Mercedes-AMG E53 W214

Based on the W214 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the all-new Mercedes-AMG E53 is the only AMG-fied E-Class you'll be getting for this generation...for now.

2025 Mercedes-AMG E53

2025 Mercedes-AMG E53 Estate

The all-new Mercedes-AMG E53 is a significant departure from its predecessor. What's underneath has changed, and the price has increased. Starting at 109,242 Euros plus additional costs, it's definitely a luxury car.

The E53 features styling and interior design similar to the standard E-Class range. It includes a signature AMG grille at the front, distinctive AMG aerodynamic enhancements on the exterior, and an AMG Performance flat-bottomed steering wheel with AMG-specific rotary controls. 

The vehicle comes with power-adjustable AMG sports seats, with the option for AMG Performance bucket seats. Inside, you'll find Artico faux leather and Microcut suede upholstery. Additionally, you can opt for the MBU Superscreen, which includes AMG-specific features such as a lap timer.

Under the hood, the all-new E53 is powered by a 3.0L turbo six-cylinder engine with a powerful electric motor. This electrified setup produces 449PS of power and 560Nm of torque. Arm it with the AMG Dynamic Package with Race Start launch control, and the power output is shot to 612PS. Mated with the AMG Speedshift TCT 9G and AMG Performance 4Matic+, it does 0-100kph in 3.8 seconds and up to 280kph of top speed. Without it, it's just four seconds and an electronically-limited 250kph top speed.

Thanks to its 28.6kWh battery pack, the fuel economy is 8.6 to 9.2 liters per 100 km and the driving range on electric power alone is up to 101km.

On its own, the all-new E53, equipped with AMG Ride Control adaptive dampers, offers a respectable driving experience, even on track days. However, when you add the AMG Dynamic Plus package—which includes dynamic engine mounts, an electronic locking rear differential, composite front brakes (with 390 mm discs and six-piston calipers), and the Race Start feature—the performance becomes exhilarating.

Even in its six-cylinder PHEV setting, the all-new E53 is proven to be as fun as the outgoing V8-powered E63. It may be as posh as the normal E-Class but with AMG credentials only drivers at the same level as George Russell can take advantage of, it feels like every day's a race day for this one.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz AG.

Polestar 4 vs Lotus Emeya

Polestar has done the impossible with the first-ever Polestar 4, an all-electric coupe crossover with no rear window. How is this possible? Is it legal to drive a car without a rear window?

2025 Polestar 4

The 700,000Kr Polestar 4 is unlike every road car you've come across since the days of the Gumpert Apollo because like the Apollo, the Polestar 4 has no rear view window. Verging suicidal by Polestar standards, the liftback styling and signature Polestar styling first seen in the Polestar 3 SUV really means business for the Swedish EV premium brand under the thumb of China's Geely group.

2025 Polestar 4 interior

Inside, the Polestar 4 accommodates up to five people but because of such luxury car pricing, it's too expensive to be used as a family car, perhaps it can be used for business class purposes, escorting big shots from Peking to Paris. Because it doesn't have a rear mirror, the only way to see things behind you is by using the 15.4-inch touch screen with Google built-in and Snapdragon Cockpit Platform. It's the future, after all.

Powered by a 102kWh battery pack, the RWD Long Range Single Motor variant produces 272PS of power while the AWD Long Range Dual Motor variant produces 544PS of power, sprinting from 0-100kph in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 200kph. As for the driving range, the latter does 590km on one full charge.

The Polestar 4 is packed with numerous safety features that earned the right to become fully autonomous in the foreseeable future, with Level 2 autonomy the best it can do for now. It even comes with the Polestar-first Smart Eye that detects drivers' eye movements in the name of reducing driver distraction.

2025 Lotus Emeya

Feeling nervous about driving a car with no rearview mirror like the Polestar 4 should be better off with the more expensive choice; the Lotus Emeya, the first all-electric premium sedan from the company behind lightweight sports cars such as the Elise, Exige, and the Evora.

2025 Lotus Emeya interior

Priced at 89,500 Pounds plus additional costs, the Emeya is more expensive than the no-rear-window Polestar 4 and has one seat less compared to the said car but with all the downsides come with the added upsides because, unlike the Eletre SUV, this is a lot more interesting to drive.

