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The last-generation Lexus LS felt a bit lost. It had many of the qualities of previous LS models, but it could not fully compete with the likes of Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8, and BMW 7-Series. People pointed out the somewhat plain design, lackluster performance of the V8 engine, or the confounding infotainment system as possible reasons. But I think the reason comes down to Lexus not having something that made the LS stand out. How do you right the ship of what many considered to be at one time, the best luxury sedan on sale? If you're Lexus, that means making some very drastic changes. Exterior Design Lexus has tended to play it safe with the LS' design to fit with the general idea of a flagship sedan - providing a presence without shouting. But this new generation decides to stray away from that idea. The front end features a lot of inspiration from LC coupe with a wide grille, protruding cutouts for the faux vent, and a lowered hood. A set of Z-shaped LED headlights help the LS stand out from other Lexus models. The rest of the design looks to be an evolution of the previous model with slightly wider fenders and a new trunk lid design. Interior Design and Materials One of the places that LS surprised me was the interior. The layout is quite attractive with a flowing dash and contours on the door panels. A clever touch is the horizontal slat pattern used on the center part of the dash that somewhat disguises the center vents. Material quality is top-notch with leather, real wood, and metal used throughout. Seating and Comfort This particular test vehicle was equipped with perforated leather upholstery which had a unique snakeskin pattern. I quite liked it, but some who rode in the vehicle found it to be a bit gaudy. This seat pattern is only available on the F-Sport, all other LS models have a plain design. The front seats are quite comfortable and provide numerous power adjustments, along with heat and ventilation. Rear seat passengers will find plenty of legroom, but tall passengers will be annoyed by their heads touching the roof liner, a major downside to the lower roofline. Infotainment The interior also houses a big disappointment; Lexus Remote Touch. The touchpad controller is still confounding and distracting to use as you need to be precise with your finger movements to correctly select the function you want. Otherwise, you'll end up on another screen and want to scream. This is disappointing considering that Lexus Enform has improved a lot. The system is noticeably quicker in various functions and can use Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa. Powertrain and Performance Despite the 500 designation, there is not a 5.0L V8 under the LS' hood. Instead, Lexus is using a twin-turbo 3.5L V6 engine with 416 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. A ten-speed automatic routes power to either the rear or all four wheels like in my test vehicle. The twin-turbo V6 is disappointing when leaving a stop as there is a considerable amount of turbo lag between pressing the accelerator and the engine responding. Once you get past this, the V6 provides plenty of scoot. Never once did I think that the V8 would be better whenever I need to merge or speed out of a corner. It is also noticeably quieter and more refined than the old V8. Fuel Economy Fuel economy is rated at 18 City/27 Highway/21 Combined if you opt for AWD. Stick with RWD and the numbers rise to 19/30/23. My average for the week landed at 20.2 mpg on a 60/40 mix of highway and city driving. F-Sport Handling Picking the F-Sport trim will get you a revised suspension setup and uprated brakes. It will not transform the LS into something like an Alpina B7 or a Mercedes-AMG S63, but it does make the vehicle feel a bit more poised on a winding road. When put into S+ mode, Body roll is kept in check and the steering is quick to respond. The coil springs used on the LS F-Sport are a bit stiff, which will provide a more choppy ride. An optional air suspension is reportedly better at dealing with bumps and other imperfections, but I will need to try it out before saying it is better or not. Final Thoughts This drastic move by Lexus with the new LS could have gone wrong, but it pulls it off. The new model is more interesting to look at, luxurious and offers improved driving dynamics when ordered with the F-Sport package. There are still some thorns Lexus needs to extract such as the poor initial performance of the twin-turbo six and the mess that is Remote Touch. If you're willing to deal with these issues, then the 2019 LS is a very viable alternative to the Germans. How I would configure an LS 500: Most likely I would build one similar to the one seen here, although I would get it in red as I think the paint really makes the design pop. Alternatives to the LS 500 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: The S-Class is still considered by many to be the best of the best. Considering its wide range of engines, very smooth ride, and impressive interior quality, it is tough to argue this. But the LS comes very close to matching the S-Class's interior quality, along with a more eye-catching design. It doesn't help that the S-Class is about $7,000 more than the LS. Genesis G90: Still the bargain in the flagship sedan class with a base price of $69,350 and coming with almost every feature you would expect. The twin-turbo 3.3L V6 offers better off-the line performance than the 3.5 found in the LS. But the LS offers higher quality interior materials than what is available in the G90. Cadillac CT6: Another twin-turbo V6 flagship that offers sharp driving dynamics and strong value. The CT6 handles better than the LS, but Lexus has the edge in interior materials and refinement. Disclaimer: Lexus Provided the LS 500, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Specifications and Pricing Year | 2019 Make | Lexus Model | LS Trim | 500 F-Sport Engine | 3.5L Twin-Turbo 24-Valve DOHC V6 Driveline | 10-Speed Automatic, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower | 416 @ 6,000 RPM Torque | 442 lb-ft @ 1,600-4,800 RPM Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Combined) | 18/27/21 MPG (AWD) Curb Weight | 5,027 lbs Assembly Location | Tahara, Aichi, Japan Base Price | $84,420 As Tested Price | $88,605 (includes $1,025 destination charge) Options as Tested Mark Levinson Audio System with 23 Speakers | $1,940 24-Inch Heads-Up Display | $1,220 View full article -
2019 Lexus LS 500 F-Sport Review: A Bold Reinvention of Lexus's Flagship
William Maley posted an article in Reviews
The last-generation Lexus LS felt a bit lost. It had many of the qualities of previous LS models, but it could not fully compete with the likes of Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8, and BMW 7-Series. People pointed out the somewhat plain design, lackluster performance of the V8 engine, or the confounding infotainment system as possible reasons. But I think the reason comes down to Lexus not having something that made the LS stand out. How do you right the ship of what many considered to be at one time, the best luxury sedan on sale? If you're Lexus, that means making some very drastic changes. Exterior Design Lexus has tended to play it safe with the LS' design to fit with the general idea of a flagship sedan - providing a presence without shouting. But this new generation decides to stray away from that idea. The front end features a lot of inspiration from LC coupe with a wide grille, protruding cutouts for the faux vent, and a lowered hood. A set of Z-shaped LED headlights help the LS stand out from other Lexus models. The rest of the design looks to be an evolution of the previous model with slightly wider fenders and a new trunk lid design. Interior Design and Materials One of the places that LS surprised me was the interior. The layout is quite attractive with a flowing dash and contours on the door panels. A clever touch is the horizontal slat pattern used on the center part of the dash that somewhat disguises the center vents. Material quality is top-notch with leather, real wood, and metal used throughout. Seating and Comfort This particular test vehicle was equipped with perforated leather upholstery which had a unique snakeskin pattern. I quite liked it, but some who rode in the vehicle found it to be a bit gaudy. This seat pattern is only available on the F-Sport, all other LS models have a plain design. The front seats are quite comfortable and provide numerous power adjustments, along