Tenth Generation Honda Accord

The tenth-generation Honda Accord is now landed in Japanese roads with a starting price of 4,650,000 Japanese Yen (around US$46,500), and although the pricing is more expensive than its main rival, the Toyota Camry, the new Accord promises to be the most advanced Accord ever made thanks to its new e:HEV dual-motor hybrid powertrain, evocative styling, luxurious interior, and cutting edge technology that sets them apart. So, let's take the Why Card out in the bag and get to know more about the new Accord.

2020 Honda Accord

For its tenth-generation of Honda's D-segment luxury midsize sedan that is targeted at the hard-working salarymen whose wives have their hands full on their part-time businesses, the new Accord is all about getting the job done from Day 1 until the time comes when the driver becomes fully satisfied with this hybrid saloon and then switch off to another one.

2020 Honda Accord

The new model's design is more of an enlarged version of the current Honda Civic, meaning it incorporates some coupe-like sidelines to give it a more athletic vibe to this four-door saloon. Size-wise, the new Accord is 34mm shorter, 12mm wider, and 55mm more wheelbase than the previous model, meaning this coupe-like four-door saloon really shows its big impression on its potential customers.

2020 Honda Accord interior

Thanks to its increased wheelbase, the new Accord's interior is surprisingly more spacious than its predecessor, meaning there's more space in the back for those who Uber-red you after work and enough boot space to carry a golf cart for a trip to the country club. On the driver's side, the new dashboard layout is anything but basic to toy around with. This new interior really spells work day for the new Accord every day.

2020 Honda Accord

The new Accord is the first Honda saloon to be powered by the company's brand new e:HEV dual-motor hybrid system that first debuted on the fourth-generation Honda Fit. The 145PS 2.0L LFB 4-cylinder DOHC 16v PGM-FI i-VTEC Atkinson Cycle engine is mated to a 135kW H4 electric motor, a lithium-ion battery, and e-CVT. When used efficiently, it delivers 22.8kmpl of fuel economy by WLTP standards, which some say it's more efficient than the Toyota Camry, which is a plus but don't get too excited because on highway roads, it feels a tad sluggish. 

The only redeemable shot of love for the Accord is the way it handles courtesy of its rack and pinion steering, front MacPherson struts, rear multilink suspension, front ventilated disc brakes, rear disc brake, and its new body that is stiffer and lighter than the previous model by about 50kg. With its good dynamics fit for a hybrid saloon, the Accord is no doubt something to live with as well as its wide array of safety tech courtesy of its Honda Sensing suite of driver aids.

So, has the new model improved from the previous model seven years ago? Slightly yes, of course, because the new model really means business, and if you called yourself a middleman, consider this executive sedan fit for the job. Not the most exciting saloon you wished for but it's one of the most promising saloons of the new decade and whether you're using it for personal use, for delivery use, or for TNVS purposes, the Accord is all about getting the job done without all the drama.

Available Colors: Platinum White Pearl, Luna Silver Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Passion Red Pearl, and Brilliant Sporty Blue Metallic.

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Porsche Taycan

Porsche is one of the luxury carmakers that jumped into the electric revolution by creating a German equivalent to the Tesla Model S which promises to be the most revolutionary Porsche ever made; delivering zero emissions to the environment while delivering the same experience speedo boys get from the Porsche. Say hello to the first-ever Porsche Taycan electric sports saloon, the most revolutionary Porsche ever made.

2020 Porsche Taycan

The Porsche Taycan starts at a very expensive 105,607 Euros plus additional costs, which is more costly to own than the Tesla Model S but despite the outrageous price tag for an electric sports saloon, the Taycan promises to be one of the most surprising cars of the new decade and Porsche really laid down their strongest trump card on the EV wars with this one, although unsure about how it lives to its name.

2020 Porsche Taycan

First of all, the design draws inspiration from the Mission E Concept car, meaning that the Taycan almost has all of the bits and bobs from the concept car it was based on so therefore, it's great to look at, although the naming is worth a headscratcher. Look at the grade list; there's the word Turbo on it and it's impossible to be called a Turbo because being an electric car, there are no turbochargers on it, but for the Porsche folks, they redefined the Turbo meaning to their cars to serve as the most powerful and fastest variants ever made and they do have a point. Anyway, let's talk about that later on because it's time to get inside and see what's it like.

2020 Porsche Taycan interior

The interior is as futuristic as the exterior design itself because on the driver's side, the dashboard's heavily dominated by so many touchscreens to toy at, which is very next century-ish but you would really want to keep it clean with your cloth used to clean your glasses after touching it. You wouldn't want to leave fingerprints on such screens, of course. On the passengers' side, it's about as spacious as a Panamera as well as a boot space big enough for today's trip to the country club or a five-star hotel. Either way, living in a Taycan is anything fancy for those got their hands on it and whether if its drive or be driven, this Porsche does it all.

2020 Porsche Taycan

The Taycan uses two electric motors bolted on each axle with the rear takes good care of its two-speed gearbox. The utterly misleading Turbo variants have a normal power output of 460 kW but because this is the top-tier variant of the range, they come with an Overboost feature, which in Turbo S guise, churns out up to a smashing 560kW, that's more than today's Model S range-topper by a narrow margin. With that kind of power, the Taycan Turbo S can do 0-100kph in less than three seconds and limited to 260kph. Now that's Porsche'level fast for an electric car but it can't outrun a speeding rocket heading straight towards bull's eye.

On the dynamics side, the Porsche Taycan features active suspension management and torque vectoring technology, which all sounds very nice but be warned because handling one is like a double-edged sword because when you take it through the corners, it feels mild and menacing for an electric sedan and when things get rough, it's an arm-breaking experience. 

