BMW i8 2015

The last time BMW built a dedicated sports car positioned above the Z4 (and before that, theZ3), it built the Z8. With power from the E39 M5’s V8 and styling heavily inspired by the classic 507 of the 1950s, the limited production Z8 was – and is, if the way they’ve held their value is any indication – highly coveted. Of course, that’s the whole idea behind a “halo car.”

However, the world has changed since production of the Z8 (and the automatic-transmission-equipped Alpina V8 Roadster that was based on it) ended about a decade ago. Retro styling and throaty naturally-aspirated engines are out; forward-looking design and smaller forced-induction engines and/or hybrid drive are in. So BMW, never one to like appearing to be behind the times, has incorporated all of those en vogue features in its new technological (if not performance and price) flagship, the 2015 i8.

Yes, we’ve been seeing the i8 making the rounds on the auto show circuit for a few years now, but that was just in concept form. Surely there was no way the production version would look as radical…was there? Well it turns out that’s pretty much exactly the case. The snout, with the brand’s iconic twin-nostril grille, is unmistakably BMW, but with some twists, like bright blue accents and a black band atop the hood that extends over the roof and onto the rear fascia. The black and blue extends onto the rocker panels, which each lie below a crypto-gullwing door. The flanks feature “floating” C-pillars, U-shaped taillights and, again, black and light blue trim. The basic shape doesn’t break much new ground, but the details are a significant departure from the norm.

2013 Nissan Quest

Carried over for 2013, the Nissan Quest is a seven passenger mini-van powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 260 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque. FWD is paired with an Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission to enable an EPA estimated 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Features include 13 speaker digital Bose? audio system, DVD entertainment system, two wireless headsets with remote control, XM? Satellite Radio, MP3/CD capability, speed-sensitive volume control, USB connection port for iPod? interface, streaming audio via Bluetooth? wireless technology and illuminated steering wheel-mounted audio controls. Safety is comprised of dual-stage front airbags, side-impact airbags, roof-mounted curtain airbags, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), traction control system ((TCS) and vehicle dynamic control (VDC). The Quest is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.

2013 Cadillac ATS

ATS

All new and long awaited, the ATS carries on the tradition started by the CTS, bringing the good fight to BMW’s 3 Series. Available with rear- or all-wheel drive, the 4-door ATS promises youthful performance and an enticing alternative to the European competition. Power will come from a pair of fours—a 2.5-liter and a turbo 2.0-liter—or a 3.6-liter V-6. Initial reports indicate that BMW and Mercedes need to be concerned. See our Drive of the ATS here.


2013 Cadillac ATS

XTS

The Cadillac XTS is one of those vehicles that does not fit cleanly into a specific segment. Even within the ranks at Cadillac there’s a bit of confusion, with some saying it’s aimed at the Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series. Others say it was created to go against the Audi A8 and BMW 7 Series. The truth is this: The new XTS lies somewhere between the midsize and full-size classes, possessing the best from each—a relatively low price tag, heaps of interior space and good fuel economy.



2013 Cadillac XTS



Under the hood of the XTS is the LFX engine, a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V-6 that produces 304 bhp at 6800 rpm and 264 lb.-ft. of torque at 5200. The direct-injected power-plant comes mated to a smooth-shifting Hydra-Matic 6-speed automatic transmission that features a manual mode. The front-wheel-drive XTS leaves the line efficiently, with smooth, easy acceleration to freeway speeds and very little torque steer. It reaches 60 mph in 6.8 seconds, according to the manufacturer. What’s more, the 4006-lb. XTS boasts commendable EPA fuel economy figures of 17 mpg city/28 mpg highway.

Through the twisty corners, the XTS stayed stable and composed, feeling much smaller than it actually is. Credit here goes to its rigid but communicative body structure, well-tuned Magnetic Ride Control suspension, Brembo brakes and precise steering system. The XTS will also be offered with all-wheel drive. Ride quality is excellent.


2013 Cadillac XTS

The XTS is available in four trim levels: Base, Luxury, Premium and Platinum. It starts at $44,995 and the Platinum model, with niceties such as a premium chrome finish on the grille and custom stitching inside, begins at $59,080.