The Best Bugatti Chiron’s New Sky View Option

The astonishing accelerative thrust of a 1,479 hp Bugatti Chiron—as in the ability to launch from zero to 100kmh (60 mph) in just 2.5 seconds—would make any driver see stars. If that doesn’t, perhaps the car’s $3 million price tag will.

Bugatti, however, has just announced that it will be offering buyers of its quad-turbo W16-engined supercar an alternative, and less heart-pounding, celestial sensation. And all they will have to do is look up.

The Chiron is now available with the new Sky View option, a glass roof that will flood the two-seater’s cockpit with light, offer an extra headroom, and add even more exclusivity to Chiron ownership—if that’s possible.

The two fixed panels, each measuring 25.6 inches long and 17.3 inches wide, are made up of four layers of wafer-thin glass that are laminated to actually increase the stiffness of the roof. The glass is also tinted to maintain privacy, reduce heat, and filter out harmful ultraviolet radiation.

The laminated glass increases roof stiffness and is tinted to protect against ultraviolet radiation.  

Photo: Courtesy Bugatti.

If there is a disappointment, it’s that Bugatti has not followed Mercedes-Benz’s lead in equipping the Chiron with SPD-SmartGlass light-control technology. Mercedes models with Magic Sky Control panoramic roof sections can go from clear to opaque at the touch of a button.

Arguably, a more significant benefit of the Chiron’s Sky View roof is the extra headroom the inset glass panels offer. They unlock an additional inch of interior height, offering NBA all-stars one less reason to resist buying a Bugatti.

The Sky View option’s glass panels give the Chiron an additional inch of headroom.  

Photo: Courtesy Bugatti.

No official pricing for the Sky View feature has been released. That announcement is expected to be made when the car makes its public debut during Monterey Car Week, in Northern California, later this month.

It will certainly be a busy week for Bugatti as Monterey also sees the debut of the company’s top-secret new model, the Divo, believed to be a rebodied, more handling-focused version of the Chiron. Just 40 examples of the Divo will be built, each priced at roughly Euro 4.9 Million ($5.8 million). That kind of price tag will definitely have one seeing stars.

The New Bentley Bentayga V8 Is Just as Posh as Its 12-Cylinder Sibling

The 542 hp SUV carries a four-liter, twin-turbo V-8 engine and a wealth of refinement.

Two years on from launching one of the world’s most luxurious SUVs, Bentley—the nearly century-old British automaker—is launching the Bentayga V8. What’s new? Most importantly perhaps is that alpha-numeric bit that follows the Bentayga name. It signifies the new 542 hp, four-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine, which generates 568 ft lbs of torque. We recently set off to the Austrian and Swiss Alps to stretch the new model’s legs on some exceptionally scenic roads.

The Bentayga V8 bears many of the same aesthetics of its W-12-powered sibling, with four round LED lights up front, the same stance, muscular arched shoulders, and a familiar silhouette. But most notably, the matrix grille swaps the chrome treatment for a black finish, a subtle enhancement to our eyes. Not to be left out, the rear end gets a subtle tweak, as well—the twin pipes are made to look like quad pipes to further call out the difference under hood.

The Bentayga variant hides a 542 hp, four-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine under its hood.A final exterior touch is the new five-spoke wheels with a dark metal finish, one of 11 possible styles on either 21- or 22-inch wheels. The interior remains among the plushest of any SUV currently on the market, and regardless of if you’re up front or in the back, you’ll appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail. A high-gloss carbon-fiber treatment is a new sporty touch that’s optional.

Before hitting the road, we put the Bentayga V8 through its paces on an ice track in the famed Kitzbühel region. The grunt and burble of the V-8 is heard immediately, and it gives the new Bentayga variant’s soundtrack an entirely different character compared to the original version. With settings on, we lap the slalom, track, and drift circle portions with remarkable control on our intended line. Considering the tires are whizzing across actual ice, the ability to remain in control almost effortlessly is a small miracle of modern technology. The optional electronically assisted roll bar makes the luxe SUV feel exceptionally planted. Ease up on the systems, and you can achieve a rear-end ice drift—a little intentional sliding should you fancy it.