Despite that, the Taycan is worth drivable over and over again until you are fully satisfied with the way it behaves and when you get the hang of its mild and menacing grip, it's very exciting.

2020 Porsche Taycan

When you had enough fun, you can really ease yourself in the Taycan because even though it's a sportscar at heart, it works like a luxury car on the streets. It's surprisingly comfortable to live with and safer as well thanks to its wide array of safety features too many to list.

Porsche really did laid their strongest card on the electric car wars with the Taycan and with its electric powertrain, performance, style, and comfort, there's no denying that this is going to be one of the best new cars of this brave new decade. Everyone's anticipated for this but sadly, there's one major problem with the Taycan; Gran Turismo completely ruined it.

Yep, the Gran Turismo folks featured the Taycan first on the GT SPORT game and as I said, cars that featured first and only on Gran Turismo are downright terrible just like the Toyota GR Supra. Face it, nobody likes a car featured first and only in the world of Gran Turismo like the Taycan, and if you're thinking about having one, please don't if you value your collection of super fast cars and your dignity. That is all.

Available colors; Weiβ, Carrara Weiβ Metallic, Dolomit Silber Metallic, Vulkan Grau Metallic, Schwarz, Tief schwarzes Metallic, Enzian Blau Metallic, Frozen Blue Metallic, Mamba Gun Metallic, and Karminrot.

Photo: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

Audi RS6 Avant C8 and RS7 C8

The best RS Audis in the stable, the RS6 Avant and the RS7 Sportback, are back in the latest C8 generation and the newest incarnations of the so-called best Audis have been uncaged on the road and track to deliver the best-ever performance that will leave them driven to tears, wishing they just want either one of them. Let's investigate more on the all-new RS6 Avant and RS7 Sportback.

2020 Audi RS6 Avant

2020 Audi RS7 Sportback

The all-new RS6 Avant, priced at 124260 Euros plus on-road costs, and the all-new RS7 Sportback, priced at 127,720 Euros plus on-road costs, are the best Audis aimed squarely at the opposition with its dynamics and performance that will push them beyond their limits.

Both of them are powered by a powerful 4.0L V8 TFSi engine with a 48-volt electrical system and cylinder-on-demand system for added efficiency on the go. This engine produces 600PS of power and 800Nm of torque and when mated to an 8-speed Tiptronic gearbox, it goes from 0-100kph in over three and a half seconds and with the dynamic package plus, up to 305kph of top speed. Stats like these will make them as fast as those from the AMG stable, especially their prime targets such as the E63S and the GT63S.

Unlike their AMG rivals, both the RS6 and RS7 don't have special witchcraft that makes them behave like rear-wheel drive monsters instead, both come with a number of race-inspired suspension setups, including the available dynamic all-wheel steering and RS sports suspension plus Dynamic Ride Control, allowing them to misbehave like the drivers want while keeping them enjoyable to drive on the road and track, even on gravel and snow thanks to its Quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. 

Yes, they're not as mad as the AMGs but they're way beyond Subaru WRX STi levels of enjoyment and these best Audis are sure to give drivers a fresh new take on dynamic driving for all seasons. 

Such enjoyment will leave the others driven to tears, wishing they just want either one of them, and boy, they just did. And apart from being as mad as they look, their interior smells manly enough to get accommodated with. It even has good space in the back as well just like the normal ones.

The new RS6 and RS7 may not be as good as the AMG rivals because of the fact that they don't have rear-wheel drive witchcraft on their all-wheel drive systems but with numerous improvements tinkered inside out, these best Audis are simply the best Audis you really wish to want one. If you want one, so be it.

Photo: Audi AG

Audi S6 C8 and S7 C8

Audi's S6 range and the S7 Sportback are back for their latest generation but they're not what you think because what's underneath them is a different story that's going to be worth an argument heard round the world because for the first time, all of them are powered by a 3.0 TDi diesel engine, which is going to be irrelevant in today's Europe. but in such interest, let's investigate the whys of the S6 range and the S7 Sportback.

2020 Audi S6

2020 Audi S6 Avant

2020 Audi S7 Sportback

Back on their C8 outing, the new S6 range and S7 Sportback ups the ante with its sporty exterior styling, sporty handling, sporty interior, and same tech from its normal A6/A7 derivatives, but the most questionable of all is the engine that powers it. Yep, the new S6/S7 is powered by a new 3.0L V6 TDi engine, a semi-high performance diesel engine that is deemed irrelevant in today's diesel-sceptic Europe, but for such curiosity, let's get to know the diesel engine that powers it.

The 3.0L V6 TDi diesel engine that powers it comes from the A6 allroad and it is fitted with a 48-volt primary electrical system capable of producing 350PS of power and 700Nm of torque. Mated to an 8-speed AT, it is capable of going 0-100kph in five seconds and electronically limited to 250kph. Now that is something else for these diesel-powered sport saloons despite being carried from a pseudo-crossover wagon relative of the A6 C8 family tree.

With the diesel engine sorted, let's investigate more on the basic stuff of the S6/S7 range. On the exterior design, the sporty exterior really is like a businessman in a track suit jogging at the park on a Sunday morning, although the rear is somewhat questionable due to its fake exhaust tips, but either way, the new S6/S7 really means business in a nearly athletic way and the dark-themed interior really smells like aftershave everytime you get in and out of the familiar cabin that comes with all of the familiar toys and comforts from the standard A6/A7.

