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  • Behind the Wheel: 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-300 – The Lux Cut

    Behind the Wheel: 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-300

    by
    November 21, 2022
    Mercedes-Benz

    Auto Editor

    The Mercedes-Benz C-Class, for some time now, has relied too much on brand cachet, rather than its stand-alone merits as a high-quality and compelling vehicle. To stay relevant in the conversation around sporty European luxury sedans that are priced under $50,000, you’ll need more than a reputation to be successful. Luckily, with some important changes for 2022, the C-300 has made major strides to earn its spot next to the likes of the Audi A4 and BMW 330i.

    Sleek and Sexy are already two words that immediately come to mind when describing the Mercedes-Benz C-300. All the more when factoring in the reasonably priced AMG visual package. Where the front air dam, flared side sills and rear valance are even more aggressively sculpted. The chrome diamond-block grille further sets the AMG line apart, as do the 18” 5-spoke wheels. Not content to be a visual enhancement only, the AMG package bumps up the performance with sport brakes, suspension and steering. On the inside, brushed metal pedals and a thick, flat-bottom steering wheel dial in the look to a perfect finish. 

    The visual redesign, especially with the AMG enhancements, are not the only thing helping the C-300 reenter the luxury sport sedan conversation. A larger back seat may not sound exciting, but in the day-to-day, is a very big deal. What will really quicken the pulse is the intercooler, twin-scroll turbocharger bolted to the 2.0 4-cylinder. Spooling out an impressive 273 lb-ft of torque at a low 1,800 RPMs. Plenty of power for strong acceleration from a stand-still or for quick highway overtakes. 

    All those ponies are dished out through a highly responsive 9-speed automatic transmission. This light, efficient transmission will smoothly blip through its many gears all on its own, or by your command via the paddle shifters or hand-operated electronic gear selector. Since the 48-volt electrical architecture can provide a quick burst of power and torque, the C-300 powertrain is considered a mild hybrid and is a brand-new power configuration in the C-300. Mercedes-Benz reports a 0-60 time of 5.5 seconds. Not bad at all for a car as heavy as the C-Class. Allowing it to comfortably keep pace with its competition, with arguably a bit more style. 

    Under hard cornering loads and aggressive driving, the C-300 feels tight and in complete control. Just as impressive though is how comfortable it is under normal driving conditions. Even with the AMG improvements to the suspension, the big wheels and lower profile rubber; the C-300 soaks up road imperfections and does its best to provide comfort and compliance first. An important characteristic of any luxury sport sedan is that it feels expensive. In this, the C-300 emerges victorious.

    See Also
    Behind the Wheel: 2022 Lexus LC 500

    Perhaps one of the best reasons to consider the Mercedes-Benz C-300 over its European luxury counterparts, are the plethora of standard tech and luxury options available even in its base trim. Active emergency braking, radar cruise control, and attention assist are all standard. So is the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.25-inch high-res center display. A sunroof, power-operated trunk and blind-spot monitors are all part of the base package as well.

    As is the case with any German luxury brand, adding anything on top, will quickly cause the price to soar. The 4Matic AWD system tacks on $2,000. The AMG package is a reasonable but still considerable $1,750. Any color besides white and black will set up back an additional $750. There’s a Night Package, Parking Assist package, Multimedia package and more, that will eagerly tease more money from your bank account. In base trim though, you get a lot. Combine this fact with the sharp styling, strong engine, dynamic handling and a more spacious back seat, and it becomes easy to see that the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has earned its seat at the table.

    Starting MSRP: $43,550.00

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  • Splitting Volts: Reviewing the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS and EQB – The Lux Cut

    Splitting Volts: Reviewing the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS and EQB

    by
    November 9, 2022
    Mercedes-Benz

    Auto Editor

    It’s no surprise that the Mercedes-Benz EQS Sedan was one of our absolute favorite tests in 2022. With its state-of-the-art technology, sleek exterior styling, and jaw-dropping interior design, we were completely smitten. We were also left thirsty for the same type of formula to be applied to something with a bit more ground clearance and cabin space. It would seem that Mercedes was always a couple of moves ahead, delivering for 2022 not one, but two EV SUV options. The perfectly priced, entry-point model called the EQB, and the no-holds-bar, everything you thought you needed, and more EQS SUV. What does paying double really get you? Let’s break down the two models and see for ourselves.

