The Car Thread ... !

[dontwalkhand]

2001 Nissan Xterra with over 200k miles

My 99 pathfinder I listed above has 242,000. AC stopped working and lots of parts falling off but still is a good work vehicle.

 

[dontwalkhand]

COROLLAAAAA. I drive a 2010 (MY11) Corolla Ascent Sedan Auto.

That photo isn't my car - mine is white.

Judging by the license plates, that looks like Australia. That looks nothing like US model Corollas. It looks better than the US models it looks like.

 

[npolly0212]

2015 Honda Accord

 

[oldmacs]

Judging by the license plates, that looks like Australia. That looks nothing like US model Corollas. It looks better than the US models it looks like.

Its the Australian model, but i thought the old sedan in the US looks almost the same...

The new Corolla sedan in the US looks very different to our current Corolla sedan though.

This is the Australian 2010 model:

This is the 2011? Corolla sedan from the US:

This is the current Australian Sedan:

This is the current US sedan:

 

[A.Goldberg]

2009 BMW 535i xDrive.

In the market for a new SUV, preferably diesel.

 

[Tech198]

car(s) ? I only drive one. because i only have one

Ford Lazar Sedan 1993.. (23 years old but its still going, just like i am) .

 

[oldmacs]

Ford Lazar Sedan 1993.. (23 years old but its still going, just like i am) .

Those Lasers go forever! What colour is yours? My friend's family always had a red one

 

[Tech198]

same color : red.

For some reason, i won't name names, "someone" keeps clearing it, so every-time i hop in i go blind.

 

[oldmacs]

For some reason, i won't name names, "someone" keeps clearing it, so every-time i hop in i go blind.

??

 

[dontwalkhand]

Its the Australian model, but i thought the old sedan in the US looks almost the same...

The new Corolla sedan in the US looks very different to our current Corolla sedan though.

This is the Australian 2010 model:

This is the 2011? Corolla sedan from the US:

This is the current Australian Sedan:

This is the current US sedan:

I don't get why car manufacturers can't just go the route of Apple. An iPhone in Australia looks like the one in Mexico which looks like the one in Canada which looks like the one in the US. It'd be nice to have access to the same cars.

 

[oldmacs]

I don't get why car manufacturers can't just go the route of Apple. An iPhone in Australia looks like the one in Mexico which looks like the one in Canada which looks like the one in the US. It'd be nice to have access to the same cars.

I think cars are a bit different to phones though Different markets, different requirements, different target buyers I guess are the reasons we get different cars around the world.

 

[lowendlinux]

Since we're telling what cars we own.

I have a 99 Wrangler my wife has a MY 14 116d

 

[imhereareyou]

I would not pay this much for a Porsche, but it does have a nice rear end, cant figure out how to save the pic from ebay, here is the listing : Expensive Porsche Car

 

[shftoptk]

my car: 07 5.4L Expedition. got tired of driving civics and corollas. Recently put some a/t's on it, much much much better than those soft pirelli tires ford puts on these.
Gold truck to match my gold iphone of course

Spoiler

 

[dontwalkhand]

Just picked up this beauty. 2007 Mercedes C280. I'm a Mercedes fan as much as I am an Apple fan.

 

[2298754]

http://www.jdpower.com/press-releases/2016-us-customer-service-index-csi-study

Automotive Recalls Drive Decline in Service Satisfaction, J.D. Power Study Says

Highest-Ranked Nameplates

Audi ranks highest in satisfaction with dealer service among luxury brands, with a score of 874. Following Audi in the luxury ranking are Lexus (869); Cadillac (863); Mercedes-Benz (857); and Jaguar and Lincoln in a tie (856 each).

MINI ranks highest in satisfaction with dealer service among mass market brands, with a score of 858. Rounding out the top five mass market brands in the ranking are Buick (849), GMC (830), Chevrolet (818) and Hyundai (814).