At the dynamics section, the S6/S7 possess sportscar-like handling like every S model in the Audi catalog and although it feels rather mild but menacing, the dynamic all-wheel steering and optional ceramic brake system adds some dramatic feel to these models, making them solid all-rounder that balances the right things and the wrong things in a timely manner. Although not quite as impressive as its M Performance variants from BMW or the AMG 35 range from Mercedes but the new S6/S7 feels nearly addictive to drive.

The S6 range starts at 76,500 Euros plus tax and delivery while the S7 starts at 82,750 Euros plus tax and delivery. Yes, they really are expensive but feel free to get to know them if you got the time.

Photo: Audi AG

BMW 8-Series Gran Coupe vs. Bentley Flying Spur (3rd gen)

Does the BMW 8-Series need to have a four door version even though we already have today's 5-Series? For the people behind them, "ja, wir konnen", and with that they made a variant that shouldn't be existed in the first place but they did because a few people wanted something better looking and better to drive than their F30 5-Series. Is the new 8-Series Gran Coupe the ideal alternative to the 5-Series or not?

2020 BMW 8-Series Gran Coupe

With prices start at 91,500 Euros plus on road costs, the first-ever BMW 8-Series Gran Coupe is more expensive than its 5-Series twin but since these so-called twins belonged to a different league, the 8-Series Gran Coupe was designed to take on the likes on the Porsche Panamera, Audi A7, and the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class as it means it. In fact, it's blatant to call this Gran Coupe the evil twin of the 5-Series because it does a lot more than that.

Because it's got four doors instead of the usual two like you get in the normal 8-Series, the Gran Coupe is made to accomodate VIPs at the back without squeezing through like they do with their two-door equivalents and because it is longer than the 5-Series, it's got slightly more room as well, meaning your VIP has some space to snooze about after reading this morning's newspaper.

Drive or be driven? Of course you can drive in it especially the 8-Series Gran Coupe comes solely with a 4.4L V8 TwinPower Turbo engine producing 530PS of power and 750Nm of torque and when mated to an 8-speed AT, it does 0-100kph in less than four seconds and top speed electronically limited to 250kph. And like the other 8-Series relatives, the Gran Coupe comes standard with the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive with electronically controlled differential lock can adapt through various road conditions like it can recognize any road conditions with precision. Couple that with the ideal weight distribution, low center of gravity, Adaptive M suspension, Integral Active Steering, and the result is a fast four-door saloon that enjoys taking things easily while cruising around town in style and comfort no doubt.

The Gran Coupe really sets itself apart from the 5-Series apart because of its style and performance but because it was based on the reborn 8-Series that is not what the BMW fans hoped for, they believed it wasn't enough because if it wants to be more than just a 5-Series carbon copy, perhaps they should look some inspiration from something else...

2020 Bentley Flying Spur

This is the 168,300 Pound, all-new Bentley Flying Spur, and like the BMW 8-Series Gran Coupe, it's based on the same stuff found in today's Bentley Continental GT, but unlike the 8-Series Gran Coupe, it's powered by a 626bhp 6.0L W12 engine mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox, making it capable of hitting a 0-60mph time of 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 207mph. That's more than enough to crush the 8-Series Gran Coupe into the wall of shame.

And like the Continental GT, the new Flying Spur comes with a wide array of features that will keep this heavyweight limo rolling for more action such as torque vectoring, adaptive suspension, and active differential. Even with the traction control system on, it's like something so wrong feels so right all along. It maybe fit for Queen and Country but for some thrills, the new Flying Spur feels like an action hero car in disguise and it easily body-shames the 8-Series Gran Coupe by a margin.

Anyway, enough body-shaming because with such pricing, it's best for people to make do with the 5-Series' evil twin, Either way, both the 8-Series Gran Coupe and the new Flying Spur are one of the most exciting sports saloons to get jealous for because of the style, performance, and comfort worth a million likes.

Photo: BMW/Bentley

Cadillac CT5 vs. XT6

Unlike most American car brands that shifting its focus to SUVs and trucks, Cadillac is one of the few American car brands to stick around with sedans for longer even though their SUV lineup is growing. One such example is the all-new replacement to the world-class CTS premium sedan known as the CT5 and this is what happens when you bring ASMR to a whole new meaning on luxury.

2020 Cadillac CT5

With prices start at 36,895 Dollars plus on-road costs, the CT5 really is a 5-Series in 3-Series money because like the CTS it replaces, the CT5 is aimed squarely at the likes of premium middle-sized saloons such as the 5-Series, E-Class, A6, G80, and the now-defunct GS.

2020 Cadillac CT5

So what's all about the design, you may ask? Well, for starters, the CT5 is the first Cadillac to feature a brand new design language first previewed by the Escala Concept from the 2016 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance and this new signature design really is Cadillac at its best. From Los Angeles to Beijing, one look of the CT5's design really means big business for the typical businessman who wants to spend some quality time on the road after a hard day's work and speaking of quality time, let's have a look at the interior.

2020 Cadillac CT5 interior

The CT5's interior really is like an office on wheels and no matter which status you're on, the drive-or-be-driven atmosphere this new age American premium sedan delivers is worth resonating to toy around in your spare time. In the driver's side, you can toy around with its high-definition 10-inch touchscreen which takes control of all of the features such as navigation, satellite radio, smartphone connectivity, wi-fi, and more, as well as other conveniences at your arsenal. 

On the passengers' side, the longer wheelbase really spells space for the clients who want to let their legs rest freely after one stressful day at the office or at the country club and as for the boot space, they're good enough to carry some stuff for the trip to the country club any day.

2020 Cadillac CT5

Although being America, the CT5 really drives like a European luxury car full stop thanks to its clever suspension setup that really racks up nicely through the bends. It may be more dramatic to drive than the CTS but once you get used to it, you'll find that the CT5 is one of the best American saloons ever made in ages and for a dying breed, it's not half bad.