Like the Eletre SUV, the Emeya sedan is powered by dual motors that power it and the Geely-derived platform underneath. Although it doesn't behave like a Lotus, it delivers a throat-chopping experience when you put your foot down and looks like someone's driven to tears, wishing they want to experience this someday.

The Emeya features three different configurations with the base variant producing 612PS of power and 373 miles of driving range to the ultra-powerful Eletre R with a monstrous 918PS of power output, capable of going from 0-60mph in 4.2 seconds and has a top speed of 278kph. As for the range, the Eletre R is good for 485km on one full charge.

It also features the most sophisticated ADAS offered such as the LIDAR system, ultra-HD cameras, and millimeter-wave radar, making it equipped for fully autonomous driving.

The Polestar 4 is an all-electric coupe crossover with no rear window, while the Lotus Emeya is an all-electric premium sedan. Both cars have pros and cons. The Polestar 4 is less expensive but doesn't have a rear window, while the Lotus Emeya is more expensive but has a rear window. If I had to choose, I would go for the Lotus.

Photo: Polestar, Lotus

Cadillac Optiq and Escalade IQ

The first-ever Optiq joins the list of Cadillac's electric vehicles and with prices starting at $52,895 plus additional costs, it's the junior of the Cadillac EV range. So, what's it all about the Cadillac Optiq?

2025 Cadillac Optiq

2025 Cadillac Optiq

One clear reminder about the Cadillac Optiq is that because this is the baby brother of the Lyriq, the sizing is identical to the XT4, and because the XT4 is set to be euthanized soon, the Optiq is glad to take its place.

2025 Cadillac Optiq interior

With the futuristic styling that draws inspiration from its big brother, the Lyriq, the Optiq's interior is business-class stuff thanks to its 33-inch diagonal advanced LED display with Google built-in compatibility and over-the-air software updates, extensive use of recycled materials in the making of patterned accent fabric, 126-color dual-zone ambient lighting, and 19-speaker AKG Studio Audio System with Dolby ATMOS. It even boasts the segment-best second-row legroom of 37.8 inches and rear cargo volume of up to 57 cubic feet as well, making this crossover worthy of your time.

Running on General Motors' Ultium platform, the Optiq's dual-motor setup produces 300hp of power and 354lb-ft of torque through all four wheels. It even comes with regenerative braking that stores energy while braking. At one full charge, the Optiq lasts for 302 miles and has a towing capacity of 1500 lbs.

Despite being an electric crossover, the Optiq handles rather well thanks to its near-perfect weight distribution and low center of gravity. It even boasts a wide array of advanced safety features including the controversial Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology.

2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ

Those who demand the ultimate expression of luxury should go for the ultra-expensive and ultra-luxurious $127,700 Cadillac Escalade IQ, the Cadillac of all Cadillac EVs.

2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ interior

Despite borrowing the name from Cadillac's king-sized SUV, it eschews the squarish looks of its petrol-powered counterpart in favor of a more unibody setting but no matter. Because the Escalade is a popular choice for major celebrities from Los Angeles to New York, the Escalade IQ promises to buck such a trend because despite donning familiar styling cues from the Cadillac EV lineup, the interior is where the real party begins.

On the driver's side, the dashboard is heavily surrounded by its curved pillar-to-pillar 55-inch total diagonal LED display with Google built-in compatibility, giving the driver the futuristic experience behind the wheel while taking control of almost everything. There's even a separate touchscreen on the armrest for the climate controls as well.

Although being a seven-seater SUV, it's the executive second-row seats that serve as the sweet spot for the Escalade IQ. Coupled with the rear-seat entertainment system, extra legroom, upgraded sound system, tech-charging options, and others, VIPs will be thrilled while relaxing in the middle of typical West Coast traffic. It even has up to 131.97 cubic feet of maximum cargo space behind the first row and eTrunk.

Running on the Ultium platform, the dual-motor setting produces 750HP of power output with Velocity Max set and that's more than you get from the Escalade-V. Sprinting from a 0-60mph time in less than five seconds, the Escalade IQ can last up to 460 miles of driving range, the longest range of any EV SUV. It even packs a wide array of safety features ranging from night vision, adaptive cruise control, automatic lane change, and standard Super Cruise hands-free driving aid complimentary with 3-year OnStar Super Cruise plan.

