Nov
The Porsche Panamera range is broad, with loads of options for those who are seeking a sports car that’s a little out of the ordinary. Buyers in the USA can choose from the standard four-seater with a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 that makes 325 horsepower or sportier ‘S’-monikered models that use a higher-output version of the power plant to make 443 hp. There’s a 473-hp GTS model with a V8 topping the range for those who believe Porsches should be seen and heard. But don’t be fooled into thinking this is a family sedan; sure, there are four seats in total, but space in the back is still a little restricted and the Porsche Panamera’s competitors like the Audi RS7 and BMW M5 may be more practical if you want to carry passengers comfortably. But the Porsche excels at what it was designed for – driving pleasure. There’s grip for days (all-wheel drive variants specifically) and incredible handling that makes it a real pleasure to drive.
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2023 Porsche Panamera Changes: What’s The Difference vs The 2022 Panamera?
Not much changes for the new Porsche Panamera sedan, but adaptive cruise control with automatic emergency braking becomes a standard feature, and the electric steering column that was bundled with the optional 14-/18-way power-adjustable seats is no longer included in the power-seat packages. Instead, the adjustment is now manual on the base, 4, and 4S cars and powered from the GTS and up. The infotainment system is updated, its most important new feature being that Android Auto is now wireless. Otherwise, the 2023 Porsche Panamera lineup continues as is.
Nov
The S-Class sedan is already the epitome of luxury, so what happens when you add some Maybach spice? The 2023 Mercedes-Maybach S comes with either a 496-horsepower V8 or a 621-hp V12 engine, with only the highest standard of luxury appointments and finishes. It’s naturally very expensive, and the $193k starting price of the Maybach S puts it in the esteemed company of the Bentley Flying Spur, though the S looks like a comparative steal next to the $340k Rolls-Royce Ghost. Is the Maybach worth $70k more than the equivalent S-Class or is it superfluous? Does the Maybach treatment turn the already posh car into a worthy alternative to a Rolls-Royce or Bentley?
Nov
The Lexus LC has long been hallowed by enthusiasts for its achingly beautiful design and sonorous 471-horsepower V8 engine, but some feel that it’s getting on in years. Rivals like the BMW 8 Series are much more modern inside, while the Lexus LC still sports an iffy infotainment system (and a small screen by comparison). Additionally, the Porsche 911 is still the ultimate in the performance game. So is there still space for the LC somewhere? With a hybrid for those who want to spend less on fuel and a convertible in the lineup, we think the 2023 Lexus LC is not only still relevant, but it’s one of the cars that never fails to make our hearts jump – even if it costs a pretty penny.
Nov
Not many cars can claim to go toe to toe with the grand Mercedes-Benz S-Class, but the BMW 7 Series is up for the challenge. After entering its seventh generation last year, it is in a stronger position than ever before to steal the crown. It is presented in a number of configurations, including a twin-turbo V8 model with 536 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque or a hybrid with 483 hp and 479 lb-ft. And for those who want their luxury sedan to be all-electric, there’s the new BMW i7 to consider. Whereas some rivals like the Audi A8 no longer offer a hybridized version, there are some newer options in the segment, too, such as the Genesis G90. However, the 7 Series sits near the top of the class for the flawless way it combines luxury with high performance, especially with its updated infotainment system and optional rear entertainment suite. But is it enough to unseat the S-Class?
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2024 BMW 7 Series Changes: What’s The Difference vs The 2023 7 Series?
The new BMW 7 Series sedan range gets a hybrid that will help it better compete with rivals in the USA that offer buyers more variety. The 750e uses the same engine found in the 740i paired with an electric motor, which makes 483 hp and 479 lb-ft – and it has an all-electric range of 35 miles.
Other updates for 2024 include an all-wheel drive system that is now available for the regular 740i, and all models enjoy an updated iDrive 8.5 infotainment operating system that comes with an Intelligent Personal Assistant. Newly available features include extended Parking Assistant Professional with Maneuver Assistant. The starting new price of the 2024 BMW 7 Series is $96,400, up $700 from last year.
