Click here for our original post on the Cadillac Ciel Concept.

Follow the jump for the video.

Refresher: Power for the Cadillac Ciel Concept comes from a 3.6L V6 engine with twin turbochargers (DOHC, continuously variable valve timing and direct injection). The engine is good for 425-hp and a peak torque of 430 lb-ft and is mated to a hybrid transmission with low-speed all-electric drive.

- By: Omar Rana

The world’s oldest Bentley was auctioned off this weekend at the 2011 Pebble Beach for a whopping $962,500. 90 years after Bentley’s very first customer, Noel Van Raalte, took delivery of chassis number 3 (registered AX 3827 in the UK) for a total of £1,150.

“Chassis number 3 is an extraordinary, ‘matching-numbers’ car with original aluminium coachwork and brass brightwork,” Bentley said in a statement. “The marque’s signature craftsmanship and engineering capabilities, introduced by company founder W.O. Bentley, are evident even in this oldest surviving production 3 Litre.”

“Pebble Beach is the ideal venue to showcase Bentleys old and new,” said Chairman & Chief Executive, Wolfgang Dürheimer. “On the same day that Gooding & Co. auctioned the world’s oldest surviving production Bentley, we hosted a private preview of a brand new model. During Monterey week, the enthusiasm for the evolution of the automobile is palpable.”

- By: Omar Rana

“Large, expressive luxury is innate to Cadillac and the Ciel recalls that heritage, while suggesting where the brand can go in the future,” said Clay Dean, global design director for Cadillac. “Authentic luxury is driven by experiences, not just products, and Ciel is about the experience of the journey.”

The Cadillac Ciel concept is a four-door, four passenger convertible with a longitudinally mounted front engine and sits on an all-wheel-drive architecture.

Power comes from a 3.6L V6 engine with twin turbochargers (DOHC, continuously variable valve timing and direct injection). The engine is good for 425-hp and a peak torque of 430 lb-ft and is mated to a hybrid transmission with low-speed all-electric drive.

Any plans for producing the Cadillac Ciel Concept? Not yet and we highly doubt it’ll ever see the light of day.

Check out the high-res gallery and press release after the jump.

Press Release:

Cadillac Ciel Concept Celebrates the Journey

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. – Cadillac today unveiled the Ciel concept, an elegant, open-air grand-touring car inspired by the natural beauty of the California coast.

The Ciel – pronounced “C-L,” the French translation for sky – is a four-seat convertible that opens a new chapter in Cadillac’s design and product ascent, pushing the brand’s Art & Science philosophy into a new stratum. Ciel is a new expression of Cadillac’s historical grandeur, as well as a celebration of open-air motoring.

The spacious and elegant Ciel is a grand gesture that explores themes driving Cadillac’s explorations into range-topping flagship luxury. It is powered by a twin-turbocharged version of the 3.6-liter Direct Injection V-6 engine, paired with a hybrid system using lithium-ion battery technology.

Coastal inspiration

Driving California’s Highway 1 in an open car while the sun sets, from Big Sur north to Monterey, is the type of journey the Ciel team envisioned during its design.

“The Ciel is about the romance of the drive,” said Dean. “It emulates the great touring cars seen on the greens at Pebble Beach, but with a modern flair that projects Cadillac’s vision for the future.”

The four-door Ciel embraces the social aspects of a recreational journey, with generous room for two couples. It evokes the spirit of the classics with a long, low proportion. The doors are French-style, with the rear doors hinged at the rear – there is no B-pillar – to reveal a sweeping view of the dramatic interior. Distinguishing fender lines run from nose to tail, and nickel-plated bright work accents the body lines, enhancing the visual length of the car and honoring Cadillac touring cars of the past.

Ciel’s exterior flows seamlessly into the cabin, with the body color rolling over on top of the interior door panels. Like the exterior, the passenger space is accented with sweeping nickel-plated trim. It divides the body-color upper sections from a complementing beige lower color. Italian Olive wood, machined aluminum and hand-tipped leather are elements that flow through the interior, complementing the primary colors with warm, rich tones.

“There is authentic craftsmanship in the way the exterior and interior elements meld, much like a vintage wooden boat,” said Gael Buzyn, interior design manager. “It is romantic, not only in its form, but the materials – nothing smells as good as real wood and leather. It blends together for a rewarding feeling of uncompromising luxury.”

Ciel literally and figuratively reflects the driving experience along the California coastline. The Cabernet paint color, developed specifically for Ciel, is inspired by the rich translucence of a glass of red wine held up to the sunlight.

A prominent, polished aluminum windshield frame serves as in important structural element of the vehicle, as well as aesthetic one, recalling classic open cars of the past. Additional exterior cues, including a shield grille and vertical lighting elements, are pure Cadillac, but suggest a more organic interpretation of the brand’s signature design language that emphasizes the artistic and natural sides of it. The body sides, for example, are more rounded, sweeping upward. Bright work is used to bring contrast to the deep paint color, but plays a more supporting role.

The car rides on large, beautifully finished wheels that feature brushed nickel plating over milled billet aluminum, matching the materials and appearance of other trim. Carbon ceramic brake rotors are visible behind the 22-inch rims, a visual clue to the Ciel’s foundation of performance.

And owing to Cadillac’s heritage of advanced technology, the headlamps and taillamps feature LED lighting elements – including a unique daytime running light graphic on the front of the vehicle that is generated with gradated LED lighting.

Elegant, authentic details

Simplicity, authenticity and spaciousness were the guiding principles when it came to developing the Ciel’s interior.

