Aston Martin is reportedly considering an addition to its lineup that could shake up the luxury SUV market. Drawing inspiration from Lamborghini’s iconic LM002, the proposed SUV, internally named ‘Project Rambo,’ aims to blend brute strength with the opulence synonymous with the British brand. Positioned as a rugged counterpart to the successful DBX, this new model would offer a high-end alternative to stalwarts like the Land Rover Defender and the Mercedes G-Class.
Design and Performance Prospects
The concept behind ‘Project Rambo’ is to infuse Aston Martin’s design ethos into a vehicle with formidable off-road capabilities matched by on-road performance reminiscent of a supercar. Plans suggest it might utilize the DBX chassis, maintaining aesthetic coherence with the brand’s current design language while introducing unique rugged features. Speculations point towards a possible V12 engine option, aligning it with Ferrari’s Purosangue in terms of power, aiming to create a distinct niche within the luxury SUV segment.
Market Positioning and Production Speculations
While the DBX continues to impress with a streamlined offering, notably the powerful 707 model, ‘Project Rambo’ would potentially take the brand into new territory. With a limited production run envisioned, possibly capped at 2,500 units, exclusivity is a key part of its appeal. This strategy would not only elevate the model’s prestige but also serve to justify a premium price point, potentially incorporating Aston Martin’s formidable V12 engine to solidify its high-performance credentials and distinguish it from the more mainstream luxury SUVs.
The Redesigned Lexus GX: Luxury Meets Off-Road Capability
Lexus, known for its luxury vehicles, has transformed its rugged GX model, integrating premium features with exceptional off-road abilities. Traditionally popular among adventure-seekers who appreciate comfort, the GX continues to be a top choice for those venturing off the beaten path. The new GX 550 starts at $64,250, with fully equipped versions reaching over $80,000.
Modern Features and Improved Performance
The 2024 update retains the GX’s strong four-wheel-drive system and introduces advanced safety and comfort technologies from Lexus. While some owners may never use its off-road capabilities, the GX’s robust design is widely appealing, complemented by practical features like a third-row seat. The previous V8 engine has been replaced with a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6, generating 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, significantly enhancing its performance.
Positioning in the SUV Market
The GX plays a vital role in Lexus’s strategy to offer a diverse range of SUVs to meet different needs. At the smaller end, the UX model, now with standard hybrid power, is ideal for urban environments. For those seeking rugged performance, the GX 550, especially in the Overtrail edition, is built for challenging terrains while providing a luxurious experience. This versatility positions the GX against competitors like Land Rover, which also offers a blend of luxury and off-road capability and is moving towards electrification. The ongoing SUV trend highlights their adaptability and readiness for adventure, a quality the new Lexus GX exemplifies.
A new Genesis electric SUV is set for production late next year, and it’s poised to take on the Cadillac Escalade and Range Rover. Genesis expects its first full-size electric SUV to have a big impact on the brand as it looks to outpace luxury rivals.
Genesis previewed the larger electric SUV after unveiling the Neolun concept in March. According to Genesis, the full-size electric SUV features “innovation that exceeds conventional standards.”
In other words, it’s expected to keep Genesis one step ahead of the competition. “It’s the epitome of timeless design and sophisticated craftsmanship,” Genesis Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke explained.
Featuring a “reductive design,” the concept’s design is simple but pure. It has no unnecessary lines or added details to clutter the modern design.
With added coach doors and no B-pillars, the design seamlessly flows from the vehicle’s body to the roof.
The design also creates a spacious interior. With an advanced “sound architecture,” where each speaker is strategically placed, the immersive audio experience is reminiscent of a concert hall.
Genesis Neolum full-size electric SUV concept (Source: Hyundai Motor)
Genesis to begin production on first full-size electric SUV
According to The Korean Car Blog, we may see the production version sooner than expected. The report notes Genesis (Hyundai Motor Group) will begin building the full-size electric SUV in December 2025.
The large electric SUV is expected to hit the market as the Genesis GV90. As one of the most popular segments in the US, Genesis expects the GV90 to make a big impact on the brand.
