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McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

Garet Thomas, in a wheelchair, moves toward a green Lamborghini parked in a pharmacy lot during Monterey Car Week 2025. A "We're Hiring" sign is visible on the building in the background.

By Edward Jones – August 11, 2025

Rallying For Garet Thomas At Monterey Car Week 2025

In the car community, passion runs deep — but so does the bond between friends. This year, that spirit is coming to life in a profoundly moving way as friends, family, and supporters rally behind Garet Thomas, a beloved figure in the automotive world who is facing the final stages of his battle with cancer. Earlier this year, Garet faced devastating news. What began as a search for answers about a growing tumor in his leg turned into months of uncertainty with the wrong specialist. When the truth came to light, time was already short. Thanks to quick action by Valerie and a world-class medical team, Garet underwent an above-the-knee amputation in hopes of eliminating the cancer completely. Initially, the prognosis looked hopeful. But soon after, the tide turned, and scans revealed a far more difficult reality. Through it all, Garet has remained humble and deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and generosity from his friends, family, and the wider community. His resilience has been nothing short of inspiring. " width="680"> As the reality of his diagnosis set in, Garet reached out to a longtime friend Alisander “Ali” Hoff with a heartfelt request. Garet had one wish: to experience Monterey Car Week — his favorite event in the world — for what could be the last time, surrounded by the cars, the atmosphere, and the people he loves. In his own words, he hoped to be Ali’s “passenger princess” for a week in Carmel, soaking in the magic of the world’s most celebrated automotive gathering. Ali, who has been a media fixture at Pebble Beach for years, didn’t hesitate. He rallied his network to make Garet’s dream a reality, securing media access to some of the most prestigious events — including The Quail, the auctions, the Monterey Motorsports Festival, and The Preserve Concours. He arranged a place for Garet to stay, a seat on a friend’s private jet, and committed to personally being by his side. But Ali’s vision goes further than just giving Garet the experience of a lifetime. He’s working to bring a videographer along to capture the trip so that Garet’s young children will have a lasting memory of their father’s final Monterey Car Week — a reminder of his joy, his courage, and his love for life. Garet’s journey is one that resonates deeply within the car community — a testament to friendship, shared passion, and the power of coming together in times of need. While many expenses have already been covered through the kindness of friends, there is still a need for financial support to help with costs and to make this trip as unforgettable as possible. And now, the GoFundMe set up for Garet and his family's effort is entering a new and critical chapter. As Garet shared in his latest update: **“WE NEED YOUR HELP BAD… as a community, and people that truly understand our story, you are our only soldiers and advocates to help get the word out. We know $77k already raised looks like a big number, but we were $56k in the hole when that money hit — which literally saved our house and kept us afloat, a blessing from you donators. The rest was used almost immediately for our co-pays and my surgery the very next month. Our goal with this next round is to look to the future — to my kids and my Wife, to ensure they are taken care of when I’m gone. A good friend of ours who owns a finance company has stepped in to help us set up a specific fund to make the donations grow and help my Wife transition into being the sole provider. When it turns ‘terminal,’ all those other bills and commitments fall away, and it becomes about how much I can stack for my Wife and kids. My Wife has been an absolute warrior through this, doing everything she can to look for work while being by my side. God gave me a lucky one. I know so many of you have already donated or helped in some way, and we are forever grateful; but if you could find it in your hearts to share again — to post it on social media, tell a friend, or even just share our story with a co-worker — it could change everything. So many people still haven’t heard our story, and even a $1 donation could make a difference.”** If you can contribute, your generosity will help create memories that Garet’s family will treasure forever. If a donation isn’t possible, sharing his story is just as powerful — ensuring that the spirit of this journey reaches as far as possible. To support Garet’s journey and his family, please visit his fundraising page or share his story. Every contribution, every share, and every kind word helps fuel this final ride. Visit The GoFundMe

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By Khris Bharath – August 11, 2025

1-of-26: Rare Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 Manual Hits th...