LOL FCA brands and Acura

 

[A.Goldberg]

http://www.jdpower.com/press-releases/2016-us-customer-service-index-csi-study

Automotive Recalls Drive Decline in Service Satisfaction, J.D. Power Study Says

LOL FCA brands and Acura

It's seems pretty difficult for a company like Acura to do so poorly in customer service. While reliability in probably indirectly factored in here, having halfway decent customer service should not be too difficult to achieve, especially in a "luxury" (a loose term i reference to Acura). Put a smile on and be accommodating. It shouldn't be too difficult.

 

[iLog.Genius]

Kind of surprising to see MINI up there.

 

[2298754]

It's seems pretty difficult for a company like Acura to do so poorly in customer service. While reliability in probably indirectly factored in here, having halfway decent customer service should not be too difficult to achieve, especially in a "luxury" (a loose term i reference to Acura). Put a smile on and be accommodating. It shouldn't be too difficult.

Yes, I agree with what you are saying.

However, I am shocked by BMW's ranking on this list. Even with poor customer service, their sales haven't been better. Also why are Jaguar and Land Rover given two different ratings? More often than not, they are sold together.
[doublepost=1458684694][/doublepost]http://www.clublexus.com/articles/kelley-blue-book-cant-get-enough-of-lexus/

Kelley Blue Book Can’t Stop Praising Lexus'

http://www.kbb.com/new-cars/brand-image-awards/best-overall-brand/

“Lexus has built its reputation on offering supreme luxury combined with incredible reliability, and it’s a combination that puts its brand at the top of all luxury brands. These days, Lexus is adding even more arrows to its quiver, with advanced infotainment systems, high-tech driver assistants and styling that turns heads in a way that Lexus cars and SUVs never have. It all comes together while maintaining the company’s focus on high quality and long-term value.”

 

[2298754]

https://www.alg.com/residual-value-awards.html

LR, Audi, and Lexus have the best luxury brand residuals. I'm pretty surprised that LR is #1.

 

[2298754]

http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthread.php?7761162-2017-Acura-MDX-Facelift-Ditches-the-Beak-Grille

2017 Acura MDX Facelift Ditches the Beak Grille

Mar 23, 2016 - NEW YORK
2017 MDX showcases new diamond pentagon grille first seen on the Acura Precision Concept
New Sport Hybrid powertrain delivers the ultimate in power and control while gaining 35 horsepower and anticipated to add 7 mpg to city fuel economy rating
AcuraWatch™ safety and driver assist technology to be offered as standard equipment on all 2017 MDX models
Acura today unveiled the restyled and refreshed 2017 MDX luxury SUV featuring bold new styling, added luxury features and available Sport Hybrid Super Handling-All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) powertrain technology. The 2017 Acura MDX will be equipped with AcuraWatch™ on all grades, making MDX the first luxury SUV in its class to offer these advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, including automatic emergency braking, as standard features. The 2017 MDX is slated to go on sale at Acura dealerships nationwide this summer and will be joined by the MDX Sport Hybrid later in the year.

Showcasing the new face of Acura, the restyled 2017 MDX is highlighted by the bold and distinctive diamond pentagon grille, first seen on the Acura Precision Concept that debuted at the North American International Auto Show in January. The new Acura grille is integrated with a more sharply sculpted hood, front fascia and front fenders coupled with new LED fog lights and restyled Jewel Eye™ headlights, which enhance the MDX's distinctive and sporting demeanor. A new chrome rocker panel design adds an element of contrast to the MDX's profile, while a revised rear bumper, body colored skid garnish and the addition of twin tailpipes further emphasizes the performance character of the 2017 Acura MDX.

"Upping the performance pedigree of the MDX with bold styling, our exclusive Sport Hybrid powertrain and the standard application of AcuraWatch technologies that many in the industry refer to as semi-autonomous, represents a major injection of Acura's Precision Crafted Performance DNA," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "These changes will continue to advance MDX's competitiveness and its legacy as the best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time."

