Luxury

Review: The 2011 Jaguar XK Convertible

 2011 Jaguar XK Convertible

There's no mistaking the 2011 XK as anything other than a Jaguar. With its new more "performance oriented" nose, revamped sleek rear quarters and rear end, the XK is a beautiful machine that, especially with the top down, drew many approving glances. While the Jaguar XK's predecessors are sometimes accused of looking like an out-of-date sports car for the older set, the 2011 model has struck back with a dramatic new look. Jaguar changed the front, added chrome grilles inside the bumpers and – a neat detail – placed a serious set of louvers on the hood. The new side profile looks as good as the artfully executed rear end and it all comes together to give the XK a sleek, powerful look.

My metallic blue XK had a light beige interior that was quintessential Jaguar: An abundance of fine leather and beautiful wood trim. It's not only beautiful to look at, but that quality British leather smells…well, it just smells great.

The XK convertible has a standard 5.0-liter V8 engine that delivers 385 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. This engine is smooth, fast and superb in every way – including its sound. While you can always hear the XK's powerful voice rumbling out of those big rear tailpipes, Jaguar has done a fine job of noise control; the cabin's quiet with the top up and there's little wind buffeting with the top down.Read more

2011 BMW M3


 2011 BMW M3

Few vehicles can lay claim to as many "Car of the Year" honors as BMW's best-selling 3-series, renowned for its superb performance and handling. Even better, BMW's M (Motorsport) division, the company's special projects and racing operation, fine-tunes and modifies some of these cars into flat-out luxury-sports cars: the M3 series.

There are three M3 models available: a sedan, a coupe, and hardtop convertible, and all share the same body style – a "macho" variation of the standard 3-series design. The M3 tested was a beautifully finished red convertible, and it was easy to spot the changes that distinguish this as an M3. A generous hood bulge to accommodate the larger engine and very noticeable additional air intakes located on the left and right of the hood to help cool the big V8. A more aggressive front bumper gives the car a sportier look while also allowing it to take in more air, and four exhaust pipes on the rear let everyone know this isn’t your standard 3-series. There are a few changes to the body that won't be noticed by the casual observer; many body panels are made from aluminum to save weight while still retaining strength. However, most BMW styling cues – such as the iconic double-kidney grille and the high-intensity Xenon lights with the angel eye rings – remain.Read more

2011 BMW 550i


 2011 BMW 550i

Long recognized as one of the best mid-range luxury cars on the market, the BMW 5 Series has earned countless "Car of the Year" awards. The rich history of BMW's "bread and butter" model gives new generations much to live up to – and the sixth generation 5 Series rises to the challenge.

Its body stays true to BMW's classy, yet modern, design. No over-the-top flares, arches, or air vents on this sedan; it's all business. It is sure to turn heads with its aggressive styling curves and bold front, even as it carries traces of Chris Bangle's original hump-in-the-trunk. Rather than diverging drastically from the proven luxury sedan design, BMW relies on subtlety: Click "unlock" and "angel eye" rings glow above the headlights; tiny LED lights in the exterior door handles illuminate. Read more

The LF-Gh Hybrid Concept: the Future of Lexus Automobiles?


 Lexus LF-Gh Hybrid Concept

Last week Lexus released two photos of the LF-Gh Hybrid Concept with the promise of details and more photos to come. That time is now.

Making its debut at 2011 New York International Auto Show next week, the LF-Gh Hybrid Concept features an elegant design, but with an assertive presence. All you have to do is look at the front grille to know that this grand-touring sedan means business!

Viewed from the front, you'll find a bold, spindle-shaped grille, unique LED fog lamps and slim rear outlets that follow the curve of the tail lamps from the rear quarter panel. The grille aids in airflow control and enhances the stability of the vehicle, and is a design feature you can expect to see in future Lexus models. Read more

Lexus Releases Photos of LF-Gh Hybrid Concept


Lexus LF-Gh Hybrid Concept

Lexus LF-Gh Hybrid Concept

Lexus on Tuesday released teaser photos of the LF-Gh hybrid concept, which will make its world debut at the 2011 New York International Auto Show, taking place later this month.

Lexus says that the LF-Gh (which stands for Lexus Future Grand Touring Hybrid) will give new meaning to the brand's L-Finesse design philosophy with its bolder, more distinct projection of what a luxury car can be. Just look at the new "spindle" front grille (pictured on the right). Could this new look be carried on to future Lexus vehicles? It's a possibility, it seems.

