Luxist http://www.luxist.com Luxist http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Luxist http://www.luxist.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[2009's Top Ten Cars Sold at Auction]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/28/2009s-top-ten-cars-sold-at-auction/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/28/2009s-top-ten-cars-sold-at-auction/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/28/2009s-top-ten-cars-sold-at-auction/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The top ten cars sold at auction in 2009 went for $12.2M on the high end, $3.1M on the low. That means there were at least ten people this year who responded to the town crier's screams of "Recession and Depression!" by saying, "Honey, did you hear what that man said? I couldn't make it out because I was busy smacking my lips all over these gold plated bon-bons. They're delicious. Here, try one..."

Not only was this a(nother) big year for auctions, in some ways it was the biggest year: the record for the highest car ever sold at auction was set at RM Auctions' Leggenda e Passione event in Maranello, Italy in May. If that's how buyers dealt with the sequel to The Great Depression, we have no doubt auctioneers are hoping for the same kind of discrete-consumption-is-the-new-black bidding next year. Follow on the for the full list...


Gallery: 1957 Ferrari 250 TR #0714TR

Continue reading 2009's Top Ten Cars Sold at Auction

Luxist2009's Top Ten Cars Sold at Auction originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 28 Dec 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionauctionstop 10Top10wheelsMon, 28 Dec 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Lamborghini Reportedly Planning New LP570-4 SV, Sales to Start in May]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/27/lamborghini-reportedly-planning-new-lp570-4-sv-sales-to-start-i/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/27/lamborghini-reportedly-planning-new-lp570-4-sv-sales-to-start-i/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/27/lamborghini-reportedly-planning-new-lp570-4-sv-sales-to-start-i/#commentsFiled under:


Lamborghini Gallardo LP-560-4 - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to the Lamborghini lovers at the Teamspeed Forums, there's a new, even higher-performance version of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 on the way that will be unveiled at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. No surprise, really, as the Gallardo's successor isn't expected until 2012 or so and the Italian supercar manufacturer is always working on improving the breed.

We're told to expect a 10-horsepower bump up to 570 ponies from the car's V10 powerplant that will be delivered to all four wheels (making this the LP570-4, naturally). A major diet in the form of a stripped-down interior (ala the Superlegerra Gallardo) and an updated aerodynamics package that includes a new front spoiler and a large carbon fiber rear wing along with a reworked front suspension arrangement and carbon ceramic brakes may also be in the works.

Looking past the possible LP570-4, there may be an LP590-2 swan song for the current Gallardo range in the offing for 2011. Like the recently-released Gallardo L550-2 Valentino Balboni, that car would eschew Lamborghini's traditional all-wheel drive system by sending all 590 horsepower to the rear wheels.

If these rumors prove accurate, dealers and VIP customers (sadly, that doesn't include us) will get a sneak peek of the Gallardo LP-570-4 in January before the official debut in Geneva with sales pegged for May of 2010. Thanks for the tip, DJ!


Gallery: Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4


[Source: Teamspeed.com]

LuxistLamborghini Reportedly Planning New LP570-4 SV, Sales to Start in May originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 27 Dec 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Gallardogallardo LP550Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balbonigallardo lp560-4Gallardo SuperleggeraGallardoLp550GallardoLp550-2ValentinoBalboniGallardoLp560-4GallardoSuperleggeragenevageneva 2010Geneva Motor ShowGeneva2010GenevaMotorShowLamborghinilamborghini gallardoLamborghini Gallardo LP560-4lamborghini lp570lamborghini lp570-4LamborghiniGallardoLamborghiniGallardoLp560-4LamborghiniLp570LamborghiniLp570-4Sun, 27 Dec 2009 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[CRS Duu Combines "Badass" and "Bike" in Ways Never Seen]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/24/crs-duu-combines-badass-and-bike-in-ways-never-seen/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/24/crs-duu-combines-badass-and-bike-in-ways-never-seen/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/24/crs-duu-combines-badass-and-bike-in-ways-never-seen/#commentsFiled under:



If you had the stomach to sit through Terminator Salvation with your eyes open, you'll remember the mototerminators that launched themselves from the legs of the collectors. (Our apologies if this has brought back terrible memories.) Those apocalyptic wheelie poppers were based on Ducatis, but if you fancied the look of them, Italian bike builder CR&S has something pretty close.