with heat and ventilation. Rear seat passengers will find plenty of legroom, but tall passengers will be annoyed by their heads touching the roof liner, a major downside to the lower roofline. Infotainment The interior also houses a big disappointment; Lexus Remote Touch. The touchpad controller is still confounding and distracting to use as you need to be precise with your finger movements to correctly select the function you want. Otherwise, you'll end up on another screen and want to scream. This is disappointing considering that Lexus Enform has improved a lot. The system is noticeably quicker in various functions and can use Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa. Powertrain and Performance Despite the 500 designation, there is not a 5.0L V8 under the LS' hood. Instead, Lexus is using a twin-turbo 3.5L V6 engine with 416 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. A ten-speed automatic routes power to either the rear or all four wheels like in my test vehicle. The twin-turbo V6 is disappointing when leaving a stop as there is a considerable amount of turbo lag between pressing the accelerator and the engine responding. Once you get past this, the V6 provides plenty of scoot. Never once did I think that the V8 would be better whenever I need to merge or speed out of a corner. It is also noticeably quieter and more refined than the old V8. Fuel Economy Fuel economy is rated at 18 City/27 Highway/21 Combined if you opt for AWD. Stick with RWD and the numbers rise to 19/30/23. My average for the week landed at 20.2 mpg on a 60/40 mix of highway and city driving. F-Sport Handling Picking the F-Sport trim will get you a revised suspension setup and uprated brakes. It will not transform the LS into something like an Alpina B7 or a Mercedes-AMG S63, but it does make the vehicle feel a bit more poised on a winding road. When put into S+ mode, Body roll is kept in check and the steering is quick to respond. The coil springs used on the LS F-Sport are a bit stiff, which will provide a more choppy ride. An optional air suspension is reportedly better at dealing with bumps and other imperfections, but I will need to try it out before saying it is better or not. Final Thoughts This drastic move by Lexus with the new LS could have gone wrong, but it pulls it off. The new model is more interesting to look at, luxurious and offers improved driving dynamics when ordered with the F-Sport package. There are still some thorns Lexus needs to extract such as the poor initial performance of the twin-turbo six and the mess that is Remote Touch. If you're willing to deal with these issues, then the 2019 LS is a very viable alternative to the Germans. How I would configure an LS 500: Most likely I would build one similar to the one seen here, although I would get it in red as I think the paint really makes the design pop. Alternatives to the LS 500 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: The S-Class is still considered by many to be the best of the best. Considering its wide range of engines, very smooth ride, and impressive interior quality, it is tough to argue this. But the LS comes very close to matching the S-Class's interior quality, along with a more eye-catching design. It doesn't help that the S-Class is about $7,000 more than the LS. Genesis G90: Still the bargain in the flagship sedan class with a base price of $69,350 and coming with almost every feature you would expect. The twin-turbo 3.3L V6 offers better off-the line performance than the 3.5 found in the LS. But the LS offers higher quality interior materials than what is available in the G90. Cadillac CT6: Another twin-turbo V6 flagship that offers sharp driving dynamics and strong value. The CT6 handles better than the LS, but Lexus has the edge in interior materials and refinement. Disclaimer: Lexus Provided the LS 500, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Specifications and Pricing Year | 2019 Make | Lexus Model | LS Trim | 500 F-Sport Engine | 3.5L Twin-Turbo 24-Valve DOHC V6 Driveline | 10-Speed Automatic, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower | 416 @ 6,000 RPM Torque | 442 lb-ft @ 1,600-4,800 RPM Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Combined) | 18/27/21 MPG (AWD) Curb Weight | 5,027 lbs Assembly Location | Tahara, Aichi, Japan Base Price | $84,420 As Tested Price | $88,605 (includes $1,025 destination charge) Options as Tested Mark Levinson Audio System with 23 Speakers | $1,940 24-Inch Heads-Up Display | $1,220 -
After announcing that Genesis would be spun off into its own brand and teasing the first model, Hyundai has revealed today the G90 in South Korea. This is the replacement for the Equus flagship. As shown in teasers, the G90 gets a more upscale front end with LED headlights, larger grille, and a sculpted hood. The back is very reminiscent of the Mercedes S-Class with a similar design for the trunk and lights. Inside, the G90 promises to be one of the luxurious models with real wood trim and Italian leather. Tech features include a 12.3-inch touchscreen, 360-degree around-view monitor, Lexicon surround sound system, and wireless inductive phone charging. Three engines will be on offer for the G90. A 3.8L V6 with 310 horsepower will be the base, followed by a twin-turbo 3.3L V6 with 364 horsepower, and 5.0L V8 with 419 horsepower rounds out the lineup. All engines will be paired to a eight-speed automatic and either go through the rear or all four wheels. Now in certain markets, the G90 will come with a number of driver assist devices such as highway driving assistance, Advanced Smart Cruise Control, and a lane-keeping system. Other safety systems include adaptive headlights, blind-spot monitoring, and emergency braking with pedestrian detection. Now the G90 will launch in the U.S. as a 2017 model, but where it will make its debut is still up in the air. Source: Hyundai Press Release is on Page 2 Genesis Brand Launches its First Model, G90 Cutting-edge technologies, ultimate refinement and luxurious convenience features set the Genesis brand’s range-topper apart from competitors Luxury large sedan exudes confidence and originality through its ‘Athletic Elegance’ and refined yet dynamic performance Host of world-best safety and technological innovations realized in G90 December 9, 2015 – Hyundai Motor has unveiled the new Genesis G90 large luxury sedan, the model that will top the new Genesis brand’s luxury car line-up. The G90 (called EQ900 in Korea) will compete at the top of the luxury car market with world-best technological innovations and the highest levels of refinement, convenience and dynamic performance. Designed with profound elegance, natural dignity and grandeur by the Prestige Design Division that will craft the visual identity of each Genesis model, the G90 is the first realization of the brand’s ‘Athletic Elegance’ design style. Outside, the G90’s silhouette is powerful and refined, from its long hood to its sophisticated rear. While inside, the finest artisan materials meet human-centered ergonomics to provide occupants with absolute convenience and luxurious comfort. Human-centered Technological Innovation With technological innovation at its core and in anticipation of fully-autonomous cars, G90 features Genesis Smart Sense, which brings together advanced systems including Genesis’ advanced ‘Highway Driving Assistance’ (Korean market only), Advanced Smart Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assistance System. Accentuating the customer-oriented approach of Genesis, the system substantially reduces driver fatigue by combining a series of innovative technologies. This combination of newly-developed technologies create a first-class, all-but autonomous driving experience, elevating the G90 to the top of its class. First-class Comfort The first-class theme extends to occupant comfort, with the G90 offering the world’s first clinically-validated Smart Posture Caring (SPC) System, which automatically adjusts the seat, steering-wheel, outside mirror and head-up display to the optimal position for the driver’s body (Korean market only). G90’s VIP ergo passenger seats feature multiple ranges of electronically-controlled adjustment and are approved by German campaign for healthier backs, Aktion Gesunder Rücken. Best-in-class Luxury Refinement Benefitting from an intensive four-year development program by an 800-strong team, the G90 has best-in-class refinement thanks to extensive work on the car’s NVH characteristics. Every detail of the interior has been crafted to continue the car’s human focus. Advanced ergonomics analysis dictates the positioning of driver controls and the passenger comfort and entertainment features, while materials are sourced from the finest artisans around the world. Ride comfort and road holding is optimized by combining an advanced H-TRAC all-wheel-drive system with the first application of Genesis Adaptive Control Suspension. Sporty Agility with Refined Performance Driving the car, owners will notice standards of refined performance. This is central to the Genesis brand’s character, with development teams carrying out rigorous performance testing of the G90 at the Nürburgring circuit in Germany and the Mojave test center in the U.S. Despite the car’s sporty and responsive characteristics, the interior environment remains refined with all of the three available gasoline powertrains: V6 3.3-liter T-GDI, V6 3.8-liter GDI or V8 5.0-liter GDI. The newly introduced G90 in Korea will be rolling out to other markets, including United States, China, Russia and countries in the Middle East. A further five Genesis models will be launched over the next five years. View full article