“With the Ciel, the journey is the thing, so the interior is a place of uncompromising comfort and elegance, with technology that only makes the journey more enjoyable,” said Buzyn. “Simplicity and lightness ensure nothing distracts from the open driving experience, while the color and materials lend the feeling that the vehicle’s environment blends with the surroundings.”

A wheelbase of 125 inches – about 12 inches longer than a CTS sedan – provides generous space. Luxurious seats are bisected by a “floating” center console that runs from the instrument panel to the rear of the interior. It effectively creates a very personal space for each passenger and houses access to hidden connectivity portals for each person in the vehicle – allowing them to make dinner reservations, check the weather at their destination or even upload photos of the trip via social media sights.

Simplicity is also the watchword with the Ciel’s instrument panel, which features a minimalist gauge cluster that doesn’t impede or distract from the outward view. But while reserved in its form, it exemplifies Cadillac’s attention to details and its priority on authentic materials. The climate vents, for example, are mostly hidden and their airflow is distributed indirectly.

Transparent gauges deliver their information within a detailed, brushed-aluminum housing that has the intricate depth of a high-quality chronograph. They offer dual readouts – analog and digital – as well as an information hierarchy. Additional interior features include:

• Sloping bolsters on the seats that allow passengers to slide into the seats more comfortably
• A personal device storage area on the front of the console with inductive charging and Bluetooth connectivity
• A power-assisted transmission shifter that deploys as soon as the engine is started
• Lighting in the armrests that combines a natural light well for daytime driving and ambient lighting for nighttime drives
• Door storage areas that are inspired by premium fashion accessories and open with high-quality zippers
• Pull-out blankets are available for all three passengers and retract automatically
• All the seats have heating and cooling features, along with a drawer containing sun lotion, sun glasses and towels, as well as aromatherapy that is controlled from the rear armrest.
• But perhaps the defining element of the Ciel’s cabin is the incorporation of Italian Olive wood on the doors, instrument panel, console and the front seatbacks, adding warmth and craftsmanship to a car designed to provoke an emotional response.

“Milled solid wood delivers richness and a sensual feeling of authenticity in the visual impact of the grain, its feel and aroma, which a veneer simply cannot,” said Buzyn. “Even in our high-tech, connected world, luxury customers crave touches of old-world craftsmanship – the Ciel simply reflects that with a blend of the latest technology.”

Italian Olive wood is a premium yet sustainable material and the material used in the Ciel came from a single fallen and recycled tree, from a west coast producer of premium olive oil. It was painstakingly prepared, including drying in a kiln, before it was cut for the concept vehicle. The numerous pieces were then photographed so that the grain could be matched precisely. Each component was hand-milled and finished by expert woodworking craftsmen.

The rear seating area is detailed with elegant flourishes. The rear seat passengers can pull a leather tab, which reveals a cashmere blanket that stretches across the seating area to ward off a chill. The wood trim in the rear center console opens to reveal a small humidor, stocked with a few cigars.

“From the materials used to create it to the space and experience it offers passengers, the Ciel represents a unique perspective on luxury, but not the only one,” said Dean. “Along with other concepts, such as the ULC, Cadillac is demonstrating that the bandwidth of the Art & Science philosophy is wide, indeed – and we’re going to make it even wider.”

The Ciel was developed at GM Design’s North Hollywood Design Center, which is managed by Frank Saucedo. Niki Smart was the lead exterior designer, with Buzyn leading interior development.

SPECIFICATIONS

- By: Omar Rana

“Today, buyers in the mid-size luxury segment want a more engaging driving experience, styling that makes a statement, and a roomier interior package,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “With the all-new GS, we’re giving them what they asked for, and more.”

Totally redesigned for the 2013 model year, the new Lexus GS features aggressive and dynamic styling, precise handling, innovative technology, and a spacious interior – or so Lexus says. The new GS measures 190.9 inches in length, 72.4 inches in width, 57.3 inches in height and sits on a wheelbase measuring 112.2 inches.

Click here for more news on the Lexus GS.

The interior of the 2013 Lexus GS has also been revamped along with new technological features including a next-generation Lexus multimedia with DVD audio and video compatibility, MP3 sound enhancement, 5.1 Surround Sound, and a high-resolution eight-inch central control display centrally located high up in the instrument panel. Adding the optional navigation system will give you the industry’s first 12.3 inch split-screen high-resolution multi-media display.

Power for the 2013 Lexus GS 350 comes from a 3.5 liter V6 engine making 306-hp at 6,400 rpm with a maximum torque of 277 lb-ft at 4,800 rpm. Mated to a 6-speed sequential-shift transmission, the Lexus GS sprints from 0 to 60 mph in an impressive 5.7 seconds with a top speed of 142 mph. Acceleration from 30 to 50 mph takes just 3 seconds.

The new 2013 Lexus GS 350 also debuts the new Lexus Drive Mode selector, which offers 3 driving modes including ECO, Sport S and Sport S+. Of course we’re concerned with the Sport S+ and we’re pretty sure you are too. The model enhances handling by switching up the adaptive variable suspension, steering system, and vehicle stability control (VSC) together with the powertrain enhancements of SPORT S mode.

Prices and other details on the 2013 Lexus GS 350 will be announced closer to launch date.

Hit the jump for the high-res gallery and the press release.

Press Release:

Lexus Reveals All-New 2013 GS 350 at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

• A Sport Sedan with World-Class Luxury and Evocative Design Shows New Identity of Lexus
• Outstanding Driving Dynamics and Innovative Technology Combined
• Spacious Interior With Open, Modern Architecture

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif., August 18, 2011 – Lexus today unveiled the all-new GS 350 at a press conference in conjunction with the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The new 2013 GS combines bold, dynamic styling, precise handling, innovative technology, and a spacious interior. In addition to the GS 350, other 2013 GS models that will be launched in early 2012 include hybrid and F Sport versions, with further details to be announced later this year.