The Bentayga V8’s ample and sumptuously accented interior.  Photo: Courtesy Bentley.

On a fortuitously desolate stretch of alpine road, we were able to push the Bentayga V8 and gauge its usable performance further. With our right foot on the right pedal, the twin-scroll turbos engage, all eight cylinders hammer down, and we propelled well past freeway speeds in an unreasonably quick amount of time. This should come as little surprise, as the Bentayga V-8 touts a zero-to-60 mph time of just 4.4 seconds and can tap into its full torque range before hitting 2,000 rpm, meaning a bounty of low-end power is ready instantaneously.

The Bentley Bentayga V8 boasts a top speed of 289 kmh (180 mph), seven fewer than the W-12 model, but it’s really a matter of bragging rights at that point. Given the smaller engine, the Bentayga V-8 is lighter, too, but not by much. A mere 100 pounds or so separate the two cars, but the V-8 does feel sprightlier and even quicker, though it’s technically not. One aspect that’s most certainly not a mind trick is the starting price of Euro 139.000 ($165,000), which makes it the most accessible vehicle to bear the Bentley badge.

BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT SPEED BLACK EDITION

CONTINENTAL GT SPEED BLACK EDITION: THE FASTEST AND MOST PRECISE BENTLEY JEWEL.

Bentley has just announced the orders debut for the new Continental GT Speed and Continental GT Speed Black Edition, now available in coupe or convertible versions. Mix Bentley’s craftsmanship with Bentley’s renowned elegance, and yet you will be far to imagine this new supercar.

THE MOST MUSCLED CAR EVER IMAGINED BY BENTLEY

Continental GT Speed Black Edition has entirely improved its Continental 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12 engine and pushed it to 642 ps. Now it can achieve a top-speed of 311km/h, and becomes the fastest Bentley ever.

Another prowess for Continental GT Speed Black Edition is to pass from 0 to 100km/h in only 4.1 seconds. This is the result of all Bentley craftsmanship and all Bentley’s professional, that worked for more than 12h30 on each W12 engine, carefully assembled by 30 craftsmen. Add to this a few hours and you will obtain the 110 hours that were necessary to built the absolutely unique Black Edition one.

THE BLACK EDITION MODEL

Continental GT Speed Black Edition celebrates all Bentley Grand Tourer’s power and amazing depth. This new version, coupe or convertible, is entirely customizable depending on your will, always complimented by a sublime high gloss black finish.

Gloss Black finish on Continental GT Speed Black Edition doesn’t forget any details, from the window openings to lamp bezels. The 21“ All Black wheels perfectly cover the brake calipers, that can be choose in red or black finishes.

Then, the Continental GT Speed Black Edition features different shades among four different contrast colours applied on the front splitter, the side skirt and rear diffuser, including the brand new colour Cyber Yellow. These contrasts highlight the diamond quilting of the doors and Mulliner GT Design seats.

As a resume, Continental GT Speed Black Edition is a perfect mix between extremely powerful sport capacities and unparalleled style immediately recognizable as Bentley’s most elegant model.

ROLLS ROYCE DAWN

The exquisitely refined and sophisticated new addition by Rolls Royce has finally been revealed.

Presented at Frankfurt, the Rolls Royce Dawn is the epitome of sleek elegance and understated sensuality.

A convertible, this 4-seater super luxe car is the brand’s rendition of a 2-in-1 vehicle that looks beautiful with the top up and when it’s down.

The model car comes in a sophisticated midnight blue color then reveals a matte orange interior that’s absolutely top class. The deck was designed to be lower than most of their cars, providing plenty of room and space for superior comfort. The rear deck is kept high to offer the passengers some privacy but still being visible. The rear is meant to circle the rear passengers with a cocoon-like sensation.

The Rolls Royce Dawn had started production in February 2015 with the delivery schedule set in April 2016. There has been no announcement on the pricing yet. It is a convertible powered by a 563 horsepower V-12 engine, with an 8-speed transmission which uses GPS data for optimal gear.