All 2017 MDX models benefit from increased standard luxury and technology features, including an Electric Parking Brake with Automatic Brake Hold, Auto High Beam headlights, SiriusXM Radio® 2.0 and four 2.5-amp USB charging ports. Technology and Advance packages add Bi-Directional Keyless Remote Engine Start, two new 20-inch wheel and tireoptions, power folding side mirrors, and HD Traffic. In addition to these features, Advance grades add LED fog lights, genuine Olive Ash Burl or Black Limba wood interior trim, a heated steering wheel and Surround-View Camera System with six selectable viewing angles. Advance models can also be equipped with two second-row captain's chairs and a center console with two additional USB ports, replacing the three-person second-row seating found on lower grades. An ultra-widescreen Rear Entertainment System is also available on models with the Advance ENT Package.

MDX Sport Hybrid

The 2017 MDX Sport Hybrid is the third model to feature Acura's innovative three-motor Sport Hybrid SH-AWD powertrain, joining the Acura NSX supercar and RLX flagship sedan to deliver the ultimate in power and control. The 2017 MDX Sport Hybrid is powered by a 3.0-liter DOHC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM™) mated to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission (7DCT) with an integrated electric motor powering the front wheels, and a Twin Motor Unit with two electric motors providing power to the rear wheels. Additionally, the system delivers electrified torque vectoring for improved straight line performance and cornering precision in combination with all-wheel-drive power application. Peak powertrain output of 325 horsepower is up 35 horsepower over the non-hybrid model. The MDX Sport Hybrid is anticipated to receive EPA fuel economy ratings of 25/26/26 (city/highway/combined), an estimated 7-mpg city fuel economy rating increase over the (non-hybrid) MDX with SH-AWD.

The 2017 MDX Sport Hybrid will be available with Technology and Advance packages. Both add a new Active Sport Suspension that delivers improved ride quality, handling performance and is integrated with the Integrated Dynamics System featuring the dynamic modes of Comfort, Normal and Sport, and exclusive to Sport Hybrid models, a new Sport+ mode.

AcuraWatch Standard

All 2017 MDX models receive the AcuraWatch suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technology as standard equipment, including Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) with automatic emergency braking, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (LSF) and Road Departure Mitigation (RDM). AcuraWatch uses a millimeter wave radar and monocular camera sensing technology to detect other vehicles as well as lane markings and can help intervene to prevent or mitigate the severity of a collision. Moreover, with Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow and Lane Keeping Assist, AcuraWatch can significantly decrease the driver's workload during freeway cruising by maintaining a set speed and following interval, initiating both braking and throttle inputs, and adding steering input to help the driver maintain their position in the detected lane.

The Acura MDX is the best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time and Acura's best-selling SUV, with sales topping 50,000 units in each of the past three years. The 2017 MDX was designed by the Acura Design Studio in Torrance, Calif., developed and engineered at the R&D center in Raymond, Ohio, and will continue to be produced at the company's Lincoln, Ala. auto plant using domestic and globally sourced parts. In early 2017, an additional production source for MDX will be added at the East Liberty, Ohio auto plant.

This new styling is even worse than the beak. Not to mention, the NSX will already look outdated before it's even out yet. Acura has no idea what they're doing at all...

The Sport Hybrid powertrain is pretty interesting though
[doublepost=1458748997][/doublepost]Toyota Prius Prime plugs in with 22 EV miles

http://www.autoblog.com/2016/03/23/toyota-prius-prime-new-york-official/

Originally, the name "Prius" meant something like, "to go before." Toyota chose the name for it's first mass-market hybrid car to emphasize its gas-electric leadership. Today, Toyota is unveiling the second-generation of the Toyota Plug In Hybrid, and the name might as well mean, "to follow in others' footsteps." Say hello to the Toyota Prius Prime.

Starting with the revamped style of the fourth-gen Prius to a new extreme, the Prius Prime adds a bigger battery pack to the new look. The new powertrain means that the Prime can go up to 22 miles in electric mode. That's about a doubled improvement over the EV range of the first-gen Prius Plug-In, but it's small potatoes compared to the rest of the plug-in hybrid competition. The Chevy Volt gets 53 miles of EV range, the Hyundai Sonata Plug-In Hybrid can go 27 miles and even the modest Ford Energi models can go 20 miles. With the new Prius, Toyota is no longer in last place, but it's certainly not at the head of the pack.