The new concept will be on display in the Lexus exhibit at the New York International Auto Show from April 20 – May 1, 2011.

The 2011 Hyundai Equus


 2011 Hyundai Equus

Hyundai has made amazing progress as an automobile manufacturer. In just a few short years, the company has gone from being the punch line of jokes to the maker of well-respected, high quality, award-winning vehicles. It took the Japanese auto manufacturers many years to accomplish what Hyundai has achieved in relatively few.

The 2011 Hyundai Equus is one of the most interesting cars I have driven in quite a while. Hyundai's goal is to emulate what Toyota did with its Lexus brand: build a car that can compete with the likes of Audi, Mercedes, Lexus, Jaguar, etc., yet cost considerably less upon introduction. Toyota succeeded with this formula in 1990 with Lexus, which is now often considered the benchmark of quality. Now it's Hyundai's turn to try to duplicate Toyota's feat.Read more

Ritz-Carlton Package Deals: Denver, Dallas, Amelia Island


 Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island

Spend your vacation in the lap of luxury at a Ritz-Carlton property. Those traveling to Denver, Dallas, and Amelia Island can snag some great package deals. Do you like to golf? The Fairways and Greens Package in Amelia Island, Florida is for you. Opera lovers will enjoy the Performing Arts Opera Package in Denver, Colorado. Or, if you have a special occasion you are celebrating, look no further than the Special Occasion Package in Dallas, where you can wind down, relax and spend quality time with that special someone.

Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island Fairways and Greens Package

Fortify yourself with a hearty breakfast, then challenge yourself on the links.

Package includes:

  • Overnight accommodations
  • Breakfast for two in Cafe 4750 or via In-Room Dining
  • Up to two rounds of golf on one golf course
  • Greens fees and shared cart
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$41,000 Valentine's Day Mirage Mega Package


 The Mirage

Who says you can't buy LOVE? Live like a celebrity this Valentine's Day with The Mirage LOVE Starts Here Mega package now available for $41,000. Indulge your partner for a week of ultimate luxury and decadence. From high roller suites to Rolls Royce transportation, from assisting a Vegas headliner on stage to igniting the world famous Mirage Volcano, this package is sure to impress and provide bragging rights for years to come! Read more

Jaguar Limited Edition XKR175 Unveiled


 Jaguar Limited Edition XKR175

Jaguar just celebrated its 75th anniversary. And how did they do it? By debuting the limited edition 2011 Jaguar XKR175 Coupe at the McCalls Motorworks Revival at the Monterey Jet Center during the Pebble Beach Automotive Weekend. This is the first appearance of the exclusive sports car in North America.

The XKR175 is powered by a supercharged V8 with 510hp and 461 lb-ft of torque with top speeds raised to an electronically-limited 174mph. To keep the XKR175 stable at high speeds, a revised aerodynamic package incorporates a new front air dam, new side sills, a new rear diffuser and a larger rear spoiler to give it increased balance and a reduction in lift. New 20-inch Kasuga 10-spoke alloy wheels, red brake calipers and Ultimate Black exterior paint adorn the car's exterior.Read more

CuisinArt Resort & Spa Offers "Tee Up & Revive" Package


 CuisinArt Resort & Spa

Five-star CuisinArt Resort & Spa recently announced they are expanding luxury offerings to include world-class golf at the newly reopened Temenos Golf Course. In celebration of the course's re-launch, CuisinArt Resort is offering the a five-night "Tee Up & Revive" package from now until June 23, 2010, which includes rounds of golf, spa treatments, dining experiences at the resort's signature restaurants, and more.

"Tee Up & Revive" is an excellent way to experience all the resort has to offer and the best in Caribbean golf. In addition to significant savings, the "Tee Up & Revive" package includes the following:

  • Five nights, six days accommodations in beachfront suite
  • Three rounds of golf at Temenos Golf Course
  • Two 50-minute spa treatments or couples massage
  • Lunch for two at Café Mediterraneo
  • Dinner for two or theme dinner at Santorini
  • Daily continental breakfast
  • Airport and ferry meet-and-greet service
  • Caribbean welcome drink upon arrival
  • Use of non-motorized water sports
  • Complimentary use of health club
  • Scheduled fitness classes
  • Use of three night-lit tennis courts
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