Its chassis is based on the marques of the Ghost and Wraith models, which the Dawn is based upon. In fact, the new addition is actually a revved up version of the Wraith, with about 80% of its features being used on the Dawn.

Its interiors are crafted with wood and leather, with the deck and rear finished in handcrafted veneers. Rolls Royce has always offered customization options for their clients, and the Dawn is no exception. Upon ordering, clients can choose from a wide array of colors, materials, and finishes, to make the Dawn a personalized and customized piece of vehicle.

Among its other features is a Bespoke 16-speaker audio system with a microphone that automatically adjusts the volume based on the noise in the car. The 4 individual seats are created for matchless comfort, tailored to bring the ultimate passenger experience.

The roof retracts in 21 seconds with a 50 kmh (30mph) speed, and the 6-layer fabric soft top provides added insulation and excellent acoustics. Rolls Royce also pens the Dawn as the quietest convertible in the market to date.

With the top up, it features a clamshell design and provides a conservative look; and with the top down, it has a look of playfulness and of a carefree personality with its orange Mandarin leather and rosewood trim.

The “Dawn,” is based on the Silver Dawn drophead coupe which was produced in limited numbers by Rolls Royce between 1950-1954.

This new addition to the Rolls Royce fleet is based on the design team’s goal of creating a sensual car, with the undeniable appeal of turning heads in the most perfect way possible.

(rolls-roycemotorcars.com)

Mansory's Gold-Plated Rolls Royce Wraith Palm Edition 999

The Mansory gold-plated Rolls-Royce Wraith Palm Edition 999 is one of only nine available from the Swiss tuner.

The two-tone, white-golden 999 comes with retuned aerodynamics, as the bodykit was crafted entirely from carbon fiber, from the front spoiler with separately integrated LED and daytime running lights, front fender, side skirts, all the way to the reworked rear of the vehicle with a new apron that stretches to the rear and roof spoiler.

All original badging has been replaced with logos and plaques finished in 999 pure gold. And if you want to take it up a notch Mansory will gold plate all metallic surfaces – from the door handles all the way to the radiator grille and the Spirit of Ecstasy. Inside you'll also find gold plated elements and fine leather furnishings following the color scheme of the exterior paint-job.

Power has been bumped up as well. The 6.6-liter V12 now churns out 729 hp and 737 lb-ft of torque which takes the 2.4-ton automobile from 0 to 100 kmh (62 mph) in 4.4 seconds and a max top speed of 300 Kmh (186 mph).

Customized Cadillac Escalade

 Customized Cadillac Escalade comes with a bar, home theater, gold plated accents and bullet proofing

 Even after 14 years since it was first launched the Cadillac Escalade remains as one of the top choices for luxury SUV buyers. Its massive size and spacious interior takes it to a different league altogether. But for those who don’t want to settle for standard luxury features offered by the full-size SUV and want nothing but the best, internationally recognized leader of customized luxury coaches Lexani Motorcars has lent its expertise to upgrade the Escalade with the finest bespoke amenities rivaling those found in high-end yachts and private jets. The one-of-a-kind custom Cadillac Escalade ESV Luxury Coach named the ‘Adage’ is crafted using the best of the quality materials, furnishing, and carpentry, with immaculate attention to detail.

 To keep the Executive SUV inconspicuous, Lexani Motorcars has kept the exterior subtle, but completely transformed the interior to offer a blend of technology, luxury, and artistry, and provide the ultimate traveling experience. Heated massage chairs, a Mac Mini with touch screen monitor, a built-in cooler and accents in suede and 24K gold are just some of the amenities that make it second to none. The company further gives the buyer an option to make specific requests for additional amenities to build a unique vehicle.

Available amenities include:
The Cadillac Escalade Adage is also available in an armored variant for VIP clientele. The non-armored Adage is priced at 269.000Euro-254.800Euro ($269,000-$350,000), and the armored variant retails for 327.600 Euro - 322.200Euro  ($450,000-$525,000).

Maria Sharapova is Porsche’s Beautiful Brand Ambassador

 If you were asked to choose a brand ambassador for Porsche, where would you put tennis icon Maria Sharapova on your list? Well, even though most people would not think of a female image for the German brand, the gorgeous Russian-born athlete has recently signed a 3-year deal with Porsche. An unexpected choice? May be, but it is also an excellent one, by our standards.