Genesis Neolum electric SUV concept (Source: Hyundai Motor)
The GV90 will be the first vehicle to ride on Hyundai’s next-gen “eM” platform. According to the report, Hyundai sent a request for quotation to its major partners detailing its plans.
Annual production volumes are stated as 21,000 for the GV90, 68,000 for the GV80, 40,000 for the GV70, and 51,000 for the G80.
Genesis electric SUV concept interior (Source: Hyundai Motor)
Hyundai believes its new platform can result in 20% savings for next-gen EVs compared to current models like the IONIQ 5. It will also be available with different battery options (NCM and LFP) for various uses.
Hyundai Motor, including Kia and Genesis, aims to become a top-three EV maker by 2030. The company aims to sell 2 million EVs globally by the end of the decade, with 13 new models expected to roll out on the next-gen platform.
Genesis Neolum electric SUV concept interior (Source: Hyundai Motor)
Genesis is already outpacing luxury rivals like Infiniti while closing in on Porsche and Land Rover. Can a full-size electric SUV help it top its luxury rivals? Drop us a comment below to let us know your thoughts.
Genesis has recently hosted an exclusive event in Fort Worth, Texas, one of America’s rapidly growing cities, to showcase the significant updates to their 2025 GV80 model. Amidst the backdrop of North Central Texas’s vibrant art scenes and cultural districts, the event highlighted the SUV’s refined athleticism and new features, including an exciting partnership with Danish audio experts Bang & Olufsen.
Photo credit Genesis
Redefining Luxury with Korean Cultural Elements
Genesis, a brand celebrated for its innovative approach and integration of Korean cultural tenets into its business model, continues to enhance its global presence. The brand philosophy—bold, progressive, and intrinsically Korean—shines through in their marketing and customer experience. Each client is revered as a ‘SON-NIM’ or honored guest, a principle vividly embodied at the Genesis House in New York, which offers a serene escape complete with a Michelin-rated dining experience and a library dedicated to Korean culture.
Photo credit Genesis
The GV80: Engineering and Elegance Combined
The 2025 GV80 marks a significant milestone for Genesis as it introduces a sophisticated cabin experience designed to make every occupant feel esteemed. Featuring a new 27-inch widescreen display and an array of refined interior color schemes and materials, the GV80 sets a new standard in the luxury SUV segment. Claudia Marquez, COO of Genesis Motor North America, emphasizes that the model is designed to elevate the in-vehicle experience, ensuring all passengers enjoy a sense of exclusivity and comfort.
Photo credit Genesis
Photo credit Genesis
Insightful Additions to the Genesis GV80
Enhanced Design and Performance: The latest GV80 model boasts external styling updates and interior refinements, including new alloy wheel designs and a panoramic sunroof, enhancing its appeal. Performance-wise, it offers a choice between two powerful gas engines and features an advanced 8-speed transmission with customizable driving modes to suit various preferences and conditions.
Advanced Technology for Modern Drivers: Inside, the GV80 is equipped with cutting-edge technology like a 27″ OLED touchscreen, comprehensive over-the-air update capabilities, and innovative safety features designed to enhance driving dynamics and security. The inclusion of Genesis Digital Key 2 adds convenience, allowing users to share access securely via iMessage.
Personalized Comfort and Entertainment: The cabin’s luxurious ambiance is complemented by multi-sensory experiences tailored through the Mood Curator which integrates scent, lighting, and sound settings to create a serene driving environment. The partnership with Bang & Olufsen ensures that audiophiles can enjoy an exquisite sound system that enriches every journey with crystal clear audio precision.
As the 2025 Genesis GV80 rolls out, it not only underscores Genesis’s commitment to luxury and innovation but also sets a new benchmark for what premium SUVs can offer. With its blend of performance, technology, and unmatched Korean hospitality, the GV80 is poised to captivate both existing fans and new customers in the luxury automotive market.
A new all-electric luxury SUV is set to hit the market next year to compete with Tesla’s best-selling Model Y. Volvo is joining the luxury electric SUV market with its new EX60 launching next year. The new EX60 will rival premium models from Tesla, Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.
As one of the first legacy automakers to commit to an all-electric future, Volvo is seeing the results.
After launching its most affordable EV, the EX30, last year, Volvo’s compact electric SUV is already making a significant impact on the company.