    Looking at some important specs first:

    Mercedes-Benz EQB

    Starting MSRP – $54,500.00

    Battery capacity – 70.7 kWh

    Range – 243 miles

    Charging from 10-80% – 32 min

    Power – 225 hp / 288 lb ft of torque

    Acceleration 0-60 – 7.0 sec

    Dimensions nose to tail – 182.4”

    Cargo capacity – 22-62 cubic ft

    Mercedes-Benz EQS

    Starting MSRP – $104,400.00

    Battery capacity – 108.4 kWh

    Range – 305 miles

    Charging from 10-80% – 31 min

    Power – 355 hp / 419 lb ft of torque

    Acceleration 0-60 – 6.5 sec

    See Also
    Behind the Wheel: 2022 Mercedes-Benz S580

    Dimensions nose to tail – 201.8”

    Cargo capacity – 23-74 cubic ft

    Some expected findings float to the top here. The Mercedes-Benz EQS may cost nearly double when compared to the starting MSRP of the EQB, but the base specs build a strong case for why. Extra range, way more power, faster acceleration and a longer wheelbase, translating to more leg room and cargo capacity. These important differentiators are only the beginning. 

    On the outside, the EQB shows off a design that’s handsome but simple. Squared off, with 18” wheels, a panoramic sunroof and LED lights at all four corners. Good looking as it is, it doesn’t come close to capturing your attention like the EQS. An SUV, which in comparison, looks downright expensive and exotic. If the EQB is simply occupying space, the EQS is dominating it with bold, sleek lines and the sheer power of its presence. Upon seeing the EQS drive by, there’s no mistaking that it’s something special. Handsome as the EQB is in its own right, it doesn’t capture long, appreciative stares like the EQS will. 

    The differences are only magnified once you climb aboard. While the MBUX digital display in the EQB is larger than most others in this segment, The EQS will shock and awe with its fully integrated, 56-inch spanning hyper screen. Stitching together multiple displays, into one enormous piece of high-tech curved glass. With artificial intelligence learning and growing smarter the more it’s used, to bring your feature and command preferences to the surface. Recognizing faces, voices and fingerprints. 2nd-row touchscreens are available to entertain and give control to rear occupants as well.

    Both vehicles will seat up to 7 thanks to fold-down rear seats. Both also feature active multicolor lighting around the cabin. Offering charging status cues and changing as you accelerate and drive. Materials used vary greatly, with the EQS being treated to much more elevated pieces. Extra sound insulation, with a quiet dual electric motor help to keep road noise to a minimum. Enhancing the performance of the incredible sounding Burmester 3D surround system. The EQS will also allow you to customize the “engine sound” for those moments you want to put the pedal to the metal. From a throaty V8 inspired rumble, to more futuristic, synthetic, space craft sounding profiles, everything is highly customizable.

    In summary, to say the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS is much better than the EQB isn’t a snub against it. But what we would expect from the Mercedes-Benz line. A luxury brand that does an OK job at delivering budget-friendly vehicles. But really excelling when you take away any budgetary restraints and let the designers and engineers run amok. The EQB has a charming design, a nice interior, good range and a price tag that’s approachable for many. But if you really want that pampered, polished, truly special experience, in the unique way only Mercedes can deliver, The EQS is worth every extra red cent.

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  • Behind the Wheel: 2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 53 – The Lux Cut

    Behind the Wheel: 2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 53

    by
    October 13, 2022
    Mercedes-Benz

    Editor

    As far as first impressions go, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 53 may be serving a serious luxury SUV. Yet, you’d be deeply mistaken if you think its only here to pamper and be pretty. One quick spin around town will quickly prove that the new GLE 53 has its sights set on impressive performance along with everything else.

    Of course, the critical first step to top-of-the-line performance is a state-of-the-art engine. With its 20-year tradition of building nothing less than the best, AMG equips the very capable GLE 53 with a 3.0 liter Inline-6 turbo. Capable of quickly spooling out an impressive 429 hp. In the ongoing pursuit of smooth luxury and strong performance, an AMG Speedshift TCT transmission is used. Blessing us with nine forward gears that will blip by faster than you can blink an eye. Specifically tuned to the requirements of this particular in-line 6. Perfectly blending hardware and software for precision gear changes and fast reaction times.

