In The Ever-Evolving World Of Automobiles, Where Innovation Races Alongside Tradition, Fear Not! We Are Here To Unveil The Crème De La Crème—The Latest Automotive Marvels That Can Ignite Your Passion. Catch The Glimpse Of The New Cars’ Mega ‘Heart Of Joy’ That Define Automotive Excellence.
- ROLLS-ROYCE ARCADIA DROPTAIL
The Rolls-Royce Arcadia Droptail is an exquisite creation from the exclusive Coachbuild division of Rolls-Royce. This two-seat roadster is the third of four Droptails to emerge from Rolls-Royce’s headquarters. Each Droptail is meticulously crafted by the Coachbuild branch of the company’s Bespoke department. While the basic platform and V12 engine are shared across all Droptails, the Arcadia stands out with its bespoke features.
The development of the Arcadia was no small feat. While the goal was to create a car that captivates through reductive design, drawing attention to what isn’t there as much as what is. The Droptail’s long-slung stance pays homage to American roadsters and hot rods from the 1920s, evoking a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of The Great Gatsby era.
This shallow, piercing LED headlights complete the face, still carrying the unmistakable Rolls-Royce DNA but with a cleaner and simpler aesthetic. Moreover, Rolls-Royce Arcadia Droptail boasts a final interior flourish—a wooden plinth positioned below the central armrest.
Whereas, the exterior of the Arcadia Droptail is equally captivating. Its bespoke white paint achieves depth through an infusion of aluminium and glass particles, resulting in an effervescent shimmer. Rolls Royce’s paint department intentionally used larger aluminium particles to enhance metallic effect.
- ASTON MARTIN VANTAGE
The Aston Martin Vantage, a British marque’s athletic and driver-focused production street car, has received a complete overhaul for this year. This revamped version aims for notable features including fresh bodywork inspired by Aston Martin’s One-77 supercar, a revised interior, and a significantly upgraded 4.0-liter twin turbo V-8 engine that now produces 656 hp—a 30 percent increase compared to the previous V-8 iteration. The latest Vantage can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds and boasts a top speed of 202 mph.
For this model, Aston Martin has enhanced the Vantage’s handling by making several key upgrades. The car’s I-beam-rigid, bonded-aluminium chassis has been further stiffened, and a new electronic rear differential has been added. Additionally, the Vantage now features new Bilstein DTX adaptive shocks and stickier 21-inch Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 rubber.
As anticipated, the refreshed Vantage model bids farewell to the twin-turbocharged 5.2-liter V-12 engine. While the upgraded V-8 powerplant doesn’t match the former V-12’s punch—producing 656 hp compared to the previous 690 hp—it compensates with increased torque, now at 590 ft lbs (up from 542 ft lbs).
The Vantage also introduces an adjustable traction-control system with eight levels of assistance for both on-track and off-track driving. Upgrades extend to the steering, front-end grip, and braking. In terms of aesthetics, the brand has given the Vantage a more striking and cohesive look.
- AUDI RS6 AVANT GT
As this month we are celebrating the golden 23 years of L’Officiel, while this year also marks the 40th anniversary of Audi Sport.
Audi’s shift toward full electrification is well underway, and the e-tron GT serves as evidence that high performance need not be compromised by the absence of combustion engines. However, the limited series RS6 suggests that some of Audi Sport’s engineers are keen on bidding farewell to the old era in a style we’ve grown accustomed to.
Beyond its eye-catching livery, this Audi boasts carbon fiber components for the bonnet, wings, and wheels. Aero enhancements include a double rear wing, an enlarged diffuser, and a more aggressive front splitter. Under the hood, the RS6 GT features the same 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine found in the ‘regular’ RS6, delivering a robust 621 bhp. Notably, the suspension and rear differential have been reconfigured to enhance handling dynamics.
This model will also be equipped with high-performance Continental Sport Contact 7 tires, specifically designed to enhance performance in both wet and dry conditions. These tires also reduce the stopping distance by 6.5 feet during a 62-0 mph braking test. Additionally, the ceramic brakes from the RS6 Avant Performance variant have been carried over to the GT model. While some may recognize it as a station wagon, it defies typical wagon stereotypes with its purposeful design and performance-oriented attributes.
- PORSCHE 911 DAKAR
The Porsche 911 Dakar is no longer a well-kept secret in the brand’s development history. After years of rumours and months of unmistakable spy shots because you can camouflage a 911, but an 80mm ride height increase remains conspicuous.