Volvo set a new sales record in the first three months of the year with growing demand for its electric models. Fully electric vehicles accounted for over 40% of sales in 19 markets. That’s up from 13 in Q4 2023.
According to Volvo Cars’ chief commercial officer and deputy CEO, the EX30 is helping boost sales. Volvo’s EV sales share hit a record 21% in Q1, with 14,500 EX30 models sold. This was enough to top the EC60 (6,000) while inching closer to the EX40 (17,400).
Volvo EX30 (Source: Volvo)
Volvo also began production of its first electric minivan, the EM90, for China. Deliveries began in March. Meanwhile, Volvo is preparing to launch its larger EX90, which is already attracting Ferrari-like wait times.
Volvo EX90 (Source: Volvo)
Volvo EX60 to launch as the latest luxury electric SUV
Volvo looks to keep the momentum rolling next year with its new EX60 expected to debut as an all-electric replacement to the hybrid XC60 Recharge.
The new EV will compete against premium SUVs like the Tesla Model Y, Porsche Macan EV, and Mercedes-Benz EQC. It will sit between the EX40 and EX90 in Volvo’s expanding EV lineup.
Volvo EX40 (Source: Volvo)
According to Auto Express, the new Volvo electric SUV will be based on the larger EX90’s platform, which could pack up to 100 kWh of battery power. Erik Severinson, chief product and strategy officer at Volvo Cars, calls it an “evolution of the Volvo-developed platform.”
Volvo’s EX60 is expected to maintain the brand’s new design elements, such as its Thor Hammer LED headlights, closed grille, and alloy wheels.
At least one thing remains a mystery. Volvo did not confirm if the EX60 would include advanced LIDAR like the EX90. However, Severinson said the brand is exploring “different kinds of sensors going forward.”
Volvo’s first electric minivan, the EM90 (source: Volvo)
The EX60 will feature a new “structural” battery pack, similar to BYD and Tesla. The design leads to “improved energy density” and “great driveability.”
According to the report, the EX60 could feature up to 400 miles WLTP range. The EX90, with a 107 kWh battery pack, offers up to 364 miles. However, the EX60 is expected to feature a smaller, lighter battery with improved energy density.
Volvo EX90 interior (Source: Volvo)
Volvo is moving to use a megacasted rear underfloor for the EX60, a concept used by Tesla, NIO, XPeng, and others. According to Volvo, the new floor design weighs 15 to 20% less than a traditional stamped equivalent.
The method will also increase storage space while speeding up production times. Volvo is expected to launch the EX60 when megacasting production begins next year.
We could see the Volvo EX60 unveiled by the end of the year, with prices and specs arriving at a later date. Check back for more details soon.
“When Cullinan debuted in 2018, it redefined super-luxury motoring, enabling Rolls-Royce clients to experience the brand’s hallmark magic carpet ride on all terrains and in every corner of the world. In the six years since, Cullinan has had an extraordinary impact on our brand, attracting entirely new groups of clients to Rolls-Royce and profoundly altering perceptions of what a Rolls-Royce motor car is, means, and can be to its owner. Cullinan Series II has been created to build on that success. By integrating new technologies, meticulously considered design updates, and innovative opportunities for self-expression through Bespoke, we retain everything our clients love about this motor car yet ensure that Cullinan will transcend the SUV genre – and automotive space – for many years to come.”- Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
The original Cullinan, launched in 2018, was the original super-luxury SUV. Rugged yet refined, Its success exceeded Rolls-Royce’s most ambitious expectations, and today Cullinan is the most requested Rolls-Royce in the marque’s portfolio.
Given Cullinan’s success and positive reception from clients around the world, shaping a new expression of Cullinan was undertaken with meticulous care. Rolls-Royce designers, engineers, and craftspeople drew on half a decade of detailed client feedback, the brand’s intelligence gathering, and a raft of new technologies to advance Cullinan. In its new guise, which represents the most extensive Series II development in Rolls-Royce history, it responds to changing codes of luxury and evolving usage patterns while remaining true to the essential qualities that underpin Cullinan’s unprecedented popularity.
