Tag Archives: auto

$1 Million NYC Parking Spot

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The private garage located at 66 E. 11th Street in Manhattan, is the city’s first million dollar parking spot, according to the New York Post. Its 12 feet wide, 23 feet long, 15 feet in length and can be “duplexed” if the buyer wants to insert an elevator life for an additional car.

It may seem like an unnecessary expense, even for the richest A-listers, but Dolly Lenz, Prudential Douglas Elliman Vice Chairman, told the New York Post that the space has been designed for people who want utmost privacy.

“You can drive in and not be seen again. It’s for the type of person who finds that attractive. It could be a celebrity or a business person who is camera shy,” she said.

The space is about six -times more expensive than a typical family home in the U.S, according to the Post. “If you have an opportunity to buy a space in your building, you’re going to take advantage of that,” s Robert Knackal, chairman of Massey Knackal told the New York Post. “The reality of New York City is that people are willing to pay more for a parking spot than the average person in the country pays for a home.”


Aston-Martin DBS Carbon Edition Coupe (2012)

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It’s James Bond without the Tuxedo.

Few cars currently in production exude such sexiness, as the DBS Carbon Edition. If you are familiar with the sumptuous DB9, then the DBS Carbon Edition will feel like a comfortable Gucci loafer. Similarities abound, such as the angled-opening doors as well as the fluid jet-like design, and of course, the interior layout. All familiar features to those in the Aston-Martin know, yet the distinct personalities of the two models are readily apparent.

So what’s different? There are subtle changes, sporty additions and unique finishes as compared to the DB9, namely, the more powerful V12, featuring 510 HP on tap; the carbon fiber splitters under the front bumper; exclusive wheels and brake calipers; carbon-black grille; carbon fiber mirror caps; the gorgeous rear valance, flanked by the large dual exhausts; the carbon inlays in the center dash and door panels, just to name a few.

Approaching the DBS you instantly notice the attention to detail that goes into the paint, featuring a 25 hour polish process, leaving an amazingly deep, glossy look that is magical. Moving to the side, you notice no protruding door handles, but instead, a long thin cutout that is lit on one side. Pressing this piece on the forward end with two fingers; opens the door, (Yes, it requires a bit of practice, but this gives a subtle hint as to who has been in an Aston and who hasn’t.) The best way to describe the interior is; a symphony for the senses, as each of them gets a VIP treatment inside the cabin of the DBS.

Once inside and sitting in the drivers’ seat, my eyes are instantly drawn up to the gorgeous, hand-stitched, quilted leather headliner, giving the impression of being in a concept car. I realized this is so much nicer than the dull, black headliner most cars have, of course, the Aston-Martin DBS is not like any other car. As my eyes moved around the cabin, I noticed the sun-visors, funny thing, as I rarely if ever, have notices these ubiquitous pieces. The ones in the DBS feel as good as they look, featuring alcantara suede as well as a sublime metal rim for the frame and the mirror. This mundane, item feels extraordinary in the DBS. At that point it hit me, the wonderful aroma of fine leather, tugging at my olfactory sense, I was in heaven. Next, I noticed the center dash, which prominently features the P-R-N-D selectors, in the form of four push-buttons instead of a console lever, again a unique and stylish feature. In between the R and N is a slot where the “emotional control device” is inserted, for us, just mere mortals, this is also known as the ignition key. Slide the device into the slot, press, hold and be ready to be amazed. A high-speed starter whines, followed by the wonderful sound of a V12 roaring to life. Heaven seems to be quite sporty, I said to myself.

Driving the DBS is ridiculously easy for such a capable car. The driver has two choices, either automatic or manual mode. Selecting D and not touching the magnesium-alloy paddle shifters, the DBS drives as any automatic car would. Pressing either of the paddles, they re-program the DBS into manual setting, letting the driver control the shifting of the Touchtronic II gearbox. The throttle effort is firm yet smooth, giving almost any driver the ability to drive the DBS as if it’s been in their possession for years. Stomp on the throttle, and the DBS instantly transforms into a world class GT car. There is a burbling exhaust note, followed by a sound that I equate to “This means business” and then, at the upper levels of the tachometer; it’s the orchestral sounds of an Aston-Martin V12. Of course, a great car should be able to stop as well as it accelerates and the DBS Carbon Black does not disappoint with its ceramic brakes. These are not only effective, but also efficient at dissipating heat. The brake pedal feels strong yet easy to modulate, offering perfect stops every time. There are two rear seats, but don’t even think about putting anything other than a child back there, if that. Trunk space is typical for a GT, featuring straps for an umbrella as well as LED lighting.

The DBS is a subtle and elegant GT, that never screams nor does it attract undue attention. The Carbon Edition is one step above that. Make no mistake, even with its low-key approach, the Aston-Martin DBS Carbon Edition is a car that will turn heads, regardless where you arrive.

After several days, three hundred miles and a few thousand photos, it was time to bid adieu to this fabulous machine. I was sad to see it go, but happy to have one of the most rewarding driving experiences in the last 12 months.

