Mercedes EQ C 2019

Price: From £45,000 

The two biggest trends in cars right now are SUVs and electrification, so the new EQ C should be right on the money. It’ll be the first of a family of EQ models and is based on Mercedes’ new, scalable EV platform.

It’ll be about the same size as the current GLC and will feature two electric motors, one on each axle, to deliver four-wheel drive. Depending on the batteries fitted, a range of up to 310 miles is expected, and we think that even the most basic models should be capable of about 250 miles on a single charge.

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FORD CROWN VICTORIA P71 INTERCEPTOR

FORD CROWN VICTORIA P71 INTERCEPTOR

The Ford Crown Victoria is ubiquitous with police cars in the United States. Beginning in 1979, the LTD, LTD-S, and LTD models of the car began to see widespread use across the country. In 1992, the PPV edition of the automobile was deployed as a major upgrade for law enforcement and was succeeded by the Crown Victoria Police Interceptor (CVPI) model from 1998-2011. The car is powered by an upgraded version of the 4.6 Liter, SOHC V8, and is well-known for its high durability. The body-on-frame construction of the car makes it one of the most appropriate vehicles for police use. The feature allows repairs to be made to the automobile after an accident without having to straighten or conduct major repairs to the vehicle chassis. Although the car is no longer produced, Ford continues to maintain the majority of market share for police cruisers in the country.

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NISSAN GT-R NISMO

NISSAN GT-R NISMO

Starting price: $149,990

The Nissan GT-R NISMO supercar is one of the best handling sports cars on the market today. The auto lives up to its six figure price tag when it comes to driving the auto on the highway, and it handles just as good at high speeds as it does driving it around town. The stock engine in the vehicle is rated at 481 ft-lbs of torque and 600 horsepower. The GT-R is also fast. It can go from zero to 60 MPH in just 2.9 seconds, and it runs the quarter-mile in 10.9 seconds with a top overall car speed of 193 MPH. Although consumers who can afford to drive this car likely don’t worry much about fuel economy, the GT-R is rated at a decent 16 MPG (city) and 23 MPG (highway).

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FERRARI F12BERLINETTA

FERRARI F12BERLINETTA

Top Speed: 211 mph

The Ferrari F12berlinetta was created as the successor to the classic 599 GTB Ferrari Fiorano. The F12berlinetta is equipped with a 6.3 liter V-12 engine, producing 730 Horsepower with 509 lb-ft of torque. All that power allows it to accelerate from 0-62 miles per hour in 3.1 seconds. The seven-speed dual clutch is similar to the kind found in race cars and the shifts are smooth and precise. The top speed of the F12berlinetta is 211 mph. The suspension and steering are perfectly tuned, as to be expected of a Ferrari vehicle. This car delivers precision handling like that of a formula one vehicle, giving you a racing feel when you really get on the gas. The vehicle looks just as good as it drives, with beautiful curves and body lines that will turn heads when this beast races past.

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MERCEDES-BENZ SL ROADSTER (R129)

MERCEDES-BENZ SL ROADSTER (R129)

Produced from 1989-2003 the Mercedes-Benz SL roadsters were great sports cars for their time. The vehicles had automated electro-hydraulic textile tonneau covers. They also came with a detachable hardtop that could be fitted after the canvas roof was folded down. There were various engine choices, but the most popular one was the 500SL’s engine: a 32 valve DOHC V8 that produced 322 horsepower. A 5-speed manual was standard, with a 4-speed automatic optional. The suspension was set to provide a luxury car feel, with sports car performance. The SL Roadster was the first convertible/roadster to offer an automatic rollbar that deployed in the event of car rollover. The driver can also choose to manually raise or lower the rollbar should they choose to. This gave the SL Roadster a clean look without sacrificing safety.

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Lexus RC F makes a sudden impact in Detroit 2015

The eagerly-anticipated 2015 Lexus RC F made its global debut in Detroit, and this enthusiast-grade iteration of the Lexus RC Coupe revealed last November in Tokyo takes the exhilaration index up a major notch with an even bolder appearance, more tautly tuned suspension and a potent V8 engine under its prominently bulged hood. While the vehicle is still undergoing final development, Lexus offered enough hard facts at the unveiling to confirm the 2015 RC F will be one seriously fast and furious addition to what it promised will be an expanding high-performance lineup