If you followed our recent coverage of the Manual Murciélago Roadster, where we reported that fewer than 10 of these V12 Lamborghinis with a stick made it to the U.S., then you know just how rare these analog supercars truly are. Which is why, when this equally compelling and rare 2007 Lamorghini Murciélago LP640 gated manual coupe was listed for sale with Blue Chip, we couldn’t help but feature it. For some context, of the 179 Murciélagos equipped that were with the six-speed gated manual worldwide, only 26 were made available in the United States, making it one of the rarest factory manual Lamborghinis ever produced. The LP640, of course, was a lot more than a mid-cycle refresh of the flagship V12 Murciélago, and was a defining moment for Lamborghini under Audi’s ownership in the 2000s. It proved that despite the German sensibilities, a bit of Italian madness was retained to satisfy the Lambo faithful. Revealed at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show, this model boosted the original Murciélago’s engine displacement from 6.2 to 6.5 liters and power to 640 horsepower, up from 580. Power is transmitted through a six-speed manual transmission and a viscous all-wheel-drive system, launching the supecar from 0 to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds and topping out at 211 mph, which are still impressive numbers by modern standards. The design changes were subtle but significant. Revised bumpers, larger air intakes, updated lighting, a single center-mounted exhaust unit, and an overall sharper, more aggressive form, without losing the Murciélago’s distinctive silhouette, originally penned by Luc Donckerwolke. This particular ‘07 example sports the optional Nero Aldebaran paint, which perfectly complements the car’s angular design. Step inside, and you find one of the last analog cabins in the supercar world. The optional “Q-Citura” diamond-stitched Nero Perseus leather adds a layer of high-quality craftsmanship to this otherwise driver-focused cabin devoid of a modern-day screen overload. The exposed metal gated shifter is, without a doubt, the highlight of this sporty cockpit. At the end of the day, how often do you find a car that combines modern performance with a genuine analog feel? This is precisely why we’re beginning to see a revival of the highly desirable and coveted manual V12 format for the modern age. But if you want something a bit old-school, this LP640 with just 8,310 miles on the odometer and recent servicing presents the opportunity to acquire something that seldom comes up for sale. The manual Murciélago, after all, is one of the last great manual V12 Lamborghinis, which celebrates a nearly five-decade-long legacy that began with the Miura in the 1960s. Getting your hands on one means you’ll be part of a highly exclusive club of enthusiasts who appreciate mechanical engagement, above all else. Check the link below for pricing. View Listing Images Source: Blue Chip

Christine Slosss Laguna Seca Corkscrew Hillclimb Record in Ferrari SF90 XX Spider-1

By Charles Bradley – August 10, 2025

Christine Sloss Makes History at Laguna Seca’s Corkscrew ...