The Prius Prime does do well in the miles per gallon equivalent race, though, with an estimated 120 MPGe. If that turns out to be accurate, then Toyota will be able to lay claim to the highest MPGe for any PHEV. Toyota isn't saying what the mpg rating will be once the 8.8-kWh battery runs out, but it does say it is, "targeting a hybrid MPG equal to or better than the Prius liftback." That means at least 54 mpg in the city, 50 on the highway, and 52 combined from the same 1.8-liter, Atkinson-cycle, four-cylinder engine found in the new Prius.

Speaking of the new Prius, apparently the Toyota designers were not as happy with that look as they might have been, since one of the most controversial aspects – the front end - has been radically changed. The spiky headlights are gone, replaced with the boxy ones from the hydrogen-powered Mirai. The taillights are also different in the Prime, as was teased last week. Inside, an 11.6-inch touchscreen dominates the center stack.

The Prius Prime name was outed last summer in a patent filing. The new PHEV will be available in the fall.

[doublepost=1458749345][/doublepost]http://www.autoblog.com/2016/03/23/2017-nisssan-gtr-new-york-official/

2017 Nissan GT-R gives Godzilla a meaner face, more bite

Since introducing the GT-R in 2007 as the brand's halo model, Nissan has never let its twin-turbocharged sports coupe go very long without an update. The more powerful, restyled 2017 model continues that constant evolution at the New York Auto Show. Now making 565 horsepower (20 hp more than the 2016) and 467 pound-feet of torque (a 4 lb-ft upgrade), the company's technological powerhouse arrives at dealers this summer.

To get the extra grunt out of the 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6, the GT-R's turbos now have more boost and each cylinder has individual ignition-timing control. A new titanium exhaust and Active Sound Enhancement should make the powerplant sound a little better, too. A six-speed dual-clutch gearbox continues to send power to the front and rear axles, but Nissan claims that refinements mean less noise and smoother shifts.

Several updates also make the 2017 GT-R more comfortable for long trips. Nissan says the retuned suspension offers a smoother ride. An acoustic glass windshield, new sound insulation, and Active Noise Cancellation allow for quieter cruising, too. Added rigidity in the body structure should continue the GT-R's reputation has a sharp handler, though.

Nissan accompanies these mechanical tweaks with a styling upgrade for Godzilla. The automaker's ubiquitous V-Motion grille is now larger at the front, which the company claims allows better engine cooling. Below it, the designers add a new lip spoiler and bumper, which look fantastic. The side sills are now a little wider to improve airflow, and the rear bumper has functional air vents on each side.

The 2017 GT-R's interior continues to move towards a more luxurious vehicle. There's now a seamless piece of Nappa leather for the dashboard and lighter front seats with new side bolsters, which Nissan claims are more comfortable on long drives. The eight-inch capacitive infotainment display is an inch larger than last year and combines the navigation and audio controls into a single unit. The change means the number of switches inside drops to 11 from 27 before. The company also moves the shift paddles to the steering wheel for easier mid-corner changes.

The next-generation GT-R isn't due until 2020 at the earliest and may take styling cues from the Concept 2020 Vision Gran Turismo. Until then, these upgrades for the 2017 model show that Nissan can continue to refine the latest model.

[doublepost=1458749759][/doublepost]http://www.autoblog.com/2016/03/10/2017-subaru-impreza-teaser/

All-new 2017 Subaru Impreza Sedan & 5-Door unveiled - Features sleek style, new in-car and safety technology, and a more spacious interior

2017 SUBARU IMPREZA TO DEBUT AT NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

 Reveal on March 23, 2016

 Completely redesigned for 2017

 Sedan and 5-door to debut

March 10, 2016 – Cherry Hill, N.J. – Subaru of America, Inc. announced today that the all-new 2017 Impreza will debut at the 2016 New York International Auto Show on March 23, 2016.