Commanding the Urban Space
Since the first client deliveries, Cullinan fulfilled its purpose as a vehicle capable of taking its owner into locations never previously explored in a Rolls-Royce, and its versatility and ease of use also made Cullinan a daily driver for many owners. Additionally, numerous clients have told Rolls-Royce that no other car offers the same effortless performance as Cullinan’s 6.75-liter V12 engine. These were all significant considerations in conceiving Cullinan Series II.
It was noted by the marque’s intelligence specialists that an increasing number of Rolls-Royce clients were concentrated in urban areas as Cullinan increasingly serves as a super-luxury product in which clients wish to be seen and project their unique style and personalities. Specialists also observed a shift towards owners driving their motor cars themselves. When Cullinan was first launched, less than 70% were self-driven: today, almost every Cullinan is driven by its owner, with less than 10% of clients retaining the services of a chauffeur. Much of this change can be attributed to a fall in the average age of Rolls-Royce clients from 56 in 2010 to just 43 today.
Cullinan Series II Exterior
“Since the launch of the first Goodwood-built Rolls-Royce, designers have taken great care to give every model its own distinctive aesthetic universe. Each is based on detailed insights gathered directly from our clients before the motor car is conceived, and throughout its life. Cullinan Series II is born of this approach: more energetic, focussed, and expressive, in line with the priorities of today’s super-luxury consumers. In its new guise, Cullinan Series II remains effortless, everywhere – faithful to the principles and retaining the qualities that have made this motor car so successful. At the same time, it represents genuine progress and development, based on an evolved appreciation of luxury that adds statement and flourish to Cullinan’s original form.”- Anders Warming, Design Director, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
An increasingly urban focus, a youthful cadre of clients, and a decisive shift towards self-driving defines the surface treatment and detail of Cullinan Series II’s exterior. A key theme is verticality, which recalls illuminated skyscrapers in the megacities where Cullinan is increasingly at home. This is most apparent in the new lamp treatment, where tall daytime running light graphics ensure Cullinan Series II is easily identified, day and night.
Up front, Cullinan Series II is composed of simple feature lines and crisp edges; with an emphasis on clean, monolithic surfaces that amplify the motor car’s generous proportions and presence. The bumper lines form a shallow ‘V’ from the lowest point of the daytime running lights to the motor car’s center point, recalling the sharp bow lines of modern sports yachts. Underneath, new air intakes angle outwards assertively, visually lowering the motor car when viewed head-on.
The centerpiece is the illuminated “Pantheon” grille. This is the first time Cullinan has been provisioned with an illuminated grille, further refreshed with a lower leading edge. It also incorporates a new polished horizontal ‘horizon line’ between the daytime running lights, providing a clear visual link to the marque’s pinnacle product, Phantom Series II.
The Cullinan Series II profile reveals further changes to the surfacing. While the front fenders retain their sheer, vertical lines, the marque’s designers added a restrained yet precise feature line leading from the taillight forward to the center of the floating ‘RR’ center caps on the rear wheel.
At the rear, the exhaust treatment of Cullinan Series II is a bold statement of power, as each surround is presented in mirror-finish stainless steel, cleanly integrated, and visually flush to the body. Changes at the rear conclude with a brushed stainless-steel protective plate running between the exhausts, which flows underneath the motor car.
Resolving this younger and more expressive evolution of Cullinan’s styling are upsized 23-inch wheels — the first time that 23-inch wheels have been made available for Cullinan.
Cullinan Series II Interior
Reflecting many clients’ desires for bolder forms of self-expression, innovative decoration, and detail have been added throughout the interior of Cullinan Series II. The most substantive change to the motor car’s geometry is the pillar-to-pillar glass-panel fascia in the upper portion of the dashboard – an elegant and versatile design element that stages both digital and physical craftsmanship.
The gauge cluster panel in front of the driver and the new, permanently visible Central Information Display in the center of the fascia are redesigned to form a stage for the advanced SPIRIT operating system. This digital interface was first introduced on the all-electric Spectre; Cullinan Series II marks the first application of SPIRIT in a V12-powered Rolls-Royce. It also presents opportunities for Bespoke personalization to extend from the physical to the digital world — clients can tailor the color of the instrument dials to complement the motor car’s interior palette or exterior finish.