“Today, buyers in the mid-size luxury segment want a more engaging driving experience, styling that makes a statement, and a roomier interior package,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “With the all-new GS, we’re giving them what they asked for, and more.”

Along with a new Lexus signature spindle grille, the GS is a car that conveys a tangible sense of driver confidence, with a redesigned chassis and a wide, strong stance that inspires and rewards driver participation with crisp and precise handling.

GS engineers challenged themselves to develop a more spacious interior environment. While leaving exterior dimensions virtually unchanged, they dramatically increased cabin and trunk space to create an interior that can easily transport passengers and their luggage in luxury and style regardless of distance.

Richly endowed with world-class features and premium details, the new GS is supported by advanced, performance-enhancing technology that makes it more than just a luxury car. The driver and front passenger will enjoy the clean appearance of the new high-resolution central control display.

A New Personality and An Invitation To Drive
Designing the new GS 350 to be both strong and agile was a key focus of the engineering team. They looked to the Lexus LFA supercar for inspiration and carried over some key elements to provide a more engaging driving experience, including a new aerodynamic body; a completely new platform with a wider stance and stiffer structure; a transmission with quicker shifts; distinctive engine sound and exhaust notes; and better seat support.

The new platform is more rigid compared to the current model. Engineers conducted extensive platform testing, ultimately increasing the number of spot welds and adding laser welds in very specific locations. The track, wider by almost two inches, works in combination with a revised suspension design to assure a more solid stance and superior cornering performance.

The new suspension system is designed to help guide the 2013 GS through corners with precision. In the front, upper and lower control arms are made from aluminum and employ larger bushings. The rear subframe has been completely redesigned to accommodate an all-new multi-link rear suspension, using improved suspension geometry that retains tire cornering force and enhances rear control. With the stiffer platform and lighter components, the shocks can use lighter-viscosity oil, so they move easily and respond to small inputs more quickly.

The use of front and rear aluminum control arms helps reduce unsprung weight and results in significant improvements in agility, roll damping, ride comfort, body control and steering precision. Overall, the suspension is lighter and stronger, allowing it to react to driver input readily, and ride quietly without harshness. Ventilated disc brakes featuring four-piston aluminum front calipers are endowed with the latest electronic enhancements to help provide braking balance and control.

Customized Driving Experience
The new GS is powered by an advanced 3.5-liter V6, four cams, and four valves per cylinder with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). At 306 horsepower, it is one of the most powerful base engines in the segment, as well as the only one with both port and direct injection. It propels the GS from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds and at the same time, fuel economy has been improved.

Acceleration from 30 to 50 mph can take just 3.0 seconds, and improved engine sound characteristics complement the bolder, more energetic personality of the new GS. The six-speed sequential shift automatic transmission has paddle shifters and sport driving functions as standard equipment.

The transmission incorporates many features adopted from the Lexus IS F high-performance sedan — including faster shifts, earlier torque converter lockup and downshift throttle blips — to support four driving modes that can be operated by toggling the new Lexus Drive Mode selector. In addition to the Normal mode, the following settings let the driver customize the driving experience:

• ECO mode revises throttle mapping, seat heating, and climate control systems for better fuel economy. In ECO mode, meter lighting changes to blue.
• SPORT S mode revises throttle mapping and transmission shifting priorities to fully exploit the capabilities of the powertrain. In SPORT S mode, meter lighting changes to red.
• SPORT S+ mode (available on some models) engages handling enhancements via a sport setting of the adaptive variable suspension, steering system, and vehicle stability control (VSC) together with the powertrain enhancements of SPORT S mode.

An optional electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system is designed to enhance traction in a variety of driving conditions. The system can vary front-to-rear torque balance from 50/50 to as much as 30/70, depending on driving conditions, for exceptional control.

Innovative Lexus Design
The 2013 GS expresses a new generation of Lexus’ design philosophy with its precisely sculpted exterior and will lead the rest of the lineup in an entirely new direction. When designers shaped the GS they visualized the flow of air around it and, like the LFA supercar, maximized aerodynamic efficiency for class-leading coefficient of drag.

The GS fuses distinctive style with engineering functionality. Fins incorporated into the side of the tail lamps and the design of the trunk area all help direct air over and past the car. The rear bumper underbody area was designed for reduced wind resistance to help keep the car firmly planted on the ground. Finally, air inlets located on the outer edges of the lower grille serve as cooling ducts.

The signature spindle grille with its trapezoidal contours evolved from current Lexus styling and fully integrates into the aggressive front bumper allowing for efficient airflow. This distinctive Lexus design feature combined with the deep-set, high-tech headlamps and L-shaped LED daytime running lamps further express the vehicle’s confident and dynamic character. The headlamps use a projector beam design, adding a strong, chiseled appearance and excellent illumination.

From the side, the GS projects the image of a spacious sport sedan with a road-hugging wider stance. The tapered lower rocker panel and the short front overhang give the vehicle a sense of motion. Width-enhancing front and rear wheel arches adds an athletic stance enhancing the vehicle’s dynamic presence.

The rear bumper features a distinctive exhaust diffuser and centered aero fins to help control underbody airflow. Combined with the L-shaped LED tail lamps, a Lexus design cue, these rear bumper features lend a high-performance appearance. Overall, the new GS sheet metal represents a significant extension of the Lexus L-finesse philosophy that is the core of all Lexus product design.

