The New Lucid Air All-Electric Sedan

The luxury mobility company, Lucid Motors, is conceptualizing the car of the future to reawaken a new era of the automotive world.  Headquartered in Menlo Park, California, the team at Lucid integrates innovative engineering, cutting-edge design, and groundbreaking technology to actualize an entirely new class of luxury vehicle: the Lucid Air all-electric sedan.  The Lucid Air boasts autonomous-ready Air, which will be capable of reaching up to 400 miles of range and hitting 60 mph in just under 2.5 seconds.

Lucid is currently in the midst of developing products and services for the next level of experiential, on-demand, and sustainable luxury; this is demonstrated by the Lucid Air premium sedan, their first ever platform.  In pursuit of creating a revolutionary vehicle for the discerning customer, the Lucid team has provided extensive knowledge and ability from both the technology and automotive industries.  The Air is set to be manufactured in Casa Grande, Arizona, with deliveries beginning in 2019 and prices starting at $60,000 before federal and local tax credits.

Founded in 2007, Lucid, formerly known as Atieva, was originally a company that created EV battery systems for other manufacturers.  During that time, the company’s batteries logged over 20 million real-world miles to date.  In 2014, the company started to change things up and develop its own vehicle that is the epitome of elegance and the forefront of technological innovations.

The Base Lucid Air version’s specifications are as follows: LED multi-lens array headlights, over-the-air software updates, 10 advanced airbags, an aluminum roof, 19 inch wheels, 400 horse power (wheel-rear drive), a 240-mile range, essential autonomous driving hardware, four screens (three of which have interactive touch surfaces), a 10-speaker audio system, 12-way power front seats, and 5-seat configuration with a rear bench seat.

The first 255 customer cars will be Launch Edition cars, which will feature extensive autonomous driving hardware, an upgraded audio system, 21-inch Lucid-design wheels, Premium leather interior, 22-way adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, dynamic bolsters, and massage settings, foldable bench style rear seats with heating functionality, and unique colors and badging.  The launch edition also has a top speed of at least 155 mph, and utilizes a twin-motor configuration with all-wheel drive; going not-to-60 mph in under 2.5 seconds.  On August 16th, 2017, Lucid’s Launch Edition was also given a new exclusive colour when it participated in Monterey Car Week.  Pricing for the Lucid Air Launch Edition sedan can reach over $100,000.

Available options on the Lucid Air all-electric sedan include:

• ● 400-mile range battery
• ● 29-speaker audio system with active noise cancellation
• ● 22-way power front seats with heating, ventilation, dynamic bolsters, and message
• ● Expanded leather trim with corresponding material upgrades
• ● 400-mile range battery
• ● Glass-canopy roof
• ● 21-inch Lucid-design wheels
• ● Twin-motor, all-wheel drive
• ● Fully active suspension
• ● Rear executive seats that recline up to 55 degrees.

Lucid Motors is an independent company, having investments from around the world such as Venrock (USA), Mitsui (Japan), Tsing Capital (China) and many others.  The Lucid Air is currently focused on the US market, but is intended to be sold oversees in both Europe and China in the near future.  During the first twelve months of production, Lucid Motors expects to assemble 10,000 units.  And in 2022 they are anticipated to produce up to 60,000 units.

Reservations for the all-new Lucid Air all-electric sedan started at the Lucid Air launch event on December 15, 2016.  A base Lucid Air is reservable with a refundable deposit of $2,500.  While a Lucid Air Launch Edition can be reserved for a refundable deposit of $25,500, which it is limited to only the first 255 customer cars.  Lucid Motors does not disclose reservation numbers and reservations are available here.

Learn more at: lucidmotors.com

Mercedes-AMG Unveils The $2.5M Project ONE Hyper-car

One of this years most highly anticipated hyper-cars has just been unveiled by Mercedes-AMG.  Dubbed the Project ONE, this new offering provides Formula one style driving and performance in a striking new design that is modern yet reminiscent of the acclaimed CLK GTR.

Currently celebrating it’s world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, where the Project-One stands as a highlight and honest pinnacle of German engineering, with it’s fuel efficient V6 combined with cutting edge hybrid technology allowing for a 20-mile, all electric range.  Producing a zero to sixty time of just over 2.5 seconds, an engine producing 1,000 horsepower and a top speed of 217 miles per hour.  Mercedes aims to position their new offering to compete with the likes of the McLaren P1, Porsche 918, and Ferrari La Ferrari in entering the game of super sports hybrid hyper cars.