    To tackle those tight turns with ease, Mercedes-Benz pours even more magic into the GLE 53 formula. To help this big, heavy SUV achieve precise body movement, AMG developed a body roll stabilizer called Active Ride Control. Together with the ultra-compliant air suspension. Working in tandem to reduce body roll under hard cornering loads. Increasing ride comfort and overall handling precision, even when pushing the GLE to its limits.

    Now we add in AMG’s 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system. Performance-oriented like the rest of the package. Not your run-of-the-mill AWD system, but rather, one smart enough to keep Sarah Connor up at night. So advanced, that it continuously determines the best possible torque split between the front and rear axles. Delivering perfectly measured amounts of traction for straight-line acceleration, heavy cornering, and tackling any kind of tricky terrain you happen upon. No matter how loose or slippery. This super intelligent control system is engineered into the very architecture of the vehicle. Constantly consider your steering angle, the gear you’re in, and even the difference in rotational speed between the four wheels.

    Whatever you throw at it, the Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 53 has a carefully calculated response. As an additional failsafe, an electronically controlled locking differential at the rear axle comes standard. Always at the ready to aggressively suppress any slip at the inner wheel when cornering hard. Further improving traction and stability. Letting you power out of corners faster and earlier than ever before. Traditional rules for entering and exiting a bend with considerable speed be damned.

    From a purely aesthetic standpoint, the 2022 AMG GLE 53 oozes curb appeal. Muscular, sleek and sexy. Distinctive in its design. Black air intakes, silver front splitter, a hood that ripples with power domes, and meaty tires. All of this and more, combine to attract many long, envious stares. In that jaw-dropping Emerald Green paint especially! On the inside, Mercedes-Benz continues to impress as few can. With open pore, oak wood trim, Nappa leather, satiny metals and ribbons of ambient lighting that dance through the cabin. Adjustable in color, adding a playful light show that’s especially enjoyable at night. The highest-quality materials, carefully arranged and layered, to spoil you more than most vehicles can.

    See Also
    Behind the Wheel: 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS 580

    The Mercedes-Benz GLE has always had a talent for offering both performance and luxury. The newest model continues this balancing act, luring you in with its beauty only to surprise you with its brawny power. It’s easy just to stuff a big engine into a large SUV. To do it with this much engineering, though. Where every single one of its many, many individual horsepowers

    are delivered in a manner so sophisticated and intelligent that you’ll feel confident no matter what surprises are around the bend. Now that’s a truly remarkable achievement.

    Price as tested: $82,750.00

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  • Behind the Wheel: 2022 Lexus LX 600 – The Lux Cut

    Behind the Wheel: 2022 Lexus LX 600

    by
    October 13, 2022
    Lexus

    Auto Editor

    Once upon a time, the Lexus LX was little more than an 80-Series Toyota Land Cruiser with nicer leather. While its styling evolved to help it be more distinguished from the popular overland Toyota, it never had to shoulder much of the off-roading work since the Land Cruiser was always there to scoop up that consumer. Sadly, on U.S. shores anyway, this is no longer the case. As a result, the 2022 Lexus LX finds itself facing the battle of offering high luxury and even higher levels of off-roading capabilities. Especially for the Land Cruiser consumer that’s been left with no other option.

    This is certainly no small task and one we are thrilled to report that the LX has been completely victorious over! To achieve it, Lexus had almost completely reimagine the LX model for 2022. A strong engine sets us off on the right foot. A 3.5L twin-turbo V6, to be exact. With 409 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. Officially making it the most powerful engine ever fitted to the LX. Paired with a 10-speed direct-shift automatic transmission, the abundance of power is delivered smoothly and even all the way up to redline.

    From a design standpoint, the Lexus LX 600 embodies sophistication and strength. Communicating its utility off-road and refinement on it. An enormous grille dominates the front and is “blacked out” in the Luxury model. Flanked by sharp, triple-beam LED headlamps. At the rear, a sleek, full-width blade taillight stays softly illuminated at night, lighting up the new Lexus badging underneath. Big 22” forged alloy wheels and roof rails further elevate the dual- nature of the LX 600.