Breaking records and barriers, Christine Sloss claimed victory at the fourth annual Corkscrew Hillclimb, becoming the event’s first female winner. Sloss drove her Ferrari SF90 XX Spider into the history books on Saturday, Aug. 9, at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, winning the prestigious Corkscrew Hillclimb with a blistering 29.535-second run. The triumph not only made her the event’s first female champion but also set new marks for a road-legal production car, a hybrid, and a convertible in the uphill reverse-course challenge. Sloss bested a competitive 15-car field that included motorsport veterans and exotic machinery. The event’s first female winner posted a time of 29.535 seconds to capture the victory in her Ferrari hypercar. Her victory also sets a new record for a road-legal production car, hybrid vehicle, and convertible. Ned Bacon and his 1975 Porsche 911 RSR and Gardner Nichols in the 2025 Rivian Gen 2 Quad-Motor R1T finished second and third, respectively. The Corkscrew Hillclimb – now a Monterey Car Week tradition – reverses the famous circuit’s flow, sending drivers from the Start/Finish line through Turn 11 and up the hill to conquer the legendary Corkscrew. While Sloss’s Ferrari rewrote the record books for production-based entries, the overall course record still belongs to Max Chilton, who clocked an astonishing 21.958 seconds in the all-electric 2022 McMurtry Spéirling last year. This year’s entry list was as diverse as it was competitive, featuring a Pikes Peak-proven 2025 Rivian Gen 2 Quad-Motor R1T (30.819 seconds), a 2022 Toyota Supra (31.026 seconds), and even a classic 1958 Austin Healey 110-6 (34.623 seconds). Jonathan Merrill provided the two-wheel highlight aboard his 2023 Yamaha R6, recording a 33.695-second run. Spectators were also treated to demonstration runs from the fan-favorite “Rexy”-liveried AO Racing Porsche, driven by IMSA star Gunnar Jeannette, along with tandem drifting exhibitions by GRIDLIFE drivers. “The Hillclimb has become a wonderful tradition at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, and it’s such a fun way to kick off an incredible week in Monterey,” said April Henderson, director of the Monterey Pre-Reunion, Corkscrew Hillclimb, and Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion. “We’re excited for another great day on Sunday and an incredible week at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion.” Racing action continues Sunday at the Monterey Pre-Reunion, leading directly into the 51st Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, Aug. 13–16, where more than 400 historic and period-correct race cars from nearly every era will take to the legendary California road course. View All Ferrari SF90 For Sale Images: Tony Campbell

A futuristic Buick Electra Orbit Concept car, where '50s Jet Age meets modern minimalism, is shown with open doors under vertical lights, a sleek two-seat interior, and an overhead view as it drives across sandy terrain.

By Khris Bharath – August 10, 2025

Buick Electra Orbit Concept: Where '50s Jet Age Meets Mod...

If you follow concept cars at all, you know that most of them never leave design studios or auto shows, and in some cases, they exist purely as digital renderings. GM is no stranger to concepts, and over the past month, we’ve seen some truly striking new creations, including the futuristic Corvette from its UK design studio and the California Corvette hypercar concept from its Pasadena studio. Buick’s latest Electra Orbit EV Concept continues this trend, and while it’s not headed for production, it does offer a glimpse of where Buick’s design is headed, especially in China, where the brand’s image is much stronger than in the United States. The Electra Orbit has some pretty substantial proportions and measures up at 19 feet long and 6.5 feet wide, with a 13.1-foot wheelbase. These dimensions put it strictly in limousine territory, conveying Buick’s focus on Chinese buyers, who value rear-seat comfort and presence in the luxury space. This is precisely why several global automakers tailor-make and engineer long wheelbase models, sold exclusively in China. Design-wise, the sleek silhouette exudes a hint of post-war ‘50s jet-age style meets mid-century modern sophistication. The Electra Orbit features a low front with six individual daytime running lights and a backlit Buick badge, some sharp creases along the sides that extend into the elongated tapered tail, and 24-inch wheels. The split retractable rear wing elements should aid stability, while a glass dome covers the entire cabin. This glass canopy roof isn’t just for show, as it allows natural light into the cabin, to make it appear roomy. A highlight: Step on board via scissor doors that open vertically, but in opposite directions, creating an unobstructed entry with no B-pillar. Inside, four individual seats are divided by a tall center console, emphasizing personal space. The curved dashboard wraps around the driver with multiple displays that can shift between a driver-focused layout or a simpler autonomous cruising mode. Controls revolve around a spherical interface on the center console, paired with a holographic display above the windshield. Now, given that this is purely a design study, Buick hasn’t shared powertrain or battery specifications. However, history suggests some elements could trickle down to future models. The 1956 Centurion concept previewed styling cues that lingered on Buick models for years. The 2016 Avista Concept never made production but influenced the front-end of the 2018 Regal GS. More recent concepts like the Electra X and Wildcat EV have also hinted at Buick’s evolving design direction. But coming back to why there is such significance for China. Besides VW, Buick was one of the earliest Western brands to enter the Chinese market, going back to the 1950s, and the American automaker is still regarded as a prestige marque post the SAIC GM partnership of 1997, with sales remaining strong as of Q2 2025. So for GM, China isn’t just a bigger market, but Buick’s lifeline, which is why, besides its design HQ in Detroit and several studio locations globally, the brand runs a design center in Shanghai focused on local tastes. The Electra Orbit concept is the perfect example of how automakers are increasingly designing for their strongest regions instead of a single global market. In the U.S., Buick’s current lineup predominantly focuses on SUVs, crossovers, and hybrids. The Encore GX and Envision lead sales with luxury, quiet cabins, and comfort. Buick no longer sells sedans here, reflecting changing consumer tastes. This portfolio of models contrasts with China, where larger sedans and extended-wheelbase models, and EVs, remain popular. The takeaway? The Electra Orbit won’t be on a driveway anytime soon, but parts of it could. Keep an eye on this concept, as it previews design cues that could shape Buick’s Chinese lineup over the next few years. View All Buicks For Sale " width="680"> Images Source: GM Design