If you're looking for an affordable Cadillac EV, the Optiq is a great choice. But if you're a CEO who cares more about your employees than you do about yourself, then the Escalade IQ is the car for you. Whichever you choose, you'll be getting a great Cadillac EV that's perfect for your lifestyle.

Photo: General Motors

Acura ZDX (Gen 2)

After nearly a decade, the Acura ZDX made a comeback and this time, it's Acura's first-ever EV sold, although they didn't make it by themselves, they've sought help from General Motors in the making of this EV crossover.

2025 Acura ZDX

Starting at $64,500 plus additional costs, the all-new Acura ZDX is morphed from the Accord-based coupe crossover into an all-electric crossover with bits and bobs from the Chevrolet Blazer EV thanks to a cooperation between Honda and General Motors, which sadly became a write-off after its launch.

2025 Acura ZDX

Beginning with the design, the all-new ZDX is surprisingly a concept-turned-reality, taking its cues from the Precision EV Concept of 2022. As a result, it features a dramatic evolution of Acura's Diamond Pentagon Grille, Chicane DRL signature, and Jewel Eye LED headlights.

2025 Acura ZDX interior

Inside, the ZDX features high-grade authentic materials with brushed aluminum accents and Milano leather trim as well as 26-color ambient lighting, bespoke seating, a digital rearview mirror, Bang & Olufsen sound system, an Acura-first Google built-in HD display sat-nav touchscreen with smartphone connectivity, and others. Such features will bring envy to the competition as well as spacing identical to its Chevrolet Blazer EV counterpart.

2025 Acura ZDX

In its RWD A-Spec variant, it produces 358HP of power and has a driving range of 313 miles, but when you hit the range-topping Type S with Dual Motor AWD, it has 499HP of power, 544lb-ft of torque, a 278-mile driving range, and 3,500lb of towing capacity. Sticking to the Type S, it packs an adaptive air suspension handy for various driving situations such as tarmac, gravel, or snow, as well as Brembo front brake calipers for a dramatic braking feel. Not bad for an Acura running on GM's Ultium platform.

As for safety, the ZDX features a wide range of safety features under the AcuraWatch umbrella but for the ZDX Type S, the exclusive AcuraWatch 360+ adds Hands Free Cruise and Automatic Parking Assist. Clever but obvious behind the wheel. What a gimmick.

It's a shock for being the first-ever Acura electric vehicle because of the fact that General Motors contributed behind the scenes, meaning it's not a real Acura EV but rather a Chevrolet Blazer EV underneath. Amid a write-off joint effort, the all-new ZDX tries hard to impress its drivers with its sporty credentials not heard for an EV crossover, and in typical Acura fashion, it's a real upset to the competition because of the features the competition didn't dare to have. Kudos for such a write-off cooperation between Honda and General Motors in the making of the ZDX revival.

Photo: Acura

Audi A6 e-tron

The Audi A6 e-tron is a controversial vehicle. It started as a concept car, but now it's a reality. It's Audi's answer to the BMW 5-Series. It's an all-electric vehicle, so it's a competitor to the i5. Is it for the greater good, or not?

2025 Audi A6 e-tron

2025 Audi A6 e-tron avant

Starting at 62,800 Euros plus additional costs, the first-ever Audi A6 e-tron range morphed Audi's answer to the BMW 5-Series into an all-electric, all-original, presentation thanks to Audi's new naming policy where ICE-powered vehicles will have odd numbers while EVs like this have even numbers. Feeling the odd one out, the A6 e-tron is the business end of the controversial luxury EV market.

2025 Audi A6 e-tron interior

Drawing cues from its concept car from three years ago, the A6 e-tron features slim LED headlights and a closed-off singleframe grille, the hallmark of the e-tron styling. The saloon version features a sportback setting rather than the sedan look from its predecessor soon to be the next Audi A7 while the Avant version is surprisingly better looking indeed for a luxury EV estate.

Step inside, the A6 e-tron proudly displays up to five screens on its dashboard such as the curved MMI panoramic display that incorporates the 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit instrument display and a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, the additional 10.9-inch touchscreen on the front passenger side, and optional side-view cameras. On the comfort side, the A6 e-tron features luxurious extras such as four-zone air-conditioning, air fragrance repackage, electrochromic panoramic glass roof, and Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with headrest speakers.