Called the DUU Concept, the hand-built naked ride is a combination of "a sporty European rolling chassis powered by a muscular American big-twin." The engine is a 1.9-liter (117 cu. in.) X-Wedge supplied by engine maker S&S. Wrapped around that powerplant is a chassis that CR&S says can be tailored by the customer. They don't specifically indicate the breadth of that customization beyond presenting the choice of single or two-seater versions, but any time you combine "Italian" and "hand-made," the options list usually runs long.

CR&S said it has plans to build them from next year, at €20,000 ($30,000 U.S.) apiece. Once you take delivery, your first mission can be to hunt down McG and, well, you'll know what to do when the time comes...


Gallery: CR&S Duu Concept

LuxistCRS Duu Combines "Badass" and "Bike" in Ways Never Seen originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 24 Dec 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bikeconceptcrs duuCrsDuuduumotorcyclewheelsThu, 24 Dec 2009 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Bang & Olufsen Makes Sound <i>Sound</i> Better in the New Audi A8]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/24/bang-and-olufsen-makes-sound-sound-better-in-the-new-audi-a/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/24/bang-and-olufsen-makes-sound-sound-better-in-the-new-audi-a/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/24/bang-and-olufsen-makes-sound-sound-better-in-the-new-audi-a/#commentsFiled under: ,



The recently unveiled Audi A8 contains so much wizardry that we hear Merlin has made it his official conveyance when duties necessitate leaving Camelot. The A8 is made of aluminum. It can tell whether cars ahead of you are signaling a turn. It can read speed limit signs (Merlin's not so happy about where that one is going, neither are we...). Its thermal imaging system can detect people 300 feet away. The adaptive lighting system knows when you're going to turn because it's paying attention to the same navigation system that you are. It has Google Earth.

It also has 19 speakers, part of the second generation Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System. That is five more speakers than in the first generation B&O system. That is probably 10 more than you have in your entire living room, the size of which -- unless you live in Manhattan -- most likely dwarfs the interior space of an A8. Four of those are in the rear, to create a "movie-theater-like" experience that makes up for lacking popcorn by substituting LED mood lighting.

Rated at 1,400 watts, and with the rear seat entertainment package and "Movie" mode, you might as well be in a theater. Although we probably wouldn't recommend you conduct date nights on the rear bench, in a pinch it can certainly make for some rewarding interludes. Unless, that is, you live in Manhattan, and in that case an evening in the back of an A8 could be just the kind of thrilling, and roomy, getaway you've been looking for...

LuxistBang & Olufsen Makes Sound Sound Better in the New Audi A8 originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 24 Dec 2009 07:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Audi A8Audi A8 2011AudiA8AudiA82011audiobang and olufsenbang olufsenBangAndOlufsenBangOlufsencar audioCarAudioThu, 24 Dec 2009 07:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Bugatti Trademarks 16C Galibier Shape, Production Decision Coming Soon?]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/23/bugatti-trademarks-16c-galibier-shape-production-decision-comin/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/23/bugatti-trademarks-16c-galibier-shape-production-decision-comin/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/23/bugatti-trademarks-16c-galibier-shape-production-decision-comin/#commentsFiled under:

Bugatti Galibier concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

The question of whether or not Volkswagen will decide to put the Bugatti 16C Galibier into production is still unanswered. While we've heard rumors that the German automaker was leaning towards the affirmative, a final decision has apparently not yet been made.

Still, Bugatti is making sure all of its ducks are in a row... just in case. Evidence of such can be seen in a trademark filing with the World Intellectual Property Organization that seeks to keep other automakers from stealing the car's design and shape. After all, it's happened before.

With Veyron production scheduled to come to an end after the 2012 model year, Bugatti only has a little bit of time to decide if it's moving forward on that supercar's successor, and if so, whether or not the front-engine, four-door Galibier is the direction it needs to go. We should know soon enough.