As with previous "F-spec" models, the bodywork on the Lexus RC F imparts a new edge to its appearance while enhancing the car's aero profile and includes a number of carbon fiber components to help trim weight. For openers, both fascia treatments have been revised to convey more menacing character manifested in details like a prominent recasting of the signature Spindle grille form, large outboard air intakes and supplemental stabilizing fins up front that are countered with a more powerfully configured diffuser, canted-quad stacked exhaust outlets and an LFA-style auto-deploying rear spoiler that rises when vehicle speed exceeds 50 mph and retracts when it drops below 25 mph. The side view of the RC F further contributes to its bad-boy flair with the unique hood design complemented by functional vents aft of the front wheelwells and more deeply contoured side sills, all set off by a choice of three different 19-inch forged alloy wheels

The cabin of the new Lexus RC F gets an equally focused remake that overlays the basic RC Coupe design with a host of bespoke RC F details that also pay homage to the automaker's LFA supercar. It starts with a new elliptical-rim steering wheel - the first on any Lexus model - wrapped in leather and fitted with finger-friendly shifter paddles that overlooks an instrument panel that includes a programmable main gauge cluster with four driver-selectable modes -- each offering its own color scheme and data display. Other highlights include a navigation/infotainment system that features a 7.0-inch screen as well as a new touchpad interface to simplify operation of all related functions. Bedecked with an embossed F logo on each headrest, the RC F's unique high-back sport buckets can be had in any of five different leather trims while its metal sport pedals feature distinctive L-shaped rubber elements

Although output specifics have yet to be finalized, the 2015 Lexus RC F packs a naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8 that's its maker says will develop "more than 450 horsepower and more than 383 pound feet of torque." In addition to being the most potent V8 ever to appear in any Lexus model, it also will be the first to incorporate Atkinson Cycle combustion technology that enhances fuel efficiency under most normal driving conditions. However, the engine can switch back to conventional Otto Cycle operation to deliver full power on demand. Motive force will be shipped to the RC F's rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. Other elements in the mix include a Torque Vectoring Differential with three driver-selectable programs that can optimize the car for street or track use, a comprehensively retuned version of the base RC Coupe's front-strut/rear-multilink suspension and upgraded brakes

Like the 2015 Lexus RC 350 Coupe, the new Lexus RC F will start arriving in showrooms here this fall. Pricing, final spec and EPA numbers for both cars will be announced closer to their on-sale date

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Nissan Versa Note SR 2015

Expanding the scope of its lineup at both ends of the spectrum, Nissan introduced a pair of new models for the subcompact Versa Note 5-door hatch in Chicago. Boasting a higher visual profile, the 2015 Nissan Versa Note SR caters to younger enthusiasts. The automaker also announced the new Versa Note SL, that adds more sophistication with standard features not often seen in cars of its size

The Versa Note SR's cosmetic changes are evident up front, where a unique fascia and grill treatment is set off by dark headlamp surrounds and standard fog lights with black and chrome accents. The package also uses body-color side spoilers and revised side-view mirrors with integrated directional signals while the rear is topped by a spoiler. The Versa Note SR rides on 195/55 all-season tires on 16-inch high-contrast alloy wheels

Inside, the Versa Note SR has a Euro-inspired motif that includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel, seats covered in faux suede with orange accents, a new tri-dial Fine Vision instrument cluster with trip computer and a Piano Black center dash with bright trim. Opting for the SR Convenience Package adds Nissan's trick Divide-N-Hide Adjustable Floor, the NissanConnect system with a 5.0-inch color display, RearView Monitor, Bluetooth Streaming Audio, Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant, USB connection port, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and NissanConnect Apps with smartphone integration for Facebook, Twitter, Pandora as  well as iHeartRadio and TuneIn Radio

Using the same 16-inch wheels, the Versa Note SL passes on exterior changes to focus on improving the cabin. It comes standard with all of the SR Convenience Package content as well as variable intermittent front wipers, heated front seats, Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition and the Easy-Fill Tire Alert. Like all 2015 Versa Note variants, it also features a multifunction steering wheel that incorporates a new Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System

The 2015 Nissan Versa Note SR and Versa Note SL will arrive in dealers this spring along with the existing Versa Note S MT, S Plus CVT and SV CVT models. Pricing for all will be announced closer to the on-sale date

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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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VOLKSWAGEN JETTA

In 1979, German manufacturer Volkswagen produced another great family car: Jetta. It was made to replace the Golf sedan.  As of 2005, almost 7 million cars have been sold worldwide, over one-third of sales have been in the United States. Since the original version in 1980, the car has continued to improve with better safety features and making use of new technology. In 2011, nearly 10 million have been produced and sold all over the world. As of April 2014, over 14 million have been sold, which made this model Europe’s and Volkswagen’s top-selling model.