To see the Project-One in action, check out the below video, where you can glimpse into the intense performance of the vehicle as F1 champion Lewis Hamilton explores “The Future of Driving Performance” in this new short film from Mercedes-AMG.

Remarkable in regard to multiple facets of its engineering prowess, the Project ONE was developed in cooperation with the Mercedes AMG F1 team, who had also been involved in the development of the stunning 805hp four-door AMG GT Concept car that had been showcased during Monterey Car Week at the Quail.  With these new developments Mercedes if offering their audience a glimpse of what is to come in this new generation of futuristic vehicles.

Starting from the early days of automobiles, Mercedes Benz has continued to up-hold their reputation of blending the forefront of racing technology and cutting edge design.  This heritage is seen in the wide genre of the firm’s newest releases such as the Project ONE.

“Motorsport is not an end in itself for us. Faced with intense competition, we develop technologies from which our production vehicles also subsequently benefit. We are drawing on our experiences and successes from three constructors’ and drivers’ world championships to bring Formula 1 technology to the road for the first time: in Mercedes-AMG Project ONE,” said Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

Looking to the Project ONE’s exterior design we instantly notice the inspiration of past Daimler vehicles that have been incorporated in the cars inherently unique design.  Intricate lines and air intakes perfectly link the line between design and function increasing performance and a striking appearance.  Sculpted lines give way to the pushed forward cockpit in perfect vertical proportion to Project ONE’s intimidating rear end and oversized fender.

“The Mercedes-AMG Project ONE is the hottest and coolest car we have ever designed. It combines our design philosophy of Sensual Purity with the performance of our Formula 1 racing cars and is the perfect embodiment of Performance Luxury,” said Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler AG. “This hypercar’s extreme design marks a milestone in design – there are no lines, and the interior is stripped down to the essentials.”

Turning our attention to Project ONE’s interior layout we find a driver focused cockpit inspired by the idea that the vehicle will give the occupants supreme comfort, whether they are on a road along the Cote d’Azur or pacing the Nurburgring.  The Project ONE’s monocoque interior clearly reflects Mercedes’s “no nonsense ideology” with every interior component being beautifully minimalist yet completely essential and functional.  One supreme example of this ultimate driving machines functionality are the subtly divided two seats, which have been constructed as part of the car’s monocoque.  In turn this allows for only the back of the seat to be adjustable, to allow for this type of design Mercedes has made both the pedals and steering wheel versatile in length and positioning.

Unfortunately, if you are looking to purchase a Project ONE, you may very well be out of luck; as all 275 examples have been pre-sold out at a price rumored to be over 2.5M USD.

For more information on Mercedes-AMG, please visit:  www.mercedes-amg.com

The All New Bentley Continental GT

British Motoring Marque, Bentley, has just announced a full range of details on one of the company’s most highly anticipated vehicles, the all new Continental GT.  The Quintessential Grand Tourer, is given a breath of fresh air in its third-generation platform.  Having been designed, engineered, and handcrafted in Britain, the Continental GT’s third generation is set to be the best yet, combining all the very best of heritage, performance, technology, and handcrafted bespoke luxury set to dominate it’s marketplace.

“Bentley has been at the forefront of luxury Grand Touring for nearly one hundred years. The new, third-generation Continental GT is the pinnacle of our design and engineering achievements and marks the next step in Bentley’s journey.”

“We are the world leader in luxury mobility and our products and services define new luxury in the automotive world. The new Continental GT encapsulates our desire to innovate as well as celebrate our heritage and take the Bentley ownership experience to the next, unparalleled level.”  said Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors

Underneath the Bonnet of the all new Continental GT is a modified version of Bentley’s well regarded 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 making 635 PS (626 bhp) and 900 Nm (664 lb.ft) and a not to sixty time of just 3.6 seconds, with a mind-numbing top speed of 207 miles per hour.  Standout features of the car’s new design include a dual-clutch eight speed transmission, which allows for superior performance and considerably more efficient gear changes.  Bentley has also modified and advanced their adaptive chassis and intelligent 48-volt Dynamic Ride System to improve handling and ride quality, allowing for sublime cruising conditions.

The new Continental GT has received an elegant re-sculpted exterior allowing for an increase in aerodynamics as well as a more chiseled muscular motif.  In turn these changes have allowed for a more driver focused vehicle touting dynamic performance, lightweight-solid construction, and superior weight distribution through a slightly set-back placement of the GT’s engine.