By Khris Bharath – August 08, 2025

Garagisti & Co GP1 to Join the Elite Club of Modern Manua...

Manual V12s, be it in front-engine GT form or midships, have long been considered one of the most emotional and cherished automotive formats in history. The layout itself can be traced back to the 1960s and has long been the benchmark for driver engagement. But as modern emissions regulations and dual-clutch gearboxes took over, true analog V12s have lost relevance. However, a new wave of low-volume hypercars and restomods continues to keep the format alive today. British outfit, Garagisti & Co, is the latest to join that line-up of niche automakers. The company is the brainchild of Mario Escudero, a man who once racked up 8,078 miles in a single year driving his Lamborghini Countach. He founded Garagisti & Co. with one mission: to imagine what supercars might have become had the analog era continued to evolve. The GP1 is an all-carbon supercar that packs a good old naturally aspirated V12 with a manual transmission and no oversized screens in sight. At its heart lies a bespoke 6.6-liter V12 engine that produces 789 horsepower. Developed by Italian powertrain experts Italtecnica, known for their work on Maserati’s MC12 GT1, this flagship V12 powerplant is a nod to motorsport’s golden era, with dry-sump lubrication, gear-driven timing, and a 9,000 rpm redline. Power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission developed by Xtrac, a firm steeped in racing heritage. The GP1 weighs a claimed 2,205 pounds dry, thanks to its full carbon monocoque chassis. Ground-effect aerodynamics produce an impressive 1,874 pounds of downforce. For some context, that’s about the same as a 992.1 911 GT3 RS (at 177 mph), but unlike the Porsche, it produces that downforce without relying on massive wings or aggressive fins. The result is a clean, wedge-shaped form that is a nod to legends like the OG Lamborghini Countach LP500, the iconic Lancia Stratos Zero, and the Lamborghini Diablo, all of which were designed by the great Marcello Gandini. Angel Guerra, who styled the W16 Bugatti Mistral, the Bugatti Tourbillon, the Delorean DMC-12 reboot, and the all-electric Rimac Nevera, was responsible for designing the GP1. Its wide hips and aerodynamic cab-forward stance are retro-futuristic. Wheels come in two flavors: either a minimalist five-spoke design or teledial-inspired throwbacks. Inside, you find a driver-focused cockpit trimmed in leather and carbon fiber. Only 25 examples of the GP1s will be built, with each priced at $3.13 million before tax. The first 12 buyers will also get hands-on access to the engineering process. Now, although what we see here are digital renderings, engineering of the GP1 is well underway, with partners like Brembo and Öhlins on board. We recently reported on the upcoming Giamaro Katla, a purist quad-turbo V12 creation aimed squarely at the driver. It joins an elite group of modern manual V12 hypercars, including the Pagani Utopia, Gordon Murray Automotive T.33, Aston Martin Valour, and the TWR Supercat. While each takes a different approach, all share the same philosophy: put the driver back at the center of the experience. In that context, Garagisti & Co. is onto something and will join the aforementioned club of a small group of low-volume V12 manual supercars. View All Manuals Supecars For Sale Source: Garagisti & Co

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 08, 2025

The Most Expensive Aston Martins Of All Time

Unleashing the extravagance: the priciest Aston Martins ever made.

