Maybach 62

Vehicle OverviewMaybach has two versions of its flagship Type 62 model: the Type 62 and an even quicker Type 62 S, whose thunderous V-12 generates 604 horsepower — 54 more horses than the Type 62.Maybach was one of the world's most exquisite nameplates in the 1920s and '30s. The original company was founded by Karl Maybach — the son of Wilhelm Maybach, who developed the first Mercedes.The Maybach brand returned in 2003 in the form of two closely related ultraluxury sedans: the regular Type 57 and the extended-length Type 62. The 57 is covered separately in Cars.com's Research section. Each model designation indicates the car's length in meters: 5.73 for the Type 57 and 6.17 for the Type 62. Special technical features include an electronic braking system and an Airmatic Dual Control air suspension.It takes nearly five months to construct and deliver Maybachs, which are sold through Mercedes-Benz dealerships.ExteriorAccording to the manufacturer, Maybach styling balances classic and avant-garde features. The doors, hood and fenders are made of aluminum. Maybach says a primary goal was to deliver an "entirely new definition of first class." An optional panoramic glass rear roof is electrotransparent and capable of altering the amount of light that enters the cabin.Twelve body colors are available, and two-tone paint schemes can be specified. Bi-xenon headlights are standard. The Type 62 is 242.5 inches long overall, has a 150.7-inch wheelbase and rides on 19-inch wheels. The Type 62 S sports revised exterior trimmings, a tighter suspension and 20-inch wheels.

2009 Bentley Brooklands

Bentley Brooklands: The World’s Most Exclusive coupeThe Bentley Brooklands is a stunning new model that marks the company’s return to the luxury coupe market and reaffirms its reputation as creator of the world’s most exclusive coupes. It is the ultimate Bentley: a stylish, four-seat, grand touring coupe with classic British proportions and muscular performance.Bentley’s chairman Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen describes the motivation behind the new coupe: “Bentley’s proud sporting pedigree, forged by the exploits of the immortal ‘Bentley Boys’ on the famous Brooklands* racetrack in the 1920s, was the inspiration for our new coupe, capturing all the style, power and splendour of that era.”Sporting design cues are matched by the phenomenal performance engineering of Bentley’s legendary Crewe-built V8 engine. The new Bentley Brooklands possesses the most powerful V8 the company has ever produced – a 530 bhp, twin-turbocharged 6.75-liter unit that also produces a prodigious 775 lb-ft of torque.Each Brooklands coupe will be hand-assembled, employing traditional coach-building techniques and the craftsmanship skills in wood veneer and leather hide for which Bentley is renowned. To ensure exclusivity, lifetime production will be strictly limited to just 550 cars, with deliveries expected to start in the first half of 2008.

Audi S5

Elegance and Dynamism: The New Audi S5

Among the high-performance coupes, the Audi S5 with its combination of V8 FSI technology and quattro permanent all-wheel drive truly stands alone. The eight-cylinder engine with superb power potential is well matched with the specially tuned sports suspension and high-performance brakes. Design und interior
Unobtrusive but unmistakable design elements inside and out give this athlete among Audi models its unique image. The Audi S5 looks at you with poised power: Its radiator grill is platinum gray and has vertical chrome inlays. Front as well as rear bumpers have a more pronounced outline and an aluminum blade emphasizes the air intake grills.
The aluminum-look outside mirror housings leave no doubt of the S5’s personality, and neither do the color-matched door sill trims and the exhaust system with four oval tailpipes. The more strongly pronounced trunk lid spoiler edge provides increased aerodynamic downforce.
But the design of the S5 interior also emphasizes its dynamic character: The S sports seats and sports steering wheel, instruments with gray dials and special aluminum door sill plates create an atmosphere of refined power. The interior leaves a great deal of space for the realization of personal ideas: Audi makes available a wide scope of special materials and colors.
Drivetrain
260 kW (354 hp) is the output of the 4.2-liter eight-cylinder engine in the Audi S5, with a maximum torque of 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) already available at 3,500 rpm. In no more than 5.1 seconds, the powerful coupe sprints to 100 km/h (62.14 mph), showing exceptional liveliness, spontaneous response, a continuous power curve and an exhilarating sound. The V8 derives its enormous power potential from the innovative FSI direct injection technology.
It takes only sparing motions to operate the six-speed transmission. The clutch was relocated to behind the differential – a swap which allowed to move the front axle further up and thus achieved a more ideal weight balance. As an option, the sporty six-speed tiptronic is available. The quattro permanent all-wheel drive of course provides perfect traction with variable torque distribution and a basic split of 40 percent to the front and 60 percent to the rear axle.