The GS 350 will feature three colors that are new to the Lexus color palette: Riviera Red, Meteor Blue Metallic and Liquid Platinum. Vehicles in Riviera Red will benefit from glass flakes incorporated into the coating that adds a high level of brilliance to the paint. Lexus engineers developed a new advanced coating process for Liquid Platinum exteriors. The GS 350 will be the first Lexus to adopt this new coating technology. Vehicles with the Liquid Platinum exterior will appear more radiant as an additional metallic texture gives both strong shading and defined, sharp highlights. This metallic effect makes subtle and defined bodylines more noticeable and the surface appear finely polished.

Spacious Interior with Premium Upgrades
The GS provides more overall space for all occupants. With these changes, the new GS offers comfortable space for front and rear passengers.

Upgraded accommodations start with the driver. The entire cabin was created around the driver and the driving experience. A horizontal-themed instrument panel emphasizes the spaciousness through its wide layout. A redesigned seat frame and changes to steering column architecture enable an improved driver seating position for increased comfort, better forward visibility and overall command of the road. Equal attention has been paid to maximizing space for rear passengers, adding headroom, legroom, knee room and improved foot space compared to the current generation GS.

Door openings have also been revised for easier ingress and egress. Trunk space has been increased by almost 25 percent, and trunk access is improved with a wider, deeper opening.

Painstaking attention to detail was applied to the GS cabin as well to create a balance of luxurious and technological amenities and emotional design. The new layout of the long, sculpted dash gives the driver and front passenger a sense of roominess through its clean center stack and new, large high-resolution center control display placed deep near the front windshield. Most of the comfort and convenience controls such as audio and climate were relocated to provide a cleaner and more sophisticated dash layout.

The interior includes a number of embedded premium upgrades as standard equipment. A new energy-saving auto climate control system called S-Flow uses the occupant-detection system to focus airflow only to the front area where passengers are actually seated, a first-in-class technology. A next-generation Remote Touch with one-push confirmation is standard on all models and enables smooth, intuitive operations control.

The Remote Touch allows the user to operate the climate, audio, phone controls, optional navigation system and more. The screen menus are selected with the controller, eliminating the need to reach out. Remote touch also reduces eye movement and helps users operate functions with reduced effort and distraction. A standard rear back-up camera helps add security and convenience.

The finely crafted cabin detail is complemented further by ambient lighting that unobtrusively welcomes and guides the user into the vehicle, providing a carefully designed experience. New white LED lights are sequentially lit to illuminate the areas around the doors, center console and footwells. A new analog clock with LED indicators, carved from an ingot, adds a unique touch, at once both modern and traditional.

Cabin materials include three types of wood specially chosen to highlight the unique flavors of the model variations. Meticulously detailed contrast stitching is used as a visual accent on the instrument panel, door trim, center console, shift knob and steering wheel to create a rich, tailored interior space.

Seamless Connectivity
Next-generation Lexus multimedia brings a host of standard entertainment and connectivity enhancements, including enhanced Bluetooth® capability with automatic phonebook download and streaming audio.

GS buyers will get DVD audio and video compatibility, MP3 sound enhancement, 5.1 Surround Sound, and a high-resolution eight-inch central control display centrally located high up in the instrument panel. An SMS text-to-speech feature allows the driver to be read text messages and send preset responses with a compatible smart phone. HD Radio™ with iTunes tagging and a three-month trial subscription to SiriusXM Satellite Radio are standard. The Gracenote Media management system creates dynamic music playlists and a voice recognition solution recognizes nicknames for music artists and even some mispronunciations.

By adding the optional navigation system, GS owners can get an industry-first 12.3-inch, split-screen, high-resolution multi-media display. The split-screen ultra-large display enhances visibility through the use of advanced, high-definition graphics that are easy to read and easy to use. The 12.3-inch screen is large enough to support simultaneous, split-screen viewing of a large map display, plus audio, climate or other vehicle information.

GS buyers will also have access to next-generation Lexus Enform®, the system that leverages mobile phone technology to provide a new level of connectivity and information management. Local searches can be conducted through Bing, or use voice-enabled apps to make restaurant reservations through OpenTable, get movie tickets via MovieTickets.com or tap into internet radio, including Pandora® or iHeartRadio.

They will also appreciate the ability to check-in on Facebook, and search for restaurant reviews on Yelp. SiriusXM data services offer information on stocks, traffic, weather, sports and fuel prices. The system is updatable and upgradeable through over-the-air downloads, so new apps and content can be readily added.

For audiophiles who insist on the ultimate in audio performance, an 835-watt, 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system is available. The system provides 7.1 Surround Sound through 10 channels using a new class D Digital amplifier and luxury-first Green Edge™ speakers that are lighter, more energy-efficient and have less distortion. The new system produces almost three times as many watts per channel over the previous generation.

Integrated Safety Systems
In addition to enhanced braking systems and an impact-absorbing body structure, the new GS offers significant advances in both passive and active safety systems as standard equipment.

There are a class-leading 10 airbags in the new GS, including a knee airbag for both front driver and passenger. Rear seat occupants have seat-mounted side airbags, and all four outboard occupants are equipped with side curtain airbags.

New Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats increases the likelihood that occupants will be in optimum position at the moment of impact, enhancing the protective effect of the seatbelt system. Standard seatbelts with pretensioners with force limiters used for front and outboard rear seats further assist occupant protection.

Available options to help further enhance occupant safety include a pre-collision system, which uses the dynamic radar cruise control system to provide early warning of upcoming objects that might result in a collision. The system also uses a first-in-class infrared camera to monitor the driver’s eyes to check on driver status. In the event that the driver does not appear to be looking forward when a collision appears imminent, the system will initiate the warning at an earlier threshold. If the driver still does not respond and make the appropriate maneuver, the system will initiate braking intervention up to two seconds prior to impact, helping to lessen the severity of the collision.