Gallery: Bugatti Galibier Concept


[Source: Carscoop]

LuxistBugatti Trademarks 16C Galibier Shape, Production Decision Coming Soon? originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 20:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugattibugatti 16cbugatti 16c galibierBugatti 16C Galibier Conceptbugatti galibierbugatti trademarkBugatti16cBugatti16cGalibierBugatti16cGalibierConceptBugattiGalibierBugattiTrademarktrademarkworld intellectual property organizationWorldIntellectualPropertyOrganizationWed, 23 Dec 2009 20:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Cadillac To Reveal New Flagship and CTS-V coupe at Detroit]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/23/cadillac-to-reveal-new-flagship-and-cts-v-coupe-at-detroit/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/23/cadillac-to-reveal-new-flagship-and-cts-v-coupe-at-detroit/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/23/cadillac-to-reveal-new-flagship-and-cts-v-coupe-at-detroit/#commentsFiled under:



Next month at the Detroit Auto Show, Cadillac will be showing off two new cars, a high performance coupe and a new flagship. The new CTS-V coupe is the only publicly confirmed for production. The standard V6 powered CTS coupe debuted earlier this month at the LA Auto Show and the V adds the fabulous 556 hp supercharged V8 from the CTS-V sedan.

The second car which is billed as a concept for now will likely become a production reality in 2011. Cadillac showed the flagship concept dubbed XTS to media last August after GM emerged from bankruptcy. The teaser photo above provides a look at the front corner. The rest of the car is inspired by the Sixteen concept of several years ago. The hood of the XTS is much shorter than the Sixteen which is concieved around a proposed new V16 engine. GM has not said what engine will be in the XTS although a turbocharged and direct injected V6 is much more likely given current economic realities. The XTS is expected to sport all wheel drive.

[Source: Cadillac]

Continue reading Cadillac To Reveal New Flagship and CTS-V coupe at Detroit

LuxistCadillac To Reveal New Flagship and CTS-V coupe at Detroit originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cadillacCadillac CTScadillac cts coupeCadillac CTS-Vcadillac cts-v coupecadillac xtsCadillacCtsCadillacCts-vCadillacCts-vCoupeCadillacCtsCoupeCadillacXtsDetroitDetroit 2010detroit auto showDetroit2010DetroitAutoShowWed, 23 Dec 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Gooding & Co Adds Another Day to Next Month's Barrett-Jackson Auction]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/23/gooding-and-co-adds-another-day-to-next-months-barrett-jackson-au/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/23/gooding-and-co-adds-another-day-to-next-months-barrett-jackson-au/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/23/gooding-and-co-adds-another-day-to-next-months-barrett-jackson-au/#commentsFiled under: ,



Gooding's regular yearly auction during Barrett-Jackson event in Scottsdale will take place January 23. Next year, though, Gooding will hold an additional auction the day before and it will be moving some delightful machinery. If you can't wait for Saturday's spoils, which include a 1959 Ferrari Series 1 Pininfarina Cabriolet, a Zagato-bodied 1932 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Gran Sport, and a 1956 Maserati A6G/54 Berlinetta, then you might find something you like among the Friday collection specialities:

1934 Duesenberg Model J Disappearing Top Convertible Coupe, Chassis No. 2490, Engine No. J-461:
The only Murphy-bodied Convertible Coupe in existence with rear-mounted spares, J-461 is renowned for its many concours awards including a Best in Class at the 1986 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, a First Place at the 1987 Meadow Brook Concours d'Elegance and its coveted Category One standing with the ACD Club. First owned by Sigfried Roebling, of the famed Brooklyn Bridge family, this magnificent Duesenberg possesses an impressive lineage from new.

1927 Bentley 6 1/2-Litre Sport Coupe, Chassis TW2713:
With coachwork by the Surbiton Carriage Company, this low-windshield, fabric-bodied 6 1/2-litre coupe bodied Bentley was first delivered to England-based S.E. Parkes in April 1927. After many years at the Manx Motor Museum on the Isle of Man, TW2713 was shipped to America in the 1980s in original, near-perfect condition. Now after 20 years of healthy driving by previous owners, the fully-restored 6 1/2-litre Coupe is a rarity even among its prestigious vintage peers, having retained its original "Surbico" body and unique elegant design.

1959 Costin Lister Jaguar Sports Racer, Chassis BHL 123:
Arguably the most historically important of the entire run of Lister sports cars, BHL 123 is one of only two Jaguar-powered Costin-Listers built following a factory fire at Jaguar Works in 1957. Originally purchased by legendary American sportsman, race car driver and manufacturer Briggs Cunningham, the Sports Racer earned its place in motorsport history when it captured the 1959 SCCA C-Modified National Championship. After many years of podium finishes, BHL 123 is a fully-restored and acclaimed vintage racer.

If any of those speak to you, have your bidding hand ready on January 22, 11 a.m., across the way from Scottsdale's Fashion Square Mall.