Under the hood, the CT5 is powered by a choice of a 2.0 Twin-Scroll Turbo engine or the more powerful 3.0L Twin Turbo V6 engine that produces 335hp of power and 542Nm of torque. They're all fitted to a 10-speed automatic gearbox, which sounds too much for a luxury car.

Of course, the CT5 has loads of safety tech in store but there's not enough time to talk about it because while I'm impressed about how the CT5 satisfies its customers with its dynamics, style, comfort, and performance, it's unclear if this one piece of the dying breed of American sedans may last a lifetime, almost, because since America is dominated by crossovers, the CT5 is expected to feel the pinch from this...

2020 Cadillac XT6

This is the first-ever Cadillac XT6 and despite the very expensive 52,695 Dollar price tag, this three-row crossover is proof that why Cadillac expanded their SUV portfolio with their newest addition, which is basically a poshed-up Chevrolet Traverse or something.

2020 Cadillac XT6 interior

2020 Cadillac XT6 interior

Like the CT5, the XT6 is the first crossover to utilize the Escala-inspired looks and this is the first Cadillac crossover to have three-row seating and while this is too expensive to be used for a family car, the XT6 snuggles nicely with the VIPs and escorts very well and this is the cut-price Escalade everyone's looking for. With all of the rugged styling, all of the seating capacity, all of the tech, and all of the space, the XT6 is a luxury crossover that is all about getting the job done from start to finish, although unsure about how it performs.

2020 Cadillac XT6

Powering the XT6 is a 3.6L DOHC V6 engine which produces 310hp of power and mated to a 9-speed automatic gearbox. It even comes with Active Fuel Management which shuts down some of the cylinders while taking casual driving on the city centers. 

That's clever indeed but in terms of driving, the XT6, like most crossovers, almost behaves like a luxury sedan thanks to its clever suspension setup that tickles the drivers' fancies when turning and with the Twin-Clutch AWD design, it's hard to say how much of a threat the XT6 is when it goes head-to-head against the CT5 but even though the CT5 is better to handle than the XT6, the XT6 wins it all because it's got more space, more seats, and that's it. End of discussion.

Of course, Cadillac will keep making sedans like the CT5 but with SUVs getting more of a mainstream on today's motoring world, it's hard to say how much lifespan will the CT5 survive and as the naysayers and conspiracy theorists might ask, it won't be long but who cares? The CT5 is just one of the virtually extinct breed of American sedans that needs a lot of attention and when it does, there's hope in the horizon.

Photo: General Motors

Kia K7 (2nd gen) vs. Hyundai Grandeur (6th gen) - 2020 minor change

Kia's K7 and Hyundai's Grandeur, in their current generation, are now on their 2020 model years with their minor changes sporting bold new looks while retaining their same experiences for the drivers ever since they went on sale three years ago.

2020 Kia K7 Premier

First off, let's take a look at the facelifted second-generation Kia K7. Starting at 30,940,000 Korean Won (around $31,000), the K7 Premier, as they called it, features a distinctively new look inside and out, and new engine choices, not to mention the added tech involved.

Starting at the design, Kia must have done a good job revising the second-generation K7 for the 2020 model year. Tthe trademark Tiger Nose grille now sized like the grilles from the BMW 8-Series while the DRLs now aligning with the grille for a more dramatic look. On the back, Kia copied the rear view of the Genesis G90 while slapping some Kia credentials on it, making it harder for people to distinguish between the two cars in terms of rear views insights.

2020 Kia K7 Premier interior

The interior has been heavily redesigned on this minor change except for the steering wheel, which is a carry-over from the pre-facelifted model. The new interior throws away the analog clock from the pre-facelifted model, which is rather obvious for this model, while implementing a much longer touch screen which is updated on the go and works with the camera feature in case of sweet potatoes on the road, the K9-inspired digital instrumental panel which works with the Behind View Monitor, and a more comfortable seats for a more luxurious feel. Of course, it may be a Kia but it's about as luxurious as a BMW 3-Series of course.

In addition to the 2.2L diesel engine and 3.0L GDi engine with 266PS of power and R-MDPS, the K7 Premier comes with a brand new Smartstream G2.5 GDi engine, which combines the qualities of a gasoline direct injection and multi-port injection engines into one efficient packaging. This new engine produces a high-performance class-ish 198PS of power and 25.3kgfm of torque with combined fuel economy is expected from 11.1 to 11.9km/L. 

2020 Kia K7 Premier Hybrid

Those who are looking for a fuel-efficient ride to work may consider a hybrid variant which bolts the 159PS 2.4L petrol engine to a 38kW electric motor and a 1.76kWh li-ion battery, not to mention a six-speed AT on it to make it slightly more engaging to drive than any Japanese midsize hybrids, although the 16.2km/L combined fuel economy wasn't enough to upset its Japanese rivals.

Apart from the engine choices, the K7 Premier still comes with the front MacPherson struts and rear multilink suspension, making it as handy as expensive European imports on the go. Not bad for a poor-man's K9.

Of course, it wouldn't be a luxury car of today without tech and the K7 Premier offers Advanced Driver Assistance Systems as well as UVO connectivity, giving it plenty of reasons to explore the gadgetry lurking through this semi-luxury car for the businessmen working in the Gangnam offices.

2020 Hyundai Grandeur

If you think that the facelifted Kia K7 is very 3-Series-ish, the facelifted, sixth-generation Hyundai Grandeur might change your mind over budget luxury cars.