A black 2026 INFINITI QX80 SPORT Grade luxury SUV is parked in a studio setting, with soft lighting highlighting its front and side, truly upping the luxury game.

By Khris Bharath – August 07, 2025

2026 INFINITI QX80 Introduces SPORT Grade, Ups the Luxury...

The luxury SUV wars continue to heat up, and INFINITI appears to be firing on all cylinders. This is the 2026 QX80, an update of last year’s comprehensive redesign; sharper, sleeker, and more technologically advanced than ever before. Set to hit dealer lots in late summer 2025, the updated QX80 will take on other full-size SUV rivals like the Lexus LX, Mercedes GLS, Cadillac Escalade, and Lincoln Navigator. The 2025 model kicked off the third-generation QX80, ditching the thirsty and aging 5.6-liter V8 for a more frugal V6. It also introduced a clean-slate design language complete with a massive illuminated grille, full-width LED taillights, and an extensive on-board tech package with Google built-in services. This latest 2026 version builds on that. The big news this year? The first-ever QX80 to feature a SPORT grade, where Chrome has given way to sporting gloss black elements on the grille, mirror caps, roof rails, and badges. Slotting in between the LUXE and top-tier AUTOGRAPH trims, the SPORT model receives a subtle makeover for the front bumper, and the exclusive 22-inch wheels further amplify this new trim’s overall visual impact. The monochromatic design hits hardest when any of the available stealthy hues like Mineral Black, Radiant White, Grand Blue, or Dynamic Metal pairs with the optional Black Obsidian roof. "We know that luxury drivers are looking to make a bold entrance wherever they go, so for 2026, we are dramatically amplifying QX80's Artistry in Motion styling with a SPORT grade offering a sleek, darkened appearance." - Tiago Castro, vice president, INFINITI Americas. Inside, the transformation continues with the SPORT trim introducing a deep Dusk Blue cabin with dark matte chrome accents, open-pore wood, and diamond-perforated black and blue leather inserts. Tech remains a focal point across the range. Every model gets the twin 14.3-inch InTouch displays with Google integration, but the SPORT and AUTOGRAPH grades take it a step further. INFINITI claims that the segment-first 24-speaker Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system delivers a studio-grade listening experience. At the top of the lineup, the AUTOGRAPH trim goes all in: ProPILOT Assist 2.1, second-row massaging seats, touchscreen rear HVAC controls, a front console cool box, and more. It’s a showcase of what INFINITI calls “first-class comfort across all three rows.” Under the hood, all QX80 models carry forward the aforementioned 3.5-liter VR35DDTT twin-turbo V6 mill that produces 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, and pairs with a 9-speed automatic transmission. It’s a punchy and refined setup, now enhanced by Dynamic Digital Suspension and Electronic Air Suspension in upper trims for a smoother and composed ride. Despite the engine downsizing, towing hasn’t taken a hit. INFINITI claims the QX80 can still haul up to 8,500 pounds, making it a capable companion for trailers, boats, or large weekend toys. The AUTOGRAPH Lounge Concept Available across four trims, PURE, LUXE, SPORT, and AUTOGRAPH, the latter two, which are available exclusively with four-wheel drive, pricing for the facelifted QX80 starts at $83,750 for the base PURE rear wheel drive model and goes up to $111,500 for the fully loaded AUTOGRAPH four wheel drive variant. While the QX80 shares its updated platform and drivetrain with the 2026 Nissan Armada, it stands apart in execution. Where the Armada plays to the mainstream, the QX80 leans heavily on Japanese craftsmanship, distinctive design, and immersive tech. Yes, it may not have the brand cachet of other badges, but this latest QX80 does make a strong case for itself, undercutting most of its rivals. View All INFINITI QX80 For Sale Images Source: INFINITI

By Khris Bharath – August 04, 2025

Bold New Face: Electric GLC Ushers in a New Era of Merced...