Other available safety systems include a Night Vision System that enhances driver visibility at night; Heads Up Display (HUD); a Blind Spot Monitor that helps detect vehicles in rear/side blind spots; and Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW). GS is the first in its segment to offer LKA with active steering torque to provide a small amount to assist in maintaining course, while the LDW feature alerts the driver if the system detects that the vehicle is beginning to drift out of the lane.

“The new GS 350 combines luxury, outstanding driving dynamics and world-class technology features in a new and bold design,” said Templin. “We expect this car to occupy a key position both at the core of the Lexus brand and at the heart of the mid-luxury sedan segment.”

PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS FOR GS 350

- By: Omar Rana

At the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance today, Infiniti unveiled the new 7-passenger/3-row 2012 Infiniti JX. The new model will join Infiniti’s lineup in speing 2012.

“The JX Concept advances the Infiniti design language, sharing design cues of the Infiniti Essence concept, yet interprets those elements in ways suitable to the needs of a family luxury crossover,” said Chief Creative Officer Shiro Nakamura. “From the dramatic front grille and headlight design to the crescent-cut D-pillar and greenhouse shape, the JX Concept shines as a fresh, bold alternative to the many flavors of vanilla currently dominating the three-row luxury crossover segment.”

Click here for more news on the Infiniti JX.

No word on complete technical details abut Infiniti says that the 2012 Infiniti JX will be available with a powerful V6 engine and all-wheel or front-wheel drive. Power will be transmitted to the wheels through a sport-tuned, but fuel-efficient continuously variable transmission.

Compete details of the 2013 Infiniti JX will be released at the debut of the production version model at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2011.

What are your thoughts on the new Infiniti JX? Let us know by casting your vote in the poll below.

Press Release:

INFINITI JX CONCEPT MAKES WORLD DEBUT AT PEBBLE BEACH CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE

– Innovative 7-Passenger, 3-Row Luxury Crossover Concept Previews Latest Addition to Infiniti “Inspired Performance” Lineup, Set for Spring 2012 On Sale –

The Infiniti JX Concept, a preview of an innovative new 7-passenger/3-row luxury crossover that joins the Infiniti lineup in spring 2012, made its world debut today at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The JX Concept was unveiled by Senior Vice President and Chief Creative Officer Shiro Nakamura prior to its display throughout the weekend’s activities at the famed Lodge at Pebble Beach.

Beyond its stunning exterior, the new Infiniti JX Concept is designed to excel in three areas where luxury crossover buyers put an emphasis – interior flexibility and roominess, safety, and innovative hospitality features.

“The three-row luxury crossover segment is one of the fastest growing among all luxury vehicle segments, providing a huge opportunity for Infiniti,” explained Infiniti Americas Vice President Ben Poore. “And like every segment Infiniti enters, we plan to shake up the status quo – with a vehicle that is guaranteed to instantly become the new benchmark for style, hospitality, roominess, advanced telematics and safety technologies.”

In the interior, for example, the production Infiniti JX will offer what is expected to be class-leading roominess, along with a 2nd row seat design that tilts and slides forward providing exceptionally easy 3rd row access.

“With the JX, you will even be able to leave a child seat latched to the 2nd row while getting in or out of the 3rd row – just one example of the vehicle’s inspired flexibility and versatility,” added Poore. “The 3rd row isn’t the typical penalty box either, with adult-sized room for all occupants and five-and-a-half inches of 2nd row forward-back adjustability.”

The Infiniti JX continues Infiniti’s tradition of developing world’s first technologies, offering the currently available Blind Spot Intervention and adding a new feature, Backup Collision Intervention. With this technology, when the transmission is in reverse, the JX will help the driver detect crossing objects behind the vehicle and, if necessary, the system will automatically engage the brakes to help avoid a collision.

The Infiniti JX will also offer technologies designed to make owners lives a bit easier and more efficient, such as a 14-speaker Bose® Studio Surround® sound system with Waveguide bass technology and an advanced Infiniti Connection Telematics system that can automatically synch the owner’s calendar and provide navigation guidance to appointments. It will also feature the Infiniti Personal Assistant, Infiniti’s new personal concierge service with 24-hour access to a live team of professional assistants. The Infiniti Personal Assistant benefit is now offered free-of-charge with every 2012 Infiniti vehicle purchase.

And, in keeping with Infiniti’s “Inspired Performance,” the Infiniti JX will offer a balance of driving exhilaration and fuel efficiency through a combination of a powerful V6 engine and all-wheel or front-wheel drive. The Infiniti JX will also be the first Infiniti to utilize a sport-tuned, but fuel-efficient continuously variable transmission. The CVT will mimic a step transmission when the Sport mode of the Infiniti drive selector is engaged. Additional information regarding the drivetrain and other systems will be provided at the debut of the production version of the all-new Infiniti JX at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2011.

“As a premium crossover with a real 3rd row – along with Infiniti levels of hospitality and driving pleasure, the new JX is another breakthrough design from the brand that has been breaking new ground for more than 20 years,” Nakamura added. “We will continue to challenge conventional thinking.”

In addition, in conjunction with the global reveal of the Infiniti JX, Infiniti is launching the JX Concept “Power of 7” Challenge on Facebook. The challenge invites fans to submit inspiring creations relating to seven Infiniti JX categories: Epicurean, Art & Fashion, Film, Interior Design, Music, Athletics and Technology & Science. The community will vote on the submissions, and winners in each category will receive a cash prize and compete to win trip to 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. More information, including official rules, is available atwww.facebook.com/infiniti.

