 2015 Lexus RC F Coupe with the practicality of a 4-door sedan

Although Lexus already offers the GS 350 F Sport model, the new GS F is the ultimate expression of performance for Toyota's luxury division thanks to a 5.0-liter V8 which produces 467 horsepower and 389 lb ft of torque. That engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox with a manual-shift mode

Aggressive styling

The sedan, which rides on a 112.2-inch wheelbase, shares the same aggressive front clip as the RC F coupe, with a wider, more aggressive take on the division's spindle-shaped grille. Large intakes providing air cooling for the front brakes flank the revamped opening. At the rear, the GS F sports a decklid spoiler, rear diffuser and chromed exhaust tips

Lexus backs that sporty look with a long list of standard equipment designed to make the handling of GS F a standout. Among those items is the Torque Vectoring Differential adopts from the RC F which features three operating modes: Standard, which balances ride and handling; Slalom, which adjust the steering response and dampers, and Track, the highest setting providing ultimate control during high-speed circuit driving

Stiff chassis

In addition to the performance upgrades, the 2016 Lexus GS F features structural reinforcements and specific suspension components to maximize its dynamics without sacrificing ride comfort. According the Lexus the goal is to "offer drivers a very balanced sedan with genuine dual personality, equally adept at trimming lap times and the commute back home

The 2016 Lexus GS F will go on sale later in the calendar year with pricing announced nearer to its official launch

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LOTUS EVORA 400

LOTUS EVORA 400

Top Speed: 186 mph
Zero to Sixty: 4.1 seconds

Debuting at the 2015 Geneva Auto Show, the 2016 Lotus Evora 400 boasted some impressive numbers. Powered by a 3.5 liter supercharged V-6 engine and a 6-speed manual transmission, the Lotus Evora 400 cranks out 400 hp and 302 lb-ft of torque. The Lotus Evora 400 has a zero to sixty time of 4.1 seconds, and a whopping top speed of 186 mph. The Lotus Evora 400 hits such high speeds, the rear wing and diffuser deliver 71 pounds of aerodynamic downforce at 150 mph, without which the car might lift off the ground due to wind resistance. As expected from luxury car maker Lotus, the Evora 400 is beautiful to look at. The exterior, while built to be aerodynamic, looks unique and exotic due to all the curves and body lines.

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Hyundai Santa Cruz

A Hyundai pickup truck doesn’t sound very appealing right off the bat, but the Santa Cruz is a surprisingly cool concept.

The Santa Cruz isn’t a traditional pickup, but rather a cross between a pickup and a car. Hyundai sought to create the best of both worlds by offering truck-like utility and styling, with car-like comfort and fuel economy.

Unveiled at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show, the Santa Cruz features a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine with 190 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque, paired with Hyundai’s HTRAC all-wheel drive system.

The Santa Cruz hasn’t been confirmed for production yet, but if it ever gets built, it will further blur the line between cars and trucks.

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2016 Acura NSX unveiled in Detroit

One of the biggest debuts at the 2015 North American International Auto Show is the arrival of the 2016 Acura NSX. After trotting out a few different versions of the prototype at various shows over the last couple of years, the production version of the NSX has finally been made public. It'll fly under Acura's flag here in the U.S. but Honda will market the NSX under its badge around the world

Our commitment was to create an all-new NSX that is true to the heritage of NSX-a supercar that delivers a new driving experience, one where every part of the vehicle is respectful of the smartest part of the car, the driver," said Mike Accavitti, senior vice president and general manager of the Acura division. "The soul of a car is the emotional connection it makes with the driver. With the NSX, that connection will be intense and immediate

