Kia’s current and upcoming product catalog suggests a naming strategy solely inspired by someone’s old music dictionary. Both the Rondo and the upcoming Cadenza draw their names from musical terminology—as does parent Hyundai’s Sonata—and now we have the Forte, christened with an Italian word that directs performers to play loudly.

Read more »

A more dynamic, driver-focused version of the Lexus LS sedan. Currently available only on short-wheelbase, rear-wheel-drive models, the Sport package adds functional upgrades such as the IS F’s quicker-shifting version of the standard LS’s eight-speed automatic gearbox—which includes full manual control via paddle shifters or the console shifter, along with lock-up clutches for all gears except first—as well as larger Brembo brakes all around. The electric power-steering system has been tweaked for better turn-in response, while the adjustable, sport-tuned air suspension has firmer anti-roll bars and specific tuning for the dampers. Split 10-spoke, 19-inch wheels with all-season tires round out the performance improvements. Lower body extensions and a darkened honeycomb grille differentiate the exterior, while the interior is only offered in a two-tone, black/saddle configuration with unique matte-finished wood trim.

Read more »

To answer you first question, no we have not mistaken the A4 for the new A8. It’s just that Ingolstadt has followed the typical German approach of “one-style fits all” with its new flagship model that looks exactly like the firm’s entry-level A4 sedan. Don’t get us wrong, the new A8 is in our opinion if not the, one of the most elegant and sleek proposals in the luxury sedan segment, but we were expecting something a tad more unique (in other words, more revolutionary, less evolutionary) from Audi.

On the other hand, it should be noted that Audi’s designers managed to achieve an exceptional drag coefficient of only 0.26, which is about the same as the smaller Toyota Prius hybrid.

Moving on to the interior, let’s just say that, sans the A4-esque instrument panel, owners of the current generation A8 will feel right at home. In fact, we bet that most will have a hard time telling the two interiors apart. Nonetheless, the Germans do claim that the cabin has been further improved in terms of quality of workmanship as well as materials.

Read more »

What Is It?

A slightly more comfortable version of the iconic Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. As its name suggests, it’s based on the Evo MR, with its six-speed dual-clutch automated manual gearbox. The Evo MR Touring presents a somewhat subtler visual image with its less obnoxious rear wing while making occupants a bit more comfortable with full leather upholstery, more sound insulation, heated seats, and a sunroof. Auto headlamps and an insulated windshield round out the Touring trim, which is considered the flagship of the Evo line. A classier center console with improved materials also comes along for the ride to dress up the interior, as it does for all 2010 Evos and higher-end Lancer trim levels.

Read more »

With inspiration coming from the Phantom Drophead Coupe (convertible) and the Phantom Coupe, Rolls Royce revealed the 2009 Model Year Phantom and Phantom Extended Wheelbase. The facelifted Phantom limos are distinguished on the outside by a new streamlined front bumper that has been designed and integrated with a shallower grille, finished in stainless steel. Other new exterior features include LED door handle illumination and the fitting of 21-inch cast alloy wheels as standard.

Furthermore, the BMW Group owned British automaker offers two more wheel options, both manufactured in forged alloy and available in either painted or part polished finishes.

Read more »