BMW 3 Convertible

Vehicle Summary: 2008 BMW 3 Series Convertible
The BMW 3 Series Convertible features a first for the brand: a folding hardtop. This roof gives the two-door BMW 3 Series Convertible added security, sound insulation and protection from the elements, compared to the previous generation's fabric roof. As with other 3 Series models, a recently updated six-cylinder engine means altered names: The models are the BMW 328i Convertible and the turbocharged 335i Convertible. All-wheel drive, which is offered on coupe, sedan and wagon 3 Series models, is not offered on the convertible. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with a six-speed automatic gearbox also available. The 3 Series remains the top choice among driving enthusiasts for its potent engines and well-balanced handling.
The BMW 3 Series Convertible's retractable hardtop gives owners the option of driving a fixed-roof coupe or open-air cruiser, as the weather warrants.
Specs at a Glance:

Seating Capacity: 4
Available Engines: 3.0L I-6 24 valve DOHC SMPI,3.0L I-6 24 valve DOHC direct gasoline injection
Drivetrains: Rear-wheel drive
0-60 mph: N/A
Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 17/27 mpg,17/26 mpg
Standard Features: Power driver seat, Radio data system, Brake assist, Driver front impact airbag, Passenger front impact airbag, Driver side impact airbag, Passenger side impact airbag, Integrated roll-over protection, Electronic stability
Optional Equipment: Heated front seats

Bentley Continental Flying Spur

Flying Higher
The Bentley Continental Flying Spur is a more practical four-door version of its popular grand touring sibling, the Continental GT. Published on 2008-03-03 -->
by Jim Gorzelany and Matthew de Paula, ForbesAutos.com
The Bentley Continental Flying Spur is a four-door version of the much-heralded Continental GT coupe. The Flying Spur shares body panels with the coupe forward of the windshield, but otherwise is marked by curvaceous styling inspired by the 1957 Continental Flying Spur.
The Flying Spur sits below the full-size Arnage sedan in Bentley’s lineup. Although it too is a full-size sedan, the Flying Spur’s lower price and modern styling are meant to appeal to younger buyers than those who might consider the Arnage.
The Continental Flying Spur is 20 inches longer than the Continental GT. The extra length — 13 inches of which is between the wheels — significantly improves upon the pudgy-looking coupe's looks, and is more in line with the stretched-out style of classic Bentleys. The longer sedan also has improved aerodynamics for better stability at high speed.
Updates include an optional Mulliner Driving Specification package, named for Bentley's Mulliner division that handles custom-built orders. Adding a dash of passion to this posh “saloon” (as four-door cars are known in England), the package includes large alloy wheels and performance tires; drilled alloy pedals; a leather-and-chrome-trimmed gearshift lever; and special leather upholstery and headliner treatments. Either Burl Walnut or Piano Black trim can be specified at no additional cost.
The Bentley Continental Flying Spur comes with a Bluetooth-enabled, hands-free wireless phone as standard equipment. A rear-seat telephone is optional. The car’s standard navigation system has been upgraded to use maps stored on a DVD, rather than on several CDs, which had to be changed too frequently in previous years. Other options include fold-down work tables for rear-seat passengers, a new Chestnut wood trim finish, and a wide assortment of exterior colors.
As in the Continental GT, a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter W12 engine (named "W" because it's akin to two V6 engines joined side by side) generates a heady 552 horsepower. The only available transmission is a six-speed automatic that can be shifted manually using paddles behind the steering wheel.
The Continental Flying Spur has a compliant ride and agile handling for a car of its size, thanks to a sophisticated chassis and suspension.

Porsche 911 Cabriolet

Quick and Breezy
The new Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet is one of the few cars that can show you what it's like to have the wind in your hair at 180 miles per hour. Published on 2007-11-16 -->
by Jim Gorzelany, ForbesAutos.com
For years, the Porsche 911 Turbo has appealed to our more prurient automotive aspirations by bringing speed to the asphalt. Added to the line for 2008, the Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet takes that formula a step further by letting you see the clouds you’re racing overhead on a warm summer’s day.
Last redesigned for the 2005 model year with added sophistication and capabilities, the 911 line still retains the same basic formula as the 1963 original: a teardrop shape and rear-mounted engine (which remained air-cooled until 1999). Like the closed-roof coupe, the Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet features more pronounced scoops and spoilers, a rear wing that deploys at speed, and lightweight doors and hood for the sake of weight reduction; it’s otherwise visually similar to a standard 911

2010 Land Rover Range Rover

As mid-cycle model enhancements go, the 2010 Range Rover's is more ambitious than some brand-new vehicles. As we outlined in our first look, there are two new 5.0-liter V-8 engines-one free-breathing, one blown-that leverage direct-injection technology to boost horsepower by 23 and 29 percent respectively and torque by 16 and 12 percent. These engines and a quicker-shifting six-speed transmission dramatically improve acceleration performance with no fuel-economy penalty (EPA numbers are expected to be unchanged, while Euro figures improve by seven percent for each).

First Look: 2010 Jaguar XJ

Jaguar has just unveiled its new XJ flagship to the public in a celebrity-filled extravaganza hosted by everyone's favorite car guy -- Jay Leno -- in London (watch the video below for the presentation). We got an embargoed sneak peek a bit ahead of time of the new Jag flagship, which is set to hit U.S. shores this December, beginning from the top floor of one of those photogenic English manors in the suburbs of London you see in Victorian-period-piece movies.