Hybrid power

Following in the footsteps of other recently introduced supercars like the Porsche 918, McLaren P1, and Ferrari LaFerrari, the 2016 Acura NSX will rely on a hybrid powertrain. An all-new twin-turbo mid-mounted V6 engine and three electric motors (one in back and two more up front), will power the latest NSX. Acura withheld output numbers and overall engine size but we expect to learn all of that soon. A twin-clutch 9-speed transmission will handle gear changes and Acura's SH-AWD system will assist the NSX when taking corners or braking at speed. Acura has already said that the 2016 NSX's acceleration is on par with the Ferrari 458, which draws power from a 4.5-liter V8 and is good for 562 horsepower, while returning fuel economy numbers similar to that of a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. NSX enthusiasts will remember that the previous generation matched the Ferrari 348 in power and with today's announcement it appears that the NSX has a new rival in the 458

Acura didn't disclose a price for the 2016 NSX but we're expecting it to be in the neighborhood of $150,000. That would put it on par with the Audi R8 and is a bargain when you consider that the Ferrari 458 costs almost three times as much. Honda's Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, Ohio has been tapped to produce the new NSX but production will be limited to ensure a high demand

Expect to see the 2016 Acura NSX on the road later this year. Pricing should also be released by then and, needless to say, we're anxious to get behind the wheel of it, so stay tuned

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Honda Civic

This concept-car preview of the 10th-generation Civic was a surprise hit at the 2015 New York Auto Show. It represents Honda’s intent to imbue its bread-and-butter compact with a little more style and excitement.

The concept showcases a new design language that marks the first substantial styling change for the Civic since 2006. With a low stance, wraparound taillights, and plenty of aggressive scoops and spoilers, it checks all of the sport-compact style boxes.

That sporty styling is totally appropriate, because a version of the high-performance Civic Type R is finally slated to come to the U.S.

A production model based on this concept will debut later this year. Some styling details may change, although that crazy green paint is expected to remain as a production color option.

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Smart Fortwo 2016

 Completely redesigned, the all-new Smart Fortwo and Forfour were unveiled today in European trim. The new Smarts will go on sale in several markets this fall following their public debut at the Paris Auto Show. While Smart has confirmed we'll see at least the new Fortwo here in the fall of 2015, it has yet to determine the fate of a 4-passenger 4-door Forfour for the U.S. While maintaining the same relative exterior dimensions, the second-generation makeover endows this iconic microcar with "more of just about everything - more space, more color, more equipment -- and even more fun in the city," Smart ceo Annette Winkler said at the Berlin debut.

Developed with technical partner Renault, the new Smart set shares a good deal of the platform and powertrain engineering with the new Renault Twingo. Visually, the remake maintains the car's current size and rear-engine/rear-drive configuration, but the styling has a decidedly more substantial and upscale appearance thanks to its more pronounced nose, bolder grille and LED-infused taillamps. The Smart's signature tridion safety cell that surrounds the passenger compartment also underwent further development to improve its formidable crash protection -- which were once again validated in testing against Mercedes-Benz C-Class and S-Class models. The new Smart also adds a Crosswind Assist feature to enhance stability. 

Better ride promised

All-new underpinnings that match MacPherson struts up front with a DeDion rear axle promise to greatly improve ride comfort for the new Smart while maintaining crisp responsiveness. Enthusiasts can take things on step further with a Sport package that brings stiffer springs and shocks plus a lower ride height. What hasn't changed is the Smart's ability to easily maneuver through the tightest confines. Despite modestly wider track and width dimensions, it still boasts the tightest turning circle spec of any competitive vehicle.

Initially, motivation for the new Smarts comes from a choice of two 3-cylinder gasoline engines: an 898cc triple that make 70 naturally aspirated horsepower and a 999cc turbocharged alternative that cranks out 90 ponies. Each can be paired with a 5-speed manual or optional Twinamic 6-speed dual-clutch automatic - an all-new design that promises to be better than the transmission in the current car. Shortly after launch, a 60-horse base engine also will join the lineup followed by a new Electric Drive model. 

Available in Passion, Prime and Proxy trim grades on the Continent, the cabin of the new Smart displays a similar step up in character. Prominently sculpted dash and door panels are complemented by improved fit/finish, richer-looking fabrics, expanded color choices and enhanced accent elements that further add to the ambiance. Upscale options include real-time navigation, a premium JBL audio system and heated seats. Too soon to know exactly how much of this will be part of the U.S. mix, but it definitively sounds promising.