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After announcing that Genesis would be spun off into its own brand and teasing the first model, Hyundai has revealed today the G90 in South Korea. This is the replacement for the Equus flagship. As shown in teasers, the G90 gets a more upscale front end with LED headlights, larger grille, and a sculpted hood. The back is very reminiscent of the Mercedes S-Class with a similar design for the trunk and lights. Inside, the G90 promises to be one of the luxurious models with real wood trim and Italian leather. Tech features include a 12.3-inch touchscreen, 360-degree around-view monitor, Lexicon surround sound system, and wireless inductive phone charging. Three engines will be on offer for the G90. A 3.8L V6 with 310 horsepower will be the base, followed by a twin-turbo 3.3L V6 with 364 horsepower, and 5.0L V8 with 419 horsepower rounds out the lineup. All engines will be paired to a eight-speed automatic and either go through the rear or all four wheels. Now in certain markets, the G90 will come with a number of driver assist devices such as highway driving assistance, Advanced Smart Cruise Control, and a lane-keeping system. Other safety systems include adaptive headlights, blind-spot monitoring, and emergency braking with pedestrian detection. Now the G90 will launch in the U.S. as a 2017 model, but where it will make its debut is still up in the air. Source: Hyundai Press Release is on Page 2 Genesis Brand Launches its First Model, G90 Cutting-edge technologies, ultimate refinement and luxurious convenience features set the Genesis brand’s range-topper apart from competitors Luxury large sedan exudes confidence and originality through its ‘Athletic Elegance’ and refined yet dynamic performance Host of world-best safety and technological innovations realized in G90 December 9, 2015 – Hyundai Motor has unveiled the new Genesis G90 large luxury sedan, the model that will top the new Genesis brand’s luxury car line-up. The G90 (called EQ900 in Korea) will compete at the top of the luxury car market with world-best technological innovations and the highest levels of refinement, convenience and dynamic performance. Designed with profound elegance, natural dignity and grandeur by the Prestige Design Division that will craft the visual identity of each Genesis model, the G90 is the first realization of the brand’s ‘Athletic Elegance’ design style. Outside, the G90’s silhouette is powerful and refined, from its long hood to its sophisticated rear. While inside, the finest artisan materials meet human-centered ergonomics to provide occupants with absolute convenience and luxurious comfort. Human-centered Technological Innovation With technological innovation at its core and in anticipation of fully-autonomous cars, G90 features Genesis Smart Sense, which brings together advanced systems including Genesis’ advanced ‘Highway Driving Assistance’ (Korean market only), Advanced Smart Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assistance System. Accentuating the customer-oriented approach of Genesis, the system substantially reduces driver fatigue by combining a series of innovative technologies. This combination of newly-developed technologies create a first-class, all-but autonomous driving experience, elevating the G90 to the top of its class. First-class Comfort The first-class theme extends to occupant comfort, with the G90 offering the world’s first clinically-validated Smart Posture Caring (SPC) System, which automatically adjusts the seat, steering-wheel, outside mirror and head-up display to the optimal position for the driver’s body (Korean market only). G90’s VIP ergo passenger seats feature multiple ranges of electronically-controlled adjustment and are approved by German campaign for healthier backs, Aktion Gesunder Rücken. Best-in-class Luxury Refinement Benefitting from an intensive four-year development program by an 800-strong team, the G90 has best-in-class refinement thanks to extensive work on the car’s NVH characteristics. Every detail of the interior has been crafted to continue the car’s human focus. Advanced ergonomics analysis dictates the positioning of driver controls and the passenger comfort and entertainment features, while materials are sourced from the finest artisans around the world. Ride comfort and road holding is optimized by combining an advanced H-TRAC all-wheel-drive system with the first application of Genesis Adaptive Control Suspension. Sporty Agility with Refined Performance Driving the car, owners will notice standards of refined performance. This is central to the Genesis brand’s character, with development teams carrying out rigorous performance testing of the G90 at the Nürburgring circuit in Germany and the Mojave test center in the U.S. Despite the car’s sporty and responsive characteristics, the interior environment remains refined with all of the three available gasoline powertrains: V6 3.3-liter T-GDI, V6 3.8-liter GDI or V8 5.0-liter GDI. The newly introduced G90 in Korea will be rolling out to other markets, including United States, China, Russia and countries in the Middle East. A further five Genesis models will be launched over the next five years. -
When you're buying a luxury flagship sedan, you are making a statement to the world. Drive an S-Class, 7-Series, XJ, or other sedans and the impressions can range from being someone important to just having a lot of money. But for some people, they don't want their luxury sedan to make itself known to the world. They want to enjoy the features available on their sedan, but without making so much noise. That's where the Genesis G90 could make some inroads. Part of Hyundai's new luxury brand, the G90 has its sights set on the stalwarts of the flagship luxury class by offering many of the features and luxury appointments found in them at a very low price. We spent a week in a G90 Premium to see if this ploy could work. Exterior Design Genesis has injected a bit of style into the G90's design. The key traits are a distinctive character line running the whole length of the vehicle and fenders that bulge out slightly. The rear end is slightly boring. However, the G90's front end doesn't quite fit in with the rest of the design. The flat nose and large grille borrowed from the smaller G80 seems a bit out of place. Interior Quality Step inside and the G90 seems to have the design and materials nailed down. It is quite handsome with a simple dash design, genuine wood trim, and a mix of Nappa leather and soft-touch plastics. But take a longer look and you begin to notice some glaring issues. The steering wheel is a good example as it doesn't feel like it is covered in leather. Instead, it feels like textured vinyl. This is odd since a couple of months after the G90, I spent some time in the G80 Sport and found the steering wheel to feel like leather. Another issue is the center stack's button and knobs which appear to be borrowed from Hyundai's parts bin. I'll admit I'm nitpicking, but it's the little things that can make or break a flagship luxury sedan. Seating and Comfort Settling in the G90, you cannot help but be impressed by the front seats. Upholstered in Nappa leather, the seats offer the right mix of cushioning and support for long drives. The driver's seat comes with 22-way power adjustments, while the passenger has to make do with 16-way power adjustments. One nice touch is the seat moving