Celebrity Life

The Nissan GT-R50 prototype is the result of the first ever collaboration between Nissan and Italdesign; and today, the prototype showed at Goodwood promising to become the blueprint for an extremely limited run of hand-built production vehicles. The vehicle commemorates the 50th anniversaries of both the GT-R, in 2019, and Italdesign, in 2018. “The Goodwood Festival […]

The post The Nissan GT-R50, combining power and artistry appeared first on Upscale Living Magazine.

Going on the auction block is 1974 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS, a vintage classic - named after Enzo Ferrari's late son Alfredino Ferrari - ready to be shown a new owner, which would only be the third in over 40 years.

The post “Junior” Ferrari Dino 246 GTS Going for Auction appeared first on LUXUO.

The Bespoke Collective of the House of Rolls-Royce has conceived a darker iteration of Black Badge Wraith and Dawn, presented in a limited Collection, named Adamas. Drawing inspiration from the name, meaning ‘untameable,’ ‘invincible,’ and also ‘diamond,’ the Collective celebrate the darker side of contemporary craftsmanship, expertly weaving a dark aesthetic of unbreakable carbon structures […]

The post ADAMAS Collection Takes Rolls Royce Black Badge Darkness appeared first on Upscale Living Magazine.

It’s been two years since we got behind the wheel of the Lexus RC 350 F Sport. But it’s a drive we remember because, one, our test ride was a striking orange; and two, the drive got our adrenaline going when the engine growled.

But with our high car taxes, it only makes sense for Lexus to bid the 3-litre RC farewell and introduce the new 2-litre turbocharged Lexus RC Turbo to give drivers more value for money. Smaller engine size equals lower charges, but does that mean we’ll also get less of a thrill in our drive?

As we get into the driver’s seat, we keep our fingers crossed that it delivers the same excitement its predecessor did.

Thankfully, there is no disappointment to be had.

The RC200t, more affectionately known as the Lexus RC Turbo, graced us with its presence at the Singapore Motor Show in January. The car still maintains a confident stance, and bears a similar handsome design — with some tweaks made to the headlamps and grille — we were fond of in the F Sport.

SEE ALSO: Lexus's first-ever LC comes to Singapore

We’d be lying if we say power under the hood is exactly the same with a downsized engine. On paper, the Lexus RC Turbo churns a modest 241 horses and 350Nm of torque, whereas the RC350’s V6 powertrain delivers 312bhp and 378Nm. What’s more, while both cars promise a top speed of 230km/h, acceleration measures 7.5 seconds for the turbo, which is more than a second slower than the RC350.

That said, the RC Turbo is far from sluggish. You’ll be surprised to even learn that compared to rivals the likes of BMW and Mercedes-Benz, this Lexus is about 150kg heftier. Moving off from a stationary position, the coupe is nimble on its feet and takes on corners just as well as its predecessor and brand rivals in its segment. Steering is precise, making the car stress-free and easy to handle on our roads. Ride quality also hasn’t been compromised in any way.

Sure, it doesn’t provide the delightful growl under the hood as the F Sport but gearshifts are quick and smooth for a pleasant daily drive. Switch between the three modes in the car’s Drive Mode Select system — Eco, Normal and Sport — to suit your driving mood for the day.

It’s obvious the Japanese premium automaker pays much attention to the comfort level in its cars. Seated in the cabin, you’ll enjoy the wonderfully quiet acoustics we’ve grown accustomed to for Lexus cars. Noise level on the outside is also kept to a minimum. Plush perforated leather adorn the seats, adding distinction to an already cushy ride.

That said, taller-than-average passengers may find it a little bit of a challenge getting in and out of the rear seats. Then again, this is a coupe, after all.

As an everyday sports car, cargo room is at a sizeable 423 litres to hold your daily loot. So while this car is a fun ride to go cruising down the expressways with, it’s also a practical one that you’re able to take to the office or on grocery runs too.

SEE ALSO: Introducing Lexus' latest F car: The GS F

On the dashboard, the usual infotainment display has been simplified, with the Lexus Remote Touch control making way for a simple rotary selector. Its 7-inch infotainment monitor is easy to use and comes with a reverse camera.

While the car is adequately equipped with great technologies that help make driving easier and safer — with features such as dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, eight airbags and a keyless system — Lexus has, however, removed the SatNav system, something that many of us rely on to get around. We’re hoping that if there’s a facelift planned in the near future, this convenient feature will be reintroduced.

Another gripe is the lack of memory seat function, although the front seats do come fitted with switches to electronically adjust and control seat positions.

No matter though — this is a car you’ll want to keep all to yourself anyway.

The post Test-drive: Lexus RC Turbo appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Your first step to the world of unrivalled luxury, of elegance, class and finesse

The post Coveted Exhibition: RHB Premier International Luxury Collections Week 2017 in Penang appeared first on LUXUO.

This is probably good news for Ferrari fans who are SUV lovers

The post Ferrari To Build A New SUV appeared first on LUXUO.

The last Jaguar E-Type Series II Fixed Head Coupé goes to auction at Blenheim Palace Silverstone Auctions is to auction a Series II Jaguar E-Type Fixed Head Coupé believed to be the last of its type ever sold as new. In excellent condition and never having undergone a major restoration, the Jaguar Light Blue E-Type […]

The post The last Jaguar E-Type Series II Fixed Head Coupé goes to auction at Blenheim Palace appeared first on Upscale Living Magazine.

Performance Check Mate: Rimac’s Concept One “Ahh, military intelligence. The great oxymoron” Probably one of the oldest jokes in the book, and in this case said by Samuel L. Jackson’s character in the unthinkably memorable 2010 spy-thriller “Unthinkable”.  That is the opening gambit here because I’m about to introduce another unthinkable oxymoron into the conversation: […]

The post Performance Check Mate: Rimac’s Concept One appeared first on Upscale Living Magazine.