Mr. Bond, your car is ready.

The Essentials:
MSRP: $284,976.47 MSRP (as tested): $292,278.97
Fuel Economy (observed): 13 MPG
Engine: V12, 5.9 liter, 510 HP
Popular options: High spec alarm, Smokers kit, keyfob pouch, satellite radio
visit: www.astonmartin.com

Photos by: Hector Chacon & Juan G. Robbin


Toyota Unveils All-Electric RAV4 SUV

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Toyota took the wraps off what it’s calling the world’s first all-electric SUV, to be based on the RAV4 with a top range of 100 and minimum six-hour charge time.

The car will be sold initially only in California with a base price of $49,800, and the Japanese car company hopes to sell a relatively modest 2,600 units over the next three years.

Toyota Motor Sales USA executive Bob Carter said the company believes the car will “attract sophisticated early technology adopters, much like the first-generation Prius,” Toyota’s pioneering hybrid car launched 15 years ago.

“It’s all about blending the best of two worlds… The all-new RAV4 EV marries the efficiency of an EV with the versatility of a small SUV — in fact, it is the only all-electric SUV on the market,” he added.

The car, which costs more than twice as much as the gas version of the RAV4 and would have difficulties with out-of-town driving for any distance, may struggle to find a mass appeal.

“It’s designed for consumers who prioritize the environment and appreciate performance,” said Carter, adding that the new car will go on sale later this summer in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego.

“We look forward to seeing how the market responds,” he added, unveiling the car at the 26th annual Electric Vehicle Symposium in Los Angeles.


Volkswagen’s ‘People’s Car Project’

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Volkswagen invited the people of China to submit their best design ideas, and they now have three concepts to show for it. A Hover Car, a Music Car and a Smart Key concept were unveiled at the 2012 China Auto Show, the result of Volkswagen’s “People’s Car Project.” Launched last year, the initiative asked users to log onto a website and submit ideas that could be discussed with others, in what the German described as “mass manufacturing.” 33 million page views and 119,000 submissions later, the “People’s Car Project” will be extended indefinitely, Volkswagen announced.


Infiniti’s Electric Emerg-E Concept – First Look!

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Meet the Infiniti’s Electric Emerg-E Concept. Infinit’s long awaited range-extended electric sports car the Emerg-E has been shown in Geneva and the specs we’ve been awaiting are official: 402 bhp (300 kW), 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds; a top speed of 130 mph (209 km/h); a 300-mile (483-km) range using the three-cylinder range-extender with 30 miles (48 km) electric-only; CO2 output of 55g/km (NEDC cycle). We love it!


Supercars at 2012 EcoVelocity Green Motor Show

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EcoVelocity has returned to London once again, following the success of the 2011 event. The show features the latest in cutting edge technology from the world’s leading car manufacturers and provides an opportunity for car enthusiasts to test drive the newest low-carbon and electric vehicles. Some of the models will be the established Fisker Karma and Tesla Roadster, from the US, while cutting-edge British cars like the Delta E4 Coupé and the Lightning GT supercar will also be on display. In addition, a number of mainstream models like the Vauxhall Ampera, Honda Jazz hybrid and CRZ, Nissan Leaf, Citroën C-Zero, Chevrolet Volt and Peugeot 508 RXH Hybrid will be seen.

“Having seen the success of EcoVelocity in 2011 first hand, CNI are delighted to form a new partnership for this year’s event; to be held at London’s ExCel centre,” James Brown, CNI Co-Chairman said in a statement, adding, “EcoVelovity has taken the position as the UKs major motoring show, with all the exhibitors boasting impressive low emissions in their automotive products, it’s important that the organisers can demonstrate the same values.”


Mercedes-Benz Viano Vision Diamond

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Timeless black and diamond white on the outside, ultimate luxury van on the inside – the new Mercedes-Benz Viano Vision Diamond was presented at the 2012 Beijing Auto Show. The Viano Vision Diamond, which Mercedes-Benz says is intended to be chauffeur-driven, goes for the gold with shimmering gold exterior trim accenting the two-tone paint job.


Playboy’s 25 greatest cars of all time

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Playboy, perhaps the epitome of testosterone-driven tastemaking, has released its pick of the greatest cars of all time.

The magazine, which regularly features motoring news and interviews, compiled the list of its favorite models of all time for the May issue, now on US newsstands.

Playboy has a long tradition when it comes to cars — it’s presented a new car to Playmate of the Year every year since 1964 and compiles annual roundups of its favorite new releases in the December edition every year.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the list is packed with two-seat sports cars, muscle cars, racing cars and a few classics from years gone past — editors Ken Gross and A.J. Baime picked models dating back to the 1940s, before Playboy’s founding in 1953.

Motoring bloggers were divided on the quality of the list, with Motor Authority noting the absence of the Lotus Elan and Plymouth Barracuda despite the inclusion of their successors but concluding “it’s not our list, but it isn’t entirely wrong, either.”

Autoblog was less impressed, however, advising fans to “judge a list such as this based more on how it reflects the personality of the publication” and describing the picks as “generic”.