Stepping inside, occupants will notice superior storage volume, increased space for the car’s 2+2 seating arrangement, and an all around more refined interior making for a truly grand experience.  Bentley has put in much effort in seamlessly blending 15 colour palettes across both hides and carpets, in addition a new ‘diamond in diamond’ leather design will be available.

The above demonstrates the British Marque’s devotion to the very finest in designing the all new Continental GT.  Bentley has introduced a new generation which marks continued quality British bespoke production seamlessly merged with cutting edge technology.  Highlights of the model’s technological innovations also include a fully digital instrument panel on the dashboard, as well as a rotating display for improved driver convenience. The all new touchscreen infotainment system/display is 12.3” and promises superior usability housed behind a discreet veneered cover with three dials.

The all new Continental GT is set to make its debut at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show, which will take place from the 14th through the 24th of September, 2017.

Mecum’s 34 Million Dollar Auction at Monterey Car Week

Taking place this year at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa on the world renowned Del Monte Golf Course was the prestigious Mecum Daytime Auction, which sold a total of 328 vehicles for a overall sales sum of $34 million.  The auction was simply phenomenal as it featured not one, but three contemporary supercars that eclipsed all other lots with a netted price exceeding at least the million dollar margin.

There was many wonderful automobiles to see during the auction, but what really took the spotlight were these three:  The 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari that arrived with only 565 original miles was realized for a lofty $3.45 million, thereby stealing first place for the top 10 sales at the Monterey 2017 Daytime Auction.  Following the 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari’s lead was the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse, which was limited to just 150 examples, and sold for $2.35 million.  And let’s not forget third place that belonged to yet another Ferrari, the 2017 Ferrari F12tdf, which was hammered for $1.25 million.

For the complete list of top 10 sales (including their respective lot numbers) at this year’s Mecum Monterey Daytime Auction, please see below:

• 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari (Lot S102) at $3,450,000
• 2015 Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse (Lot S116) at $2,350,000
• 2017 Ferrari F12tdf (Lot S79) at $1,250,000
• 2004 Porsche Carrera GT (Lot S83) at $985,000
• 1988 Porsche 959 Komfort (Lot S113) at $950,000
• 2015 Ferrari 458 Speciale Aperta (Lot S126) at $620,000
• 1963 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III Drophead Coupe (Lot S110) at $610,000
• 2006 Ford GT Heritage Edition (Lot S77) at $420,000
• 1965 Shelby GT350 Fastback (Lot S36) at $385,000
• 2011 Porsche 911 Speedster (Lot S86) at $340,000

Please note that individual prices do not include buyer’s premiums

Featured Image Courtesy of:  Mecum.com

The Limited Edition Gunther Werks 400R: An Old Porsche Made New

Gunther Werks, a Southern California based company with a passion for renewing the awe inspiring Porsche® 993, revealed their highly coveted concept dubbed the 400R at The Quail during famed Monterey Car Week.  Gunther Werks has planned to produce just 25 examples of the 400R; based on the platform of the Porsche® 993, the guys at Gunther Werks completely re-engineer the vehicle by hand for their passionate Porsche® enthusiast clients.

The 400R will include modern updates, but continue to uphold the famous parts that make the 993, one of the most collectible 911 variants.  New incorporations on the 400R include a widened body and sculpted bumpers.  The 400R features a handbuilt 4.0 liter, 400 horsepower, naturally aspirated engine, which has been tested by Oregon-based Rothsport Racing to ensure its perfection.  The 400R is highly performance oriented, featuring large 315/30/18 rear tires and top of the range coilovers.

“Aesthetically and technologically, the 993 is considered by many multiple decade Porsche aficionados as the last real Porsche,” said car collector and Porsche enthusiast, Peter Nam, CEO of Gunther Werks. “With the 400R, we set out to build a car that incorporated modern technology while still appealing to the enthusiasts who covet these cars today. In essence, the 400R is the car we imagine Porsche would have built if the advanced technology within the 400R was available.”

The 400R allows for it’s interior to be customized to a client’s particular taste.  Specific upgrades include both alcantara and leather selections, bucket seats reminiscent of the 993 race cars, carbon fibre accents, a five dial dashboard with center rev counter, and a half cage behind the driver’s seat.

