Increased power, better handling, additional equipment as standard, improved efficiency, and new technology that reduces the risk of accidents and provides customers with a luxury sedan are some of the reasons to consider the 2013 Lincoln MKS sedan.

There is more to look forward to in this new model of Lincoln.

Drive Control

The drive control in the new Lincoln is an automatic drive system that enables drivers to experience a smooth ride and excellent handling since the technology is extremely intuitive. It responds well to the road and to the driver. The drive control is what makes the Lincoln MKS the most refined yet.

The control gives drivers an easy way to shift the new Lincoln’s on-road personality – simply shifting the gear selector between Drive and Sport automatically changes the throttle response, steering response, traction control, ride firmness and handling performance, a neat addition to the Lincoln MKS.

Performance

The 2012 MKS had 274 hp while the 2013 Lincoln comes with 304 hp. The improved horsepower comes with an improvement in the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. The optional EcoBoost V6 3.5 liter engine is also capable of a lot more horsepower (up to 365). It delivers the same performance as a V8 but has the fuel efficiency of a V6.

The result of the engine configuration in the 2013 MKS is a combination of enhanced fuel economy and more refined power, designed to deliver an efficient and smooth ride. The 3.5 liter direct injection engine produces up to 365 hp at 5,700 rpm. The torque curve is expansive and levels out at around 350 lbs ft of torque @ 1500 – 5250 rpm.

Features

The steering system in the MKS has received a complete makeover resulting in a quicker gear ratio so the steering is exceptionally responsive at all speeds and compliments the CCD nicely. At low speeds, the new steering system provides an extra boost to increase maneuverability. At high speeds, the steering feedback is increased to give drivers the feel of more precise steering.

Exterior

Updates to the exterior Lincoln MKS style include a new grille, stylized fenders, an improved hood and front fascia, HID headlamps, LED tail lamps, rear fascia, decklid, exhaust tips, and 19”-20″ aluminum wheels.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury Sedan	Est. Market Price: $42,810.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19 gallons (72 liters)	MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 205.6 in. (522.2 cm)	Wheelbase: 112.9 in. (286.7 cm)
Height: 61.6 in. (156.4 cm)	Width: 75.9 in. (192.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 4216 lbs (1912 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 19.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5

Performance

Engine: 3.7L Ti-VCT V6	Compression Ratio: 10.3: 1
Horsepower: 304 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 279 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic

The 2012 Lexus LS Hybrid remains as one of the most advanced hybrid cars in the market with its powerful engine and luxurious interiors. However, it also remains one of the most expensive in its class.

And now that other car manufacturers have hit the streets with their more fuel efficient and more affordable hybrid models, Lexus truly has some catching up to do. If your heart is set on Lexus, you can never go wrong.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury Hybrid Sedan	Base Price: $112,750.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 22.2 gallons (37854 liters)	MPG: 19 city / 23 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 203.9 in. (518 cm)	Wheel Base: 121.7 in. (309 cm)
Height: 58.3 in. (148 cm)	Width: 73.8 in. (187.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 5203 lbs (2360 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.3 in. (254 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 10.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 5.0L V8 DOHC Hybrid	Compression Ratio: 11.8: 1
Horsepower: 438 HP	Max RPM: 6400 RPM
Torque: 385 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: AWD ECV-t
0-60 mph: 5.5 seconds	Maximum Speed: 130 mph (209 km/h)

Engine

The Lexus LS Hybrid comes with a 5.0L V8 engine paired with two electric motors. This trio delivers an outstanding 439 horsepower and 308 lbs/ft of torque. It overpowers the non-hybrid LS (380 HP) as well as the S Class Hybrid from Mercedes Benz (295 HP) but is toppled by the 7 Series Hybrid from BMW (455 HP).

Despite the muscle component that the LS Hybrid provides, there are car owners that think that the car cannot keep up with other contenders.

Performance

The LS Hybrid accelerates quietly with minimum effort. The shift in power between gas and electricity is barely noticeable, thanks to its excellent transmission. The EPA says that the LS Hybrid has a fuel consumption rating of mpg 23 highway / 19 city mpg.