back whenever the door is open to allow for easier entry and exit from the vehicle. Those sitting in the back will have no complaints as there is a large amount of head and legroom on offer. A folding armrest has controls for climate control, audio, and heated seats. Ultimate models add more luxuries such as power adjustments and a rear-seat entertainment system. Infotainment A large 12.3-inch screen houses Genesis' infotainment system. This is controlled through either a controller knob on the center console or a set of buttons below the screen. Using the system is a breeze thanks to an easy to understand interface and the various control methods on offer. The screen is vibrant and allows you to have two functions up at the same time - having audio on one side and the navigation on the other. There are some areas Genesis can improve on. For one, the G90 doesn't offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility - something most of the competition does. Also, it would be nice to have more than two USB ports - one in the front and the other in the rear - so that people are not fighting over who gets to charge their phone. Powertrain and Performance Genesis offers two engines on the G90. Our base Premium tester came with the 3.3L twin-turbo V6 with 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. The uplevel Ultimate features the 5.0L V8 with 420 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic is equipped with either engine and there is a choice of rear-wheel or HTRAC all-wheel drive - our test car had the latter. Unless you want the rumble of the V8, the twin-turbo V6 is the engine to go for. For one, the V6 feels just as fast as the V8. Outlets who have timed both say the V6 can match the V8 in 0-60 mph. Plus, the V6 feels more eager to accelerate thanks to torque arriving at 1,300 rpm. The eight-speed automatic delivers smooth shifts and doesn't show any hesitation to downshift when more power is needed. EPA fuel economy figures for the 2018 G90 3.3T HTRAC AWD stand at 17 City/24 Highway/20 Combined. My average for the week landed around 20.2 mpg. Ride and Handling The G90's ride is similar to big 70's Buick or Cadillac, soft and pillowy thanks to the standard adaptive dampers. Even with the G90 set in Sport mode, the dampers were still able to keep road imperfections at bay. In terms of noise isolation, the G90 is towards the top. Road and engine noise are nonexistent inside. Only a little wind noise is noticeable. This makes the G90 a perfect car to take a long road trip. The trade-off to the soft ride is a fair amount of body roll in corners, even in the sport mode. Steering is light, but has a precise feel. If you're looking for a luxury sedan that is a bit fun on a winding road, we are happy to point you in the direction of a Cadillac CT6 or Jaguar XJ. Value and Final Thoughts The 2018 Genesis G90 significantly undercuts the competition when it comes to price. Our Premium tester came with a base price of $70,850 with the HTRAC AWD system. Add a $975.00 destination charge to get our as-tested price of $71,825. Considering that includes the 12.3-inch infotainment system, three-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and surround view camera system, it makes the G90 very much a steal. The Genesis G90 may not shout out its intention of being a flagship sedan, but it goes about its business quietly. It delivers the smooth ride, long list of equipment, and understated looks a number of folks are looking for. The punchy twin-turbo V6 and low price are just the cherries on top. However, the G90 does cut some corners in terms of the materials. Considering the competition that the G90 is going up against, this is a big black mark for an otherwise excellent sedan. As they say, the devil is in the details. Disclaimer: Genesis Provided the G90 Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Specifications and Pricing Year | 2018 Make | Genesis Model | G90 Trim | 3.3T Premium HTRAC Engine | 3.3L Twin-Turbo DOHC 24-Valve V6 Driveline | Eight-Speed Automatic, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower | 365 @ 6,000 RPM Torque | 376 lb-ft @ 1,300-4,500 RPM Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Combined) | 17/24/20 MPG Curb Weight | 4,784 lbs Assembly Location | Ulsan, South Korea Base Price | $70,850 As Tested Price | $71,825 (includes $975 destination charge) Options | N/A View full article
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When you're buying a luxury flagship sedan, you are making a statement to the world. Drive an S-Class, 7-Series, XJ, or other sedans and the impressions can range from being someone important to just having a lot of money. But for some people, they don't want their luxury sedan to make itself known to the world. They want to enjoy the features available on their sedan, but without making so much noise. That's where the Genesis G90 could make some inroads. Part of Hyundai's new luxury brand, the G90 has its sights set on the stalwarts of the flagship luxury class by offering many of the features and luxury appointments found in them at a very low price. We spent a week in a G90 Premium to see if this ploy could work. Exterior Design Genesis has injected a bit of style into the G90's design. The key traits are a distinctive character line running the whole length of the vehicle and fenders that bulge out slightly. The rear end is slightly boring. However, the G90's front end doesn't quite fit in with the rest of the design. The flat nose and large grille borrowed from the smaller G80 seems a bit out of place. Interior Quality Step inside and the G90 seems to have the design and materials nailed down. It is quite handsome with a simple dash design, genuine wood trim, and a mix of Nappa leather and soft-touch plastics. But take a longer look and you begin to notice some glaring issues. The steering wheel is a good example as it doesn't feel like it is covered in leather. Instead, it feels like textured vinyl. This is odd since a couple of months after the G90, I spent some time in the G80 Sport and found the steering wheel to feel like leather. Another issue is the center stack's button and knobs which appear to be borrowed from Hyundai's parts bin. I'll admit I'm nitpicking, but it's the little things that can make or break a flagship luxury sedan. Seating and Comfort Settling in the G90, you cannot help but be impressed by the front seats. Upholstered in Nappa leather, the seats offer the right mix of cushioning and support for long drives. The driver's seat comes with 22-way power adjustments, while the passenger has to make do with 16-way power adjustments. One nice touch is the seat moving back whenever the door is open to allow for easier entry and exit from the vehicle. Those sitting in the back will have no complaints as there is a large amount of head and legroom on offer. A folding armrest has controls for climate control, audio, and heated seats. Ultimate models add more luxuries such as power adjustments and a rear-seat entertainment system. Infotainment A large 12.3-inch screen houses Genesis' infotainment system. This is controlled through either a controller knob on the center console or a set of buttons below the screen. Using the system is a breeze thanks to an easy to understand interface and the various control methods on offer. The screen is vibrant and allows you to have two functions up at the same time - having audio on one side and the navigation on the other. There are some areas Genesis can improve on. For one, the G90 doesn't offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility - something most of the competition does. Also, it would be nice to have more than two USB ports - one in the front and the other in the rear - so that people are not fighting over who gets to charge their phone. Powertrain and Performance Genesis offers two engines on the G90. Our base Premium tester came with the 3.3L twin-turbo V6 with 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. The uplevel Ultimate features the 5.0L V8 with 420 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic is equipped with either engine and there is a choice of rear-wheel or HTRAC all-wheel drive - our test car had the latter. Unless you want the rumble of the V8, the twin-turbo V6 is the engine to go for. For one, the V6 feels just as fast as the V8. Outlets who have timed both say the V6 can match the V8 in 0-60 mph. Plus, the V6 feels more eager to accelerate thanks to torque arriving at 1,300 rpm. The eight-speed automatic delivers smooth shifts and doesn't