    On the inside, the driver position is less bolt-upright and more relaxed. A new dual-screen infotainment system keeps audio, smartphone and navigation controls to the 12.3” upper display. While HVAC, off-road adjustments and other situational inputs are relegated to the 7.0” bottom screen. This keeps things well organized and simple. Preventing you from getting lost in a sea of settings and menus.

    The top-tier model, with the Ultra Lux package, is treated to plenty of extra creature comforts. 4-passenger diamond-stitch leather seats with embossed headrests scream out upscale. Massagers are embedded in all 4 captain chairs, along with reclining features, heating and ventilation. The second-row seat on the right side even has a sliding ottoman so you can really kick up your feet and relax. Captain’s chairs are wide, supportive, and buttery soft. Rear occupants are further spoiled with dual video screens, Mark Levinson surround sound, wireless charging and sunshades. There’s thematic ambient lighting, heated wood and leather trim on the steering wheel, a cool box, 4-zone climate control and more. Without question, the Lexus LX 600 is already engineered to pamper your socks off. The Ultra Lux package cranks it up even further to levels never before seen from the LX.

    See Also
    Behind the Wheel: 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS 580

    So the luxury is there, but even more, relevant, the LX 600 utilizes a plethora of hardware and software tricks that help firmly establish it as a worthy alternative to the late Land Cruiser on rough and rugged terrain. Active ride height control on our Luxury model goes a long way to help you clear obstacles in the road. Toggling between the different driving modes also made noticeable changes to the adjustable dampers, steering effort, and gear mapping. The ride quality always felt soft and settled over a variety of road surfaces. Quiet and comfortable first and foremost. Progressive-wound rear springs with the limited-slip differential and rear anti-roll bar helped the chassis feel tight but never punishing.

    Never before has there been so many options and so much variety in the Lexus LX line-up. The unfortunate exit of the Land Cruiser from U.S. shores had a certain vacuum effect that, thankfully Lexus was astute enough to notice and quickly respond to. In response, Toyota has delivered the most refined and off-road-ready LX ever. One that will surely please even the most die-hard Land Cruiser fan. Giving them way more polish and premium access than they ever thought they’d want or need from their dearly departed, tried and true, off-roading machine.

    Price as tested: $128,030.00

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  • Behind the Wheel: 2022 Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid – The Lux Cut

    Behind the Wheel: 2022 Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid

    by
    January 18, 2022
    Bentley Motors.

    Luxury, if you’re keeping score at home, is sometimes measured in cylinder count. Eight, as conventional wisdom goes, is nice; twelve is better. And if you want to get really advanced, skip the numerology and go directly to zero— witness pure electric upstarts like Tesla, whose electron-powered drivetrains have rapidly rewritten the laws of luxe.

    With electrification creeping into every corner of high-end transportation, carmakers are handling the shift in uniquely different ways. Among those at the top of the food chain is Rolls-Royce, which has chosen to maintain a V12-only rule until it makes the switch to electric, with their first EV offering debuting in late 2023. Running counter to Rolls is a former partner (and now arch-nemesis) Bentley, whose tactic is more progressive: offer plug-in hybrids for every model by 2024, and then solely plug-ins or EVs by 2026 before going purely electric-only by 2030. The rise of electric power means, you guessed it: fewer internal combustion cylinders along the way.

    Image via Bentley Motors.

    So here we are in 2022 with the brand’s second plug-in hybrid: the Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid. Yes, it’s got a V6, the first Bentley sedan since 1959. But unlike the undeniably elegant Flying Spur of yore, the new gal also boasts a luxe layer cake of leather, wood, and tech that can seamlessly rotate a 12.3-inch touchscreen into the dashboard with a push of a button. The Flying Spur Hybrid is also the carmaker’s most efficient model yet, with the ability to travel 450 miles on a single tank (and a 2.5-hour charge).

    Coupling the 2.9-liter V6 to an electric motor produces 536 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, putting it only a tenth of a second behind the 4-second 0 to 60 mph time of its V8 and W12-powered counterparts. For what it’s worth, that sprint is quicker to 60 than a V12-powered Rolls-Royce Ghost— not that we’re keeping score. The Spur can cruise for 25 miles on battery alone, enabling it access to Central London’s coveted congestion zone.