Gallery: Gooding & Co Friday Auction at 2010 Barrett-Jackson


[Source: Gooding & Co | Images: Pawel Litwinski]

LuxistGooding & Co Adds Another Day to Next Month's Barrett-Jackson Auction originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionbarrett-jacksonbarrett-jackson 2010Barrett-jackson2010Gooding and Companygooding cogooding companyGoodingAndCompanyGoodingCoGoodingCompanyscottsdalevintagewheelsWed, 23 Dec 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[The Classicist: Celebrating the Best of the Season]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/21/the-classicist-celebrating-the-best-of-the-season/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/21/the-classicist-celebrating-the-best-of-the-season/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/21/the-classicist-celebrating-the-best-of-the-season/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


As we head inexorably into winter here on the East Coast, it's time for The Classicist to take a look back, raise a glass and celebrate the best of the season. Perhaps you're looking for a last-minute gift for the holidays or just want to treat yourself once the dust settles. Here's our rundown of seasonal favorites, some we've mentioned before and others appearing for the first time. See the gallery for full pix:

1. Barbour Dunelm jacket: A slimmed down version of the classic foul weather parka style jacket in signature waxed cotton with an attached hood, utility pockets and a two way zip under a studded-front storm flap, from the classic British outerwear company. Founded in 1894 and holders of the Royal Warrant, they've opened a new chapter in classic sporting style with updated designs.

2. LINCS by David Chu cardigan: From Chu's new collection of clothing for the "gentleman adventurer", a weighty cashmere cardigan in a heathery loden weave with a leather buckle at the collar and suede trim under the placket. The epitome of Chu's classic and rugged yet elegant ethos.

3. Ralph Lauren tartan duffel: Part of Lauren's luxe new Holiday Collection, rooted in the spirit of 1930's Sun Valley, the famous Idaho ski resort frequented by socialites and celebrities. Tartan plaid wool with saddle leather trim embodies wintry sophistication.

4. Wolverine Gentry Upland boots: From the 125-year-old company's new vintage-inspired 1000 Mile Collection, finished in rough full-grain leather with loden Pendleton wool inserts and lug soles. Equally at home in the field or on the town.

5. Caesar Guerini Apex shotgun: The rich heritage of fine Italian shotgun makers meets British lines and classic style in the Apex field and sporting models, blending beauty - Oiled Turkish Circassian walnut stock and intricate engraving - with performance and lasting value.

Gallery: The Classicist: Best of Fall / Winter '09

Barbour DunelmRalph Lauren Tartan DuffelCeasar Guerini ApexThe English Country HouseLaphroaig 18

Continue reading The Classicist: Celebrating the Best of the Season

LuxistThe Classicist: Celebrating the Best of the Season originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BarbourCaesar GueriniCaesarGueriniDavid ChuDavidChuLand RoverLandRoverlaphroaigLINCSProject XProjectXRalph LaurenRalphLaurenRange RoverRangeRoverRolexScotchshotgunsportingThe ClassicistThe EquinoxTheClassicistTheEquinoxWolverineMon, 21 Dec 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz Archimed Concept from Iran]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/21/mercedes-benz-archimed-concept-from-iran/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/21/mercedes-benz-archimed-concept-from-iran/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/21/mercedes-benz-archimed-concept-from-iran/#commentsFiled under: ,


When Iran makes it into the media here these days the focus tends to be negative, but not all the news is bad. Mohammad Morassafar, a young mechanical engineering and design student at Azad University in Tehran, has shown that with his newly unveiled eco-efficient Archimed Mercedes-Benz concept. His innovative three-wheeled, two-door, four-passenger luxury transport is named in honor of Archimedes, the Greek mathematician, physicist, engineer, inventor, and astronomer. Fitted with gullwing doors, the hybrid vehicle carries a combination of three different engines, two electrical and one diesel powered. With a hypothetical output of 356 hp it's designed to achieve a top speed of 158 mph. Able to literally turn on a dime and rotate 360 degrees while stationary, it's designed to maneuver in cramped urban quarters.