First Drive: new Ford Fiesta (2008 onwards)

What – Ford Fiesta 1.6 Ti-VCT 120 Zetec-S
Where – Siena, Italy
Date – August 2008
Price – £12,595
Available – October 2008
Key rivals – Vauxhall Corsa, Peugeot 207, Mazda 2
Summary
Ford's current Fiesta is a UK best-seller. The all-new model is so good, we can only see that position being reinforced.
We like: looks, ride and handling, grown up feel
We don’t like: diesel needs more go and gears, very little else

BMW Z4 sDrive23i

The Z4 is BMW's wheeled homage to the roadsters in its back catalogue, and since 2003 its unusual design and sharp handling has seen it compete with the likes of the Porsche Boxster. Now there is a new version which aims to move the game on still further, without compromising its pure sports car roots.
Rather than a simple makeover, BMW has revised the Z4 from top to bottom with the aim of improving performance and response as well as comfort and desirability. The exterior looks sharper and has clearly undergone substantial change, yet remains unmistakably linked to earlier Z4s. Like many BMWs it needs a wise colour choice and looks best on larger alloy wheels, but what was original criticised as being controversial is now sleeker and less controversial.
The latest Z4 also combines the roles of what was previously two models: the Z4 Coupe and Roadster. All Z4s are now fitted with a electrically-folding hard top, which can be raised or lowered in 20 seconds. The result is the handsome coupe looks with the roof up, as well as increased security, but with all the freedom of a proper roadster with the roof folded.

Citroen Nemo Multispace 1.4i VTR

The stereotypical people carrrier is often thought to be a big, cumbersome vehicle. Over time more and more car makers have looked to create new opportunities, and something small enough for city use but big enough to be practical has proven to be increasingly popular. With its compact footprint, Citroen's Nemo Multispace is pitched to fill that (small) void.
Those with a keen eye will have observed that the Nemo Multispace bears a striking resemblance to Citroen's Nemo van. It's not unusual for people carriers to possess some light commercial DNA, and the Nemo is no different. The vehicle's upright stance is a welcome attribute when it comes to cabin space and comfort.
Citroen has a track record when it comes to no nonsense, compact people carriers. The firm's first generation Berlingo won many fans over the years, and it originally came from solid van stock. The Nemo follows in the same vein, with its wipe clean floor, simple seating layout, upright and lofty driving position plus supple ride.

Seat Ibiza 1.4 TDI Ecomotive

Despite its obvious familiarity, this Ibiza hides a clever secret: it's the most fuel efficient of the range. Spearheading Seat's move toward greener motoring, this Ecomotive model promises better than average economy and emissions without the complications associated with petrol-electric hybrids.
It's common knowledge that diesel power is the way to significant fuel efficiency gains if you don't want to dabble with expensive batteries and other hybrid technology. Yet the combination of a diesel motor and small car remains a left-field choice for most people - you need to put in the miles to make it pay.
Seat thinks differently with its compact hatch Ibiza. For starters it's priced aggressively, while the promised savings are considerable - over 70mph and sub-100g/km CO2. The good thing about this Ibiza is that you drive it like a regular car; the intention is not to compromise the driving or ownership experience.

Volkswagen Golf R32 - 2008

The high-performance Golf R32 is based on the latest Golf V generation and is powered by a 3.2-liter V-6 engine delivering 250 horsepower to all four wheels through VW’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive system. Top speed is in excess of 150 mph and 0 to 60 mph acceleration takes just 6.2 seconds.
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Aston Martin DB9 - 2008

Available in 2-door coupe and volante (convertible) body styles, the Aston Martin DB9 is produced at the company’s modern facility in Gaydon, Warwickshire. Using a radical new aluminum bonded frame, the 2+2 DB9 is one of the most technically advanced sports cars in the world.

Audi A5 | S5 - 2008

The A5 and S5 represent the company’s third new model line for 2008. These models are the first 4-seat coupes in Audi’s line-up in the U.S. since 1991. The A5 is powered by a 3.2-liter V-6 engine making 265 horsepower.

Suzuki Forenza - 2008

With Italian design by Pininfarina and an array of upscale standard interior features, Suzuki’s Forenza sedan and wagon offer room for up to five passengers as well as standard equipment such as Bluetooth connectivity, steering-wheel-integrated audio controls and fog lamps.

Chevrolet Cruze 1.6 LS

If you think Chevrolets are at the bottom of the budget pile, you might have to think again. That's the attitude of Chevrolet in the context of its first all-new model, the Cruze. Pitched less of a blatant budget model as some of the firm's other models, the Cruze boast an upmarket feel and more bolder styling.
Breaking away from Chevrolet's of the recent past, the Cruze has been ddevised from the ground up to spearhead the company's new attack. No longer simply a car maker happy to use older technology as the basis of its products, the Cruze's new platform promises improved refinement and dynamics.
Not convinced by the focus on driving appeal? Anyone can cut costs but to stand out from the affordable crowd it's important that a car is at least enjoyable to drive - competition is fierce, after all. Chevrolet believes this car - its first all-new effort - goes along way towards silencing critics with long memories of Chevrolets from the past.