- By: Omar Rana

Joining the Lotus Exige Final Edition and the Lotus Elise Final Edition this week at Pebble Beach will be a hardcore version of the Lotus Evora. Known as the Lotus Evora GTE Road Car Concept, the concept is developed with the aim to bring global motorsport GTE category race technology to the roads.

Click here for more news on the Lotus Evora.

“To celebrate this ground breaking car, Lotus has built the race-inspired Evora GTE Road Car Concept,” Lotus said in statement. “This high-strung Evora elicits over 420 bhp from its race-developed engine, fed through a sequential AMT racing gearbox and put to the pavement through ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels with center-lock hubs shod with Pirelli P-Zero Corsa tires.”

No word on production yet but Lotus says that the car isn’t just a “homage to a race car – this is a serious race car that makes for a very serious road car.”

Lotus Evora GTE Road Car Concept:

- By: Omar Rana

I’m not really going to get into the whole talk about the 5 Infiniti JX teasers we’ve previously seen but the brand today dropped the sixth teaser, which gives us a closer look at the grille and the curvaceousness of the hood area.

There is just one more teaser shot to go before we see the Infiniti JX Concept on Aug. 18 at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in Monterey, California.

The production Infiniti JX will debut at the 2011 LA Auto Show in Nov. and will go on sale shortly after.

Click here for more news on the Infiniti JX.

Infiniti JX Teasers:

- By: Omar Rana

I’m not even going to get into details here but Infiniti has released teaser no. 5 to the 2013 Infiniti JX. Today’s teaser shows a lot of the JX’s backside which closely resembles the styling on the QX.

The 2013 Infiniti JX will be makings its concept debut later this month at Pebble Beach, followed by a production debut at the 2011 LA Auto Show.

Click here for more news on the Infiniti JX.

Infiniti JX Teasers:

- By: Omar Rana

Infiniti has just dropped teaser number 4 for the upcoming Infiniti JX Concept, which will debut at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance next month.

This is definitely the most revealing teaser we’ve seen of the car and we like what we’re seeing so far of the 7-passenger crossover.

The production 2013 Infiniti JX will debut at the 2011 LA Auto Show in November.

Click here for more news on the Infiniti JX.

Infiniti JX Concept Teasers:

- By: Omar Rana

What is better than a Ferrari 250 GTO? A 24-Karat gold model.

‘Dante’, a Swiss artist, designed the concept. His vision will be revealed at the Concour d’Elegance in August at Pebble Beach, California.

The sculpture will be used a tribute to the Ferrari F250 GTO, and is the third piece in the artists’ collection. The other models include the Aston Martin DB5 and the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing.

“The iconic car sculptures are my tribute to the men who made the original cars: they were artists,” said Dante.  ”One of the most important reasons for my coming to Pebble Beach is the celebration of the Ferrari 250 GTO and the number of original cars being shown. It is my favorite car of all time.”

24-Karat Gold Ferrari 250 GTO by Dante:

- By: Alexandra Koken

Out of the 7 total teasers we’re going to see of the Infiniti JX Concept before its public debut at the  2011 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance next month, this is No. 3.

The production 2013 Infiniti JX 7-passenger crossover will debut at the 2011 LA Auto Show in November and will go on sale shortly after.

Stay tuned for more details.

Click here for more news on the Infiniti JX.

Infiniti JX Concept Teasers:

- By: Omar Rana

“The fourth-generation GS model introduces a more defined and emotional design philosophy featuring a new distinctive front grille and styling cues that will soon be seen on all future Lexus vehicles,” Lexus said in a statement. “The new GS has also been engineered to provide a more engaging and dynamic driving experience and the highest levels of refinement.”

“Our customers have been waiting for a new GS that’s more intense in every way,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “They’ll soon discover this GS was well worth the wait.”

We’ll bring you all the pictures and details as soon as we get them.

Lexus LF-Gh Hybrid Concept:

- By: Omar Rana

The 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa Prototype is one of the most famous cars in history for both the make and automobile history in general. That’s why at Gooding’s sale during the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance auto show and auction on August 20th and 21st, this particular Prototype, chassis No. 0666 TR, is expected to break the world record price for car sold at an auction. For a little guideline, RM Auctions sold this same exact car in May 2009 for $12,402,500 making it the already existing world record holder.

The reason the Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa is so famous and worth so much is due to its influence in sports car racing history. It was based on a 290MM and when assembled in 1957, the 250 Testa Rossa featured a classic V12 engine, a de Dion rear axle and right hand drive.

As it stands to this day, the car was restored with its matching-number engine and NART livery from 1958. As a result, it’s won two Best-in-Class trophies from Pebble Beach and the Platinum Award and TR Cup at the Cavallino, two world-renowned car shows and auctions. And only two of its kind exists in this world.

However, the Ferrari 250 is up for some competition against a 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 Factory Team Car, chassis No. CSX2129. Built to “Sebring” specification, the Cobra unexpectedly pounded through the 1963 USRRC season, driven by Bob Bondurant and later, Ken Miles. Its success in the US motor racing scene is just as prominent as the Ferrari’s in the European racing scene.

So get your checkbooks or multiple Amex Black cards ready. Who’s willing to spend the money?

- By: Chris Chin

2011 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport

Bugatti has received a lot of press coverage ever since the new Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport set the landspeed world record for the fastest production car after hitting a top speed of 267.81 mph. The fastest production car recently made its North American debut at the 60th Pebble Beach Concours d”Elegance and Bugatti in a new blue midnight color. Here are some new press photos for you drool over.