SPIRIT also sees Whispers, the Rolls-Royce private members application, integrated into Cullinan. Clients can send destinations directly to their motor car, view Cullinan’s location remotely, and manage vehicle locking through the app.
Connectivity has been refined throughout the motor car, especially for those in the rear of Cullinan Series II. Clients can connect up to two streaming devices to the rear screens, which now incorporate a Bespoke interface for streaming car management and seating functions such as massage, heating, and cooling.
The installation of internet connectivity allows clients to enjoy a WiFi hotspot connection and independent streaming for each screen. In a Cullinan first, Bluetooth headphones of any type can be paired with the rear seat infotainment system, or clients can enjoy the marque’s exceptional 18-speaker Bespoke Audio system, which benefits from the latest generation 18-channel 1400-watt amplifier. Cullinan Series II retains the brand’s celebrated speaker architecture wherein cavities within the motor car’s aluminum sill sections are used as resonance chambers for low-frequency speakers, effectively transforming the entire motor car into a subwoofer.
Directly in front of the passenger is an Illuminated Fascia panel — a remarkable expression of modern craft that debuted with Ghost before appearing in Spectre and now, for the first time, is available within the Cullinan family. In this guise, it features an illuminated Cullinan wordmark and a unique Cityscape graphic inspired by the skyscrapers of the world’s megacities at night. This is created using 7,000 graphical elements printed on multiple layers of robust security glass, each a slightly different shade of grey to create the perception of depth. In addition to this prêt-à-porter design, clients are also able to create their own Illuminated Fascia motif in collaboration with the marque’s Bespoke designers.
Alongside the Central Information Display on the passenger side of the fascia is the new Spirit of Ecstasy Clock Cabinet. This unique inset vitrine displays both an analog timepiece and an up-lit Spirit of Ecstasy figurine.
Cullinan Series II: An Evolved Material Palette
To acknowledge Cullinan’s ability – and the desire of many clients – to escape into nature at will, the interior is comprised of a palette inspired by botanicals. Cullinan Series II introduces Grey Stained Ash, a richly-grained natural open-pore wood with a delicate shimmer. All of the logs of this species are individually selected, and veneer ‘leaves’ are subsequently stained by hand and elevated with the addition of microscopic metallic particles, which creates the unique effect – a process that took more than four years of development.
Cullinan Series II also continues Rolls-Royce’s exploration of textiles with a new fabric made using natural bamboo fibers, named Duality Twill. The use of this material was inspired by the extensive bamboo grove in the Jardin Botanique du Rayol on the Côte d’Azur, which neighbors Sir Henry Royce’s former winter home, Villa Mimosa. Members of the design team visited the gardens during a research excursion where they were inspired to develop a material made with the plant, which has grown in the grounds of the Jardin for more than a century and would have been observed by Sir Henry Royce himself.
This intricately embroidered textile was developed for more than a year in collaboration with a master weaver who has now joined Rolls-Royce full-time to oversee this complex process, which takes place at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood. A full Duality Twill interior can incorporate up to 2.2 million stitches, and 11 miles of thread, and is the product of 20 hours of construction. To ensure uniformity in the pattern, each piece is individually crafted before being cut using a specially developed laser that seals the material’s edge and mitigates individual threads becoming loose. The base twill textile is available in three colors – Lilac, Chocolate, and Black – and clients can select from 51 different thread colors.
Cullinan Series II integrates another new contemporary craft technique developed by the marque’s artisans; Placed Perforation is the practice of creating artwork through tiny perforations in the leather. Available for the first time on a series model with Cullinan Series II, designers created a pattern, inspired by the constantly changing shapes and shadows of the clouds over the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood, comprising 107,000 0.8- and 1.2-millimeter perforations. A single craftsperson checks each perforation to ensure absolute uniformity.
Rolls-Royce Black Badge Cullinan Series II: The Alter Ego, Evolved
Stay tuned to this space for a preview of Cullinan Series II’s alter ego, Black Badge Cullinan Series II.
Black Badge Cullinan Series II, an evolved, more visceral expression of Rolls-Royce, caters to a select subset of Rolls-Royce clients with specific tastes and priorities; offers unique Black Badge exterior coachwork and interior details developed for Series II; and features a more overt and expressive application of contemporary materials and technologies.