Clients have the choice of either providing their own road-legal 1994-1999 993 Series Porsche® 911® Coupe for the transformation or Gunther Werks can select a suitable example to serve as the base of the 400R conversion. Initial deliveries of the 400R are scheduled for early 2018.  The conversion cost?  Just a mere $525,000 USD.

McLaren Special Operations delivers “Fux Fuchsia” 720S at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

A one of a kind McLaren 720S finished in Fux Fuchsia made its debut at the 67th annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance during famed Monterey Car Week, where it became a leading centerpiece of the event for the various automotive enthusiasts who were in attendance.  The Bespoke division of McLaren Special Operations (MSO) designed and then forged this distinctive McLaren to the personal specifications of entrepreneur and philanthropist, Michael Fux.  The Chief Executive Officer of McLaren Automotive, Mike Flewitt, conferred the supercar to Michael Fux just before it was put on display at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance Concept Lawn on Sunday, August 20th.

This McLaren 720S features a unique exterior paint colour, an aspect only found on McLaren’s designed to order cars, which is a service available to every McLaren customer through McLaren Special Operations.  Mr. Fux’s McLaren is in ‘Fux Fuchsia’, a colour specially contrived for Michael Fux by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited and later on being enhanced by MSO.  This colour is also exclusive to Mr. Fux as he owns the rights for its usage, making any other McLaren vehicle restricted from bearing ‘Fux Fuchsia’ on its exterior design.

“Challenging the art of the possible to meet the most demanding customer requirements and then delivering beyond expectations are integral to the service that McLaren Special Operations offers,” commented Jolyon Nash, McLaren Automotive Executive Director, Global Sales and Marketing. “MSO provides McLaren owners with virtually limitless possibilities to tailor a car exactly to their needs and tastes; unique paint colours and finishes, custom leather and stitching and exotic materials are all available within a bespoke commission, while beyond this there are opportunities all the way up to complete vehicles designed to individual specification.”

‘Fux Fuchsia’ is emblazoned on the car’s lightweight wheels, conflicting with the platinum finish of the alloy.  The distinctive colour, which is also featured on the steering wheel as well as rear-view mirrors, complements its MSO Bespoke white leather with white stitching and white Alcantara floor mats.  Additionally, the vehicle’s exhaust and window surrounds are in Stealth gray finish while carbon fibre elements from MSO Defined range have been further particularized.  These specific features can be ordered on each and every McLaren, of any colour of their choosing (that is as long as it is not ‘Fux Fuchsia’).

The expected price range varies on an MSO Bespoke commission, and due to this the financial details regarding this matter are not disclosed.  But if the McLaren 720S is in Luxury specification the car would be priced at £218,020 (UK) or $281,880 (US)

Visit Cars.McLaren.com for more details.

Best of Show Winner at the 67th Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

On August 20th, 2017, the 67th annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance celebrated their Best of Show winner, Bruce R. McCaw’s 1929 Mercedes-Benz S Barker Tourer.  The vintage Mercedes-Benz came from the restoration shop of Steve Babinsky in Lebanon, New Jersey, to participate in the competition, where it masterfully achieved the top prize.  The vehicle was first delivered to a Captain Miller on behalf of Earl Howe, who co-founded the British Racing Drivers’ Club with Dudley Benjafield in 1928.

“We’ve had the car for several years,” said McCaw, of Bellevue, Washington. “The question was whether or not to restore it. I always hate to restore something that doesn’t need it. But we finally found enough pictures that we knew the car needed to be restored.”

Retaining its original Marchal lighting equipment and chrome-plated wheels; the Mercedes-Benz S Barker Tourer features low-cut doors and unconventional torpedo-style running boards storing tools as well as other appurtenant equipment and or supplies.  The car’s vibrant blue color is depictive of a dress made out of peacock feathers in the 1850s.

“This Mercedes-Benz S Barker Tourer is a combination of speed, style and power,” said Concours Chairman Sandra Button. “Somehow these three elements—along with those fantastic torpedo running boards—become the very definition of elegance.”

Bruce McCaw and his Mercedes-Benz S Barker Tourer raced in the final circle against his brother John McCaw who, along with his wife Gwen McCaw, contended for the Best of Show with their stunning 1957 Ferrari 315 S Scaglietti Spyder.  This year’s Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, set on the 18 fairway of Pebble Beach Golf Links, gathered 204 classic car competitors from all corners of the world, 54 of which were newcomers to the event.  Within the winners circle, there was even a ravishing 1932 Packard 906 Twin Six Dietrich Convertible Victoria owned by car collector and Hong Kong resident William E. (Chip) Connor.