Click here for more news on the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport.

Refresher: The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport makes a total of 1,200-hp (up from 1,001-hp) with a maximum torque of 1,106 lb-ft. Top speed for the production models will be electronically limited to 259 mph to protect the tires. The first five units will feature a special-series of their own with the same configuration as the landspeed record car.

2011 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport:

- By: Omar Rana

Bentley GTC, GTC Speed 80-11 Edition

Just the other day Bentley dropped two special edition versions of the Flying Spur for the Middle East market. While we doubt many of us on the stateside felt left out, the company decided to please us with two new limited-edition models called the Continental GTC and GTC Speed 80-11, which made their debut at the 60th Annual Pebble Beach Concours d”Elegance.

What does the 80-11 designation mean? Basically, it stands for the  80 examples that Bentley will built of each model in 2011. Very creative.

If you’re really interested to see just how special these cars hit the jump for the press release for more details.

Bentley GTC, GTC Speed 80-11 Edition:

Press Release:

BENTLEY MOTORS ANNOUNCES DEBUT OF TWO LIMITED-EDITION DROPHEADS AT PEBBLE BEACH

Continental GTC and GTC Speed 80-11 Editions Unveiled

(Pebble Beach, CA) Bentley Motors is displaying the company”s new limited-edition Continental GTC and GTC Speed 80-11 models, designed exclusively for the North American market, on the Concept Lawn at the 60th Annual Pebble Beach Concours d”Elegance.

Both of these new cars combine the legendary performance, luxury and craftsmanship for which the 91-year old Bentley marque is renowned, as well as the added exclusivity of being commissioned for a single market. The 80-11 designation underlines just how limited these luxury British convertibles will be with Bentley building only 80 examples of each drophead in 2011.

Unique and Distinctive Exterior Styling

The GTC and GTC Speed 80-11 models deliver the same outstanding performance as their “˜standard” Bentley counterparts but with their own strong and original styling stories.

The luxurious GTC 80-11 features new 20-inch, 14-spoke alloy diamond wheels, polished with unique black center caps featuring Bentley”s distinctive “˜B” emblem. The more performance-oriented GTC Speed 80-11 offers the muscular Supersports” 20-inch wheels, now finished with an eye-catching dark tint, and displaying sporty red brake calipers underneath.

Both cars give a nod to Bentley”s British heritage and incomparable craftsmanship, with Union Jack brightware badges featured on the front fenders.

Bentley”s extensive choice of colors is available for both GTC 80-11 models but for those seeking even more exclusivity, a new and unique color ““ Midnight ““ has been commissioned for these high-performance convertibles. The 80-11 GTC and GTC convertibles offer the Dark Grey Metallic soft top and the Mulliner fuel-filler cap as standard.

A Unique Interpretation of Bentley Craftsmanship and Refinement

Bentley”s styling team has created two unique interiors for these exclusive convertibles. The main leather hide choice for both vehicles is Beluga, and the contrast stitching, piping and Bentley emblems are white on the GTC and Pillar Box Red on the GTC Speed. The result is a strong, dark main hide color, accented by the contrasting hand-stitching and piping.

To complement the Piano Black veneers on both 80-11 Editions, the engine-turned aluminum dash has a bright finish in the GTC and a sportier dark finish for the GTC Speed. Race-inspired drilled alloy sport foot pedals are standard on both vehicles and to further differentiate the special editions, the vehicles” treadplates and a badge on the console are branded with the “80-11 Edition” signature.

The 80-11 Edition GTCs and the 80-11 Edition GTC Speeds arrive at Bentley dealers in fall of 2010 as model-year 2011 vehicles.

Exhilarating Bentley Performance and FlexFuel Technology

Since its launch in 2006 the Continental GTC has enjoyed sales success in over 50 countries around the world and drawing younger buyers to the Bentley marque. Customers are attracted to its combination of sleek design, interior craftsmanship, dramatic performance and refined but agile handling. The GTC boasts a twin-turbo 6-liter W12 engine, producing 552hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. The GTC”s top speed is 195mph (190mph with the top down) and its 0-60mph sprint time is just 4.8 seconds.

Responding to customer demand for an even more potent and driver-focused convertible, the GTC Speed debuted in summer of 2009. The Speed also uses the twin-turbo 6-liter W12 powertain but Bentley”s engineers have further optimized its performance to create 600hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. With a top speed of 200mph (195mph with top down) the Speed was the world”s fastest four-seat production convertible, before the recent arrival of its Bentley stablemate the Supersports Convertible, with a 0-60mph time of only 4.5 seconds.

For model-year 2011, the GTC and GTC Speed, along with all Bentley Continentals, features FlexFuel technology, which enables the vehicle to run on gasoline, E85 biofuel or any mix of the two without any compromise in performance. As part of its environmental strategy, Bentley has pledged to reduce CO2 by 15% by offering FlexFuel powertrains across its entire vehicle lineup by the end of 2012, and it has pledged to introduce a new powertrain that reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 40%.

- By: Omar Rana

Morgan EvaGT

British car manufacturer Morgan Motor Company is known for staying true to making hand-built vehicles with traditional design. Even as times change and more buyers are looking for a more modern exclusive look, Morgan is staying true to its grassroots with the introduction of the EvaGT, which made its debut at the 60th Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance this past weekend. And by the looks of it, the model is a perfect blend between traditional and modern.