When Lamborghini first introduced the Urus SUV, critics were skeptical. It was seen more as a trend than a legitimate performance car. Little did they know how popular this sporty, compact V8-powered SUV with 657 hp would prove: In 2023, after just six years, the Urus accounted for 60% of Lamborghini’s sales, selling more than 6,000 units.
Last week, Lamborghini introduced a redesign of the Urus that’s intended to continue the trend. The redesigned Urus is designated “SE:” “S” indicates the S trim of the SUV and “E” designates the addition of a plug-in electric power train. The idea behind this technology is to boost the performance of the gas engine with a jolt of electricity.
The Urus SE plug-in hybrid electric adds a 25.9 kWh electric system to the V8 engine of the S model, taking the SUV’s horsepower from 657 to 789. And its $258,000 starting price is about a $23,000 premium over the S model (but still less than the Performante, priced at about $260,000, which generates 657 hp and has enhanced suspension and other race-capable features).
And then, the Urus SE holds a little secret: Among its 11 drive modes is Max Performance, a launch mode that sends all 789 hp instantly to the wheels for a 20-second blast of power.
I got a peek at the Urus SE in New York at Club Lamborghini, the brand’s dedicated space in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood. And I was able to climb in and experience the entire car, powered but not drivable, to see what this special SUV is all about.
Electric Driving When You Want, Electric Boost When You Need It
The Urus SE hybrid gives drivers a choice in how they use the battery electric power. Some may appreciate that electric driving—the Urus SE has an all-electric range of about 35 miles—reduces the conspicuousness of this car. This will no doubt be an advantage late at night or on quiet neighborhood streets.
But drivers who are after all the power the hybrid powertrain can produce will enjoy getting to know the Urus SE’s 11 drive modes.
Yes, 11 drive modes. They are found on two drive mode selectors: one on the left of the red aluminum framed start button and one on the right. The left drive mode selector offers Lamborghini’s standard drive modes—Strada, or street; Sport and Corso, or track. Urus offers three additional modes that allow drivers to take advantage of Urus’ higher ground clearance and all wheel drive: Sabbia (sand), Terra (off road) and Neve (snow).
The hybrid gear selector on the right of the start button adds four more: With Strada mode selected, EV mode can be used for all electric driving; tap hybrid mode for combined gas and electric or tap recharge to reduce electric output and charge the battery. Or, put the left mode selector into Corso and tap Performance mode on the right. This will maximize the electric boost of the hybrid system.
Max Performance Is A 20-Second Blast Of Wow
Performance mode is Lamborghini’s launch control system, a favorite of electric car engineers who have found that the technology easily mimics more complicated launch control systems designed for drag racing in cars such as the Mustang GT and the Dodge Challenger Demon. When Max Performance is selected, a countdown clock pops up on the driver display giving the driver 20 seconds of instant 789 hp.
If the process is too much manage on a sporty drive, there’s a small button on the lower right side of the steering wheel with a stopwatch icon; just tap that and instantly the system switches to Max Performance mode. The driver can simply floor the accelerator for what promises to be quite the thrill.
A Redesign That Offers More To Love
The redesign of the Urus isn’t simply about added power; it has subtle new details inside and out, too. On the exterior, the Urus SE has a new hood line that draws on the design of the Lamborghini Revuelto, the brand’s first plug-in electric hybrid, as well as new headlights and lower air intake vents. On the rear, there’s a new diffuser that incorporates the brand’s heritage hexagonal design language and frames the iconic Y design tail lamps.
Inside, the Urus continues its “jet cockpit” design with control panels under the screen that hold toggle switches for Ego (eco mode), traction control and window defrosters. Taking a few cues from sister SUVs, Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q8, there is a larger multimedia screen and more conveniences, including electric performance monitoring. All drive modes can be selected on the multimedia screen, too.
A second screen below the multimedia screen holds climate controls; it is now a bit larger, too.
The interior is finished in a combination of black leather with orange accents, carbon fiber and microsuede, the ideal upholstery to keep driver and passengers from sliding around on the drive. The flat-bottomed steering wheel is wrapped in microsuede giving the driver optimal grip.