The 67th Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance raised over $1.6 million charitable donations.  The hosts of the event as well as the primary charitable partner of the Concours, the Pebble Beach Company Foundation, will pass these charitable funds to provide aid to more than 80 local charities.

Celebrity guest who made an appearance in this vintage automotive celebration included many famous, well-known names such as comedian Jay Leno, media personality and former defensive end for the New York Giants Michael Strahan, former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, actor Jerry Seinfeld, and Chief Creative Officer of Pixar John Lasseter.

Gooding & Company, the official auction house of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, realized more than $91.5 million at the annual Pebble Beach Auctions.  The highlight of Friday’s auction was a 1970 Porsche 917K, which became the most valuable Porsche ever sold at the auction house with it reaching a price of $14,080,000.  Achieving a record-breaking selling price, the 1970 Porsche 917K, surpassed Gooding & Company’s previous Porsche record-holder, a 1982 Porsche 956 that sold for $10,120,000 in 2015.  Furthermore, the climax from Saturday’s auction was the 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB/C, as the car set yet another new world record auction price when it cumulated $14,520,000.

The 68th annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance will be held on Sunday, August 26th of 2018, which will take place on the fourth, instead of the third, Sunday a full seven days later than the standard time the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is usually held.

For more information on the Pebble Beach Concours visit:  www.pebblebeachconcours.net

Photo Credit: Copyright © Kimball Studios / Courtesy of Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

Photo Gallery: The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance has been widely known as the world’s foremost celebration of the automobile.  For it’s 67th year, the grand event once again became a gathering point for some of the most legendary cars ever seen, and were accompanied by celebrity guests as well as a multitude of leading names in the automotive and luxury industry.  Each year alone, the concours attracts tens of thousands of automotive enthusiasts from around the globe.

In what first began as a small social gathering that introduced a thrilling road race through Pebble Beach’s pine and cypress forests, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance has continued to grow exponentially into what is now one of the best automotive collector competitions in the world.  The concours presents over 60 automotive and luxury goods sponsors every year, some of which include names like Bentley Motors, Rolls Royce Motorcars, McLaren Automotive, Bugatti, and fine Italian Jeweler, Bvlgari.

The 67th annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance showcased marques and special classes such as Isotta Fraschini, Castagna Coachwork, Ferrari Major Race Winners, Ferrari One-off Spéciales, American Dream Cars of the 1960’s, etc…  Just like the name entails, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is not a competition of absolute speed, but a contest of sheer elegance.  The contestants, ranging from old to modern classics and motorcycles, are assessed by judges based on their historical accuracy, their technological value, and lastly their flair of elegance.

The celebration draws in 200 preeminent entrants to be displayed along the renowned 18th fairway of Pebble Beach Golf Links—setting the stage for one of the biggest automotive competitions in the world.  In addition to the vintage automobiles often displayed at the event, the Concours also presents some of the most anticipated concept cars, prototypes, and newest car debuts each year on the upper lawn of The Lodge at Pebble Beach.  Further functions at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance include auctions and sales as well as exceptional art and automobilia exhibitions.

The All New Ferrari Portofino

The all new V8 GT dubbed the Portofino by Ferrari has been revealed and is expecting to make considerable waves in its segment.  The Portofino will be replacing the Ferrari California T (Ferrari’s entry level model).  The new design provides a spectacular harmony of luxury, comfort and sportiness, which will be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Appropriately named Portofino, the all new GT instantly evokes images of cruising the Genoan coastline around the stunningly beautiful city of Portofino.  In addition the vehicle’s launch color “Rosso Portofino” was also dedicated to the charming town.  The Ferrari Portofino features a 552 horsepower turbocharged V8 engine derived from the California T that is capable of a not to sixty time of only 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 199 mph, without any compromise to space or comfort.  And the all new Portofino is significantly lighter than the California T and also considerably more rigid.

The V8 exhaust soundtrack has also been improved through the use of modern revolutionary components, this symphony is also of course magnified when retracting the convertible hardtop.  Other improvements have made way for zero turbo lag and improved fuel efficiency.