Has Porsche compromised the 911 as a road car? The Ariel Nomad excels on rough tarmac, thanks to its generous body roll and low grip threshold from its off-road oriented wheels and tires. It’s a joy to drive on any surface, effortlessly drifting through corners—you could almost do it in your sleep. But has the 50% reduction in spring rate, the 50mm ride height increase (with an additional 30mm available via the pneumatic lift kit—an upgraded, high-pressure version of the standard 911 nose lift that works on both axles), and the chunky bespoke Pirelli Scorpion tires truly transformed the 911 into a Nomad-like experience?
Well, the Dakar exhibits some fidgetiness on rough tarmac at low speeds. Fortunately, road noise is significantly less than what you’d experience in one of those mud-plugging Defenders hurtling down the M1. Despite the increased suspension travel, the Dakar remains firm—and quite noisy. The Dakar isn’t shy about going sideways with minimal provocation. The stability control might eventually intervene, but not before allowing the rear end to swing in a manner that will either thrill or terrify you.
- LOTUS EMIRA I4
Emira powered by a four-cylinder engine, known as the “i4” in Lotus terminology, this variant features a Mercedes-AMG 2.0 liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox—similar to the setup found in the AMG A45S hyper hatch. Notably, this is the f irst time Lotus has equipped one of its cars with a dual-clutch transmission. According to the company, this setup provides faster gear changes compared to the six-speed automatic transmission found in the Emira V6.
While the Emira still delivers an impressive 360 horsepower (268 kW / 365 PS) and 317 lb-ft (430 Nm) of torque. With this output of 40 horsepower (30 kW / 41 PS) less than the supercharged 3.5-liter V6, the four-cylinder engine compensates with an additional 7 lb-ft (9 Nm) of torque. This leaves room for future four-cylinder derivatives with even more power and torque. The Emira i4 can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (0 to 100 km/h) in just 4.4 seconds. Its top speed reaches 180 mph (290 km/h). Remarkably, this performance is not significantly slower than the V6-powered model.
Featuring such a launch control, an electronic differential (e-Diff), and steering wheel-mounted shifters, the car rides on a bonded aluminium Lotus Sports Car Architecture, ensuring a lightweight yet rigid structure. The forged aluminium double wishbone suspension contributes to precise handling. Additionally, the four-cylinder Emira boasts a lightweight cast aluminium rear subframe, saving 26.5 lbs (12 kg) compared to the steel trim used in the Emira V6.
- GENESIS G90
The Genesis G90, despite being a relative newcomer, has made a significant impact in the full-size luxury sedan segment. Traditionally dominated by the Mercedes Benz S-Class, the G90 brings a fresh perspective to the table. Genesis’s unique approach to headlights and taillights sets it apart from other luxury sedans. Stepping inside, the interior is undeniably beautiful, the G90’s tech features may not dazzle as much as the massive screens found in some competing models.
The hybrid model benefits from adaptive air suspension, effectively absorbing road imperfections. Additionally, active noise cancellation ensures a serene cabin environment where you can converse in hushed tones. While the G90 prioritizes relaxation over engagement, its plush second-row seats provide an ideal place to unwind. For an even more luxurious experience, consider activating the Chauffeur driving mode, which softens the rear suspension—an option that would be even more appealing if Genesis introduces the G90 Long Wheelbase variant.
The G90 offers two engine options, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (AWD). The standard configuration features a twin turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. According to EPA ratings, it achieves 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Accelerating from 0 to 60 mph takes slightly more than 6.0 seconds—a respectable performance for this luxury sedan.
- MASERATI MCXTREMA
The Maserati MCXtrema, also known as the “Beast,” is an awe-inspiring machine boasting an impressive 730bhp. It represents an evolution of the Maserati MC20 supercar, but unlike its road-going counterpart, the MCXtrema is exclusively designed for the track, with only 62 units being produced. The car’s 730bhp, 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine delivers remarkable performance, with enhancements such as new turbos and a racing exhaust. Its ultra-light carbon fiber monocoque houses the engine, while four-way racing dampers, springs, and an anti-roll bar ensure exceptional on-track handling.
Maserati already introduced an exciting new iteration of its impressive V6-engined supercar. Formerly known as Project24, the MCXtrema lives up to its name as the most extreme creation based on the MC20 platform. Limited to just 62 units, this track-only beast showcases distinctive bodywork, featuring narrow front lights and an aggressive front end, while the rear highlights a prominent wing and fin.
Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a six-speed sequential gearbox and limited slip differential. Weighing approximately 1,300kg, thanks to carbon fiber construction and a single-seat race-spec cockpit, the MCXtrema promises exhilarating driving dynamics. Enhanced downforce, turbofan wheels for brake cooling, and adjustable dampers further contribute to its track prowess.