These statistics was acceptable years ago, but as the number of hybrid cars with better fuel efficiency grows, this may signal a no to aspiring hybrid owners.

The suspension for the LS Hybrid can absorb the tiniest road imperfections. This is enough for people who go after comfort than sportiness. The LS Hybrid perhaps will not be nimblest in its class as long as the 7 Series Hybrid by BMW is present. But that does not mean that the LS Hybrid does not handle well. It has good handling, only that there is something better.

Exterior

The Lexus LS Hybrid does not go with the flow of modern cars that have organic curves and well pronounced lines to look sporty. The LS Hybrid looks austere and will most likely suit a business oriented individual than a person who loves being casual.

Interior

The cabin provides adequate space for the driver and the passengers. To pamper its occupants more, Lexus used soft grade leather for its interior. It also has a sleek design that many appreciate.

The LS Hybrid remains one of the most comfortable cars to drive. However, it does not offer a lot of cargo space. That is understandable though, because sedans are not primarily designed for hauling and carrying big loads.

Safety

Because of the cost, super luxury cars are seldom crash tested. The only reference that we can use is the score provided by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for the non-hybrid LS. It scored “good” in rear and front crash tests.

Reliability

The Lexus LS Hybrid comes with a 4-year standard warranty. During that time, Lexus will provide roadside assistance. There is a separate warranty for the powertrain that lasts up to 70,000 miles or six years. Another 8-year warranty for hybrid parts is provided.

Pros

The Lexus LS Hybrid is comfortable and powerful. No doubt, it remains one of the best in its class.

Cons

There two drawbacks about the LS Hybrid and these are its less fuel consumption and its price.

Verdict

If you find the LS Hybrid exorbitant, there definitely are other choices. But if you want to drive in luxury and you want to have power, still you can never go wrong with the 2012 Lexus LS Hybrid.

Competition

The LS Hybrid competes with the likes of the BMW 7 ActiveHybrid (MSRP $101,895; 17 city / 24 hwy), the Mercedes Benz S Class S400 Hybrid (MSRP $92,725; 19 city / 25 hwy), and the Jaguar XJ XJL (MSRP $92,475; 15 city / 21 hwy).

Overall Rating
85 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Lexus LS 600h L remains the flagship of the largest Lexus luxury sedan line. In a rarefied crowd of eco-conscious rich folks, the low-volume luxury hybrid sedan is also a way to say you’re being green while still enjoying the perks of privilege.”Car Connection

“The 2012 Lexus LS 600h L falls well short of expectations in terms of both fuel economy and performance. We recommend looking into newer luxury sedans instead, whether hybrid-powered or conventional.”Edmunds

The new 2012 Porsche Panamera GTS enters the year with more power, an upgraded braking system, and lowered body, this car is fit for the racing circuit.

Modifications

The technical modifications have made it fast, safe, and efficient, so that you can have speed, without sacrificing the practicality of a four-passenger vehicle.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: $109,900.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons (99 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: NA

Dimensions

Length: 195.6 in. (496 cm)	Wheel Base: 114.9 in. (291.8 cm)
Height: 55.4 in. (140.7 cm)	Width: 76 in. (193 cm)
Curb Weight: 4232 lbs (1919 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 15.7 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: Front V8	Displacement: 4.8 Liter
Horsepower: 430 HP	Max RPM: 6700 RPM
Torque: 384 lb-ft	Transmission: 7-Speed PDK
0-60 mph: 4.3 seconds	Maximum Speed: 178 mph (286 km/h)

All Performance

This Sedan could fool you by its looks. With its V8, 4.8 liter engine and great design features, it can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds, with a top speed of 178 miles per hour.

The Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) – offers 7-speed sports performance in manual, and automatic mode. The PDK allows rapid change in gears with no interruption of power flow.

Porsche Traction Management (PTM) – all-wheel drive and electronic and map controlled clutch with automatic brake differential and anti-slip regulation.

Direct Fuel Injection – DFI injects the fuel directly into the combustion chamber for more effective combustion, improving internal cooling, and ensuring engine efficiency.