The Impreza has been completely redesigned inside and out, from upgraded in-car technology and a more spacious interior to its sleek new body design. The updated model will include signature Subaru features such as Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and award-winning safety technology.
Both the sedan and 5-door model will be unveiled at the press conference scheduled for 12:20 p.m. ET on March 23, 2016 at the Subaru display following a speech by Fuji Heavy Industries president & CEO, Yasuyuki Yoshinaga.

About Subaru of America, Inc.
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered at a zero-landfill office in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 620 retailers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit media.subaru.com.

[doublepost=1458750265][/doublepost]http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthre...rmance-to-NY-with-the-2017-Audi-R8-Spyder-V10

Audi Brings Performance to NY with the 2017 Audi R8 Spyder V10

New Audi R8 Spyder V10: debut at the New York International Auto Show

V10 engine developing 397 kW (540 hp), from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 3.6 seconds
New: driving dynamics system with performance mode
Audi Space Frame with 50 percent improvement in rigidity

397 kW (540 hp), from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 3.6 seconds, top speed 318 km/h (197.6 mph) – the new Audi R8 Spyder* with V10 naturally aspirated engine merges impressive performance with the allure of open-top driving. Its striking design and high-end technologies demonstrate the concentrated expertise of the premium brand. Audi is unveiling its new open high-performance sports car at the New York International Auto Show 2016.

"With its spontaneous throttle response, quick revving-up and inimitable sound, the 5.2 FSI naturally aspirated engine in the new Audi R8 Spyder delivers undiluted emotion," remarked Dr.-Ing. Stefan Knirsch, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development. "Compared to the R8 Coupé*, the engine sound in the open high-performance sports car now delivers an even more intense experience."

Typically Audi: the lightweight cloth hood
The R8 Spyder has a lightweight cloth hood tapering into two fins. These stretch the cloth so that it, along with the large hood compartment cover, harmonizes perfectly with the athletic design of this high-performance sports car. An electro-hydraulic drive opens and closes the hood in 20 seconds up to a speed of 50 km/h (31.1 mph). The rear window, sunk into the bulkhead, can be retracted and extended. With all windows up, the air stream strokes the body with a minimum of turbulence.

Aluminum and carbon fiber components: the new Audi Space Frame
Dry, the two-seater weighs just 1,612 kilograms (3,553.9 lb). Its strong backbone is the newly developed Audi Space Frame (ASF) using the multi-material construction principle, made from aluminum and carbon fiber.

The aluminum components make up 79.6 percent of its weight. In a progression from the R8 Coupé, they form a lattice that Audi's engineers have used to incorporate specific reinforcements especially into the sills, A-posts and windscreen frame. Innovative manufacturing methods lower the weight of individual components by up to ten percent. As a result, the highly rigid body weighs a mere 208 kilograms (458.6 lb), and its torsional rigidity has increased by over 50 percent compared with the previous model.

Strong motorsport DNA: the V10 power unit
The mighty mid-engine with dual injection system sets the tone in the new Audi R8 Spyder V10. The naturally aspirated 5.2-liter engine has a dynamic throttle response. Its roar – which can be optionally amplified by a sport exhaust system with gloss black tailpipe trims – is goosebump-inducing. 397 kW (540 hp) of power and 540 Nm (398.3 lb-ft) of torque at 6,500 rpm deliver phenomenal road performance: from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 3.6 seconds, and a top speed of 318 km/h (197.6 mph). Efficiency technologies such as the new freewheeling mode, where the R8 coasts with the engine decoupled, also promote fuel efficiency by ten percent compared with the predecessor model. The new R8 Spyder consumes 11.7 liters per 100 kilometers (20.1 US mpg), corresponding to 277 grams CO2 per kilometer (445.8 g/mile).

Stability and dynamics: quattro drive
Behind the V10 there is a seven-speed S tronic with lighting-fast action, which the driver controls electrically – by wire. The dual-clutch transmission directs forces to a newly designed quattro drive system with an electro-hydraulically activated multi-plate clutch at the front axle. The all-wheel clutch, watercooled for maximum performance, distributes the drive torques fully variably according to the driving situation – in extreme cases, up to 100 percent to the front or rear wheels. The intelligent control system is incorporated into the Audi drive select system, which offers four modes ranging from overtly dynamic to comfort-oriented. In conjunction with the optional R8 performance leather steering wheel, three more driving programs are available: dry, wet and snow. They make handling even more precise and stable, to match the specific conditions of the road being traveled.