[via JamesList]

LuxistMercedes-Benz Archimed Concept from Iran originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 07:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car designCarDesignconcept carConceptCarhybridIranMercedes-BenzTehranMon, 21 Dec 2009 07:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Dunhill Carbon Fiber Chassis Leather Collection]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/18/dunhill-carbon-fiber-chassis-leather-collection/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/18/dunhill-carbon-fiber-chassis-leather-collection/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/18/dunhill-carbon-fiber-chassis-leather-collection/#commentsFiled under: ,


The carbon fiber components found on the world's most exclusive supercars get translated into a collection of stylish leather bags for London luxury goods firm Dunhill's new Spring / Summer 2010 offerings. The Chassis Leather collection is comprised of six elegant pieces gentleman's luggage, characterized by a unique graphic carbon fiber print applied to black matte leather, rendering each piece fully scratch proof and extremely durable. The six pieces in the collection feature gunmetal hardware and include a Holdall, 24 Hours Bag, Single Zip Briefcase, Messenger Bag, North South Bag, and Suit Carrier. Just the thing to toss in the back of your Bentley GT Speed.

[via JustLuxe]

LuxistDunhill Carbon Fiber Chassis Leather Collection originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbon fiberCarbonFiberDunhillleatherluggageFri, 18 Dec 2009 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Rare $1 Million Aston Martin in Arizona Auction]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/18/rare-1-million-aston-martin-in-arizona-auction/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/18/rare-1-million-aston-martin-in-arizona-auction/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/18/rare-1-million-aston-martin-in-arizona-auction/#commentsFiled under: ,


An extremely rare alloy-bodied 1963 Aston Martin DB4 GT (above), one of only 75 built, is expected to fetch up to $1 million at RM Auctions' Automobiles of Arizona event at the Biltmore Resort and Spa in Phoenix on January 21. The exclusive competition variant of Aston's famed DB4, the model was formally introduced in September 1959 at the London Motor Show and was based on the race winning prototype driven to victory at Silverstone in May 1959 by the great Stirling Moss. The example on offer is the last DB4 GT built and underwent a complete restoration during 1994-95. The car has a luxurious Connolly leather interior with Wilton wool carpets, handles like a race car and does 150 mph.

LuxistRare $1 Million Aston Martin in Arizona Auction originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 05:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ArizonaAston MartinAstonMartinBiltmore ResortBiltmoreResortclassic carsClassicCarsPhoenixRM AuctionsRmAuctionsStirling MossStirlingMossFri, 18 Dec 2009 05:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Climax Cars Announces Production Sports Racer, Priced at £92,000]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/17/climax-cars-announces-production-sports-racer-priced-at-92-000/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/17/climax-cars-announces-production-sports-racer-priced-at-92-000/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/17/climax-cars-announces-production-sports-racer-priced-at-92-000/#commentsFiled under:


Climax Sports Racer - Click above for high-res image gallery

Says Climax Cars of its Sports Racer, "We wanted to produce a radically different type of car that would be dramatically desirable as well as being an out-and-out enthusiast's car." Done and done. Consider us smitten with the classically British Jaguar-esque shape that looks absolutely brilliant in an appropriate shade of British Racing Green.

Packing up to 450 horsepower courtesy of a supercharged 4.6-liter Ford Racing V8, the Climax Sports Racer weighs just 1,999 pounds (907 kilograms). That's an almost unheard of power-to-weight ratio that easily bests that of nearly any other production car.

Fully-adjustable double-wishbone suspension at all four corners, ceramic brakes and a six-speed sequential Graziano GT ME1 gearbox ought to ensure suitable track-day performance cred while the expected £92,000 (about $150,000) asking price undercuts the Ariel Atom V8 by £30,000 and the Caparo T1 by over £60,000. Only 200 are planned and there's no word on if there will ever be U.S. availability.


Gallery: Climax Sports Racer


[Source: Autocar]

LuxistClimax Cars Announces Production Sports Racer, Priced at £92,000 originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>climaxclimax sports racerclimax supercarClimaxSportsRacerClimaxSupercarsports racerSportsRacersupercarThu, 17 Dec 2009 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz's Sexy SLS AMG Ad Campaign]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/16/mercedes-benzs-sexy-sls-amg-ad-campaign/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/16/mercedes-benzs-sexy-sls-amg-ad-campaign/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/16/mercedes-benzs-sexy-sls-amg-ad-campaign/#commentsFiled under: ,


Earlier this year we reported that super-hot German model Julia Stegner had been chosen as the new face of Mercedes-Benz to give the marque a dose of added sex appeal. Now Stegner, who hails from Munich and has appeared on the covers several fashion mags and runway shows including Victoria's Secret, as well as in ad campaigns for the likes of Chloé, Dolce & Gabbana, Escada, Guerlain, Dior and Hugo Boss, has shot a hot new ad campaign for the just-unveiled SLS AMG. Famed fashion photographer Nick Knight shot the ads with designer Gareth Pugh clothing the model in some futuristic fashions. The $250,000 supercar debuted at the Frankfurt Auto Show.