The front seats have adjustable side bolsters to further keep driver and passenger from moving around. And they feature heating, cooling and massage, an important stress-reducer after a long day on the track.
The Urus SE comfortably seats 4 or 5 passengers. Rear seat passengers will be able to sit back in leather and microsuede bucket seats and have climate controls, air vents, USB-C ports and an arm rest with cup holders that pulls down from the center of the seat back. A panoramic sunroof spans the cabin, and a nicely sized cargo area under the hatch thoughtfully includes a cargo management system to ensure groceries or luggage are secure during the drive.
Luxurious Design, But A Subtle Nod To Urus SE’s Power
The Urus SE will make its way to dealers by the end of the year, though it’s available for pre-order right now. The model we toured featured all the luxury details a buyer would expect, and was shown in one of two new paint colors: a bright orange metallic—orange being an iconic luxury signaler—called Arancio Egon. The other new color is called Bianco Sapphirus, a sparkly metallic white.
The name Lamborghini, spelled out across the lift gate in gloss black in the brand’s iconic cursive, sits just under the rear spoiler. But the Urus name and SE designation are absent. The model’s name is only found subtly spelled out on the lower rocker panel near the rear wheels. This, and a quiet electric drive, are the only external indicators that this is the most powerful Lamborghini Urus on the road.
The Hyundai Palisade has swiftly become a beacon of spacious and luxurious travel in Hyundai’s SUV lineup, offering the largest passenger vehicle the brand has launched in the U.S. to date. Initially released in 2020, the Palisade quickly set a new standard for family-friendly travel with its vast interior and premium amenities.
Room to Breathe and Explore
In its 2024 iteration, the Hyundai Palisade continues to impress with seating for up to eight passengers, ensuring every family member rides in comfort. The Palisade is designed with both day-to-day utility and long-distance travel in mind, boasting extensive cargo space and thoughtful interior features that emphasize comfort and practicality.
Elevated Style and Technology
Last year, the Palisade received significant updates to its exterior and interior, enhancing its appeal with a modernized front grille, streamlined headlights, and a robust infotainment system featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The 2024 model year introduces the Calligraphy Night Edition, now the pinnacle of the Palisade range, which merges sophisticated style with the robustness expected of a high-end SUV.
Luxury Meets Versatility
Inside, the Palisade features an array of luxury fittings, including an ergo-motion driver’s seat and acoustic-laminated glass in the rear doors of the high-end Calligraphy model, adding an extra layer of tranquility to the cabin atmosphere. Each row is meticulously designed to maximize comfort, from the heated seats to the adjustable armrests, ensuring every journey is a pleasure.
A Safe and Smart Journey
Hyundai has equipped the Palisade with cutting-edge technology to enhance safety and ease of driving. Features like Smart Cruise Control and an array of driver-assistance systems work seamlessly to provide a secure and relaxed driving experience. Moreover, the inclusion of multiple USB ports and advanced air conditioning systems across all rows guarantees convenience for all passengers.
Adventurous Spirit with Family in Mind
The Palisade is not just any SUV; it’s a gateway to adventure for families, offering a combination of safety, comfort, and style that stands out in its class. Whether navigating urban landscapes or embarking on rugged retreats, the Palisade is equipped to handle diverse environments with its powerful V-6 engine and advanced all-wheel-drive system.
Ready for Everything
The 2024 Hyundai Palisade is more than just a vehicle; it’s a mobile family sanctuary designed to facilitate memorable journeys and adventures. With its blend of functionality, comfort, and safety, the Palisade defines what a family SUV should be. Ready to accommodate every family’s lifestyle, it stands ready to transform any trip into an extraordinary experience.
Mercedes-Benz has once again captured attention, this time with a remarkable blend of luxury and sustainability. Introducing the all-new Electric G-Class, the G 580 with EQ technology, a vehicle that redefines the electric SUV landscape. This innovative design merges the iconic G-Class elegance with cutting-edge, eco-friendly technology, promising high performance and environmental consciousness.