Priced at 32,940,000 Korean Won (around $33,000), the facelifted Grandeur is more expensive than the K7 relative but what makes it more unique is the styling this minor change delivers. Drawing inspiration from the Le Fil Concept, the facelifted Grandeur features a unique front face where the edges of the massive grille lit up, giving it a more concept car feel for a production car. Apart from the unique front view, the rear view's massively revised with a Kia Stinger-inspired rear view, which is rather unorthodox for a Hyundai.

2020 Hyundai Grandeur interior

Just like the Kia K7 Premier, the Grandeur's minor change featured a brand new interior which looks like a mashup between the Lexus LS's and the Hyundai Palisade's, that's for sure, not to mention the steering wheel which looks like the Kia K9's, but long story short because questionable interior design aside, it works like every luxury midsize saloon should be thanks to its numerous gadgets offered, the smartphone connectivity, the plush leather seats, the gear buttons, the JBL sound systems, and more. Everything that will please the luxury car buyers for more.

2020 Hyundai Grandeur Hybrid

The facelifted Hyundai Grandeur is offered in a choice of various powertrain choices ranging from the brand new Smartstream G2.5 GDi engine, which offers similar fuel efficiency as the Kia K7 Premier, the 159PS 2.4L petrol engine to a 38kW electric motor and a 1.76kWh li-ion battery for the hybrid variant, the more powerful 3.3L V6 engine with a sporty 290PS of power output, and a 3.0 LPi engine for fleet purposes.

Apart from the engine choices that made the Grandeur different to its K7 relative, they share some similar technology with safety comes first and convenience later. You get the point, of course.

So, which would you pick? For pricing, the K7 is the pick but if you consider a more powerful luxury car on a budget, consider the Grandeur with the 3.3L engine on it. Either way, they behave like expensive European imports and these two recently facelifted models are something Korean businessmen would want to have for all the right or the wrong barrels.

Photo: Kia Motors/Hyundai Motor Company

BMW 7-Series (G11/G12) LCI and X7

The facelifted G11/G12 BMW 7-Series and the first-ever flagship SUV, the X7, forever rattled the roads of the world because of their new, massive kidney grille the size of the state of Texas and when you see them, expect their new faces to give you the similar phobia you get from holes. Trypophobia, of course, which made your skin crawl. Anyway, let's investigate the flagship Bimmers with Texas-sized grilles.

2020 BMW 7-Series

Beginning with the BMW 7-Series G11/G12, the latest minor change of BMW's flagship sedan dons the biggest kidney grille for a BMW saloon and judging by its mammoth-sized grille, it doesn't look pretty on everyone's rear view mirror when they see one but such swagger will really upset everyone on the road especially those who got out from it, bragging anyone that they had one of these. Massive grille aside, the revised exterior design keeps this flagship saloon as crispy as a glass of apple cider and that really means business.

2020 BMW 7-Series interior

2020 BMW 7-Series interior

Delivering an "out on a limo" feel when they get off, the interior of the new 7-Series LCI boasts a wide range of gadgets that will make life more convenient for both the driver and passenger, especially while going on a trip to the country club or a five star hotel. On the driver's side, there are so many gadgets to toy around such as the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant that answers most of your questions while driving. On the passenger side, there's also a lot of toy around especially the dual screens for your relaxing pleasure even while stuck on EDSA traffic. There's a lot of stuff toy around while getting snuggled to its comfortable, handcrafted seats.

2020 BMW 7-Series

The most powerful variant, the M760Li xDrive, comes with a massive 6.6L V12 TwinPower Turbo engine producing 585PS of power and 850Nm of torque and capable of reaching 305kph with the optional feature but those looking for some more miles should avoid the diesel range (because Europe) and go for the newer PHEV variants with the 745e with its 3.0L turbo engine mated to an electric motor and battery capable of 2.0L/100km combined fuel economy based on WLTP standards. No matter the variant, most models are fitted with a new 8-speed Steptronic gearbox that is now sportier, more comfortable, and more efficient.

The 7-Series is made solely for escorting high rollers, especially politicians, with its available xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive, Dynamic Stability Control, Integral Active Steering, Executive Drive Pro, and some chassis improvements but if you really want to go Ronin-like, expect some arm-breaking activity when you set to its sportiest settings because despite being a heavy tech-laden carriage, it behaves like a sporty grand tourer full stop and that's some jealously drivers salivate for. And because the 7-Series boasts a wide range of safety features fit for a flagship saloon, it's all about getting the job done unscathed.

The 7-Series LCI starts at 88,690 Euros.

2019 BMW X7

Now, let's examine the BMW X7, the flagship SUV and the most intimidating Bimmer ever made. Made to compete against the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class and the Audi Q7, this all-new model has the hulking presence, the hulking performance, and the demanding comfort fit for the world's big-shots who want a big SUV with a lot of swagger to pull.

2019 BMW X7

Drawing inspiration from its concept derivative, the intimidating exterior deserves no explanation because it's got the biggest kidney grille of any BMW ever made, bigger than the 7 LCI I talked about earlier, and when you see one of these on your rear-view mirror, you'd better watch yourselves or don't get shoved off by its intimidating facial gesture. It's like a sign of road rage coming up

2019 BMW X7 interior

Apart from the intimidating exterior that clearly sums this 84,300 Euro mammoth up, the X7's interior is all about form, functionality, and comfort in one clever package. On the driver's side, it's got a lot of gadgets to toy around such as gesture control, BMW Connected and ConnectedDrive, and more, not to mention the addition of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant which is like your Amazon Alexa for your BMW, whatever that means.