In the topic of boot space, both the sportback and the Avant have 502 liters of boot space with all seats present, and in the Avant's case, up to 1422 liters of boot space with the passenger seats folded down.

2025 Audi S6 e-tron Avant

2025 Audi S6 e-tron

Running on the PPE platform just like the Q6 e-tron and 100kWh battery, the base A6 e-tron runs on a single motor powering the rear wheels, which sounds blasphemous by Audi standards. It produces 326PS of power output and has 621km of driving range. The quattro variant adds an additional motor at the front, resulting in 462PS of power, 855Nm of torque, a 0-100kph of 4.5 seconds, a top speed of 210kph, and 711km of driving range.

Those who demand more should go for the rear-biased dual motor S6 e-tron range with 503PS of power output with launch control engaged, sprinting from 0-100kph in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 240kph.

Audi's A6 and S6 e-tron models are mild to drive everywhere, especially on tarmac, gravel, and snow. They come with Audi's suite of intelligent driver aids, including adaptive cruise assist plus, active front assist, traffic sign-based cruise control, park assist plus, and rear turn assist.

Although a controversial move to be EV-only, the concept-turned-reality Audi A6 e-tron range nicked the status quo as the cheaper and more friendly alternative to the BMW i5 range. It really is the business end of the controversial luxury EV market.

Photo: Audi AG

Chevrolet Traverse/GMC Acadia/Buick Enclave (Third Generation)

GM's full-size crossover triplets, the Chevrolet Traverse, the GMC Acadia, and the Buick Enclave, are now in their third generation. These vehicles have a reputation for luxury, space, performance, and technology. If you're in the market for a full-size crossover, these vehicles are definitely worth checking out.

2025 Chevrolet Traverse

2025 GMC Acadia

2025 Buick Enclave

The all-new Chevrolet Traverse starts at $40,600, while the GMC Acadia starts at $42,900. The Buick Enclave, the most luxurious of the three, starts at $45,000. All prices include taxes and fees. Whichever of the three you'll go for, it's all in the neighborhood when it comes to style, luxury, performance, and technology.

To differentiate the trio, the Traverse features a macho styling compared to its predecessor while the Acadia looks more like an enlarged Terrain and the Enclave looks good with Buick's new signature design first applied in the Encore GX facelift and Envista.

2025 Chevrolet Traverse interior

2025 GMC Acadia interior

2025 Buick Enclave interior

The interior boasts similar stories as well. While the Traverse features a 17.7-inch diagonal color touch screen and an 11-inch diagonal Driver Information System, the Acadia features a 15-inch diagonal touchscreen, and the Enclave, the most luxurious of the three, features the Ultrawide 30-inch diagonal screen. As for seating, the Traverse and the Acadia can carry up to eight while the Enclave can only carry seven. Boot space? The Traverse is slightly the most spacious of the three with up to 98 cubic feet of cargo volume, slightly more than the Acadia and the Enclave.

The Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, and Buick Enclave are powered by a new 2.5L 4-cylinder turbo engine mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. These vehicles produce 328hp and 326lb-ft of torque, which is more than the Ford Explorer or Jeep Grand Cherokee. Front-wheel-drive variants get 27 MPG on the highway, while AWD variants get 24 MPG. The maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds.

Although they're good to drive, only the Traverse and the Acadia come with offroad-oriented variants in the form of the Traverse Z71 and the Acadia AT4 with its Twin-Clutch 4WD, Terrain Mode, and suspension dampers, making them capable of playing dirty, come tarmac, gravel, or snow.

Of course, these triplets got the safety topic covered with a range of intelligent driver assists such as Front Pedestrian and Bicycle Braking, Blind Zone Steering Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Automatic Emergency Braking, Safety Alert Seat, Rear Pedestrian Alert, Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and Side Bicyclist Alert.

These triplets, the all-new Traverse, Acadia, and Enclave, have redefined the full-size crossover segment in various ways. Although they differ in terms of style and comfort, they share a reputation for luxury, space, performance, and technology. Welcome to the neighborhood.

