With four electric motors on board delivering a total output of 552 kW, this “zero-emission” car with gull-wing doors is the world’s most powerful electric vehicle. It leaps from 0 to 100 km/hr in only 3.9 seconds and chalks up a top speed of 250 km/hr. “Driving Performance”… More than a slogan, the(...)

A generous passenger compartment mounted on a super-powerful engine... The stage is set. The bonnet is long and lithe, while the convex radiator grille recalls the close relationship that exists between the limousine and the current Quattroporte and GranTurismo. Its V8 biturbo engine propels it to t(...)

“Some dreams just never leave you. That of driving a sports car unique in its kind, powerful and silent, through fantastic scenery ; that of tasting the unique enjoyment of driving characterized by precision, acceleration and smoothness, in symbiosis with Nature. The America was born for wide open s(...)

Jaguar, which pioneered the use of the mono-bodyshell, is a past-master in aluminium. Light and rigid, the structure is fitted with front and rear double A-arm suspension, also in cast alu­minium, and a direct steering rack, all attributes guaranteeing instant response. On the scales, it weighs in a(...)

On the far side of the Atlantic, two celebrities have apparently been glimpsed behind the wheel of a Fisker Karma : Leonardo di Caprio and Justin Bieber. The teenagers’ idol is said to own a chrome model with fuchsia LEDs. Given that it is 5 metres long with a 3-metre wheelbase and 22-inch wheels, i(...)

Sandwiched between the Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo, the second-generation Cayenne GTS deserves it place in the Porsche range, contrary to what some people seem to think, even going as far as to call it a “stop-gap”. In fact, this model reveals real personality which in itself suffices to justify its(...)

It’s true that the fixed roof and butterfly doors on the 2009 coupé version have disappeared, which may sadden those with nostalgia for the model. But they will probably be consoled on learning that this has in no way affected the car’s stability and even less, its charm… To obtain dynamic driving i(...)

The first Boxster did not win unanimous approval from Porsche enthusiasts. It wasn’t until it was up-dated in 2005 that they finally accepted the model. In fact, the number of cars produced since its launch is very telling. The adjective “legendary” is now fully justified. The wheelbase of the lates(...)

A really compact model, the Evoque proposes a wide choice of colours and materials, not forgetting high-level technology and interior design bearing the stamp of elegance. As bold as one could wish, it clearly asserts its personality. As demonstrated at motor shows, in Paris and Los Angeles, where i(...)

Two years after the Berlinetta, the 458 Italia has gone topless. Offering improved thermal and noise insulation, the hard-top roof weighs 25 kg less than a traditional soft-top version and deploys silently in just 14 seconds. The cherry on the cake : once stored in front of the engine bay, it takes (...)

Its sleek curves reflect the breathtaking performance and agility of this model sporting the four linked rings. Wide curved air intakes, elongated back, a muscular profile… The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro is certainly not lacking in personality. For the rear flanks, priority has been given to a (...)

As in every other summer, driving with one’s hair in the wind has its fans. The 6 Series first appeared in 1976. Today, BMW presents its third generation. A milestone crossed first as a convertible before commercialisation of the coupé was launched. “Elegant, racy, sporty and sensual” : once again, (...)

In the car industry, an unprecedented item of equipment is often an infallible selling point. The SLK Class has its own, becoming the world’s first vehicle to feature a retractable panoramic roof with Magic Sky Control which, with just one touch, opens or closes at will. The standard 4 and 6 cylinde(...)

Jaguar is proud of its new flagship model : the XKR-S joins the very closed circle of luxury super GTs, a market segment hitherto unexplored by the illustrious British brand. Recalibrated and supercharged, the AJ-V8 Gen III R direct-injection engine delivers 550 hp and torque of 680 Nm. It leaps fro(...)

By way of introduction, Porsche naturally addressed the power-to-weight ratio of this 2-seater sports coupé. Rather than offering its new model - presented in November at the Los Angeles Motor Show and on the road as of February, 2011 - still more horsepower, it has significantly lightened the load.(...)

For the first time in its history, the Mini offers four doors and a rear that opens up to provide generous space. While passenger comfort is a prime concern, “go-kart” sensations to which the brand’s addicts have become accustomed have been preserved thanks to the Mini ALL4 all-wheel drive system, a(...)

7 minutes 18 seconds suffice to lap the north track of the Nürburgring. A piece of information that makes steering-wheel addicts sit up and listen. Others, more attracted by the looks and image afforded by a car bearing the Porsche logo, ponder the 620 hp, 1,370-kilo curb weight, the 3.5 secs. neede(...)

Today’s trend is eco-friendly and the automotive sector is no exception. After being “smart”, the home is now becoming an energy-saver, while the car is expected to respect the environment. Except that ecological awareness has sprung up at a time when everyone just adores 4WDs, renowned for their ex(...)

Rumors are rife : Porsche is waiting until it has convinced a thousand customers to launch production of the 918 Spyder. Nine hundred have apparently already yielded to the siren’s charms. But there’s a total black-out as regards the price. So what is in fact known about this high-performance sports(...)