The X7 is the first seven-seater BMW SUV offered but not the first because the 2-Series Gran Tourer introduced us seven-seater capacity. Anyway, as a seven-seater, there are some ups and downs to this because the upside is, since this is a seven-seater, it works as a family car full stop, but on the downside is, just like every seven-seater SUV, getting to the third row seat in the event the second-row seat's fully occupied by ISOFIX child seats is no easy task. Of course, BMW will offer you to split the second row seats into half but the situation remains the same. As a family car, it's too expensive and in such scenario, ruins your sweet spot but as a rich man's car, this is like a 7-Series in so many ways, unless your financier is riding on his scooter instead behind you or between the entourage. 

2019 BMW X7

The X7 offers a wide range of petrol and diesel engines mated to the same 8-speed gearbox as the 7 but best to stay off the diesels unless you live in countries where diesels are acceptable such as the Philippines. The range-topper is the M50i with the 4.4L V8 TwinPower Turbo engine producing 530PS of power, 750Nm of torque, and a 0-100kph time of less than five seconds.

While unacceptable in today's Europe, the xDrive30d variant of the X7 promises about 171g/km of CO2 emissions and that's all I can say it.

Although being a Manhattan tanker-sized SUV, the X7 handles very much like the BMW 7-Series in so many ways courtesy of its xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive, Dynamic Stability Control, and others. With the optional off-road package, the X7 possess near Range Rover levels of getting through tarmac, gravel, snow, sand, and rocks, the near-ideal elephant on your room in case you're taking on the Hannibal.

Thanks to a wide range of safety features, especially the highly noticeable Driving Assistant Professional possessing near-autonomous driving technology, Emergency Stop Assistant, andParking Assistant Plus with Reversing Assistant, it feels like another day at the office for the X7 even when taking a trip back at the mansion.

So, there you are. If you are on the road seeing one of these on your rear view mirror, you'd better doublethink before dealing with these mammoth-grilled beasts from all sides. The 7-Series LCI and the first-ever X7 look intimidating because of their terrifying size of their kidney grilles but their level of luxuriousness brings swagger to a completely new level.

Photo: BMW AG

BMW 3-Series G20

The BMW 3-Series, the most accessible luxury saloon from BMW, is now on its seventh generation and this new generation promises to be the most advanced 3-Series ever made with new and exciting features that will make the all-new 3-Series a class apart, in BMW's words at least. So, what's it all about the 3-Series G20?

2019 BMW 3-Series

The G20 BMW 3-Series promises to deliver the checks and balances of what a luxury sport saloon in its class should be; technologically advanced inside out, relatively superior comfort, sporty dynamics a true BMW should have, performance, and economy, all in one clever but enjoyable package fit for the semi-elite who want to stand out from the rest.

2019 BMW 3-Series

Checking on the design, it seems that the new 3-Series falls from the Russian doll effect like most cars are doing shamelessly and as such, it looks rather like the shrunken version of today's 5-Series, meaning when parked alongside with it, you can't really tell the difference between this and that but on the plus side, it looks better than the previous model it replaces and the new LED headlights with BMW Laserlight adds a nice touch to it.

2019 BMW 3-Series interior

Same thing goes to the interior but familiarity aside, there are so many stuff to toy around in the driver's seat, including the clever BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant that works pretty much like the Amazon Alexa from your home. Say something on your BMW and it answers most of your questions and then some to either entertain yourself or annoy the passengers. AI assistants are becoming more popular and this feature in the new 3-Series can be either a friend for you or a foe for some, whatever that means.

On the comfort side, thanks to its increased dimension, it's surprisingly slightly roomier than its predecessor and very modest boot space indeed, meaning this car fits perfectly for either a trip to a golf club at Quezon City or a road trip to Ilocos, whatever the reason. Besides, visibility isn't half bad either.

2019 BMW 3-Series

Nooks and crannies can be somewhat more fun to toy around inside but on the driver's seat, performance matters and the new 3-Series offers a wide range of 2.0L petrol and diesel engines mated to either a 6-speed manual or eight-speed Steptronic transmission. Since this is Europe today, might as well ignore the diesels right now and skip to the petrol variants where the most powerful at launch is the 190kW (258PS) 330i model while the most efficient in the petrol range is the 320i Steptronic with 126g/km of CO2 emissions and 6.4L/100km of combined fuel efficiency based on WLTP standards.

There will be more to come in the range later on such as the more powerful M340i xDrive with 374PS straight-six engine and signature dynamic upgrades that will keep them hooked for more and the new 330e PHEV variant which promises 60km of electric driving distance.

Apart from the engine choices, the new 3-Series is becoming livelier to drive thanks to its lightweight construction that sheds up to 55kg of weight, sport-tuned suspension setup, variable sport steering, and the first-ever lift-related dampers, among many others. Add some M Sport upgrades underneath and the result is a more sportscar-like agility that can be somewhat enjoyable for you on the open road but a bit cranky on city traffic per se. Those looking for a more comfortable ride should stick to the normal 3-Series but those looking for some fun should go for the M Sport variant. That's it.

Because this is the most technologically-advanced 3-Series ever made, the wide array of safety features really made it even more noticeable for the driver and when this car got logged with the Driving Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant Plus with Reversing Assistant, feels like someone's prophecy came true. Such technology is becoming more knowledgeable than the driver himself but if you are as stubborn as someone trying to ignore the GPS, then go ahead. I dare you.

Anyway, the new BMW 3-Series starts at 37,850 Euros, making it one of the most reasonably-priced luxury midsize saloons in its class. While the design and the technology is a bit of a throwdown to some, even for passengers at the back, the packaging, the dynamics, and the efficiency really made the new 3-Series a class apart from the rest, which isn't bad for a normal luxury sport saloon unless someone might say this car deserves better but whatever.