Mercedes-Benz is reimagining one of its most recognizable and iconic front-end design elements. The debut of the upcoming all-new electric GLC will do more than launch another SUV; it will introduce a design revolution that sets the tone for a new generation of electric vehicles from the three-pointed star. The GLC, after all, is the German marque’s most popular model, outselling its competitors in the fiercely competitive compact luxury SUV segment. Right from the first glance, this new grille design, as with Mercedes tradition, continues to command attention. Gone is the purely functional radiator face of the outgoing model, and in its place is a striking chrome frame housing a smoked-glass lattice structure, now brought to life with integrated contour lighting. The upright shape is sleek and yet unmistakably Mercedes. That illuminated grille is also expressive. With the 942 backlit dots and an animated pixel display, the optional lighting package transforms the front fascia into a dynamic identity signature. The illuminated Mercedes-Benz star and glowing surround panel showcase a new era of Mercedes-Benz exterior design in the digital era. Compared to current EQ models like the EQB, EQC, the EQS sedan, and EQS SUV, which have leaned on soft, cab-forward forms with glossy black panel grilles, the upcoming GLC introduces a more pronounced and imposing upright front facia with this new backlit grille that carries a hint of heritage-infused visual drama and continues to build on Mercedes-Benz’s design philosophy, known as Sensual Purity. Speaking of heritage, Mercedes further emphasized that the grille has been a central design feature of its models since the early days. From the majestic and stately 600 Pullman to the refined S-Class sedans of the 1960s and everything in between, the Mercedes grille has gone through several iterations and has been a symbol of identity and prestige for its cars around the world. This new iteration honors that legacy while looking to the future. We’ve also seen hints of this grille on the recently unveiled Vision V concept. “Our new iconic grille redefines the face of our brand. It is the perfect fusion of lasting design codes reinterpreted for the future.” - Chief Design Officer Gorden Wagener. Underneath that futuristic skin is EQ Technology and MB.OS, Mercedes’ next-generation operating system that builds on MBUX and powers the interaction between occupants and the vehicle. In the upcoming CLA, MB.OS will make Mercedes-Benz the first automaker to natively integrate technologies like Microsoft Teams, 365 Copilot, and Intune directly into the vehicle. Most notably, MB.OS will also give the GLC and the future CLA a digital backbone that older EQ models simply don’t have. Where current EQ vehicles rely on legacy systems wrapped in modern UI, the all-electric GLC is purpose-built for AI, OTA updates, and deep software integration from the get-go. MB.OS also supports the optional MBUX Hyperscreen, the pillar-to-pillar immersive digital display system. The all-electric Mercedes-Benz GLC will make its global debut next month at the IAA Mobility Show in Munich on Monday, September 7, 2025. Watch this space. View All Mercedes-Benz Cars For Sale Source: Mercedes-Benz

Close-up view of a Bugatti's exterior, showcasing smooth green and black surfaces with a sharp panel line—hinting at the remarkable details of this one-off supercar ahead of its August 7 reveal.

By Khris Bharath – August 03, 2025

Bugatti Teases Mysterious One-Off Supercar Ahead of Augus...