    Feather the throttle and the Spur can reach around 80 mph on electrons alone; dip into internal combustion and you’ll hit 177 mph if you have the nerve. The juncture between electric and gas is delicate, even if you press the “EV DRIVE” button on the center console. But at least the transition is smooth, offering buttery acceleration that can waft with the greatest of the old-school sedans. 

    Image via Bentley Motors.

    One unexpected side effect of electrification: Because the hybrid Spur is 50 percent quieter at highway speeds than the V8 version when running in electric mode, wind and road noise becomes more apparent. That said, cruising on battery power through the city feels smoother and more insulated than in a conventional 8 or 12 cylinder. The Hybrid also rides as regally, thanks to a supple air suspension system that soaks up all but the nastiest of bumps. Though heavier than the V8, the Hybrid’s smaller engine puts less weight on the nose, enabling it to turn easily into corners.

    See Also
    Behind the Wheel: 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible

    It’s not as nimble as the V8 however, serving as more of limousine-like cruiser than a grand touring sports car trapped in the body of a four-door. But the Hybrid’s trappings make it a splendid place to stay for the long haul, with massaging and reclining rear seats that make it remarkably road trip friendly. 

    Image via Bentley Motors.

    Tellingly, when the Flying Spur Hybrid reaches showrooms later this year its starting price will be right around the same as entry-level V8’s— and crucially, there is no compromise on the 56 billion-strong available combination of interior materials, paint and trim, which offer everything from dark Fiddlebacks and open-pore Koas to turned metal, stone veneers, and 3D quilted leather. The Hybrid feels just as secure in its sumptuousness as does the 12-cylinder, which is some $30k dearer. But in 2022, luxury is less about the bottom line than it’s ever been— and if less is more, an entirely gasoline-free Bentley can’t come soon enough.

  • The 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost Stocked with New Engineering – The Lux Cut

    The 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost Stocked with New Engineering

    by
    August 20, 2020
    Rolls-Royce

    Auto Editor

    The Rolls-Royce Ghost ushered in an era where owners of the coveted marque wanted more than to just be driven around. They wanted to get behind the wheel on occasion. They wanted the Ghost to be the car in, what I would imagine to be, a vast collection of impressive cars, which they gravitated toward most often. Collectively, owners agreed that Rolls-Royce delivered on this request in almost perfect fashion.

    When these same clients were told that Rolls-Royce was on the cusp of developing a new Ghost, they requested more of the same. Make it even more refined, more enjoyable to drive, and their first pick as the transportation companion to their day more than ever. To fulfill this, Rolls-Royce engineers made the difficult choice of throwing out the preexisting Ghost Platform and starting from scratch.

    The experts at Goodwood England configured the proprietary space-frame architecture to accommodate important existing elements like all-wheel steering and all-wheel drive. They then adapted the chassis with new and innovative advances to improve the Ghost’s already dynamic nature, all without compromising its signature “magic carpet ride.”

    Key to these improvements was the Planar system. It is comprised of three main elements. The first is the result of three long years of development: an upper wishbone damper unit mounted above the front suspension to deliver an extremely stable ride. This technology is a world-first, with results that will prove to be game changing in the luxury market. The second is the Flagbearer system. This technology uses cameras to read the road ahead of you, preparing the suspension for any changes in road conditions. The third is a Satellite Aided Transmission that draws GPS information of approaching corners, steep hills, slow-downs, or whatever else lies ahead. With this data, the transmission is able to preselect the optimal gear for shifts so imperceptibly smooth, you won’t even realize they’re happening.

    With big changes like these and more, developed from the ground up, future clients are sure to be impressed with a car that was already deeply impressive. More so than ever, the Ghost is uncomplicated in its versatility, elegance, and grandeur. A car to be used every day, without ever losing that unspoken thing that makes it so special day after day after day—whether you take it out only on special occasions or on a daily basis.