Photo: BMW AG

Mercedes-AMG CLS53 vs. AMG GT 4-Door

The third-generation Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class W257 finally gets its own AMG variant but it's not in a way we think because following the introduction of AMG's new 53 range that began with the E53 Coupe and Cabriolets, the AMG version of the W257 CLS is following suit with the first-ever CLS53 AMG and the question is, why this? Let's analyze.

2019 Mercedes-AMG CLS53

Starting at 84,431 Euros, this is the CLS-Class' starting point at the Mercedes-AMG stable, the CLS53, and while its not as lairy as the old CLS63 AMG from the previous generation, the powertrain of the CLS53 makes it rather special in every single way.

Like the E53 vehicles before, the CLS53 features a new 3.0L in-line six-cylinder engine with EQ Boost electric auxiliary compressor, which is a a mild-hybrid that doesn't makes it a Prius in a tuxedo. What it does is that it delivers 457PS of power and 520Nm of torque, that's V8 power in a very small six-cylinder engine made by Mercedes and when mated to a SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G-Tronic, the CLS53 sprints from 0-100kph in four and a half seconds and it is electronically limited to 250kph or with the optional driver's package, it does up to 270kph so it's fast.

While some say that the CLS53, because of its all-wheel drive system, is going to be mild and tangy like an Audi S7 but it's not true because this all-wheel drive system here is the AMG Performance 4MATIC+, meaning that it can be transitioned to either all four wheels or to the back with its fully variable torque distribution, letting this car dance like it means it.

So, if you like the CLS53 for its powertrain way beyond six-cylinder levels thanks to its mild-hybrid setup and its dynamics worth a dancing mirage, you should turn their attention to this one;

2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door

This is the first-ever Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door and while this is basically AMG's answer to Porsche's Panamera and Maserati's Quattroporte, the AMG GT 4-door delivers the same thrills as its two-door equivalent while having a VIP in the backseat, despite the fact that both the two-door and the four-door AMG GTs aren't really relatives.

There are different levels of the AMG GT 4-door to choose from, something that its two-door equivalent never had the chance (and never will be because it will stick being a V8 sportscar). The highest-spec version, the GT63S, features a more powerful 4.0L V8 Twin Turbo engine that produces more power than the old 6.0L V12 used on the S65 range. 639PS of course. However, if you got a driver's license for the first time, better stick to the middle-ranged GT53 with its 3.0L in-line six-cylinder engine with EQ Boost electric auxiliary compressor like the one I mentioned above, and the low-calorie equivalent GT43 with the basic 6-cylinder turbo engine.

The GT43 starts at 91,809 Euros while the top-end GT63S starts at an outrageously priced 167,017 Euros. Very expensive indeed but it doesn't matter which GT 4-Door you choose because no matter the engine, you will still be greeted by its AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system that can be transitioned to either all four wheels or to the back with its fully variable torque distribution, meaning that this four-door couple likes to get in the groove on the road and on the track, reminiscent of how today's Mercedes E63 and BMW M5 do in their time.

In conclusion; although the four-door AMG GT has all the levels and the groove to make it more ready for action, those who haven't got that kind of value should better stick with the CLS53 for the time being but if the timing's just right for people who saved enough money for not buying the CLS53, they'll be lucky enough to drive the four-door AMG GT which shares nothing in common with the two-door equivalent and basically just an improved E-Class underneath it. Sounds like a plot twist but either way, these two new AMG four-door coupes are sure enough to give drivers the twist they want.

Photo: Daimler AG

Genesis G90

When the Genesis luxury brand from Hyundai Motor Group was launched in 2015, Korea's answer to Toyota's Lexus showed that it has separated the men from the boys when it comes to luxury cars. The EQ900 flagship saloon was their first following followed by the G80 executive sedan and their small offering, the G70. As Genesis moves on to its next chapter, the EQ900's story has finished and a new flagship has risen.

2019 Genesis G90

2019 Genesis G90

The first Genesis car was redefined. Welcome to Genesis's brand-new flagship sedan, the G90. As the replacement to the EQ900, the G90 continues where the outgoing model left with its unbiased scale of luxury while incorporating the new Genesis look that will soon be adorned to future models. It really is their next verse in the book of Genesis.

Up front, the G90 is the first to incorporate the new Essentia-styled nose, which will serve as the new design language for Genesis. Like it or leave it, the new face is distinctively Genesis unless you wanted to look further because the Essentia-inspired grille reminds us of the Eunos saloons of the 90s while the headlamps look like it came from the Volvo S90, one of the G90 chief foes. The side remains the same as the EQ900 it replaces but the wheels spoiled the flagship's design and on the rear, would you look at that? It looks like it came from the Lincoln Continental. Questionable design aside, the G90 is too impossible to ignore because a lot of people are going to talk about this car post-launch, and with such conversations, Genesis's new flagship is onto something here.

2019 Genesis G90 interior

2019 Genesis G90 interior

The inside of the G90 remains the same as the outgoing EQ900, meaning that it still has that out-on-a-limo feeling every time you step out of it, although you will notice some changes to the central air vents flanking the analog clock and some new upholstery and trim choices. Because the interior of the G90 is almost the same as the EQ900 it replaces, the rear side really shows how much of a Genesis this flagship is while being on the hot seat and letting your driver understand how it moves.

2019 Genesis G90

Under the driver's seat, the G90 behaves the same as the EQ900 it replaces and the engine choices remained the same as last time, ranging from V6 3.3-liter T-GDI (370PS); V6 3.8-liter GDI (315PS); or V8 5.0-liter GDI (425PS), all mated with an 8-speed automatic with lock-up torque converter. The G90 can be offered in rear-wheel drive or HTRAC all-wheel drive system, which electronically controls torque split between the axles depending on which driving conditions the driver is on, providing a well-stabled ride on slippery conditions and allows the driver to select different driving modes.