“Morgan Design have sculpted a new shape for the Morgan EvaGT that focuses on natural materials and understands their unique technical properties,” the company said in a statement. “A perfect “A” class surface, minimal shut lines, hidden wipers, flush door handles and sharp creases deflect air over the surface of the car. The new Morgan EvaGT represents a philosophy of lightweight luxury that embraces authenticity, sustainability and innovation achieving its final result through the process of skilled craftsmanship.”

Power for the Morgan EvaGT comes from BMW’s 3.0L twin-turbo N54 engine making 306-hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Since the Morgan EvaGT weighs just 2,755 pounds, 0-60 mph for the car comes in just 4.5 seconds with a top speed of 170 mph. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic.

Morgan will be taking orders for the EvaGT with a £5000 ($7,846 USD) from prospective clients. The first 100 cars of a limited run are planned to begin production in mid 2012. Full pricing details will be announced later.

Click through for the high-res gallery.

Morgan EvaGT:

- By: Omar Rana

Jaguar XJ75 Platinum Concept

Helping the Jaguar XKR175 Coupe celebrate the 75th anniversary of the brand is the XJ75 Platinum Concept. Being displayed at the Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance Concept Car Lawn, the Jaguar XJ75 is a one-off concept that shows a hint of design customizations possibilities for the large sedan.

“The new Jaguar XJ Platinum Concept celebrates Jaguar’s 75th Anniversary, and highlights the uniqueness of the XJ, and more broadly, the increasingly personal nature of luxury cars in today’s market,” said Mike O’Driscoll, Managing Director of Jaguar Cars. “The XJ is thoroughly modern, and captures the innovative and daring character that our founder Sir William Lyons built into every Jaguar. And the design team clearly had some fun making their first one-of-a-kind XJ design concept in that spirit.”

Besides the upgraded look with a striking white and black theme, the Jaguar XJ75 Platinum Concept is powered the 5.0-litre Supercharged direct-injection V8 found in the XJL Supercharged making 470-hp and 424 lb-ft of torque.

Check out the high-res gallery along with a video of the concept after the jump.

Jaguar XJ75 Platinum Concept:

Press Release:

JAGUAR XJ75 PLATINUM CONCEPT COMMEMORATES BRAND’S 75th ANNIVERSARY

Pebble Beach, CA, August 14, 2010 ““ As part of the year long celebration of Jaguar’s 75th anniversary the Jaguar design team has created the XJ75 Platinum Concept, a one-of-a-kind design project on display at the Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance Concept Car Lawn this weekend .

The XJ75 Platinum Concept is the company’s first demonstration of the design customisation potential of the striking new XJ luxury salon, emphasising the Jaguar’s dramatic interior and exterior styling themes.

Dominated by a striking white and black contrast theme that suggests precious platinum metal, the XJ75 Platinum Concept is a high-performance 470-hp 2011 Jaguar XJL Supercharged equipped with new ground-hugging front, rear and side sills. Painted a lustrous Satin Matte Pearlescent White, exterior chrome elements have been revised to either a dark chrome or gloss black. Bespoke 22-inch wheels are black and use a brushed contrast finish.

The contrast theme continues with gloss pearlescent white air vents, veneers and diamond stitch suede inserts to the seats and headliner, all set against the backdrop of a full Jet Softgrain leather interior. Suede and leather accents are seen throughout the interior to further material enhancements.

The XJ75 Platinum Concept centre console houses a bespoke clock developed and designed in partnership with the Bremont Watch Company. An independent British company, Bremont creates beautifully engineered and designed mechanical watches hand assembled in Switzerland.

“From a pure design perspective, the XJ75 Platinum Concept is foremost about emphasising the striking proportion and presence of the new XJ, with a distilled black and white theme, which conjures up the sense of precious platinum,” said Jaguar XJ Chief Designer Giles Taylor. “At the same time, the pure sporting character of XJ is brought to the fore by keeping the car’s clean graphic approach and further lowering its stance.

“On the inside, we played up the XJ’s combination of high-end materials and British flair to really have some fun. The XJ75 Platinum Concept is a design exercise that shows our vision of customization as an inspiration for those enthusiasts who have a taste for strong individuality and visual confidence in their luxury automobiles.”

Performance on the XJ75 Platinum Concept is derived from its 5.0-litre Supercharged direct-injection V8 with 470 horsepower and 424 lb.-ft of torque. Entertainment is provided by a 1,200-watt Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system with 20 speakers powered through 15 channels and state-of-the-art sound processing technology.

Additional information including images and video can be found on http://us.mediajaguar.com or www.interactivejaguar.com.

- By: Omar Rana

Jaguar XKR175 Coupe

Jaguar is celebrating its 75th anniversary today with the debut of the limited edition 2011 Jaguar XKR175 Coupe. The model made its debut at the McCalls Motorworks Revival at the Monterey Jet Center during the Pebble Beach Automotive Weekend.

Power for the XKR175 comes from a supercharged V8 making 510-hp and 461 lb-ft of torque. That allows the top speed for the XKR to be raised to 174 mph (electronically-limited). Not sure if you’ll ever hit that top speed of 174 mph but if you do, Jaguar has added some upgrades to make sure that the XKR175 remains stable at high speeds. Modifications include a revised aerodynamic package incorporates a new front air dam, new side sills, a new rear diffuser and a larger rear spoiler providing increased balance and a reduction in lift.

Looks wise the Jaguar XKR175 gets new 20-inch Kasuga 10-spoke alloy wheels, red brake calipers and Ultimate Black exterior paint. Inside, door sill tread plates reading “XKR175 ““ 1 of 175″ remind the driver just how much they spend to get an exclusive 175.

Speaking of money, prices for the XKR175 start at $104,500. Production will be limited to just 175 units.

Jaguar XKR175 Coupe:

- By: Omar Rana