Photo: General Motors

Audi Q6 e-tron

The Audi Q6 e-tron is the first Audi crossover to run on the Volkswagen Group's new PPE platform. It's part of Audi's "progress is an attitude" tagline. But is it worth it? Let's take a look at it.

2025 Audi Q6 e-tron

Starting at 63,500 Euros plus additional costs, the first-ever Audi Q6 e-tron is the cheaper alternative to the second-generation Porsche Macan because it's twenty grand less, which sounds fair but is it worth it?

2025 Audi Q6 e-tron

2025 Audi Q6 e-tron interior

Beginning with the exterior design, the Q6 e-tron has taken a simpler approach which is clean by Audi standards. It features matrix LED front headlamps, OLED rear taillights, the signature Audi Singleframe grille, and other notable details that make it sporty, progressive, and perfectly proportioned.

Step inside, the Q6 e-tron is packed with the MMI panoramic display consisting of an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit and a 14.5-inch touchscreen that controls almost the entire vehicle. There's even a 10.9-inch MMI front passenger display that can only be seen in the eyes of a front passenger, not the driver for safety reasons. Although as spacious as most crossovers in its class should be, it packs up to 526 litres of boot space with all five seats present or 1529 litres of boot space with the passenger seats folded down. It even has 64 litres of frunk space.

2025 Audi SQ6 e-tron

Running on the PPE platform and 100kWh battery pack, the Q6 e-tron's power output ranges from 292 to 387PS of power output with the latter sprinting from 0-100kph in 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 210kph. The mid-range variant packs the longest driving range with up to 637km on one full charge.

Those willing to push further should go for the SQ6 e-tron with 462PS of power output when launch control is active, sprinting from 0-100kph in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 230kph. Either way, they're both mild to drive everywhere, especially on tarmac, gravel, and snow, and they pack Audi's suite of intelligent driver aids consisting of adaptive cruise assist plus, active front assist, traffic sign-based cruise control, park assist plus, and rear turn assist.

The all-new Audi Q6 e-tron range demonstrates that crossovers are as popular as Hollywood superhero movies. While it may not be a superhero itself, it offers great value, costing less than its Porsche Macan sibling. Thoughts?

Photo: Audi AG

Porsche Macan XAB

The Porsche Macan has entered its second generation and with a huge shock, the baby Porsche SUV was reborn as an all-electric crossover, a first for Porsche.

2025 Porsche Macan

Priced over 80,700 Euros plus additional costs, the all-new Porsche Macan is morphed into an all-electric crossover much to the dismay of the owners of the previous-generation ICE-powered model. Although the move is blasphemous, it promises to be as cool as its predecessor. So, what are the key details?

2025 Porsche Macan interior

Beginning with the exterior, the all-new Macan mimics the design of the Taycan, something you would expect from the Porsche family, although the rear view can be easily mistaken for a Toyota Crown Crossover when you squint your eyes hard enough. Either way, its coupe silhouette is one of the main details of the all-new Macan.

The new interior of the Porsche Macan is similar to the Taycan and the Cayenne Mk3 minor change. It has a high-tech dashboard with a curved 12.6-inch driver's display, a 10.9-inch center screen, and an optional 10.9-inch panel for the front passenger. There are still some physical buttons for things like climate and volume control. Asked about the space, the all-new Macan, despite its electric powertrain, has up to 540 liters of boot space with the rear seats folded and an additional 84 liters of frunk storage that can be accessed by waving your hand at the Porsche emblem."

2025 Porsche Macan

Being the first to run on the all-new Premium Platform Electric Platform, the XAB Macan uses an 88v electrical architecture similar to the Taycan as well as the 100kWh lithium BMC battery,. The Macan 4 model with its 408PS power and a top speed of 220kph is good for 613km on one full charge while the range-topping Macan Turbo, with its 639PS power output, has a 0-100kph time of 3.3 seconds and flat-out in 260kph, 10 more than a typical German luxury sedan, and the driving range is good for 591km on one full charge.

On a straight line, the all-new Macan still has the "puncha yo buns" attitude and it's still a buff baby that can dance like a man, shake-a its fanny, shake-a Macan. A tough tootin' baby that can "puncha yo buns". It may only weigh nearly three tons but it's not a bad crossover to drive, although you could use some of your painkillers following that understeering drama with this one.