LuxistMercedes-Benz's Sexy SLS AMG Ad Campaign originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ad campaignAdCampaignGareth PughGarethPughGermanyJulia StegnerJuliaStegnerMercedes-BenzmodelMunichNick KnightNickKnightphotographysupercarWed, 16 Dec 2009 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Robovault Protects Your Valuables from Thieves, Hurricanes, Apocalypse]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/robovault-protects-your-valuables-from-thieves-hurricanes-apoc/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/robovault-protects-your-valuables-from-thieves-hurricanes-apoc/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/robovault-protects-your-valuables-from-thieves-hurricanes-apoc/#commentsFiled under:



South Florida's concentration of wealth and climate-on-steroids weather patterns makes it good practice for both Revelations and Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome. Ft. Lauderdale's RoboVault, opened earlier this year, casts itself as protection for the locals' valuable baubles both from sticky fingers and Mother Nature's bad days.

RoboVault is a wholly enclosed robotic retrieval and storage system much like you'd find at most shipping ports, without the bilge pumps and catcalls. Drive inside the concrete-and-steel-reinforced building that can withstand Category 5 hurricanes and 200-mph winds, and place your car on the pallet. Once the system has identified you with retinal scanning, heartbeat detection, and biometric recognition an automated arm will remove your vehicle to your assigned container.

RoboVault also houses a climate-controlled wine cellar for 4,000 bottles, and safe deposit boxes. Another touch: a business center and wine-tasting lounge if you've parked your car before heading to the airport and have time to spare, and a valet service that will retrieve your car if you call ahead.

When the region is tested by the inevitable hurricane, a large scale power outage will be neutralized by RoboVault's back-up generator. It maintains 100% of the building's electrical operations for two weeks, including the motion detectors and infrared alarms, so there'll be no Die Hard antics here. Tucked in its steel mesh unit, your Ferrari will be prepared for the Second Coming, and that might make the Rapture all the more rapturous.

[Source: MotoBullet]

LuxistRobovault Protects Your Valuables from Thieves, Hurricanes, Apocalypse originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>floridarobovaultwheelsTue, 15 Dec 2009 14:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz Now Testing Electric SLS Supercar]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/mercedes-benz-now-testing-electric-sls-supercar/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/mercedes-benz-now-testing-electric-sls-supercar/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/mercedes-benz-now-testing-electric-sls-supercar/#commentsFiled under: ,



The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is nothing if not an exciting car to drive, and the German automaker is reportedly hard at work making sure that the upcoming electric version of the supercar generates the same kind of reaction from its occupants. In an interview with Autocar in the U.K., AMG head Volker Mornhinweg assures that the car is now testing on the road and will hit all of its targeted performance objectives.

The electric MB SLS AMG will sport four individual electric motors that spin out 525 horsepower and 649 lb-ft of torque through all four wheels. That's enough grunt to push the gullwinged-supercar from naught to 60 in 4.0 seconds. Three separate lithium ion battery packs will assure a range of 110 miles, though all those cells will push weight all the way up to a hefty 4,100 pounds - a full 500 pounds more than the gas-powered version.

If you're worried that all those extra pounds will make for a boring drive, don't be. "Effectively being four-wheel-drive does alter its character, but our torque vectoring systems give us opportunities to make it as good," affirms Mornhinweg. "It's important to get the emotional level of an EV right and we have some solutions." We'll have to wait until 2013 to find out for ourselves, at which time the SLS EV will hit the market, possibly for lease only with an unknown asking price.