show any hesitation to downshift when more power is needed. EPA fuel economy figures for the 2018 G90 3.3T HTRAC AWD stand at 17 City/24 Highway/20 Combined. My average for the week landed around 20.2 mpg. Ride and Handling The G90's ride is similar to big 70's Buick or Cadillac, soft and pillowy thanks to the standard adaptive dampers. Even with the G90 set in Sport mode, the dampers were still able to keep road imperfections at bay. In terms of noise isolation, the G90 is towards the top. Road and engine noise are nonexistent inside. Only a little wind noise is noticeable. This makes the G90 a perfect car to take a long road trip. The trade-off to the soft ride is a fair amount of body roll in corners, even in the sport mode. Steering is light, but has a precise feel. If you're looking for a luxury sedan that is a bit fun on a winding road, we are happy to point you in the direction of a Cadillac CT6 or Jaguar XJ. Value and Final Thoughts The 2018 Genesis G90 significantly undercuts the competition when it comes to price. Our Premium tester came with a base price of $70,850 with the HTRAC AWD system. Add a $975.00 destination charge to get our as-tested price of $71,825. Considering that includes the 12.3-inch infotainment system, three-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and surround view camera system, it makes the G90 very much a steal. The Genesis G90 may not shout out its intention of being a flagship sedan, but it goes about its business quietly. It delivers the smooth ride, long list of equipment, and understated looks a number of folks are looking for. The punchy twin-turbo V6 and low price are just the cherries on top. However, the G90 does cut some corners in terms of the materials. Considering the competition that the G90 is going up against, this is a big black mark for an otherwise excellent sedan. As they say, the devil is in the details. Disclaimer: Genesis Provided the G90 Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Specifications and Pricing Year | 2018 Make | Genesis Model | G90 Trim | 3.3T Premium HTRAC Engine | 3.3L Twin-Turbo DOHC 24-Valve V6 Driveline | Eight-Speed Automatic, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower | 365 @ 6,000 RPM Torque | 376 lb-ft @ 1,300-4,500 RPM Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Combined) | 17/24/20 MPG Curb Weight | 4,784 lbs Assembly Location | Ulsan, South Korea Base Price | $70,850 As Tested Price | $71,825 (includes $975 destination charge) Options | N/A -
There has been a common theme for most of the Cadillac vehicles I have reviewed over the past few years. They are always so close to being up there with the best, but there is one thing or trait that knocks them down. Such examples include interior appointments that don't match up with the price being asked, confusing infotainment systems, and engines that don't quite match up with the image being portrayed. This was floating around in the back of my head when a 2017 Cadillac CT6 Platinum rolled up onto my driveway. This is an important model for Cadillac as it is taking on the likes of the BMW 7-Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The little things can make or break a sedan in the class. Exterior Design Seeing the Cadillac CT6 for the first time at Detroit Auto Show a few years ago, I wasn't too impressed. The toned-down Art & Science design made me feel that the CT6 blended in with other luxury sedans. But after spending a bit of time with this CT6, I grew to like the design. Yes, the design language has lost some edge found on other Cadillacs, but there is still some sharpness with hard angles and bold lines. The Platinum adds some touches that really bring out the CT6's shape. A chrome grille helps give the model a more imposing front end and a set of optional 20-inch wheels finished in 'Midnight Silver' do an excellent job of filling in the wheel wells. Interior Quality and Comfort If there has been a consistent weak point to Cadillac's recent models, it has to be interior. On first glance, it seems they have it nailed down with a modern design and quality materials. But when you sit inside and begin to take a closer look, that illusion begins to go away. A fair amount of the materials used doesn't quite match up the luxury aura being presented such as the sheet piano black trim used for touch-sensitive controls on a number of Cadillac models. But the brand is improving as we noted in our XT5 review, and the CT6 is much the same. There is a noticeable step-up in terms of materials such as fine leather, carbon fiber accents, and wood trim. This comes wrapped in a handsomely-designed dashboard. There are some areas Cadillac still needs to do some work on such as the plasticity controls for the climate control system. The front seats are a treat to sit in thanks to the right amount of cushioning and support. The Platinum trim gets 20-way power seats for both the driver and passenger to help dial in the right position. Those sitting in the back will be pleased to find generous head and legroom. As added bonus, you can order heated and ventilated seats, power adjustments, and a rear entertainment system to make the back more luxurious. The only downside to sitting in the back is that the CT6 isn't long enough to take full advantage of the power adjustments. I felt somewhat cramped when I had the back seat fully reclined and my legs touching the back of the front seat. A few more inches in the wheelbase would fix this issue. CUE Infotainment Cadillac's CUE system has undergone some changes for the CT6. Most of the touch-sensitive buttons have either been dropped or replaced with actual, physical buttons. Being able to press a button or flick a switch to change a setting is a welcome change and less frustrating than the touch-sensitive controls. It would have been nice if Cadillac swapped the touch-sensitive volume strip for an actual knob, but at least you can adjust it via the steering wheel controls. Cadillac also added a touchpad controller (think Lexus' Remote Touch system) for CUE. It is a nice idea on paper, but the execution shows Cadillac needs to do a bit more work. The touchpad is hypersensitive and tends to overshoot from where you want the cursor. You're better off using the touchscreen. As for CUE itself, the system comes with a faster processor, some tweaks to the interface, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. These changes make CUE less frustrating to use on a daily basis. Powertrain and Performance There are three engines on offer for the CT6. The base is a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder, followed by a 3.6L V6. Our Platinum tester featured the big dog; a twin-turbo 3.0L V6 offering 404 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque (@ 2,500 - 5,100 rpm). Power goes to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic. Performance for the twin-turbo six may not have same exuberance as V8s found in competitors, but it isn't a slouch. This engine rockets the CT6 at a surprising rate of speed. Those who have timed the vehicle say it will hit 60 mph in around five seconds and we would believe it. Torque is abundant throughout rev range, meaning you should have no issue trying to merge on the freeway or make a pass. The eight-speed automatic has the right characteristics you want in a flagship sedan, smooth and unobtrusive shifts. EPA fuel economy figures for the CT6 3.0TT stand at 18 City/26 Highway/21 Combined. Our average for the week landed around 22 mpg in mostly city driving. Handling and Ride Describing a sedan that measures 204 inches in overall length as 'agile' seems very disingenuous. But the CT6 is that. Drive it around a turn and the CT6 feels like a smaller sedan with nimble manners and well-controlled body motions. Some credit has to go Active Chassis package that comes standard on the Platinum and comes with the excellent Magnetic Ride Control system and rear-wheel steering. But most buyers who tend to buy a sedan of this caliber don't really care about handling. Ride quality is king here and that's where the CT6 begins to falter. When equipped with the Magnetic Ride Control system, the ride is just a touch too firm. You will feel more bumps in this than some of the CT6's competition. It would be nice if Cadillac could offer an air suspension for those who want comfort. On the upside, road and wind noise are kept to near silent levels. Value and Final Thoughts It seems somewhat surprising to call the CT6 Platinum a great value, but it actually is. The Platinum 3.0TT begins at $87,495 and our test