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Aston Martin Vanquish Carbon Edition 2015

Ready to take center stage next month in Paris, the 2015 Aston Martin Vanquish Carbon Black and Carbon White special editions offer a unique visual signature in both Vanquish Coupe and Volante Convertible models

Whether finished in Carbon Black or Stratus White, all Vanquish Carbon Editions feature a clear-coated carbon fiber front splitter, rear diffuser, side strakes, mirror caps and mounting pylons along with black window surrounds and 10-spoke/20-inch gloss-black alloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero rubber. Coupes also have a carbon fiber roof, and either can be fitted with a new machined carbon fiber "wings" badge. The only bits of contrasting color come from the calipers for the standard carbon ceramic brakes, which can be had in red, yellow or gray in addition to the standard black

Inside, these Carbon-spec Vanquish models have seats covered in Obsidian Black leather with contrast stitching, herringbone-design carbon fiber dash/console facings, black shifter paddles with leather tips, and machined carbon fiber sill plates with Carbon Black or Carbon White logos

Like all other Vanquish models, the Carbon Editions rely on the same naturally aspirated 5.9-liter V12 that makes 568 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque which gets shipped to rear wheels via a drives the rear wheels via an 8-speed Touchtonic III automatic transmission. The Coupe holds a slight edge in the 0-60 mph sprint, needing only 3.6 seconds to hit that benchmark pack compared to 3.8 ticks for the Volante. Opting for the drop-top Vanquish also trims top speed from 201 to 197 mph

Final pricing for the 2015 Aston Martin Vanquish Carbon Edition models is expected to be released in Paris with the cars hitting U.S. showrooms sometime late this year

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1969 ZL1 CAMARO

1969 ZL1 CAMARO

Current value: $425,000

The 1969 ZL1 Camaro is a truly amazing vintage car that saw a very limited production run of only 69 automobiles during its production life. The car is powered by an extremely powered aluminum V-8 engine that is rated at over 500 horsepower and only weighs in at 500 lbs. The zero to 60 second time of the ZL1 is only 5.3 seconds which put it in the top of all muscle cars of its time for speed, and was a primary reason that many of the car models found their way into the drag-racing circuit. Chevy also went to great lengths to ensure the car was legal to drive on public roadways in the United States; however, the big price for the car at the time did not make it a significant commercial success in the marketplace.

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1942 OEUF ÉLECTRIQUE

1942 OEUF ÉLECTRIQUE

If you have never seen an egg on wheels, then the 1942 Oeuf électrique will definitely be one of the oddest cars that you have ever seen. The auto consisted of three wheels, and was powered by batteries during an age when gasoline was the predominant means to power automobiles. Paul Arzens from Paris, France, was the primary designer of the car, and he made his name by designing railway locomotives and painting before moving into the auto industry. The bubble of the electric egg was made of aluminum that was hand-formed as well as curved Plexiglas which was just starting to find adoption as a glass substitute throughout industry in this timeframe throughout Europe and the United States.

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KOENIGSEGG AGERA R

 KOENIGSEGG AGERA R

While the name may not sound familiar to some, this Swedish car is made with power in mind. The specifications of this beast are intimidating. It has 1140 horsepower,  capable of reaching the speed of 273 MPH. It will be the fastest car in the world. Those lucky enough to own this beauty will have to spend $1.5 million, but it’ll be worth the investment. When it comes to design, the unique shape and color scheme is reminiscent of race cars. It has an aerodynamic shape and carbon fiber wheels to increase its speed and agility. It runs on E85 biofuel. This implementation of green technology is a step in the right direction. Drivers will be saving the world without sacrificing any power.

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Aston Martin DBX Concept surprises at Geneva

Providing a bit of drama beyond the introduction of the Aston Martin Vulcan supercar, the British automaker surprised the crowd by having a second, unannounced concept on hand, the DBX, a crossover SUV coupe.  The vehicle was commissioned by new CEO Andy Palmer when he took over Aston Martin last October

The 4-passenger 2-door coupe with the stance and ride height of an SUV also breaks with Aston Martin convention in that it is an all-wheel drive electric. According to Palmer, he charged his design and engineering staff to think out of the box

The DBX Concept is a challenge to the existing status quo in the high luxury GT segment, Palmer said. It envisages a world when luxury GT travel is not only stylish and luxurious but also more practical, more family-friendly and more environmentally responsible. I asked my team at Aston Martin to expand their thinking beyond conventions, to explore what the future of luxury GT motoring would look like in years ahead, and the DBX Concept you see before you is the result