Similar to it’s predecessor the Portofino will have four seats, improved legroom for rear-seat occupants, a folding hardtop, and a modified wind deflector to allow for a more serene cabin environment when cruising with the top-down.  Additional attention was also payed to new interior features such as the 10.2″ infotainment display, passenger display similar to the GTC4 Lusso, an improved air conditioning system, 18 way adjustable seats with a newly designed backrest that allows for improved rear seat legroom, and a new wind flow deflector that reduces air flow by thirty percent.  No figures have been released regarding pricing, but expect a base price of around $200,000 similar to the outgoing California T.

For more information please visit:  www.Ferrari.com

2017 Cadillac XT5: The Ultimate Crossover

We had the opportunity to experience the all-new XT5 during Monterey’s annual Car Week, it gave us an extensive understanding of just how remarkable the vehicle is.  The car’s lightweight construction allows for dexterous handling, which is bolstered by a 3.6-litre V-6 and eight-speed automatic transmission with an electronic shifter.  Although many reviews described the XT5’s electronic shifter as difficult to use, we found it to be quite simple.  The XT5 crossover was made to assist the driver with any task they are in the middle of, as it offers reinvented versatility that helps keep the driver stay in complete control at all times, major convenience features included the great heads up display and CUE infotainment system; one area that we hope Cadillac improves on is the addition of a button free door unlocking option, like in the XT5’s German and English Revivals.

It’s expansive sized interior incorporates advanced technological features to maintain passenger safety, whilst demonstrating sleek, chiseled exterior lines; making it both inside and out progressive yet elegant.  The XT5’s interior quality is a major upgrade from the SRX, and proves to be superior to its rivals in quality.  Our test vehicle was equipped with the range topping Platinum Package which featured an alcantara headliner, front facia and plush leather seats.

While on the road, the XT5 drives effortlessly; it steers and handles swiftly without any complications.  The XT5’s 3.6-liter V6 engine provides nimble acceleration as it produces 310 hp (231 kW) and 271 lb·ft (367 N·m) torque.  At the test track, the XT5 accomplished the zero-to-60-mph run in 6.6 seconds.  The instruments aboard XT5 such as it’s CUE infotainment system that utilizes a responsive 8.0-inch high-resolution touchscreen, as well as 4G connectivity, or tech features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.  The 8 inch display made parallel parking during the week incredibly convenient with the cars brilliant 360 degree view from the car’s four cameras.

On our test drive our XT5 let us know of fire engines on scene nearby albeit a few moments prior to spotting them.  The Adaptive Cruise Control made our driver a little nervous at first, being someone who enjoys the total (being in control) driving experience, but passing responsibility to the adaptive cruise soon became quite a nice experience.  Given the choice of Touring mode or Sport mode, hands down Sport mode was most responsive and fun, our recommendation is to drive in Sport mode full-time.  The Navigation experience kept us up-to-date with current road conditions and alternate time-saving routes.  Our highway driving gave us better than expected, 31 mpg, but around town during car week with some unusually slow and go, we calculated around 13 mpg.  Overall we were pleased with the gas milage of the XT5.

The vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system and electronically operated rear differential flawlessly distributes torque both to stabilize traction and augment handling.  In addition, the system can distribute 100 percent of torque to the front or rear axle as needed, while the differential is capable of dividing the rear axle’s allotment left to right transferring all power to one wheel.  This exceptional piece of added technology ensures safety and security to its passengers as its highest priority.

The 2017 Cadillac XT5’s spacious cabin boasts heated and ventilated seats along with a range of adjustment settings such as lumbar support for the driver.  The rear seats smoothly recline and slide forwards and backwards; a 40/20/40 split-folding seatback offers rear seat passengers extensibility at its most convenient.  The cavernous cargo hold is very extensive, especially so when all three rear seats are down, which creates up to 63 cubic feet of cargo room.  In addition, the front cabin offers extensive storage space beneath the center console, door pockets, and large glove box.  Another highlight is the premium Bose stereo, which was superb in every area including clarity, base, and power.

With an economical starting price of just under $40,000 and pricing for the top of the range Platinum model at $63,000, the XT5 proves to not only be practical and cost-effective but also a vehicle that truly defines the word “luxury”.  Our car’s MSRP was $67,155 and included a couple of additional options on top of the Platinum package such as the Driver Assist Package, which offers a range of safety features including Automatic Park Assist and Pedestrian Detection.  The comforting yet luxurious interior design, in which allows passengers to undergo an immensely enjoyable ride with its elegant inner presence, creates the perfect on-the-road experience.  The XT5 is the true definition of a Cadillac.

For more information on the Cadillac XT5 or to configure your own model please visit:  Cadillac.com

Photography by: Marli Allard