car with a few options (20-inch wheels, white paint, and spoiler) comes in at $91,580. Considering you have to spend a fair amount more on competitors to match the level of equipment on offer, the CT6 Platinum is quite the steal. Most of Cadillac's vehicles have fallen into the cliche of 'being so close, yet so far' due to some odd or boneheaded decision. But the CT6 is the first Cadillac that has avoided this. It feels like Cadillac is starting to feel comfortable in this new identity that it has been putting out there since the mid-2000s, a legitimate competitor to the Germans. The CT6 stands out for a number of reasons; excellent driving dynamics, impressive interior, punchy V6, and being quite the value. There are some niggling issues such as a firm ride and questionable materials, but these can and should be addressed down the road. Whether the CT6 can draw people away from the usual suspects remains to be seen. If Cadillac can take what they have learned from the CT6 and implement them into future models, then we can say something that hasn't been used in a long time, 'Standard of the World'. Disclaimer: Cadillac Provided the CT6, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Specifications and Pricing Year | 2017 Make | Cadillac Model | CT6 Trim | Platinum Engine | Twin-Turbo 3.0L DI DOHC with VVT V6 Driveline | Eight-Speed Automatic, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower | 404 @ 5,700 RPM Torque | 400 lb-ft @ 2,500-5,100 RPM Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Combined) | 18/26/21 MPG Curb Weight | 4,085 lbs Assembly Location | Detroit, MI Base Price | $87,495 As Tested Price | $91,580 (includes $995 destination charge) Options as Tested 20" Midnight Silver Wheels | $2,095 Crystal White Tricoat | $500 Spoiler Kit | $495 -
There has been a common theme for most of the Cadillac vehicles I have reviewed over the past few years. They are always so close to being up there with the best, but there is one thing or trait that knocks them down. Such examples include interior appointments that don't match up with the price being asked, confusing infotainment systems, and engines that don't quite match up with the image being portrayed. This was floating around in the back of my head when a 2017 Cadillac CT6 Platinum rolled up onto my driveway. This is an important model for Cadillac as it is taking on the likes of the BMW 7-Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The little things can make or break a sedan in the class. Exterior Design Seeing the Cadillac CT6 for the first time at Detroit Auto Show a few years ago, I wasn't too impressed. The toned-down Art & Science design made me feel that the CT6 blended in with other luxury sedans. But after spending a bit of time with this CT6, I grew to like the design. Yes, the design language has lost some edge found on other Cadillacs, but there is still some sharpness with hard angles and bold lines. The Platinum adds some touches that really bring out the CT6's shape. A chrome grille helps give the model a more imposing front end and a set of optional 20-inch wheels finished in 'Midnight Silver' do an excellent job of filling in the wheel wells. Interior Quality and Comfort If there has been a consistent weak point to Cadillac's recent models, it has to be interior. On first glance, it seems they have it nailed down with a modern design and quality materials. But when you sit inside and begin to take a closer look, that illusion begins to go away. A fair amount of the materials used doesn't quite match up the luxury aura being presented such as the sheet piano black trim used for touch-sensitive controls on a number of Cadillac models. But the brand is improving as we noted in our XT5 review, and the CT6 is much the same. There is a noticeable step-up in terms of materials such as fine leather, carbon fiber accents, and wood trim. This comes wrapped in a handsomely-designed dashboard. There are some areas Cadillac still needs to do some work on such as the plasticity controls for the climate control system. The front seats are a treat to sit in thanks to the right amount of cushioning and support. The Platinum trim gets 20-way power seats for both the driver and passenger to help dial in the right position. Those sitting in the back will be pleased to find generous head and legroom. As added bonus, you can order heated and ventilated seats, power adjustments, and a rear entertainment system to make the back more luxurious. The only downside to sitting in the back is that the CT6 isn't long enough to take full advantage of the power adjustments. I felt somewhat cramped when I had the back seat fully reclined and my legs touching the back of the front seat. A few more inches in the wheelbase would fix this issue. CUE Infotainment Cadillac's CUE system has undergone some changes for the CT6. Most of the touch-sensitive buttons have either been dropped or replaced with actual, physical buttons. Being able to press a button or flick a switch to change a setting is a welcome change and less frustrating than the touch-sensitive controls. It would have been nice if Cadillac swapped the touch-sensitive volume strip for an actual knob, but at least you can adjust it via the steering wheel controls. Cadillac also added a touchpad controller (think Lexus' Remote Touch system) for CUE. It is a nice idea on paper, but the execution shows Cadillac needs to do a bit more work. The touchpad is hypersensitive and tends to overshoot from where you want the cursor. You're better off using the touchscreen. As for CUE itself, the system comes with a faster processor, some tweaks to the interface, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. These changes make CUE less frustrating to use on a daily basis. Powertrain and Performance There are three engines on offer for the CT6. The base is a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder, followed by a 3.6L V6. Our Platinum tester featured the big dog; a twin-turbo 3.0L V6 offering 404 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque (@ 2,500 - 5,100 rpm). Power goes to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic. Performance for the twin-turbo six may not have same exuberance as V8s found in competitors, but it isn't a slouch. This engine rockets the CT6 at a surprising rate of speed. Those who have timed the vehicle say it will hit 60 mph in around five seconds and we would believe it. Torque is abundant throughout rev range, meaning you should have no issue trying to merge on the freeway or make a pass. The eight-speed automatic has the right characteristics you want in a flagship sedan, smooth and unobtrusive shifts. EPA fuel economy figures for the CT6 3.0TT stand at 18 City/26 Highway/21 Combined. Our average for the week landed around 22 mpg in mostly city driving. Handling and Ride Describing a sedan that measures 204 inches in overall length as 'agile' seems very disingenuous. But the CT6 is that. Drive it around a turn and the CT6 feels like a smaller sedan with nimble manners and well-controlled body motions. Some credit has to go Active Chassis package that comes standard on the Platinum and comes with the excellent Magnetic Ride Control system and rear-wheel steering. But most buyers who tend to buy a sedan of this caliber don't really care about handling. Ride quality is king here and that's where the CT6 begins to falter. When equipped with the Magnetic Ride Control system, the ride is just a touch too firm. You will feel more bumps in this than some of the CT6's competition. It would be nice if Cadillac could offer an air suspension for those who want comfort. On the upside, road and wind noise are kept to near silent levels. Value and Final Thoughts It seems somewhat surprising to call the CT6 Platinum a great value, but it actually is. The Platinum 3.0TT begins at $87,495 and our test car with a few options (20-inch wheels, white paint, and spoiler) comes in at $91,580. Considering you have to spend a fair amount more on competitors to match the level of equipment on offer, the CT6 Platinum is quite the steal. Most of Cadillac's vehicles have fallen into the cliche of 'being so close, yet so far' due to some odd or boneheaded decision. But the CT6 is the first Cadillac that has avoided this. It feels like Cadillac is starting to feel comfortable in this new identity that it has been putting out there since the mid-2000s, a legitimate competitor to the Germans. The CT6 stands out for a number of reasons; excellent driving dynamics, impressive interior, punchy V6, and being quite the value. There are some niggling issues such as a firm ride and questionable materials, but these can and should be addressed down the road. Whether the CT6 can draw people away from the usual suspects remains to be seen. If Cadillac can take what they have learned from the CT6 and implement them into future models, then we can say something that hasn't been used in a long time, 'Standard of the World'. Disclaimer: Cadillac Provided the CT6, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Specifications and Pricing Year | 2017 Make | Cadillac Model | CT6 Trim | Platinum Engine | Twin-Turbo 3.0L DI DOHC with VVT V6 Driveline | Eight-Speed Automatic, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower | 404 @ 5,700 RPM Torque | 400 lb-ft @ 2,500-5,100 RPM Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Combined) | 18/26/21 MPG Curb Weight | 4,085 lbs Assembly Location | Detroit, MI Base Price | $87,495 As Tested Price | $91,580 (includes $995 destination charge) Options as Tested 20" Midnight Silver Wheels | $2,095 Crystal White Tricoat | $500 Spoiler Kit | $495 View full article