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  • The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Hides its Luxe on the Inside – The Lux Cut

    The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Hides its Luxe on the Inside

    by
    September 2, 2020
    Mercedes-Benz

    Every new Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a momentous opportunity for heads of state and captains of industry to go big or go home. So the cognoscenti might have to excuse the just-unveiled 2021 Mercedes S-Class for being a bit, well, austere. Sacrebleu, what the hell’s happened to our beloved supersedan? 

    Mercedes-Benz

    Gone is the grandiose stance, the playful interplay of character lines on sheetmetal, the plebian-crushing imperiousness. The latest grande dame is less old school opulent, more postmodern neutral. “Maybe understatement is a bit more desirable these days,” Mercedes’s Senior Exterior Design Manager Eugen Enns offered during a private preview of the latest flagship. Go on, we’re listening.

    Given these curious times, it seems only natural that a monumental sedan would throw a curveball at the most astute of luxury fanatics. After all, this is an era when the Audis and Benzes and Bimmers of the world are reaching ever closer to top tier specimens from the likes of Bentley and Rolls-Royce. But at least with the Mercedes S-Class, which debuts with a 429 horsepower six-cylinder (S500) or a hungry 496 horsepower V8 (S580), the real magic starts when those Tesla-like door handles extend and you climb inside the cabin. 

    The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

    Big dollar four-doors are usually all about the rear seats. And indeed, the two lucky (or three slightly less lucky) rear occupants are treated to a massive expanse of legroom and reclining seats with massage capability. Up to five screens now enable inter-seat communication, and party tricks like sending navigation destinations to the driver (Papa can you hear me?) A nifty bit of cushiness, considering this kind of doodad is usually reserved for XL-sized family haulers.

    But up front is where things get interesting. This is ostensibly the non-business end of the sled, because it’s merely responsible for scooting those lounging VIPs behind from A to B. Yet the environment is a visually harmonious one that’s preceded by a waterfall dashboard that seems to spill seamlessly from the base of the windshield, with a 12.8-inch organic LED screen that floats vertically in that oh-so-contemporary way, replete with fingerprint, face, and/or voice ID. Tap deep into the recesses of the fanciest crevices of your cerebrum, and you’ll recognize the dashboard’s elegant slope from its inspiration, the rearward tail section of a Riva yacht. A large swath of the dashboard can be finished in everything from open-pore wood to aluminum to carbon fiber, setting the tone for the otherwise understated cockpit for a bit of textural splash. 

    Mercedes-Benz

    Sure, the S-Class’s front perches are among the best in the business, offering all manner of efficient heating, cooling, kneading, and if you’re into multi-sensory stereo equipment, a bass thump you can feel along your spine— which is why they call the optional 30-speaker Burmester setup “4D.” The audacity. But the big news here is comes with one fewer dimension: The optional instrument cluster that displays graphics in, you guessed it, 3D. This is a potentially gimmicky trick that will likely make skeptics frown. But the execution is actually shockingly effective, depicting three-dimensional spaces with convincing depth. My favorite configuration drops a small, diorama-like representation of your Mercedes-Benz S-Class into a realistic satellite-sourced landscape. Neat.

    See Also
    The BMW M3 Wagon is Coming

    Do we wish this latest in a string of commanding sedans that goes back some 66 years was more outwardly charismatic? You bet your Daddy Warbucks dollar we do. However, the downplaying trend also happens to be all the rage at the moment, with stalwarts like Rolls-Royce embracing the sort of so-called “post opulence” aesthetic that would make John Pawson proud. 

    But to fully understand the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class’s M.O., all you have to do is swing open the door and soak up the techy creature comforts, proof that the Germans still do one thing exceptionally well: Discretion.

    Mercedes-Benz
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  • Behind the Wheel: 2021 Lexus RC350 – The Lux Cut

    Behind the Wheel: 2021 Lexus RC350

    by
    July 12, 2021
    Lexus

    Auto Editor

    There is a truth, self-evident, generally recognized and almost universally acknowledged; and that truth is that the Lexus RC350 looks incredible. For a sport coupe, it’s showing up every bit dressed the part. Sharp styling, aggressive lines, a low, wide stance and upscale, spacious interior for the two lucky occupants up front. 2021 ushers in an upgrade to the already strong aesthetics, with the introduction of the special Black Line Edition. This package incorporates a myriad of cool little black exterior details, a dark finish to the already stunning 19” alloy wheels, triple beam LED headlights, gorgeous ash wood interior trim and a matching two-piece luggage set from Zero Halliburton luggage. Careful though, that last one is limited in production.  