Focus on the driver: the controls
The controls place the focus squarely on the driver, who can operate all important functions with the multifunction and satellite push-buttons without having to take their hands off the steering wheel or look away from the road. The large 12.3-inch, fully digital Audi virtual cockpit presents all information using rich 3D graphics – if desired, in a special performance view that includes driving dynamics information. The intuitively operated MMI navigation plus with MMI touch is standard, as are belt microphones. These make it even easier to use natural-language voice control and the phone. MMI search, which makes search suggestions after input of just the first few letters, offers a shortcut to the required information.

High bandwidth: infotainment and Audi connect
With the Audi smartphone interface, a new technology makes its entrance in the R8 Spyder. This makes it possible to display selected content from the smartphone directly in the Audi virtual cockpit. From the middle of this year, this option will also be available for the R8 Coupé. Audi phone box can also be supplied. It connects mobile phones to the car aerial and charges them inductively. Audi connect gets the R8 Spyder on the Internet via LTE and provides a wide range of services – from online media streaming to real-time traffic information. The Bang & Olufsen Sound System is another highlight: For the first time, Audi integrates two head restraint loudspeakers into each seat, for an excellent audio experience even when driving with the hood open.

No compromises: build quality and equipment
The build quality of the new R8 Spyder, which is extensively hand-built at a manufactory near Neckarsulm, is of the highest standard. The driver and passenger sit on sport seats or bucket seats with a more highly contoured seat shape, for superior lateral support. Over and above the extensive standard equipment, customers have almost unlimited scope to tailor both the interior and exterior to their individual preferences. Add-on body components such as the front spoiler, the diffuser and the new sideblades are also available in carbon. LED headlights with newly developed laser technology maximize visibility and range for the driver, bringing increased safety at night.

[doublepost=1458750322][/doublepost]Lincoln reignites the Navigator with bold concept

http://www.autoblog.com/2016/03/23/lincoln-navigator-concept-new-york-official/

The Lincoln Navigator's demise has been greatly exaggerated, and nearly 20 years after it first revolutionized the luxury segment, a new generation of the iconic sport-utility vehicle will again point the way forward for the brand.

Previewed by a concept at the New York Auto Show, the new Navigator will hit showrooms next year joining the much-anticipated Continental sedan as Lincoln's twin flagships. The concept is "a very strong" hint of what the production Navigator will look like, Lincoln president Kumar Galhotra said.

He's referring to the general appearance of the tall concept, which is confident, creased, and a bit reminiscent of a Range Rover. There are huge wheels, lots of chrome, and "Navigator" spelled out in blocked capital letters over the fender vents. It runs a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 making 400 horsepower and will ride on a new chassis, though Galhotra wouldn't offer more details.

Oh, and it has gullwing doors. The crowd audibly oohed and aahed when that feature was demonstrated at a preview event in New York, but those are purely for show. They won't be on the production model, Galhotra said, and they're meant to demonstrate the spacious cabin. "The nature of the vehicle is very important ... and it's a great way to showcase that interior," he said.



The inside of the concept is an interesting place. It has a rear cargo area that doubles as a closet, complete with shelves that make up a wardrobe management system, and there's a rail running down the middle of the passenger area. A multi-level running board cascades forward when the gullwing doors open, and the six seats are adjustable 30 ways. There are also wifi-equipped touchscreen monitors mounted in the seat backs.

Inside and out, the Navigator carries a nautical vibe. It's covered in a soft shade of blue paint, while the interior has blue leather and teak accents.

The Navigator concept features some of Ford's semi-autonomous technology, including pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection. The radar-and-camera-based system will look for obstacles in the vehicle's path, warn the driver, and then brake if needed. It also has a 360-degree camera and lane-keeping assist. Look for all of this on the production model.