While the G90 offers a wide array of safety features fit for the journey home from a posh lunch at Isdaan to the trip back to the mansion in Muntinlupa City, the most notable features include Surround View Monitor, Reverse Guide Lamp, and Rear Cross Collision Warning/Rear Cross Collision Prevention Assistance.

The G90 starts at 77 million Won up to 120 million Won, which is still the most expensive Korean-made car in history and it's still less expensive than the BMW 7-Series. So, the G90 may be more like the EQ900 it replaces but it's a fresh start for Genesis as the Korean luxury brand from the Hyundai Motor Group continues to reinvent its recipe for success that earned them awards and accolades during its three-year existence. With the G90, fans of the Genesis brand will be prepared for what's next ahead.

Available colors: Marble White, Platinum Silver, Grace Blue Ray, Carbon Metal, Amber Brown, Royal Blue, Titanium Black, Porto Red, and Gold Coast Silver.

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Lexus ES 300h (AXZH10)

The Lexus ES is more than just a glorified Toyota Camry with the Lexus badge in it because back when it was known as the Toyota Vista, then Windom, it was truly recognized as a "world prestige class" saloon that is rich in features and has an impeccable silence fit for a luxury car. Even though Lexus has a presence of Japan, the ES is one of the cars not available in the Japanese market until now...

2019 Lexus ES

For the first time on Japanese roads, the all-new Lexus ES is now available starting at 5,800,000 Japanese Yen, which is very expensive for what's underneath a Toyota Camry but to put in broad context, it's somewhat more affordable than the main opponent, the Audi A6. So, good mark for Lexus on the pricing but actually, no.

2019 Lexus ES

Observing through the styling, the front of the new ES looks vaguely similar to the new Lexus LS, apart from the rakishly trademark Spindle Grille that adorns most Lexus of today, while the sidelines reminded you of the second-generation Mazda Atenza, and the rear view looks like the Hyundai YF Sonata. In other words, it is as Asian as Asian cars can get and speaking of identity crisis aside...

2019 Lexus ES interior

2019 Lexus ES interior

The new ES's interior was heavily influenced by its bigger brother, signalling the future of Lexus interiors, whatever that means. What this interior translates is that all of the main information displays are now into the driver's line of sight such as the LCD instrument panel, optional heads-up display, Lexus Multimedia System, upgraded Remote Touch Interface, and so much more. Focusing on the creature comfort, the new ES can be very nice to chauffeur some rich people, even your Boss Madam wouldn't mind while taking her to the office. While the interior comfort is somewhat Mercedes-level rather than Audi-level, the boot space is now surprisingly bigger and because the battery pack is located underneath the rear seat, you can store less than 17 cubic feet of trunk space along with the secret compartments for smaller items.

2019 Lexus ES

The new ES maybe a new Camry underneath but because it's running on its earful TNGA platform, it's now more comfortable and stable to impress the salarymen. Apart from the platform, the new ES features a reworked suspension that adapts to its surroundings, all thanks to its Dynamic Control Shocks capable of responding to event the smallest movements. Of course, being a luxury car, the new ES comes with a new rack-assist type Electric Power Steering that promises precise steering feel. It feels nice to drive on normal roads but when it's too much to bear, it's going to behave like an Audi A6 per se and even in the F SPORT variant with Adaptive Variable Suspension, it's going to take some dramatic logic to understand the new ES's behavior rather well because being a front-wheel drive car, the struggle really is real.

Because the new ES is a hybrid-only saloon that serves as the replacement for the HS250h, it sports the same new hybrid powerplant as the new Camry, meaning it bears the brand new 2.5L A25A-FXS petrol engine mated to an 88kW electric motor and an old-fashioned nickel metal battery. Fuel economy is around 20.6km/L on the WLTC Mode scale and while focusing more on the hybrid powerplant, the new ES features a parallel shaft gear and a multi-function gear that incorporates a power split planetary ring gear, parking gear, and counter drive gear into one compact unit. The hybrid control system now promises more responsiveness and when engaged to Sport mode, you can take advantage of its paddle shifters to control six simulated gears, which is nice but so-so. Also, there's the new Auto Glide Control system which addresses the one where drivers misjudge the drag imposed by regenerative brakes as they approach a stop and then move back and forth between the brake and the accelerator. Sounds convenient, if you know what I mean.

The new ES boasts most of the groundbreaking safety features under the new Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 such as the Pre-Collision System with daytime bicyclist detection, Lane Departure Assist, new Lane Tracing Assist, new All-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Road Sign Assist, and many more. However, apart from the many safety features, the new ES comes with a brand new party piece that will get you notice. In the old days, drivers tend to check the side view mirrors and get into the hassle of adjusting it to get the best possible view. In the new ES, it comes with the world's first Digital Outer Mirrors with side-view cameras. Instead of side view mirrors, it uses cameras to provide a live feed display on the left and right screens inside the cabin, allowing for enhanced views of the area around the car at night and in inclement weather. It also offers an expanded view of the car's surroundings by augmenting the display area during turns or reversing.

The bottom line? The new ES may have suffered some identity crisis and the idea that is offered only in hybrid but the interior comforts, the safety features, the pricing that can outflank the A6, and the new Digital Outer Mirrors really makes this glorified Camry a class apart from the rest. It's great to see the Lexus ES arrived in Japan for the first time since forever and there's so much to learn from this glorified Toyota Camry while eating some California Maki on the platter.

Source: Toyota Motor Corporation