Traditional grille, futuristic package

Beyond the trademark Aston grille, the DBX use of materials represents the company's forward thinking in the use of lightweight aluminum. The concept's exterior bright work is made from machined billet with visible milling lines in a piece of craftsmanship intended to be seen as jewelry. The DBX Concept's unique paint finish - Black Pearl Chromium - has been specially created to mimic the look of a genuine black pearl, and comprises a micro-fine layer of chrome to deliver a level of reflectivity that cannot be obtained through normal paint finishes

Inside, designers deliberately chose to use non-automotive materials to create a soft, cocoon-like cabin. This includes extensive application of velvet-like Nubuck leather, which contrasts with the concept's hard, hi-tech equipment. The exposed leather reveals a sandwiched accent layer, more akin to high-end furniture, while the car's interior bright accents mimic that of the exterior with the addition of a gold 'pin striping' element on the edging

In addition to space for four, the DBX also boasts plenty of cargo space thanks to the use of an electric power train that frees up space both beneath the front hood and in the rear

The DBX Concept is more than a thought starter for us and for our customers, though, Palmer explained. We will, in due course, be entering a car into the new DBX space and I am very much looking forward to seeing how this concept is received not only here today, but also by our legion of existing loyal customers and by those potential customers around the world who have, to this point, yet to consider one of our cars

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1954 MERCEDES W 196

1954 MERCEDES W 196

Current value: $24 million

The 1954 Mercedes W 196 not only competed in the F-1 racing championships in the mid-1950s, but the car dominated the field. Today, the W 196 is one of the most amazing vintage cars that can be found. Mercedes first unveiled the auto at the 1954 Grand Prix located at Reims, and it is now one of the most valuable and sought after autos to be found in a private collection. Although the car would win a total of 12 races, after it crashed at Le Mans in 1955, Mercedes would ultimately pull out of the competitive racing circuit for approximately 30 years. The W 196 is powered by a 2.5 liter liter straight eight that is rated at 257 horsepower. Mercedes would go on to make improvements to the engine that would result in an improved power output of 340 horsepower.

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TVR TUSCAN SPEED SIX

TVR TUSCAN SPEED SIX

Top Speed: 190 mph
Zero to Sixty: 3.68 seconds

British auto maker TVR takes a long time to produce new models, crafting them one at a time, even sculpting the chassis by hand. The end result being some of the fastest, stylish, and most incredible vehicles. The TVR Tuscan Speed Six is a prime example. Built with both luxury and speed in mind, the Tuscan Speed Six has the look of a luxury roadster, and the power of a supercar. With a 3.6 liter inline six-cylinder engine, cranking out 360 horsepower with 290 lb-ft of torque, the Tuscan Speed Six races to sixty mph in 3.68 seconds and hits 100 mph in a staggering 8.08 seconds; that’s faster than most cars get to 60 mph.

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BMW 2-SERIES

Starting price: $32,100

The BMW 2-Series is the entry-level BMW model in the United States, and is one of the top and most affordable German cars sold in the country. The car is sold in both convertible and coupe formats, and has impressed as the replacement of the legacy 1-Series model previously sold in the United States. The car is powered by a 2.0 liter turbo four cylinder engine rated at 240 horsepower that can be combined with either a manual six-speed or eight-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel drive as an option for consumers. The BMW Track Handling package can also be included with the vehicle which brings with it an adaptive suspensive, improved steering and brakes, and upgraded tires. The 2-Series can go from zero to 60 MPH in 4.5 seconds with a top speed of 155 MPH. The car’s fuel efficiency is very respectable at 20 MPG (city) and 30 MPG (highway).

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AUDI R8 SUPERCAR

AUDI R8 SUPERCAR

Price: $117,500

The Audi R8 Supercar was recently unveiled in Geneva. It is the second generation of the Supercar for Audi, and it does not disappoint fans of exotic cars. The company intends to sell the auto with the option of either a V-10 engine or an e-tron hybrid. Audi has made a number of upgrades to the body of the vehicle compared to the original R8. The company now uses the MSS architecture that is mostly aluminum with a carbon fiber for the transmission tunnel, firewall, and B-pillars. These changes make the car significantly lighter than the original as well as up to 13% stiffer in the body. For those who don’t want the power of the V-10, the company is also offering a 4.2 liter, V-8 engine that can still get one 444 bhp while the V-10 sees approximately 542 bhp. Consumers will also have the option to add a heads-up display on the auto for the first time with the second generation model.

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