Launched in 1997, the Navigator is one of the original all-American large luxury SUVs – the Cadillac Escalade didn't arrive until 1999. The Navigator received a refresh for the 2015 model year, but has largely languished as Lincoln refreshed and expanded the rest of its lineup. Lincoln sales are up 19 percent this year, but the Navigator has slipped 6.8 percent. Now Lincoln has decided it's time to remake one of its icons. "It is our most-recognized nameplate," Galhotra said. With gullwing doors, dramatic styling, and an elegant interior, the Navigator will also likely be one of the most talked-about vehicles at the New York show.

Lincoln Navigator Concept sprouts gullwing doors and an even roomier cabin - YouTube

Looks like a Range Rover from the back and side

 

[D.T.]

This new styling is even worse than the beak. Not to mention, the NSX will already look outdated before it's even out yet. Acura has no idea what they're doing at all...

Whew, that was a heck of a post edit

Yeah, the MDX is such a painfully mediocre-at-best design, don't get me wrong, it's outstanding mechanically. It's such a little potato, the wheels are too small, the proportions are goofy, ugh ...

2017 Nissan GT-R gives Godzilla a meaner face, more bite

Looks like more luxury too, full leather, with some optional trims, some nice looking carbon. That's probably not a bad way to go, it's not meant as a lightweight sportscar, it's a super GT, it's like the Turbo/Turbo S, AWD, fast as hell, accommodates all weather.

Honestly, if I had to have a hardtop, I'd take this over a C7Z06 hands down (they only car I can think of in kind of the same performance/price/prestige segment - maybe some of the Mercedes or Jaguar high[er] performance coupes around $100-110K). I know it looks like a transformer, but there's something about the GT-R that pushes my buttons.

 

[2298754]

Whew, that was a heck of a post edit

I don't think anyone can say this is nice looking with a straight face

Looks like more luxury too, full leather, with some optional trims, some nice looking carbon. That's probably not a bad way to go, it's not meant as a lightweight sportscar, it's a super GT, it's like the Turbo/Turbo S, AWD, fast as hell, accommodates all weather.

The new interior is great, but I hate the cheap looking NAV screen. The old one was far better integrated into the interior.

Honestly, if I had to have a hardtop, I'd take this over a C7Z06 hands down (they only car I can think of in kind of the same performance/price/prestige segment). I know it looks like a transformer, but there's something about the GT-R that pushes my buttons.

Too bad the Z06 is overstyled. It's a great car!

 

[D.T.]

The new interior is great, but I hate the cheap looking NAV screen. The old one was far better integrated into the interior.

Too bad the Z06 is overstyled. It's a great car!

Yeah, that's a peculiar choice, seems like since it's standard, they could've wrapped the dash over/around it. The design is almost like it's supposed to drop down into the dash (but clearly it doesn't).

You know, I also kind of keep forgetting the Z06 now had a targa roof and an automatic option, so it gives you the option for some roof off experience and the convenience of not having to shift (or a non-manual user driving it). Though I'd say the GT-R DCT is probably better, plus it's a 2+2 and AWD. I guess my point is, I said I'd take the GT-R, but the choice might be more difficult

I bet the Z06 gets the new 10-speed next model year (like the new ZL-1), and that tranny is actually a GM/Ford joint development, so Ford will be getting it next year too, I think the F150 is already on deck to use it, but I'm hearing the next generation GT500 will make use of it too, which is kind of a major thing as it was a manual only car for years (like the pre-C7 Z06).

[if I may continue to be tangential ...]

I'm having a blast with the manual in my GT, especially with the 3:73 gears, but in a couple of years, if the GT500 offers a 10-speed auto, and continues to offer it in a convertible, I could see that as my next ride. Especially if the ~740HP TT V8 rumors hold true

 

[quagmire]

I'll take the C7 Z06 over the GT-R. Same reason why I would take the C6 Z06/ZR1 over the GT-R, you're more involved where the GT-R's computers is the reason for its great performance.