Just when we thought Bugatti's Pïech-era W16 chapter might be closing with the Mistral, the French marque has dropped a mysterious teaser of a coachbuilt one-off hypercar, set to be unveiled this coming week on Thursday, August 7, just days ahead of an action-packed Monterey Car Week. Finished in a light hue of metallic green, the teaser clip doesn’t reveal much besides a sharply sculpted silhouette that conveys aerodynamic intent. A low-slung rear deck features what appears to be a twin-pane glass engine cover framed in matte black. The caption reads 'The art of coach building. It's been in our DNA for over a century. On August 7th, we will unveil our new chapter. Our latest Solitaire.' This bespoke build has been commissioned by Dutch entrepreneur Michel Perridon, founder of Perridon Holdings and a longtime Bugatti collector, with everything from pre-war greats like the Type 57G “Tank” to modern-day Bugattis like the EB110 and multiple versions of the record-breaking Veyron and Chiron. Given the ultra-exclusive nature of the models in his collection, you can expect more of the same from this upcoming coach-built one-off. Bugatti’s legacy in coachbuilding, of course, goes back nearly a century. In the 1930s, the marque produced iconic cars like the coveted Type 57SC Atlantic and the Type 41 Royale, while in the modern era, Bugatti has revived that spirit with the likes of the track-focused Divo (coming up for public auction at Monterey), and the one-off La Voiture Noire, inspired by Jean Bugatti’s long-lost black Atlantic. While Bugatti hasn’t officially revealed any details about the chassis, it is highly likely that this could continue to be based on the Chiron platform, given the fuel-consumption link shared in the post, which points to Chiron derivatives. But crucially, if Bugatti is still continuing to build bespoke W16-powered cars in 2025, long after announcing the end of W16 production, could this be the start of a new swan song series, before the hybrid era truly kicks off with the upcoming V16-powered Tourbillon? Whatever it is, we will find out this coming week. Watch this space. View All Bugattis For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by BUGATTI (@bugatti) Source: Bugatti

A white LEGO sports car with black details is displayed on a black background, accompanied by a LEGO figure in white. LEGO and Bugatti unite to celebrate the iconic Centodieci, bringing this legendary car to brick-built life.

By Khris Bharath – August 03, 2025

LEGO and Bugatti Unite to Celebrate the Iconic Centodieci

When the Bugatti Centodeici was conceived, only 10 examples were built at the French marque’s Molsheim Atelier to exacting bespoke standards, with each of them being a highly exclusive model sold to collectors. Now, a new 291-piece LEGO Speed Champions Bugatti Centodieci is an homage to the French hypercar and is giving the rest of us a chance to park one on our shelves. “The Bugatti Centodieci is among the most distinctive creations in our history. Thanks to our collaboration with the LEGO Group, more people than ever before can experience this extraordinary car.” - Wiebke Ståhl, Managing Director of Bugatti International S.A. Centodieci may sound exotic, but it simply translates to “one hundred and ten” in Italian, a nod to the 110th anniversary of Bugatti’s founding in 1909. Unveiled during Monterey Car Week in August 2019, the hypercar was also a tribute to the 1990s icon, the EB110, and it entered production in 2021 and wrapped up the following year. Wearing Quartz White paint, carbon-fiber trim, and a quilted Light Blue Sport leather interior, this Lego set is a tribute to that final Centodieci delivered in December 2022. At just over 6.0 inches long, 2.5 inches wide, and 1.5 inches tall, the model might be small and comparable to between 1:28 and 1:32 scale models, but the attention to detail is anything but. LEGO Designers worked on highlighting iconic Centodeici features like the five circular side air intakes, the aggressive overhanging rear wing, the horseshoe grille, the razor-sharp headlights, and even the four tailpipes stacked on either side of the aggressive rear diffuser. Unique wheels and a Bugatti-branded driver minifigure round out the package. Now, this isn’t LEGO’s first foray into Bugatti territory. Over the years, the LEGO Group has tackled multiple hypercars, including the extreme Bolide and even full-scale, drivable 1:1 models based on the Chiron and the Centodeici joins that legacy. “LEGO fans really appreciate aesthetic and detailed cars. With this set, they can build and display the Centodieci, a piece that embodies elegance and high performance.” - Michael Vanting, Marketing Lead at LEGO Speed Champions. Where the real Centodieci took months to build and cost millions, this one fits in your hand and sells for considerably less at $26.99. With a set like this one, the aim is to inspire the next generation of Bugatti enthusiasts. The LEGO Speed Champions Bugatti Centodieci is now available for purchase via the LEGO website and at LEGO stores globally. Shop Bugatti Centodeici Speed Champions LEGO Set Source: LEGO

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