Transforming the Macan into an all-electric crossover is controversial by Porsche standards, but it remains the powerful vehicle that performs exceptionally. Come tarmac, gravel, or snow, from Eifel to Berlin, this Porsche is too macho to be ignored. It's still the buff baby that can dance like a man.

Photo: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

Toyota Alphard and Vellfire (H40W) PHEV

The Toyota Alphard and Vellfire minivans in the H40W generation now offer a plug-in hybrid variant. This is the first time a Japanese minivan has been provided with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

2025 Toyota Alphard PHEV

2025 Toyota Vellfire PHEV

Based on the range-topping Executive Lounge variant, the first-ever Alphard and Vellfire PHEV variants still feature the same nooks and crannies as expected in most variants but now in a six-seater setting. 

These minivans still come with a super-long overhead console, power side sunshade for rear seats, universal steps positioned at the sliding doors for easy access, a one-touch seesaw switch on the sliding doors, and the 5:5 split two-position space-up seats where the third-row seats can be flipped up for extra space. 

Apart from numerous luxury amenities, including a rear entertainment system for your binge-watching pleasure while stuck in Tokyo traffic, the PHEV variants come with an exclusive ultrasuede roof headlining, offering a refined, smooth texture and excellent durability. Exclusive to the Alphard is the four-seater Spacious Lounge variant tailored for VIPs.

It uses the same 2.5L A25A-FXS petrol-hybrid powerplant from its normal hybrid equivalents but combined with powerful electric motor generators, the new Li-ion battery mounted under the floor, and the enhanced heat pump HVAC system, it delivers 306PS of total power output. With the CVT gearbox, it has 16.7km/L of combined fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards and 73km of EV driving range, enough to travel from your fancy Susana Heights mansion to Okada Manila to home again.

Like the normal ones, the PHEV variants are built on the TNGA platform and feature front MacPherson struts, rear double wishbones, and ventilated disc brakes. They offer a luxury car experience, providing a refined level of silence and comfort that will impress VIPs in the rear seats. Additionally, both models come equipped with Toyota Safety Sense and Toyota Teammate, enhancing safety during driving and making parking worry-free. It’s best to avoid asking your boss about these features.

The Alphard Executive Lounge PHEV starts at 10.65 million Japanese Yen while the Vellfire Executive Lounge PHEV starts at 10.85 Japanese Yen. Additional costs included.

Attention, high-rollers in the Far East! The latest, most powerful versions of the Alphard and Vellfire have arrived, offering unmatched style and comfort. Guests at premier casino resorts like Okada, Newport World Resorts, Solaire, City of Dreams, and Hann will be excited about these luxurious PHEV 4WD minivans.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Audi A5 B10

Audi has a new naming policy where ICE-powered cars will be given odd numbers while EVs will have evens. As a result, the ICE-powered A4 range is now named the A5, a name reserved for coupe versions of the said car. What's it all about?

2025 Audi A5

2025 Audi A5 Avant

Starting at €45,200 plus additional costs, the Audi A5 B10 is no longer the familiar model for speed enthusiasts. The two-door equivalent of the A4 has now been restructured to replace it. However, the A4 may return in the future as the A4 e-tron. Ironically, with Audi no longer producing coupes, this aligns with their mantra that "progress is an attitude."

Beginning with the design, the A5 B10 looks subtle and attractive at the same time even when it was reformatted into a four-door saloon with the more spacious Avant in the party. Hinted by muscular proportions such as the flared wheel arches and the standard, electric tailgate, which opens together with the rear window, not to mention the choice of eight different digital light signature pairs, the A5 B10 is a concoction of business and leisure at a snail's pace.

2025 Audi A5 interior

Moving to the interior, the A5 B10 is futuristic even behind the wheel. On the driver's side, you are greeted by its Audi MMI panoramic display, which features an 11.9-inch instrumental display, a 14.5-inch MMI touchscreen with the controversial ChatGPT integration, and an available 10.9-inch front passenger display.

Although slightly more spacious and more comfortable than its A4 predecessor, it's the Avant that takes the credit with up to 1424L of boot space when the passenger seats are folded down, giving you plenty of room for your quiet weekend drives away from your business degree.