Gallery: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

01-2010-sls-amg-leakage02-2010-sls-amg-leakage03-2010-sls-amg-leakage04-2010-sls-amg-leakage05-2010-sls-amg-leakage

[Source: Autocar]

LuxistMercedes-Benz Now Testing Electric SLS Supercar originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 07:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric slselectric sls amgElectricSlsElectricSlsAmgmbmercedes slsMercedes SLS AMGmercedes-benzmercedes-benz sls amgMercedes-Benz SLS AMG electricMercedes-Benz SLS AMG GullwingMercedes-benzSlsAmgMercedes-benzSlsAmgElectricMercedes-benzSlsAmgGullwingMercedesSlsMercedesSlsAmgTue, 15 Dec 2009 07:03:00 EST<![CDATA[New 9ff GT9-R could be the World's Fastest Car]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/14/new-9ff-gt9-r-could-be-the-worlds-fastest-car/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/14/new-9ff-gt9-r-could-be-the-worlds-fastest-car/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/14/new-9ff-gt9-r-could-be-the-worlds-fastest-car/#commentsFiled under:



If you're looking for the world's fastest car, this very well could be it. It's called the GT9-R, and it's the latest product from Porsche tuners extraordinaire 9ff. Although based loosely on a Porsche 911, little of the end product is shared with the existing sportscar. Instead the GT9-R packs as much as 1120 horsepower in a lightweight custom body for a top speed in excess of 414 km/h (257 mph), making it arguably the fastest car in the world - faster even than the Bugatti Veyron.

Although intended for use on a race track, the GT9-R (like the marginally less extreme GT9 before it) is fully street legal (in Europe, at least), and is available in 750 and 987 horsepower guises as well. Only twenty will be made at an undisclosed price, but considering the "base" GT9 cost half a million euros, make sure you've got enough left over for gas and tires.

Gallery: 9ff GT9-R

LuxistNew 9ff GT9-R could be the World's Fastest Car originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 23:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9ff9ff gt99ff GT9-R9ff gt9r9ff porsche9ffGt99ffGt9-r9ffGt9r9ffPorschegt9GT9-Rgt9rporscheporsche 911porsche 9ffPorsche911Porsche9ffMon, 14 Dec 2009 23:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Ferrari Builds a One Off P540 Superfast Aperta For a Very Special Client]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/12/ferrari-builds-a-one-off-p540-superfast-aperta-for-a-very-specia/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/12/ferrari-builds-a-one-off-p540-superfast-aperta-for-a-very-specia/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/12/ferrari-builds-a-one-off-p540-superfast-aperta-for-a-very-specia/#commentsFiled under:

Ferrari P540 Superfast Aperta - click above for high res image gallery

Throughout its sixty-two year history, Ferrari has always been willing to give special treatment to certain customers. What does it take to be considered such a special customer? First off you must have an exceptionally fat checkbook. That much is a given since large wads of cash at just the entry point even for a standard Ferrari. However, if you are a long-time customer that has bought numerous examples over the years, the mechanical chefs at Maranello are willing to produce dishes not found on the menu. Over the years the Sultan of Brunei has purchased a array of Ferraris found nowhere else in nature.

Another such special customer is Edward Walson whose father John invented cable TV. Walson was infatuated with a previous custom Ferrari built for the 1968 Fellini film, Toby Dammit. The Ferrari P540 Superfast Aperta is based on the chassis of a 599 GTB Fiorano and took 14 months to complete. The P540 is completely road legal and is powered by a 612 hp 6.0-liter V12 engine. Extensive use of carbon fiber allowed the Special Projects engineers to keep weight gain down to only 44 pounds in spite of having to strengthen the open top car. No mention is made of cost, but if you have to ask ...

Gallery: Ferrari P540 Superfast Aperta


[Source: Ferrari]

Continue reading Ferrari Builds a One Off P540 Superfast Aperta For a Very Special Client

LuxistFerrari Builds a One Off P540 Superfast Aperta For a Very Special Client originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 12 Dec 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>custom ferrariCustomFerrariferarri P540 Superfast ApertaFerarriP540SuperfastApertaferrariferrari one offFerrariOneOffSat, 12 Dec 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Moto Guzzi Griso 8V SE Refines Performance Cruiser Recipe]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/12/moto-guzzi-griso-8v-se-refines-performance-cruiser-recipe/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/12/moto-guzzi-griso-8v-se-refines-performance-cruiser-recipe/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/12/moto-guzzi-griso-8v-se-refines-performance-cruiser-recipe/#commentsFiled under:

Moto Guzzi Griso 8V SE - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's unlikely that Moto Guzzi is the first brand you think of when talk turns to Italian motorcycles, but the Mandello del Lario-based manufacturer has a long history of producing desirable V-twin-powered machines and still offers a number of interesting models to consider. Chief among them is the latest version of the Griso seen here.

The most noticeable feature that sets Guzzi's new Griso 8V SE apart from its standard siblings are the classically Italian paint colors: either Tenni green or Rosso Mandello red with a blacked-out powertrain. A nicely stitched leather seat and wire-spoked wheels round out the visual modifications.