Unmatched Performance and Off-Road Capabilities
The G 580’s core features four independently controlled electric motors combined with a two-speed transmission. This setup is not just for smooth urban driving but also for dominating rough terrains with advanced off-road capabilities like an intelligent crawl function, G-Turn for on-the-spot rotation, and G-Steering for agile movements in tight spaces. These innovations ensure the electric G-Class excels both on and off the road.
Further enhancing its off-road prowess, the G 580 offers a fording depth of 33.5 inches and a LOW RANGE gear to maximize torque for difficult terrains. Virtual differential locks through torque vectoring enhance its rugged capabilities, positioning the electric G-Class as a superior alternative to its combustion-engine predecessors.
Power and Performance
The electric G-Class boasts an impressive 579 horsepower and 859 lb-ft of torque, propelling the SUV from 0-60 mph in under five seconds. The integration of the battery within the ladder frame lowers the center of gravity, enhancing stability and handling. An independent front suspension and a newly developed solid rear axle ensure the G 580 offers an exceptional driving experience.
Design and Aerodynamics
The SUV’s exterior features flared rear wheel arches, air curtains, a redesigned hood, and A-pillar trim, all enhancing its aerodynamic profile. A roof spoiler lip further reduces noise, ensuring a quieter ride. These design improvements not only enhance performance but also maintain the classic G-Class silhouette.
Inside, the G-Class combines luxury with modern technology. The latest MBUX system, climate-controlled cup holders, and inductive charging offer convenience and comfort. For audiophiles, the Burmester® 3D Surround Sound System with Dolby Atmos® provides an unparalleled auditory experience. High-tech features like the Transparent Hood function increase safety, while an expanded MANUFAKTUR range offers customization options.
Exclusive Features and Aesthetic Appeal
Prospective buyers will appreciate exclusive touches such as the black panel grille with an LED light strip and aerodynamic black wheels. These design elements ensure the G 580 stands out not just for its performance but also for its striking appearance.
Mercedes-Benz’s electric G-Class is not just an evolution; it’s a revolution in the luxury SUV market, seamlessly blending tradition with futuristic technology. With this debut, Mercedes sets a high standard for future electric models, offering a perfect fusion of luxury, capability, and sustainability.
For those eager to embrace a greener future without compromising on luxury or performance, the new electric G-Class is the perfect choice. Mercedes-Benz has not only electrified a vehicle; they have electrified the very essence of adventure.
Revamped Aston Martin DBX707 Sets New Industry Standards
The Aston Martin DBX, a high-performance SUV, has received significant updates, particularly to its cabin, making it even more competitive in the luxury vehicle market. The British automaker has discontinued the standard DBX model, now exclusively offering the more dynamic DBX707 version. This move aims to streamline the lineup and enhance the vehicle’s appeal against high-end competitors like the Lamborghini Urus, Bentley Bentayga, and Porsche Cayenne.
Performance and Design Enhancements
While the DBX707 retains the powerful Mercedes-sourced 4-litre V8 engine, producing 697bhp and enabling a 0-60mph sprint in just 3.1 seconds, Aston Martin has made substantial revisions elsewhere. The vehicle’s air suspension and dampers have been finely tuned to improve body control and driving dynamics, crucial for maintaining precision in corners—a feature surely influenced by its role as the official medical car for the Formula One World Championship. Externally, the SUV boasts new pop-out door handles and redesigned door mirrors, enhancing its aerodynamics and integrating with an updated 3D surround camera system.
Interior and Technological Upgrades
Inside, the DBX707 showcases a redesigned layout that aligns with the aesthetics of the latest Aston Martin sports cars like the DB12 and Vantage, featuring a more horizontal theme to echo a sports car feel. The center console has been simplified yet retains essential physical controls, enhancing both functionality and elegance. Technology-wise, the SUV is equipped with Aston Martin’s latest infotainment system, housed in a 10.25-inch touchscreen that supports wireless connectivity and multi-finger inputs, complemented by a new 12.3-inch digital driver’s display and an optional Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system.
These updates not only underscore Aston Martin’s commitment to innovation and luxury but also position the DBX707 as a pinnacle of modern SUV design and technology, promising an unrivaled blend of performance and sophistication.
Photo credit Genesis
Photo credit Genesis
Photo credit Genesis
Photo credit Genesis