    So we’ve established that in the looks department at least, the RC350 Black Line Edition can compete toe-to-toe with the best European sport coupes out there. Looks however, can sometimes be deceiving. In this respect, the RC350 pulls a bit of a bait and switch, because ultimately, in the performance department, it doesn’t quite live up to its sporty good looks. 

    The same time-tested 3.5L V6 makes its return in 2021, churning out the same 311hp. What wasn’t enough before, continues to be insufficient today. A turbo 4-cylinder, and more entry level 255hp V6 in the RC300 would have more excuse for the underwhelming acceleration. But the range-topping V6 in my RC350 only earns the right to brag about smooth, linear acceleration. Lacking though is the presence of actually quick accelerating. Where’s the drama, excitement and gusto? With a 0-60 run in 5.7 seconds according to Lexus, it simply isn’t enough to really compete. A sharper handling, more dialed in chassis could help make up for this, but that too is a little soft, even in Sport + mode. 

    Image via Lexus.

    Where this little Lexus shines is in overall comfort and ride quality. Surprisingly compliant over rough roads. Never harsh or punishing on the spine like many sport coupes can be. Rambling around town, the interior is quiet and comfortable. Refined, upscale and sporty. The sliding tachometer is a unique feature that never fails to delight. Back seat occupants will either sit cross-legged, or find circulation below the knees completed cut off. An expected discovery in any sport coupe though. The ultra-aggressive exterior design also produces some significant blind-spots for the driver. Blind-spot monitoring, proximity sensors and the back-up camera help to aide in the more tricky maneuvers though. 

    See Also
    Behind the Wheel: 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA

    In general, the 2021 Lexus RC350 F Sport continues to be a sport coupe that looks much more aggressive than it actual is. The trade-off is a comfortable ride and feature-filled interior. Sales would suggest that this a compromise many consumers are happy to make. Especially with the new Black Line Edition, you’ll be sure to turn plenty of heads, just don’t get into a stop-light drag race with more powerful competitors like the Audi A5 Sportback or Genesis G70.

    Price as tested: $58,905.00

    Auto Editor

  • Behind the Wheel: 2021 Lexus LS 500 F Sport – The Lux Cut

    Behind the Wheel: 2021 Lexus LS 500 F Sport

    by
    May 22, 2021
    Lexus

    Auto Editor

    The sedan that dials in every luxurious little detail.

    In the upper echelon of luxury sedans, it’s the culmination of every small, thoughtfully integrated detail that helps separate the good from the really great. With this in mind, the 2021 Lexus LS 500 has everything it needs to succeed as a soft, stretched luxury sedan. Ready and able to pamper you, no matter where you’re sitting. 

    For any outside admirers, the 2021 model continues to venture away from restraint and subtlety. Redesigned headlights and tail-lamps, with a more aggressively styled front fascia, embolden the look of the new LS. In F Sport trim, the front bumper, grille and vents are enlarged even further. With a menacing black finish to match the 20” dark vapor chrome wheels. Plain Jane the Lexus LS is not.

    Good as it is on the outside, those all important little details really feel compounded once you climb aboard. Lexus doesn’t stop with nice stitching, aluminum trim and perforated Nappa leather. That’s merely the warm-up round. Options like Kiriko glass and exclusive Artwood designs, demonstrate the extent of just how far Lexus will let you go with so many inspiring design options at your disposal. Lexus has developed a mastery over going above and beyond, and the LS 500 is the perfect canvas for it all. Soft leather, luxurious suede, matte aluminum and more, fold together like the toasted peaks of grandma’s lemon meringue pie. Each material begs to be explored with all five senses. 