2025 Audi S5

2025 Audi S5 Avant

At launch, the Audi A5 B10 is powered by a choice of a 2.0L TFSi engine with up to 204PS of power and a 2.0L TDi MHEV, which is sadly the one to avoid due to Europe's disdain for diesel. All are mated to a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic.

The S5 range, meanwhile, is powered by a 3.0L TFSi V6 engine that produces 367PS of power, and thanks to its said gearbox, the quattro sport rear differential, and variable AWD clutch, it sprints from 0-100kph in 4.5 seconds and has an electronically-limited top speed of 250kph.

Because it now runs on the new Premium Platform Combustion, a platform suitable for ICE-powered vehicles, which serves as a replacement for the MLB architecture, the A5 B10 feels more dramatic to drive than its A4 predecessor even with Audi's signature quattro all-wheel drive system, the integrated and blending-capable brake control system, and the brake torque vectoring for reducing understeer. It's common sense but it feels okay to drive even when feeling under the weather.

As for safety, the A5 B10 features adaptive cruise assist plus, active front assist, traffic sign-based cruise control, park assist plus, and rear turn assist.

Formerly known as the two-door version of the A4, the Audi A5 was reformatted as the replacement of the A4 thanks to Audi's new naming policy. This is no longer the A5 that speedo boys were familiar with and with Audi no longer making coupes, it's a sad day for them. It's a shame but as a replacement to the A4, the all-new A5 is all about continuing its predecessor's tradition as a direct rival to BMW's 3-Series and Mercedes-Benz's C-Class. Morbid cynicism but it gets results. That's common sense to you.

Photo: Audi AG

BMW X3 G45

Now in its fourth generation, the all-new BMW X3 is taking shape as the middle child of the BMW SUV range is grown up with new style, interior, features, performance, and technology. This is something you would expect from one of the best-selling luxury crossovers in its class.

2025 BMW X3

Starting at 57,900 Euros plus additional costs, the X3 G45 is the fourth iteration of BMW's midsize luxury crossover that tries hard to match its predecessors' successes as the global market leader in its class while settling scores with its key rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz GLC, the Audi Q5, the Lexus NX, and of course, the Genesis GV70.

Beginning with the exterior design, the new X3 is showing off some XM vibes judging by its sidelines, the taillights, the front lamps, and the questionable grille design. Normal models showcase the V-shaped kidney grille some would say it's darn obvious while the M50 model features a mix of subtlety and obviousness in terms of its blackened kidney grille.

2025 BMW X3 interior

The interior is all-new for this model and it's packed with the BMW Curved Display powered by Android-based BMW OS9 as well as ambient lighting, a two-spoke steering wheel, new sport seats, rear climate zone touch controls, and wireless charging ports, among others. Although as comfy as most luxury crossovers in its class should be, the all-new X3's boot space can accommodate up to 1700 liters with the passenger seats folded down, which is more than the G01 model.

2025 BMW X3

Under the hood, the all-new X3 is offered with a choice of 2.0L petrol, a 2.0L diesel, and for the M50 model, the 3.0L turbocharged inline-six petrol with performance figures akin to the Toyota GR Supra. It packs 381PS of power, and 540Nm of torque, has a 0-100kph time of 4.6 seconds, and is electronically limited to 250kph. All are packed with mild hybrid technology, armed with an xDrive all-wheel-drive system, and mated with an 8-speed Steptronic AT.

Of course, there's the X3 30e PHEV variant where the 2.0L petrol engine is connected to a 135kW electric motor and 19.7kWh Lithium battery. With 299PS of power via temporary boost, 450Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 6.2 seconds, and a 215kph top speed, the X3 30e's electric-only driving range is up to 90km and in terms of overall performance, it's good for 0.9L/100km based on WLTP standards. This is the most economical X3 you can buy.

The all-new X3 is a good vehicle to drive. It has improved dynamics and a standard xDrive all-wheel-drive system. It also has numerous safety features, including the Driving Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant Professional. 

If you're looking for a midsize luxury crossover, the BMW X3 G45 is definitely worth considering. With its updated design, interior, features, performance, and technology, it lives up to the expectations of one of the best-selling luxury crossovers in its class.

Photo: BMW AG

BMW M5 G90

The BMW M5 has undergone radical changes over the years, and the all-new G90 model is undoubtedly the most controversial M5 to date. Let's find out what it's all about.