Did Bentley actually need another supercar ? Not an important question, though the answer is “yes”. Its name, “Supersports”, is directly inspired by the Bentley Supersports of 1925, a charming reference to the past and a car that reached 160 km/hr, a remarkable feat for its time. Today’s version att(...)

Why tag “Italia” onto its name ? A matter of pride, apparently. And to reflect the blatant patriotic fervour, now evident with Ferrari. As to the first part of its name, it simply refers to the engine, an eight-cylinder 4.5 litre. This new “bomb”, which thus succeeds the F430, is unprecedented : new(...)

At first glance, everything depends on its proportions and shape. Normal, a Porsche is expected to have “sturdiness and stature”. The Panamera Turbo is no exception to the rule, displaying its power and elegance without ostentation. 5 metres long with low, elongated design, it offers a timeless silh(...)

The challenge set by Bugatti was to create the fastest convertible in the world. The response to that challenge goes by the name of Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport, a car that observes every single principle of technology and esthetics advocated by Ettore Bugatti in the late 1920’s. A roadster thus true to (...)

At the last Paris Motor Show, the brand with wings covered its new gem with a tarpaulin. The One-77 was therefore eagerly awaited in Geneva. It kept its appointment and surprised more than just a few. Good-bye to typical British phlegm, hello to the passion for real driving. Those who acclaimed Engl(...)

If Lamborghini wanted to enrich its range with an exceptionally purist flagship model, it has reached its goal. By honing the Murciélago, the car with the famous bull logo has reached new peaks. This super-sports model, of which only 350 copies will be released, from May 2009 to April 2010, has an o(...)

Just 70 years ago, Maserati won its first victory at Indianapolis. The release of the Quattroporte Sport GT S naturally coincides with this anniversary and takes on an extra dimension in the world of automobiles. Crisis ? Maserati cocks a snook at the idea with its successor to the Quattroporte S, s(...)

Since 2005, we’ve heard the most incredible rumours. Rough sketches, stolen photos, the Panamera has unwittingly fueled a real controversy. Was Porsche finally going to unveil its new 4-door vehicle and, if so, when ? We’ve had to wait until winter 2008 to discover it. Fans of the legendary 911 will(...)

For Alfa Romeo has decided to produce just 500 models, as it did for the coupé version. The 8C Spider, also known as the exceptional new “fold-back”, will thus be available at the beginning of next year, but in a very limited edition. A rare pearl. Characterized by typically trans-Alpine elegance, s(...)

Prepare to take the wheel of a car truly unlike any other, a unique model, from the worlds of racing and the movies. An atypical combination which makes it something of a phenomenon. Professionals compare it to a super DB9, even sleeker, more sculptural too, with an engine-block revisited. It has th(...)

Agile and charismatic, this is Jaguar’s first sports saloon to dare offer such innovative design. Clearly inspired by coupés, its silhouette hosts a spacious interior (with four doors) capable of accommodating five adults. Which certainly hasn’t prevented it from playing with the sensuality of its p(...)

Introducing the world’s first Sports Activity Coupé ! A free and unique interpretation of the performance and characteristics of a powerful coupé combined with the sportiest version of a BMW X model. A première !... With the X6, the 3-letter brand is launching a new category for automobiles, a t(...)

As with all concept cars, the F 700 will never see the light of day. But it heralds the Mercedes of tomorrow. A joyride into the future… This luxury touring sedan gives new insight into Mercedes models, both esthetically and technically, for the years to come. When will we be able to benefit from(...)

Launched by Lexus at the last trade-show in Détroit, it boasts a dash and an “F” (for “flagship” or “fast”, whichever you prefer…), plus a dash of real temperament. If Lexus has so far been synonymous with luxury, quietness and ecology, we now have to add aggressiveness. This beauty has no time for (...)

Porsche already had its coupé, it now offers a 2+2 convertible. Which naturally perpetuates the Porsche tradition and retains a classic soft top. A successful blend of a high-performance sports car and an authentic convertible, the 911 Turbo has a soft, sensual silhouette which hardly hides its many(...)

Audi’s first sports car with a central engine proves itself as a worthy heir to models bearing the same name which shone in the 24 Hours event in Le Mans from 2000 to 2004. When you first see it, compact is the first word that springs to mind. This lovely sports car gives the immediate impression(...)

Even more regal than its predecessor, the new X5 offers unequalled prestige and dynamism in the SAV category. Victory ! BMW has carried off the challenge of attaining even higher levels of power distribution, agility and suspension comfort. As a result, the new X5 deserves all the superlatives, (...)

The new Audi S3 is due to arrive in December. A very sporty model that sets the bar even higher than that of its predecessor. From the very first glance, one sees that this 3-door model hides none of its dynamism nor its resulting potential. The front bumper is fitted with a spoiler with large a(...)