Playboy’s 25 Greatest Cars of All Time

1. Ferrari GTO
2. Porsche 911
3. Shelby Cobra
4. Jaguar E-Type
5. Mercedes-Benz Gullwing
6. McLaren F1
7. Chevrolet Corvette
8. Aston Martin DB5
9. Lamborghini Miura
10. BMW 507
11. Lamborghini Countach
12. Jaguar XK120
13. Ferrari 275 GTB/4
14. MG TC
15. Ford Shelby Mustang
16. Chevrolet Camaro
17. Ferrari 458 Italia
18. Datsun/Nissan Z
19. Chrysler 300
20. Pontiac GTO
21. Mazda Miata
22. VW Beetle
23. Chevrolet Bel Air
24. BMW 2002
25. Pontiac Firebird Trans Am


2013 Infiniti JX Preview: A crossover into luxury

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The Pursuitist headed to Charleston, SC, to experience hands-on the new 2013 Infiniti JX Luxury Crossover. The new model will cost $40,450, which is scheduled to go on sale at Infiniti retailers nationwide this spring. The all-new 7-passenger/3-row luxury crossover, which made its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, is offered in two models, the Infiniti JX35 FWD and Infiniti JX35 AWD. Each is equipped with a 265-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine and Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with Sport mode.

The new Infiniti JX is all about comfort and safety. I’m not the target audience for this lux auto (I mean, I drive a BMW coupe), but affluent soccer moms will drool over the JX. It’s spacious, bundled with the latest technologies and looks iconically Infiniti. The crossover posts combined mpg numbers in the low 20s, including 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

Trust us, with elegant styling and excellent third-row access, the Infiniti JX is going to sell like hotcakes — the perfect ride for young families focused on safety and comfort. The sonar and radar-equipped vehicle is like the Batmobile for the hip moms in your neighborhood. Most noteworthy among the innovations is the optional Backup Collision Intervention. When pulling out in reverse, and if there’s a child or pet behind the car that the driver hasn’t seen, the vehicle will signal, beep and then apply the brakes automatically.

Joined by Troy Janisch, we got behind the wheel of the latest luxury from Infiniti. Here’s Troy’s review:

What do you get when you cross a road trip fanboy with a stretch of Carolina roadway and the 2013 Infiniti JX? A new respect for Infiniti’s newest comfortable, cargo-friendly crossover vehicle.

I’m all about road tripping. So, when Infiniti offered to preview the 2013 Infiniti JX on a road trip thru Charleston-area lowcountry, I grabbed some Southern snacks (Bacon & Cheddar Seasoned Peanuts), loaded some Southern tracks (Carolina Beach Music via Pandora) and hit the the road with my friend Chris Parr in Infiniti’s newest luxury crossover vehicle.

One of the reason I’ve been such a Fanboy for the Ford Flex is that it provides the best combination of utility, economy and comfort needed for a 20-hour+ land voyage with the family — or, four ‘larger-than-average’ guys on a three-day weekend land voyage. However, I’ve also been keeping my eye on some of the upscale crossover vehicles with three rows of seating from Acura, Audi and (now) Infiniti.

The JX is spacious throughout. It offers 38.3 inches of headroom and 41.7 inches of legroom in the 2nd row. With three rows of seats, the vehicle has a lot of space, but rear visibility is a bit hampered by a combination of the vehicles smooth contouring and its ample seating and headrests. Luckily, the Infiniti surpasses other crossovers with its array of tech-driven safety features. The sonar and radar-equpped vehicle includes ‘blind spot warning and intervention’, ‘lane departure warning and prevention’, ‘intelligent brake assist with forward collision warning’ and ‘distance control assist’. Infinity’s ‘around view monitor’ provides a 360-degree view around the Infiniti JX and detects movement in the area. The JX prevents backup collisions — literally — by slowing when it detects an imminent collision.

The JX drives more like a sedan than an SUV — particularly when the transmission is set in sport mode. The ride is smooth and relaxing. It’s offered in two models, the Infiniti JX35 FWD and Infiniti JX35 AWD. Each is equipped with a 265-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine and Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with Sport mode.

The JX35 has a base price of $40,450 (FWD) or $41,550 (AWD) and has five upgrade packages.This compares favorably to the Acura MDX ($42,930) and Audi Q7 ($46,250). The decked out FWD version (premium and theater packages) runs $48,050. The 7-passenger JX targets affluent, safety-conscious families. As a result, the JX boasts interior comfort and safety features that exceed my humble Ford Flex. The Infiniti I tested featured a Bose ‘Cabin Surround’ 15-speaker sound system. The system is adapted from their home entertainment products and provides more bass output in less space. For backseat passengers, the JX offers independent, dual 7-inch color monitor, a 120V power outlet and wireless headphones.

“It isn’t just about the driver, it’s about EVERYBODY in the car,” said Infiniti’s Kyle Bazemore.

Also, Infiniti Connection provides you with advanced convenience features and concierge services such as My Schedule or Drive Zone.