Interactive Features

Auto Start and Stop Function – the system will automatically turn the engine off at a stop light, saving fuel, and then restart the engine, as soon as you release the brake pedal. This can be activated or deactivated with the push of a button.

VarioCam Plus – automatically alters the intake camshafts, and changes the lift of the intake valves for acceleration power, and low fuel consumption.

Exhaust System – the tailpipes are made of long lasting stainless-steel alloys, and painted in matte black. The catalytic converters heat rapidly, delivering more effective emissions control.

More Upgrades

The Panamera GTS has adaptive air suspension, and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), the body was lowered by 10 millimeters, and upgraded the brakes, making the technical modifications which were necessary to have speed performance, without taking away practicality.

With stiffer shocks and wheel spacers to increase the rear track, and the Standard Sport Chrono Package with launch control, delivers a speedy car with a high-quality drive.

Interior & Exterior

The four-passenger sedan comes in metallic, standard, or special colors such as Carmine Red, Crystal Green Metallic, GT Silver Metallic, Cognac Metallic, or Amethyst Metallic, and has black highlights.

The interior shows off adaptive sport seats, a SportDesign steering wheel with shifting paddles, and GTS leather upholstery and Alcantara surfaces, making it sporty yet classy looking.

If you need a practical car, but want a sporty, fast car, the Porsche Panamera GTS is the one to test.

If there is one word that describes the 2012 Lexus LS, it is Luxury.

This car is actually exceptional when it comes to combining a luxury Sedan at an affordable price.

With a reasonable sticker price and a comfortable ride along with a high quality spacious interior and plenty of power, you can’t go wrong with this car.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $67,630.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 22.2 gallons (84 liters)	MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 199.2 in. (506 cm)	Wheel Base: 116.9 in. (297 cm)
Height: 58.1 in. (147.5 cm)	Width: 73.8 in. (187.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 4244 lbs (1925 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA in. (254 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 18 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 4.6L V8 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 11.8: 1
Horsepower: 380 HP	Max RPM: 6400 RPM
Torque: 367 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm	Transmission: 8-Speed ECT-i
0-60 mph: 5.4 seconds	Maximum Speed: 130 mph (209 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:LS 460 AWD	MSRP: $69,935; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Option:LS 460L	MSRP: $73,195; MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy
Option:LS 460L AWD	MSRP: $75,480; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Option:LS Hybrid	MSRP: $112,750; MPG: 19 city / 23 hwy

Performance

The Lexus Ls features a V8 at 4.6 liters with 380 horsepower and 367 lbs feet of torque. The computer controlled 8 speed transmission will help you get from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds.

If you are looking for athletic handling you will find that the BMW 7 series may be more suitable for you. But if you want a really luxurious car that is will give you a quiet comfortable ride at a price lower then the Mercedes Benz S-class then you will love the Lexus SL.

Exterior

The clean lines and subtle colors are just the beginning of the classy exterior. This superior automobile also features all season tires and alloyed wheels as well as a power glass sunroof and a power rear sunshade.

The low front grille and “deep drawn fenders” complete the conservative look that say’s luxury Sedan. Cover it all with the anti- scratch clear coat paint and it is a look to be reckoned with.

Interior

Comfort is the word that is applicable when talking about the exterior of this awesome car. Spacious leather upholstered seats and leg room are a real plus. The wood and leather steering wheel is an elegant touch that catches the discerning eye.

The comfortable rear passenger seating and the 16 way driver seat power adjustment as well as the 12 way power adjustment for the front passenger seat are standard. The dual zone climate control insures a comfortable ride. All the extra attention to detail will be obvious to anyone who enters into this gorgeous automobile.

Safety & Reliability

The excellent safety features of Lexus Ls make it a real contender in the luxury sedan class. Anti-lock brakes and 10 air bags are just the beginning. The intelligent cruise control and the lane departure warning system are superb features. The real stand out safety feature is the pre-collision detection system.

This is designed to detect any objects that are in the path of the vehicle and by use of an infrared camera will determine which direction the driver is facing. If the driver is not facing forward an alarm will sound and brake pressure will be boosted in preparation for a collision.