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BMW is losing a lot of ground in the flagship arena to Mercedes-Benz. To combat this, the Munich-based automaker is considering an ultra-luxury sedan that will sit between the 7-Series and the Rolls-Royce Ghost. "Just like certain competitors, we will see that we occupy with credible offers the price bracket of 150,000 euros ($170,000) and beyond," BMW development chief Klaus Froehlich to Automotive News. Froehlich also took a jab at Mercedes-Benz by saying BMW wouldn't offer several wheelbases or "varyingly thick chrome packages." Why is BMW wanting to take on Mercedes-Benz in terms of flagships? In a word, China. Automotive news says about one of every two S-Class sedans built goes to China. The sedans are mostly bought wealthy people who have a chauffeur. Mercedes also took a big gamble. Back in 2012, the brand shuttered Maybach and left Bentley and Rolls-Royce to fight over buyers who want ultra-luxury models. During this time, a massive crackdown on corruption took place and many wealthy people decided it wasn't a good idea to show off their wealth in ostentatious fashion. This caused sales of Bentley and Rolls-Royce vehicles to drop. When Mercedes brought back the Maybach in the form of a high-lux S-Class in 2015, buyers flocked to it as it was seen as an understated way to show off their wealth. Since then, Mercedes has introduced a Pullman version. What does BMW have planned? There have been rumors of a 9-Series though details are thin. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article
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BMW is losing a lot of ground in the flagship arena to Mercedes-Benz. To combat this, the Munich-based automaker is considering an ultra-luxury sedan that will sit between the 7-Series and the Rolls-Royce Ghost. "Just like certain competitors, we will see that we occupy with credible offers the price bracket of 150,000 euros ($170,000) and beyond," BMW development chief Klaus Froehlich to Automotive News. Froehlich also took a jab at Mercedes-Benz by saying BMW wouldn't offer several wheelbases or "varyingly thick chrome packages." Why is BMW wanting to take on Mercedes-Benz in terms of flagships? In a word, China. Automotive news says about one of every two S-Class sedans built goes to China. The sedans are mostly bought wealthy people who have a chauffeur. Mercedes also took a big gamble. Back in 2012, the brand shuttered Maybach and left Bentley and Rolls-Royce to fight over buyers who want ultra-luxury models. During this time, a massive crackdown on corruption took place and many wealthy people decided it wasn't a good idea to show off their wealth in ostentatious fashion. This caused sales of Bentley and Rolls-Royce vehicles to drop. When Mercedes brought back the Maybach in the form of a high-lux S-Class in 2015, buyers flocked to it as it was seen as an understated way to show off their wealth. Since then, Mercedes has introduced a Pullman version. What does BMW have planned? There have been rumors of a 9-Series though details are thin. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) -
Rumorpile: Infiniti Begins Working On Plug-In Hybrid Flagship
William Maley posted an article in Infiniti
Infiniti is taking on a flagship as its next big project. Automotive News has learned from a source that the luxury automaker has begun work on flagship model featuring a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The source says work has begun at Nissan's r&d center in England and is currently benchmarking the Mercedes-Benz S-Class plug-in hybrid and Porsche Panamera E-Hybrid. The flagship could be a production version of the Q80 Inspiration concept shown at the Paris Motor Show last year. The vehicle boasted a hybrid system with a new twin-turbo 3.0L V6 engine. At the show, Infiniti announced that a model like this would be launched in three to five years. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) -
Infiniti is taking on a flagship as its next big project. Automotive News has learned from a source that the luxury automaker has begun work on flagship model featuring a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The source says work has begun at Nissan's r&d center in England and is currently benchmarking the Mercedes-Benz S-Class plug-in hybrid and Porsche Panamera E-Hybrid. The flagship could be a production version of the Q80 Inspiration concept shown at the Paris Motor Show last year. The vehicle boasted a hybrid system with a new twin-turbo 3.0L V6 engine. At the show, Infiniti announced that a model like this would be launched in three to five years. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article
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What We KnowThe 2016 CT6 is not Cadillac’s flagship, General Motors product chief Mark Reuss says. That role will be given to an even larger rear-wheel-drive sedan coming within four years. While the Cadillac CT6 is a bit bigger than a short-wheelbase BMW 7 Series, we expect the so-called CT8 to be slightly larger than the long-wheelbase Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The CT8, like the CT6, will ride on the new Omega platform, which employs GM’s patented process for welding aluminum. If the CT6 is any guide, the CT8 will be hundreds of pounds lighter than the S-Class. But the CT8 will be more than a long-wheelbase version of the CT6. Its styling should be more stately and upright, and it should put greater emphasis on ride comfort than handling dynamics. Engine choices will likely include the CT6’s new twin-turbo, 3.0-liter V-6 and a naturally aspirated, 3.6-liter V-6. Also expect a new V-8 from the same engine family, perhaps a twin-turbo, 4.5-liter example that will make 500-plus horsepower, as hinted by the Cadillac Elmiraj show car. The transmission will be an eight-speed automatic, unless the new 10-speed GM is developing with Ford arrives in time. Why It MattersAlthough it doesn’t show on sales charts, Cadillac is enjoying a renaissance thanks to new models that match or beat their BMW and Mercedes-Benz rivals on many metrics. The CT8 promises to take these advances even further, making this car worthy of a window sticker that reads $95,000 or higher. Expect the CT8 to come with all the technology, safety, and luxury features Cadillac can muster to take on the Mercedes S-Class as the standard-bearer in this segment. Just as important, a big, long CT8 will give Cadillac a much-needed status symbol, a car worthy of shuttling important business and government leaders to global conferences. Potential PitfallsAs much as Cadillac has improved, it has yet to achieve Lexus-like overall quality or Audi-like interior execution. The CT8 must do both. Specifically, its new engines must idle more smoothly than the engines we’ve experienced in the ATS and CTS, and the CUE infotainment system must respond quicker to user inputs. Even if Cadillac achieves all this right out of the gate, GM will have to be patient, as the CT8 will not achieve Audi/BMW/Mercedes status overnight. When to Expect ItSometime during calendar year 2019, possibly by spring, as a 2020 model. http://www.automobilemag.com/features/magazine/1508-cadillac-ct8-will-be-the-brands-first-true-flagship-in-modern-era/ I hope I didn't quote too much but that really is all the little article was so I thought it wasn't worth cutting it down.. Anyway, just some more exciting news coming from one of our D3!