    Lexus

    The LS 500 offers the same exceptional experience to back-seat occupants. There, you’ll find a never-ending supply of legroom, with full control over sunshades, climate and more. The F Sport trim will let you dip your toe in a sportier realm as well. The 3.5L twin turbo V6 is good for 416 hp. Measured out via a smart 10-speed direct-shift automatic transmission with wheel mounted paddle shifters. The engine sounds great and the combination is good for strong acceleration. 6-piston front and 4 rear brake calipers offer more than enough bite to bring this long, heavy sedan to a full and complete stop. An F Sport-tuned adaptive variable suspension lets you twist and turn away with confidence. Even the 28-way power front seats have enhanced bolsters, tightening and relaxing under you as lateral-G’s attempt to do their worst. 

    See Also
    Behind the Wheel: 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 53
    Lexus

    Against a long line of stiff competition, the 2021 Lexus LS 500 remains a strong option with a daring design and bold visuals. For the most detail-oriented among us, the LS won’t disappoint. It’s as lavish as it is spacious. With every square-inch packed full of beautiful craftsmanship and intricate material arrangements. From the performance-inspired sliding instrument cluster, down to the delicacy of a single stitch, the LS 500 is sure to impress in more ways than one.

    Price as tested: $98,810.00

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  • Behind the Wheel: 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible – The Lux Cut

    Behind the Wheel: 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible

    by
    February 11, 2021
    Lexus

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    While they say beauty is in the eye of beholder, if you don’t think the Lexus LC 500 is beautiful, you may need to get your eyes checked. It’s extremely easy on not just the eyes, but the other senses as well. 2021 turns the sensory experience way up, by finally letting us feel the wind in our hair like never before. Yes, a long-awaited convertible version has finally arrived. This was an obvious move, as the LC 500 was the perfect platform for it, easily transforming itself for convertible greatness; a slot that Lexus desperately needed to fill. 

    Besides the obvious design and hardware adjustments made, exterior styling remains as familiar and fabulous as always. Details, both large and small, abound. Each one is poised to draw long, appreciative stares. For starters, the masterfully crafted headlights, cut with deep vertical tracks, are packed with triple-beam LED headlights.

    Lexus

    Follow each sensual curve past the doors, over deep rear vents and a heavily flared flank, to a set of impressive taillights. When illuminated, layer upon layer of solid red fade into the distance, like your vanishing reflections when standing directly between two mirrors. This visual trick is just one example of the many special details that separate the LC 500 from many other cars on the road for a similar price. 

    In silhouette only, with every special detail obscured, the LC 500 has a shape that will enchant: exotic, aerodynamic, and obviously built for high performance. The door sills and scuff plates are packed with carbon fiber of varying sheens. Door handles lay flush with the body, popping out much like the Nissan GTR, to allow access inside. Big 21” forged alloy wheels are stunning in a polished finish with gloss black accents. 

    Lexus

    In convertible form, there is just one engine option. The good news for us is that it’s the powerful 5.0L V8, snapping and snarling its way up and down the 10 short gears via a lightening quick Sport Direct transmission. With gear changes clocked in at just 0.12 seconds apiece, the LC 500 is equipped with one of the fastest conventional automatic transmissions money can buy. The engine and transmission are a perfect pair to say the least. Combine them with the high-flow active sport exhaust, and the result is a symphony of mechanized glory; a finely tuned soundtrack, channeled through the cabin from front to rear as you accelerate. It’s a sound best experienced firsthand, and one that will keep you chasing high rpms with the radio off and the roof down. 

    To keep the weight under control and the center of gravity low, Lexus engineers opted for a fast-retracting cloth roof. All you need is about 15 seconds to transform this sexy soft-top into an open-air Grand Touring delight. Even if you are already on the move, it can be operated as long as your speed remains under 31 mph. 

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    The $443,400 Unpainted Option on the Koenigsegg Jesko
    Lexus

    The interior is largely identical to what can be found in the LC coupe, with the exception of a fancy Climate Concierge, complete with Upper Body Heating. That is to say, it includes a heated steering wheel and neck warmer. These thoughtful additions will allow you to extend convertible season even after the weather has started to turn cold.

    A convertible version of the gorgeous Lexus LC 500 was an obvious move that we were all waiting for Lexus to make. While 2021 hasn’t changed much else for the LC 500, the addition of an easy to operate soft-top is a welcome development that we couldn’t be more excited about. It’s a perfect way to improve upon an already stunning creation. 

    Price as tested: $113,320.00

    Lexus
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