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FISKER KARMA

FISKER KARMA

As a 5,300-pound, full-size, four-door sedan, Fisker Karma is an unusual supercar: it is fuel efficient and “the first true electric luxury vehicle with extended range” capable of 112 miles per gallon of gas. Karma made its debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show. Fisker uses cheap, lightweight sheet molding compound body panels to decrease weight and increase fuel efficiency.

Karma is a hybrid powered by a four-cylinder, 2,000-cc, 260-horsepower turbocharged engine and by two 120-kilowatt electric motors charged by lithium ion batteries. The front-mounted four-cylinder gas engine generates electricity for the drive motors and the batteries. The electric motors are the sole forces directly driving the wheels. Karma has the top speed of 125-mph and reaches 60 mph in 6.3 seconds – those are ambitious claims for a car weighing more than two and a half tons.

The cars are manufactured in Finland. The first deliveries occurred in the USA in July 2011, and about 1,800 units went to North America and Europe by December 2012. Production suspended in November 2012 with about 2,450 Karmas built. Fisker Automotive filed for bankruptcy in November 2013. Successor owners say they plan to resume Karma production by the end of 2014 or early 2015.

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Range Rover 2016

Debuting at the Geneva Auto Show, the 2016 Range Rover Evoque rolls onto the scene with a number of upgrades aimed at further bolstering its appeal to luxury compact crossover buyers. The revamp is accompanied by a realignment of its trim designations -- SE, HSE, HSE Dynamic and Autobiography -- to parallel the Range Rover Sport

The key exterior changes to the 2016 Evoque are found up front. An edgier fascia with larger air intakes and wider tow-eye covers imparts a more aggressive character set off by new slim-line LED fog lamps and DRL's. These frame a redrawn grille that offers new bright and black insert elements, the latter confined to Evoque Dynamic models. The 2016 Evoque also introduces JLR's first application of full LED headlamps with corner-following adaptive capability, an optional upgrade that uses less energy while providing superior visibility

New hands-free tailgate

The hood on the 5-door Evoque HSE Dynamic and Autobiography now has the same functional vents previously found only on the Evoque 3-door coupe models. Modifications to the tail are more subtle, and consist of a new spoiler with wider high-mount stop light sitting atop the Evoque's new hands-free Gesture Tailgate and an optional roof fin that houses an integrated cell phone antenna. Rounding out remix are three new alloy wheel designs and an expanded color palette

Inside, the Evoque's leather-lined cabin is recast with new trims and enhanced materials along with redesigned 8-way power front seats. In Autobiography models, the seats feature 14-way adjustment along with an optional massage feature.  All 2016 Evoque models boast a new Land Rover InControl Touch infotainment setup with an 8.0-inch swipe-style center screen and InControl Apps. Optional on the SE but standard on all other models is InControl Touch Plus that adds HDD-based premium navigation, a rear-seat entertainment system with dual 8.0-inch screens and an 11-speaker or 17-speaker Meridian audio system

Expanded selection of driver assists

While the European-spec 2016 Evoque will offer JLR's new 2.0-liter/148-horsepower Igenium 4-cylinder turbodiesel as an option, the U.S. lineup will continue with the existing 2.4-liter/240-horse turbocharged gasoline-fired four mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Evoque's already outstanding off-road capability gets a further enhancement thanks to a new All-Terrain Progress Control that can automatically maintain a preset speed in forward or reverse gears between 1.1 and 19 mph. Other on-road driver assist upgrades for 2016 include Lane-Keeping Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking that helps to avoid impacts at speeds below 32 mph and mitigate crashes below 50 mph as well as a Driver Drowsy Monitor that tracks steering inputs and provides warnings if it senses the driver may be nodding off

The 2016 Range Rover Evoque arrives in dealers here this fall. While pricing won't be announced until closer to the actual on-sale date, Land Rover indicates the bottom line numbers will be "comparable" with the existing 2015 Evoque models

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