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Lexus News: Lexus' General Manager Hints At A Second Flagship
William Maley posted a topic in Toyota
Lexus is readying another flagship vehicle to sit along the LS sedan. Speaking with Reuters, Lexus General Manager Jeff Bracken said the Japanese automaker is considering a new flagship. "We need a flagship. It doesn't have to be a sedan," said Bracken. "In addition to the LS (a large sedan), there could be another flagship in our lineup. We'll define what it is in January." There are two vehicles that are possibly in contention. The first is the long-rumored LF-LC coupe concept, wearing the SC nameplate. The other is another SUV. Source: Reuters View full article -
Lexus is readying another flagship vehicle to sit along the LS sedan. Speaking with Reuters, Lexus General Manager Jeff Bracken said the Japanese automaker is considering a new flagship. "We need a flagship. It doesn't have to be a sedan," said Bracken. "In addition to the LS (a large sedan), there could be another flagship in our lineup. We'll define what it is in January." There are two vehicles that are possibly in contention. The first is the long-rumored LF-LC coupe concept, wearing the SC nameplate. The other is another SUV. Source: Reuters -
If you were hoping that Cadillac would sprinkle some of the design from the Elmiraj concept for the upcoming CT6 flagship, prepare to be disappointed. GM's vice-president of global design, Ed Welburn, tells Automotive News that the CT6 will not be influenced by the Elmiraj. Instead the CT6 will stick with the art and science design theme found on current Cadillacs. “I think Elmiraj was more of an influence on some other things we’re working on for Cadillac,” said Welburn. “It’ll be different and it will certainly stand out in the portfolio. But you won’t see a real shift in direction.” We'll see if there is a real shift when the CT6 debuts next year at the New York Auto Show. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) -
If you were hoping that Cadillac would sprinkle some of the design from the Elmiraj concept for the upcoming CT6 flagship, prepare to be disappointed. GM's vice-president of global design, Ed Welburn, tells Automotive News that the CT6 will not be influenced by the Elmiraj. Instead the CT6 will stick with the art and science design theme found on current Cadillacs. “I think Elmiraj was more of an influence on some other things we’re working on for Cadillac,” said Welburn. “It’ll be different and it will certainly stand out in the portfolio. But you won’t see a real shift in direction.” We'll see if there is a real shift when the CT6 debuts next year at the New York Auto Show. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article
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Since Cadillac has brought in Johan de Nysschen as its new president, the decisions made by him - such as the CT/XT nomenclature and moving some of their staff to New York - have caused many to experience a range of emotions from happiness to outrage. So we don't know how many people are going to feel about de Nysschen's thoughts about Cadillac in the future that he talked with a couple of outlets at the LA Auto Show. First up is Reuters who reports that that de Nysschen sees Cadillac selling a $250,000 luxury sedan, but not anytime soon. "It is too early today for a $250,000 Cadillac. Fifteen years from now, it won't be," said de Nysschen. Next up is Car and Driver who got a flurry of thoughts from de Nysschen. Here's what they got. Cadillac is working on an all-new diesel engine that will launch in 2019. The U.S. will be getting this new engine. A 911 fighter from Cadillac? de Nysschen says there is a possibility of this, but not till after 2020. (Also, Corvette may have something to say about this as well. -WM) The V lineup will be growing to possibly five or six models in the future. One of those models could be an SUV - not the Escalade though. Sales target for the ATS-V? Modest Volume. Source: Reuters, Car and Driver -
Since Cadillac has brought in Johan de Nysschen as its new president, the decisions made by him - such as the CT/XT nomenclature and moving some of their staff to New York - have caused many to experience a range of emotions from happiness to outrage. So we don't know how many people are going to feel about de Nysschen's thoughts about Cadillac in the future that he talked with a couple of outlets at the LA Auto Show. First up is Reuters who reports that that de Nysschen sees Cadillac selling a $250,000 luxury sedan, but not anytime soon. "It is too early today for a $250,000 Cadillac. Fifteen years from now, it won't be," said de Nysschen. Next up is Car and Driver who got a flurry of thoughts from de Nysschen. Here's what they got. Cadillac is working on an all-new diesel engine that will launch in 2019. The U.S. will be getting this new engine. A 911 fighter from Cadillac? de Nysschen says there is a possibility of this, but not till after 2020. (Also, Corvette may have something to say about this as well. -WM) The V lineup will be growing to possibly five or six models in the future. One of those models could be an SUV - not the Escalade though. Sales target for the ATS-V? Modest Volume. Source: Reuters, Car and Driver View full article
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GM Plans Top-Range Cadillac, SRX Redesign for Next Year
Cmicasa the Great posted a topic in Cadillac
Article Quotes: General Motors, aiming to reverse a sales slump for its Cadillac luxury brand, plans to introduce a top-range car and a redesigned SRX utility vehicle next year, an executive said. The car will have rear-wheel drive and arrive in late 2015, Dave Leone, Cadillac’s chief engineer, told reporters in California today ahead of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The Detroit-based automaker showed an Elmiraj concept that reflected its vision for such a car at the same event last year. The largest U.S. automaker is counting on an expanded stable of passenger cars and the new SRX, its top-selling model, to lure buyers away from German luxury marques and Toyota Motor Corp.’s Lexus. “This is going to be a fantastic year for Cadillac,” Leone said. Cadillac’s car lineup has paced the brand’s sales declines this year, with deliveries of the compact ATS and larger XTS each falling by more than 20 percent through July. The company also plans to introduce a high-performance V-version of the ATS next year, Leone said. Sales of the SRX, which GM last redesigned in 2009, have climbed 16 percent. The new models will be among the first to debut under new leadership for Cadillac. GM last month named Johan de Nysschen president of the brand, hiring him away from Nissan Motor Co.’s Infiniti. http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-08-15/gm-plans-top-range-cadillac-srx-redesign-for-next-year.html -
Cadillac's Chief Engineer: SRX Redesign and Flagship Coming Next Year
William Maley posted an article in Cadillac
Cadillac has some big things coming in 2015. Dave Leone, Cadillac’s chief engineer told reporters last week in California that 2015 will see the introduction of the long-rumored and speculated flagship. Possibly wearing the name of the LTS, this news seems to confirm a report from earlier this month which said the model would debut at next year's New York Auto Show. Along with the flagship, Leone also said that 2015 will also see a redesigned SRX and the ATS-V. “This is going to be a fantastic year for Cadillac,” Leone said. Source: Bloomberg William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
A new report from Autoblog says Cadillac is planning on premiering their flagship sedan, possibly named LTS, at next year's New York Auto Show. A source at the company says the brand is preparing their competitor to the Audi A8, BMW 7-Series, and Mercedes-Benz S-Class to be shown at New York. The source dismisses the current XTS as a placeholder, and not a "real" Cadillac. The source admits that the new S-Class is a tough competitor to upcoming model. Sadly, no information on powertrains or other key details were revealed. Source: Autoblog William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
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A new report from Autoblog says Cadillac is planning on premiering their flagship sedan, possibly named LTS, at next year's New York Auto Show. A source at the company says the brand is preparing their competitor to the Audi A8, BMW 7-Series, and Mercedes-Benz S-Class to be shown at New York. The source dismisses the current XTS as a placeholder, and not a "real" Cadillac. The source admits that the new S-Class is a tough competitor to upcoming model. Sadly, no information on powertrains or other key details were revealed. Source: Autoblog William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
We've been hearing for awhile rumors of a Infiniti flagship. Most recently, reports have pointed towards a model that would compete with the likes of the Porsche Panamera. Now a new report from Motor Trend is spilling a lot information out on this possible flagship. The report says the new flagship will likely be a four-door version of Infiniti's Essence concept wearing either the Q80 or Q90 nameplate. Engines will include a new 3.0L turbo V6 hybrid with 550 horsepower and a 3.7L twin-turbo V6 hybrid with 700 horsepower. Both engines will feed power to a standard all-wheel drive system. “We are not planning to create a Mercedes S-Class competitor. Our goal is to launch a revised four-door version of the Essence,” a source said. The new flagship is expected to arrive in 2017 or 2018 with a pricetag of $100,000. Source: Motor Trend William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
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We've been hearing for awhile rumors of a Infiniti flagship. Most recently, reports have pointed towards a model that would compete with the likes of the Porsche Panamera. Now a new report from Motor Trend is spilling a lot information out on this possible flagship. The report says the new flagship will likely be a four-door version of Infiniti's Essence concept wearing either the Q80 or Q90 nameplate. Engines will include a new 3.0L turbo V6 hybrid with 550 horsepower and a 3.7L twin-turbo V6 hybrid with 700 horsepower. Both engines will feed power to a standard all-wheel drive system. “We are not planning to create a Mercedes S-Class competitor. Our goal is to launch a revised four-door version of the Essence,” a source said. The new flagship is expected to arrive in 2017 or 2018 with a pricetag of $100,000. Source: Motor Trend William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.