Reliability is a no brainer after checking the consumer reports. The Lexus LS is highly recommended for dependability and comes with excellent warranties.

Pros & Cons

The pros of buying the Lexus LS are as follows. A smooth, comfortable ride and above average electronic features, come with great warranties along with the highest safety ratings. The great luxurious interior is what a luxury car is all about. This is all at a great price for a luxury vehicle of this caliber.

The Cons of the Lexus LS are seating is only available for 4 to 5 adults. Then the brake safety feature will cause the brakes to become “grabby” when applied suddenly. Another con is the fact the trunk space is pretty limited due to the rear seat heating and air system. Then of course the sticker price that may be quite steep for some.

Would I buy this car? Yes, I most certainly would, because it provides all that is important to me in a car. The quality, performance, comfort and safety features are exactly what I look for when shopping for a vehicle.

Competition

The luxury sedan market may seem overcrowded, but these are quality vehicles that cannot be ignored. Lexus joins the likes of the Mercedes Benz S550 (MSRP $95,375; 15 city / 25 hwy), the Audi A8 (MSRP $79,625; 17 city / 27 hwy), and the BMW 750i (MSRP $85,195; 15 city / 22 hwy) in giving people the best possible ride.

Overall Rating
84 out of 100

What others say:

“The LS can’t be faulted for its responsiveness: Lexus says 0-60 mph times of 5.4 seconds are within reach, or a half-second more for AWD versions.”Car Connection

“LS is no sport sedan, however. The base suspension permits marked body lean, as does the air suspension’s Comfort setting. Its Sport mode is slightly sharper overall. The Sport Package’s enhancements deliver crisper moves.”Consumer Guide

“The Lexus flagship sedan delivers luxurious, highly refined, and fuss-free motoring with a comfortable and serene ride.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Any of the LS variants is built with a comfort bias, which isn’t a bad thing in a luxury sedan.”KBB

“Serene ride; impeccable construction; smart electronics features; limolike options for the rear seat. Lacks driver engagement; slow for its class; grabby brakes with subpar stopping power.”Edmunds

The 2012 Lamborghini Aventador J is designed to set a new standard in super sports vehicles due to the power and performance that it unleashes from the moment it starts.

Performance

Boasting an incredible 700 HP from the 6.5 liter V12 engine, this beast is simply unstoppable. The appearance of this vehicle is purely Lamborghini with some minor changes to the lines and curves to offer an updated and more futuristic visual.

The body is made of a new form of carbon fiber called Carbon skin and considering the expertise that Lamborghini has shown in this area over the years you are assured it is a lightweight and durable as anything on the market.

The seats themselves are even designed with carbon materials for an entirely different experience than most aficionados are accustomed to. The entire interior is flocked with this material for a completely different look than can be expected in high end sports cars.

Exterior

The exterior is a sight to behold and available in a chrome red finish thanks to the Carbon skin body that allows for colors in this range. The wheels and fan are also in this shade of red with the chrome tint effect.

The rear view mirror is mounted in periscope fashion on an arm and support bars between the seats. There is no windshield in this monster and at high speeds the air is deflected by air dams that are strategically located, however you will feel the force on your body as you drive.

The Real Deal

The front end itself has points similar to the Mach 5 in the Speed Racer animation, though they are less pronounced and clearly add to the aerodynamics of this vehicle.

The 2012 Lamborghini Aventador J is a spectacular visually and equally as impressive in performance making this a milestone for the company and those that supports the brand and its ingenuity.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 23.8 gallons (90 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 14 combined

Dimensions

Length: 188.1 in. (478 cm)	Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm)
Height: 43.7 in. (111 cm)	Width: 89.1 in. (226 cm)
Luggage Capacity: NA	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: V12	Displacement: 6.5 Liter
Horsepower: 700 HP	Max RPM: 8250 RPM
Torque: 509 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm	Transmission: 7-Speed Auto/Manual
0-60 mph: 2.9 secs (estimate)	Maximum Speed: 186 mph (300 km/h)