The sun beats mercilessly as we step outside; blinding, boiling, we fumble for the car key, hear a soft beep, confirming the doors are unlocked, and slip inside. The engine fires up confidently and, within seconds, a blast of cool air envelops us. As we sink into the plush yet supportive seat, we reach for the steering wheel, feeling the firmness of the wood, the suppleness of the stitched leather.
Shifting into gear, we roll onto the street, enjoying the envious stares as we pass by. There’s something about our set of wheels that makes us feel, well, a bit like we’ve risen above mere mortal status. Is it the drop-dead gorgeous styling, the living room-like comfort, or the array of high-tech “infotainment” technology at our fingertips? Perhaps it’s the reassuring resonance of the powerplant under the hood.
It’s not always easy to define what makes a car, truck, or crossover slip into that enviable class called “luxury.” Maybe it’s like what they say about art: You know it when you see it. And as the vehicles we’re reviewing here clearly illustrate, there’s no room for poseurs.
In a crowded market, where there are plenty of brands and a seemingly endless supply of new models to choose from, these are clearly among our favorites. And after reading these reviews, and perhaps heading to the showroom for a test drive, we’ve got a feeling you’re going to agree.
Lincoln MKZ | |
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To test drive a Lincoln MKZ visit: Star Lincoln Inc. 24350 W. 12 Mile Southfield, Mi 48034 www.StarLincoln.net 248-354-4900 |
| When the redesigned Lincoln MKZ was introduced as a concept car at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, it turned heads — and not just because of its streamlined silhouette. Now enter the 2013 Lincoln MKZ, the first production vehicle developed by the Ford Motor Co.’s new Lincoln Design Studio, and no detail has been left to chance. In addition to Lincoln’s top engineers, the studio is also home to designers, sculptors, artists, and modelers dedicated to making a brilliant product that delivers a luxury experience. Known for its graceful grille since its inception, the new Lincoln MKZ features a split-wing grille — a nod to the classic Lincoln, while considerably more modern and sleek. The interior is warm and rich, with eco-friendly wood trim. An optional expansive glass roof provides panoramic views and retracts effortlessly when the outdoors beckon. Advanced safety features and available systems include lane-keeping alerts, park assist, and collision warning with brake support. A standard eight-inch LCD touch screen displays MyLincoln Touch, Ford’s Sync system that is exclusive to Lincoln. Audiophiles are in for an aural treat with the 11-speaker standard setup, and optional 700-watt, 14-speaker THX-II-certified system upgrade. With a choice of gasoline or hybrid, The Lincoln MKZ offers a personal experience at every level, from the powertrain to the push-button shift to the choice of interior coin holder. Everything has been designed for an open and inviting driving experience. The Lincoln MKZ is a brighter, spirited model for a new generation, yet it’s carefully tooled with reverence to the Lincolns of old. After all, it’s a Lincoln, and stunning design is in its DNA. | |
Cadillac ATS | |
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For more information on the Cadillac ATS visit: www.cadillac.com |
| Quick. Nimble. Responsive. Those words can be used to describe the all-new Cadillac ATS. A derivative of nothing, it was built from a clean slate, with the world’s most respected sport sedans in its crosshairs — then tested and perfected under the extraordinary demands of Germany’s famed Nürburgring. Riding on an all-new architecture, the ATS is purposefully designed to deliver remarkable handling and control. Endowed with powerful direct-injection engines, a ZF premium steering system, available race-inspired Brembo® front brakes, and the latest generation of revolutionary Magnetic Ride Control, the ATS is a driver-focused luxury sport sedan that delivers thrilling performance. But Cadillac didn’t stop there. The refined, handcrafted, cut-and-sewn interior is finished with premium materials and the latest technology, like CUE — Cadillac User Experience. It’s a brilliantly executed fusion of luxury and sport. | |
2013 Lexus GS 350 | |
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To test drive a 2013 Lexus GS 350 visit: Meade Lexus of Lakeside M59 at Northpointe Boulevard 586-580-4544Meade Lexus of southfield 28300 Northwestern Highway 248-469-8800www.MeadeLexus.com |
| Bringing sophisticated style, exciting performance, and advanced technology to the luxury sport sedan segment is the new 2013 Lexus GS 350. The new GS incorporates a higher level of precision handling and driving dynamics. Whether gliding through a sweeping curve or attacking a tight corner, the GS exhibits a solid stance and confident handling. Its powerful 3.5-liter, 306-horsepower V-6 engine propels the 2013 GS 350 from 0-60 mph in just 5.7 seconds. Inside the GS is a spacious cabin with luxury appointments including white LED ambient lighting and a classic analog clock. Cabin materials include three types of wood set off by meticulously detailed contrast stitching on the instrument panel, door trim, center console, shift knob, and steering wheel. Debuting on the new GS is the next-generation version of Lexus Enform® with Safety Connect®. This advanced multimedia system connects to music, information, and entertainment services through the user’s smart phone. Apps include Bing for local search, OpenTable, MovieTickets.com, Pandora®, iHeartRadio, Facebook, and Yelp. An SMS text-to-speech feature allows the driver to hear text messages and send preset responses. DVD audio and video compatibility, along with HD Radio™ with iTunes tagging and a three-month trial subscription to SiriusXM Satellite Radio®, are standard. | |
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