Nov
The term ‘connoisseur’ is defined as an expert judge in matters of taste, and motoring connoisseurs hold automakers like Bentley and Rolls-Royce in the highest regard as the personification of class and style. With so much focus on SUVs and crossovers of late, it’s no wonder these power brands have stepped up to the plate. The new Bentaya SUV brings eminent practicality and superfluous comfort to the table – but, seated alongside rivals like the Lamborghini Urus and Rolls-Royce Cullinan, it has to remain on its toes to shine in the ultra-luxury segment.
So Bentley puts in the work and presents buyers with a modern, family-oriented SUV that is now available with an extended wheelbase, seating up to seven. It comes flush with luxuries and comforts typical of the brand and can be powered by various powerful engines, including a 626-horsepower W12 and a hybrid V6 with 443 hp. While it’s not the most beautiful to look at, the Bentayga’s spacious and plush cabin are streets ahead of what you’d find on more mainstream cars. But is it enough to dominate in the segment?
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2023 Bentley Bentayga Changes: What’s The Difference vs The 2022 Bentayga?
For the new year, Bentley introduces a new specification. The Azure range will be available for all models and comes with a bespoke feature selection and special materials and themes designed to prioritize comfort and wellbeing.
The Bentayga range receives the much-anticipated long-wheelbase model with additional cabin space that lets back-seat passengers really stretch out in style. While only available with the V8 engine, it comes with a rear-wheel steering system to help maneuver all that extra length. To further the idea of executive comfort, the seats can recline to 40 degrees, and there is a footrest that extends from the front passenger seat. Available features on the EWB models include massaging rear seats and a rear center console.
The EWB range also gets a new Azure First Edition trim, available in limited numbers for the first 12 months of sales. This model comes with model-specific handcrafted stitching, embroidery, and badging as well as a Naim for Bentley sound system and Bentley Diamond Illumination in-cabin lighting, to name just a few exclusive features.
Finally, an ultra-limited Odyssean Edition is added to the hybrid lineup, boasting bespoke exterior elements and interior designs. Only 70 examples will be produced.
Pros and Cons
- Unmistakable curb appeal
- Three powerful engine options
- Gorgeous cabin with loads of tech
- EWB supplies unparalleled rear comfort
- Decent driving experience
- Almost limitless customization
- Not quite as opulent as a Rolls
- Cargo space is limited, especially in EWB
- Few standard safety systems
- Extras cost a lot
What’s the Price of the 2023 Bentley Bentayga?
The price range for the Bentley Bentayga is broad, with the entry-level models in standard V8 guise retailing for around $192k. Adding the hybrid power plant ups those figures with a few thousand dollars, too. Extended wheelbase derivatives are pricier still, with the Azure First Edition priced north of $210k. The W12-equipped Speed can cost as much as $263k to start. Fully kitted out, it’s not uncommon for Bentayga prices to exceed $300k. These prices exclude Bentley’s destination charge of $2,725.
Nov
The second-generation Audi S7 Sportback dukes it out in the performance executive four-door coupe segment in the USA along with the BMW 850i Gran Coupe and Mercedes-AMG GT43 Four-Door. It is a four-door coupe alternative to Ingolstadt’s sporty S6 sedan, taking the shape of a stylish fastback offering superior practicality, as the electric liftgate gives you access to a bigger cargo space. It is powered by a Porsche-derived twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 with mild-hybrid assistance, with power outputs totaling 444 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, which is sent to all four wheels. The resulting acceleration is smooth and raid, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds. Like the A6 and S6, the S7 is built on the Volkswagen Group’s MLB platform, and with standard air suspension, it offers sharp handling without compromising on comfort.
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2023 Audi S7 Sportback Changes: What’s The Difference vs The 2022 S7 Sportback?
No significant changes have been made to the 2023 Audi S7 Sportback, but the trims have been slightly altered. The S7 can now be had in a new entry-level Premium trim, bringing the starting price down to $83,500 MSRP. A new Design Edition package, priced at $2,500, is also available for the Premium Plus and Prestige trims for those who want 21-inch V-spoke wheels, new-generation flat-bottom Audi Sport steering wheel, a black-painted roof, Audi Sport interior trimmings, and dark-chrome valence elements front and rear. New standard features for the Premium Plus model include seat heating for the rear bench, additional leather trim items scattered throughout the interior, and some additional safety features. The flagship Prestige trim gets a remote-parking feature.