Just as importantly, though, the Griso 8V SE manages to boost torque output by five lb-ft to 85, though horsepower remains steady at 110. That extra power comes courtesy of revised cam profiles and fuel injectors along with a larger airbox that help Moto Guzzi's eight-valve Quattrovalvole breathe a bit better. Check out our high-res gallery below and make the jump for the official press release.


Gallery: Moto Guzzi Griso 8V SE


[Source: Moto Guzzi via Hell For Leather]

Continue reading Moto Guzzi Griso 8V SE Refines Performance Cruiser Recipe

LuxistMoto Guzzi Griso 8V SE Refines Performance Cruiser Recipe originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 12 Dec 2009 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 moto guzzi griso 8v se2010MotoGuzziGriso8vSegrisogriso 8vgriso 8v seGriso8vGriso8vSemoto guzzimoto guzzi griso 8v seMotoGuzziMotoGuzziGriso8vSeSat, 12 Dec 2009 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Triumph Shows Off Red and White 2010 Thruxton SE]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/11/triumph-shows-off-red-and-white-2010-thruxton-se/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/11/triumph-shows-off-red-and-white-2010-thruxton-se/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/11/triumph-shows-off-red-and-white-2010-thruxton-se/#commentsFiled under:

2010 Triumph Thruxton SE - Click above for high-res image gallery

As far as we're concerned, there will always be a market for sporty vintage-styled machinery like the Triumph Thruxton. After all, not everyone needs 150 horsepower and 200 mile-per-hour top speeds to have a good time on two wheels, and few motorcycles possess the kind of style that Hinckley bakes into its line of modern classics.

This is especially true of the new 2010 Thruxton SE, which gets a Crystal White paint job on the tins with a single red stripe and a matching red powdercoated frame. Completing the package is a small flyscreen, black engine cases and a smattering of appropriate decals.

There aren't any changes to the sportiest Bonnie's 865cc parallel-twin powerplant, which puts out a claimed 68 horsepower and 51 lb-ft of torque. While we'd gladly take at least a little power boost, if we were in the market for such a bike the Thruxton SE would certainly be on our short list.


Gallery: 2010 Triumph Thruxton SE


[Source: Triumph via Hell for Leather]

LuxistTriumph Shows Off Red and White 2010 Thruxton SE originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 07:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 triumph2010 triumph thruxton2010 triumph thruxton se2010Triumph2010TriumphThruxton2010TriumphThruxtonSethruxtontriumphtriumph thruxtontriumph thruxton seTriumphThruxtonTriumphThruxtonSeFri, 11 Dec 2009 07:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Aston Martin Takes Another Look at the Lagonda Concept]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/10/aston-martin-takes-another-look-at-the-lagonda-concept/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/10/aston-martin-takes-another-look-at-the-lagonda-concept/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/10/aston-martin-takes-another-look-at-the-lagonda-concept/#commentsFiled under:


Ever meet a pair of siblings and notice one excels at everything and the other's a bit of a deadbeat? That's Aston Martin Lagonda Limited. If you're wondering what the Lagonda part is for, you're on the right track. It forms the full name of the company best known for producing James Bond's automobile of choice, but while Aston Martins are some of the most beautiful and successful sportscars on the road or track, Lagonda is considerably less so.

The automotive marque originally founded in 1906 was acquired by Aston Martin in 1947, and though Aston's tried at several intervals to revitalize its sister brand, not much good has ever come from it. Most recently, the company announced the rebirth of Lagonda, unveiling the concept car you see above at the 2009 Geneva auto show. It was supposed to be a luxurious crossover, based on the Mercedes GL-Class and powered by a V12 engine. Reception was rather cold, and Aston pulled the concept after the first day. But now it's back, courtesy of a new batch of photos released by Aston Martin's PR department. What they're up to - and why they've brought the one project that failed back to light - is beyond us, but you can have a look for yourself in the fresh gallery below.

Gallery: Lagonda Concept

LuxistAston Martin Takes Another Look at the Lagonda Concept originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 23:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astonaston martinaston martin lagondaaston martin lagonda conceptaston martin lagonda limitedAstonMartinAstonMartinLagondaAstonMartinLagondaConceptAstonMartinLagondaLimitedlagondalagonda conceptLagondaConceptThu, 10 Dec 2009 23:01:00 EST