Everybody knows that icon Maria Sharapova is an exceptional tennis player, and top performance is exactly what Porsche is all about. Another excellent characteristic that she brings to the table is her alluring elegance, a key feature in all the supercars she represents. Porsche AG CEO Matthias Mueller described her with many generous adjectives and added that “Her profile and charisma are an ideal fit for Porsche. She is also highly respected around the world and enjoys an outstanding reputation”.

Check out the gallery below and let us know what you think of Porsche’s choice. Would you have gone for a different celebrity, or do you feel that Sharapova is the best choice?

Bentley Continental GT by DMC

 Improved in every single way by DMC, this stunning Bentley Continental GT looks so much better than the stock model! Even though there are some noteworthy changes in the engine department as well, the first thing that struck us first was the new body kit, which boastsnew carbon fiber elements.

The body package flaunts all-new bumpers, modified side skirts, a rear wing and a diffuser, as well as 22-inch diamond-forged alloy wheels with new 295/25/22 tires. There are no photos of the interior, but we expect it to be customizable, the buyers enjoying a range of premium leather, exotic woods, and carbon fiber optional features.

And finally, the tuned GT’s hood hides another series of improvements. After an ECU remap, a new titanium exhaust, and new high-flow air filter, the engine roars with 672 HP and 575 lb-ft of torque. This means that the 0-60 mph acceleration time is of only 4.5 seconds, while the top speed is 202 mph. Not bad at all! Thank you, DMC!

Discover the Outstanding 2014 Aston Martin Rapide S

Aston Martin lovers, the new Rapide S is here, and it’s awesome! Still the best looking 4-door sedan in the world, the vehicle provides more utility and accommodation than all the other two-door beasts signed by the British manufacturer. Some believe that its overall performance is not that impressive, but that might just be a matter of opinion. It has a 100kmh (0-60 mph) time of 4.7 seconds, a top speed of 305kmh (190 mph), and the muscle of 550 hp.

Aston Martin lovers, the new Rapide S is here, and it’s awesome! Still the best looking 4-door sedan in the world, the vehicle provides more utility and accommodation than all the other two-door beasts signed by the British manufacturer. Some believe that its overall performance is not that impressive, but that might just be a matter of opinion. It has a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds, a top speed of 190 mph, and the muscle of 550 hp.

The 550 HP, 547 lb-ft 5.9-liter V12 engine is coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission that sends the power to the rear wheels. Disguised as a coupe, the car features a 4-seat configuration, with the rear seats offering more space that they seem to do at a first glance. If extra storage space is what you need, you can easily fold the rear seats and obtain a lot of rear luggage space.

And since we’re on the subject of interior design, we should also mention that even though the cockpit is not exactly the most ergonomic we’ve ever seen, it is obviously a very luxurious one. Everything is pleasant to the touch and charming to the eye. Brushed aluminum, shiny glass, and fine leather make the experience truly enjoyable.

On the outside, everything looks perfect. The revamped body boasts an aggressive looking grille with 8 aluminum slats, camouflaged B pillars (hidden behind glass for a more coupe-like appearance), and a rear spoiler which seamlessly continues the curved contour that starts from the noseof the vehicle.There really isn’t anything not to like about the 2014 Rapide S in terms of aesthetics.

And now for the best part! The powertrain has suffered a series of changes that we absolutely love. Eighty HP more powerful than before, the car is not only menacing looking, it is actually menacing to the core. This characteristic is further accentuated by the intimidating roar that it delivers every time you push the acceleration pedal.

You can choose your favorite drive mode according to the road conditions, but something tells us no Rapide S owner will willingly choose to switch off the Sport button unless they really have to. After all, it is always a pleasure to drive a car that affords excellent stability at high speeds, amazing cornering capabilities, and easy maneuverability. Also modified for the new S are the adaptive suspensions, the perfectly reliable multi-piston brakes, and the high performance tires. There really isn’t much room for criticism around Aston Martin’s new luxury sedan.