The German brand is enriching the segment devoted to luxury all-terrain vehicles. Its latest star offering : the Mercedes GL-Class. A sumptuous Indian summer for Mercedes-Benz which is launching its successor to the legendary G-Class with a more modern design and a “more civilized” look. This SU(...)

Three years after the Continental GT coupé and one year after the Continental Flying Spur, here comes the 2+2 convertible. An elegant model offering real luxury. At Bentley Motors, they don’t beat about the bush : “The Continental GTC is the sleekest Bentley ever”. With evidence to prove the poi(...)

With this model, the German manufacturer scores a world première : a 5-piece folding glass roof. A breezy innovation… Its name recalls the Greek goddess of the dawn : according to legend, Eos rises each morning with her team of horses from the depths of the sea, to bring light to mere mortals. W(...)

Lithe and powerful, this new generation convertible is just perfect for spring ! This outstanding car is a cocktail of four basic components : spearhead technology, refined power, dramatic styling and luxury that can be called distinctive. Its designers have taken advantage of research carried out (...)

On June 24th, the sixth generation of Porsche’s star model will start burning up the tarmac. Hold on to your hats ! Sixty hp more than its predecessor, ie. 480 hp today, and engine torque raised from 560 to 620 Nm, these are the two main improvements made to the 911 Turbo (type 997). Though you (...)

“No compromise” for this Grand Touring 4-door saloon. That was the guiding principle And the result is a model of rare elegance reflecting the spirit of perfection which is the hallmark of Bentley. With its undeniably strong personality, the Continental Flying Spur is a surprising sports model w(...)

On the highway, it handles like a sports car. On uneven terrain, it becomes a real SUV. In fact, the Q7 is all about performance… It’s completely at ease in all situations, especially the most difficult ones. In terms of looks, it’s unmistakably an Audi : a very rounded profile, a sleek structur(...)

This Grand Sports Tourer is a station wagon, SUV, sedan and monospace all in one : in other words, multi-facetted. To be revealed in early 2006… Versatile, dynamic, a blend of cool design and panoramic space, the new R-Class is about to revolutionize 2006. For more reasons than one. First of a(...)

Sportier than the 5 Series Touring, more elegant than the Z4 or 1 Series, it achieves a perfect balance between looks, practicality and comfort… Everything about it is BMW, and it has kept the overall feel that characterizes this great family. But it’s distinctive too, and isn’t afraid of flaunt(...)

Take a look at the world’s first high-performance hybrid SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) ! Already a champion, from all points of view… Its predecessor, the RX 300, was elegant. And the RX 400h is a genuine Lexus, though it offers a certain number of stylistic modifications. All enhancements, of cour(...)

It will take to the roads next autumn, so you’ll have to show patience until then. But it’ll be worth it. Proof in words and images… Here comes Porsche’s brand new 6-cylinder sports coupé. A dynamic 2-seater endowed with all the assets to play the starring role. Take a closer look. It bears the (...)

Meet the world’s best-selling 2-seater convertible : there are over 700,000 Mazda MX-5s buzzing around roads all over the world. A success story… The MX-5 is based on the “Jinta Ittai” concept, which translates into “the rider who is one with his steed”. A bit like a centaur ! The manufacturer’s (...)

Exciting - some say extravagant -, the latest offering from Mercedes swings from dynamic to suave. A paradox explained… Are you familiar with the “3D” effect ? Dimensions, Design, Dynamism… Car designers have realised that our values, lifestyles, interests and even aims have changed rapidly thes(...)

An ideal leisure vehicle, this model intended for family use or long excursions with (sporty) pals is nevertheless right at home in the city. What distinguishes the new Audi A6 Avant from the saloon ? In fact, very little… The estate car has the same chassis and engine versions (three petrol and (...)

This new “Grand Tourism” SUV has made its mark as a truly excellent off-road vehicle. Which is just as capable of impressive performances - back on the road ! “We designed it to be a more “civilized” alternative to existing 4WDs,” explains Range Rover's General Director, Matthew Taylor. Which mea(...)

This roadster is undoubtedly the most innovative car of the year. Even more powerful than its predecessor, it is also more elegant and therefore more appealing. Eight years have already gone by since the SLK appeared on the international scene. Last spring saw the arrival of the second generatio(...)

The challenge taken on by Mercedes was to combine the elegance and sportiness of a coupé with the practical features of a saloon. A challenge won hands down ! The first car to bear the Mercedes name was born in 1901. Since then, innovation has always been a vital concern, as shown by a few signif(...)

The 2005 vintage flaunts a new look. Offering higher security, it is a model of its kind. Just take a look… The physical changes are legion. The larger wheels give added emphasis to the overall silhouette. The nose has totally original headlights and one immediately notices the door mirrors, enla(...)

Lexus has gone for excellence. Its RX 300 is thus endowed with all the attributes to draw fans of 4WDs, combining efficiency and refinement. The enthusiasm of designer Takumi Ichikawa no doubt explains its overall allure. He has drawn inspiration from the dynamic shape of airplanes for the extern(...)