2025 BMW M5

2025 BMW M5 Touring

Starting at 144,000 Euros plus additional costs, the BMW M5 is back in its beefiest glory and not only that, the new model brings back the Touring variant for those who want to give the soon-to-be-axed Audi RS6 Avant a good kicking at its tailgate.

2025 BMW M5 interior

Beginning with the exterior design, BMW gave a humble G60 5-Series, in saloon and wagon configurations, extreme doses of steroids, and this is the result. From its flared wheel arches, widened side walls, two-part diffuser, quad tailpipes, M light alloy wheels, and optional M Carbon exterior package, the all-new M5 welcomes its drivers to its gun show.

While the interior works and feels just like a normal 5-Series, the all-new M5 is packed with M sport seats, an M steering wheel with a red 12 o'clock marking and other showy features, a red start button, and an M-themed ambient lighting, among others, nothing says showbizness than show-off business. As for the Touring variant, it can carry up to 1630L of boot space with the passenger seats folded down. Not bad for a super wagon.

2025 BMW M5

Now, we learn about the performance of the all-new M5. Under the hood, the familiar 4.4L V8 Twin Turbo engine from the previous model has been bolted with a 145kW electric motor and a 22kWh lithium battery, transforming it into a PHEV super saloon. Together, the all-new M5 has 727PS of power and 1000Nm of torque. Mated to an 8-speed AT, it does 0-100kph in 3.6 seconds and has a top speed of 305kph thanks to an optional extra.

When operating solely on electric power, the M5 can travel up to 63 to 69 km according to WLTP mode standards. In terms of PHEV performance, it achieves a fuel economy of 2.0L per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 46g per km, again based on WLTP standards.

Asked about the dynamics, the all-new M5 is more than just its sport-tuned dynamics because it packs up to five operating modes and two customizable slots, M xDrive and Active M Differential, M bracing elements, M Servotronic steering, Integral Active Steering, Adaptive M suspension, and available M Carbon ceramic brakes. 

The BMW M5 is a beast on the road. It's a head-turner when cruising through fashionable cities like London, Paris, or Tokyo. But on track days, it's too mild for its own good. Go ahead, try turning hard through the corners, you can see just how difficult it is to exit through the corners because of its heavyweight body. Better pack some painkillers, folks, because cornering a two-and-a-half-ton M5 is a hard thing to do.

As for safety, the BMW M5 comes with the available Driving Assistant Professional with Steering and Lane Control Assist and Distance Control, with Stop & Go, Highway Assistant, the world's first Active Lane Change Assistant, and the available Parking Assist Professional.

The BMW M5 has experienced significant transformations throughout its history, and the all-new G90 model is arguably the most controversial version to date. With the return of the Touring variant, the introduction of a V8 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) configuration, and its mild yet formidable driving dynamics, this M5 makes a strong statement. It may be a heavyweight but this is becoming a must-have of the mid-decade. You'd better trade away your old F90 model for this, even your old M5 CS for this matter.

Available Colors: Alpinweiß uni, Saphirschwarz metallic, Sophistograu Brillanteffekt metallic, Fire Red metallic, M Carbonschwarz metallic, M Marina Bay Blau metallic, M Isle of Man Grun metallic, M Brooklyn Grau metallic, BMW Individual Storm Bay metallic, and BMW Individual Frozen Deep Grey metallic.

Photo: BMW AG

Ferrari 12cilindri v Aston Martin Vanquish III

Ferrari's newest masterpiece, the 12Cilindri, is a fitting tribute to the company's 12-cylinder masterpieces spanning from the Testarossa, the 575M, the 599, the F12, and the 812. Let's get to know more about Ferrari's final pure 12-cylinder ICE half-a-million-euro masterpiece.

2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri

2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider

The 12Cilindri comes in coupe and open-top Spider configurations and honors Ferrari’s hard work on iconic 12-cylinder masterpieces. As a car, this model embodies the heart and soul of the brand. The 12Cilindri is the last pure V12 ICE masterpiece.

2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri interior

The Ferrari 12Cilindri was designed with inspiration from past models. The 12Cilindri's fastback styling harks back to the Monza model. The front view is a tribute to the 365 GTB4. The rear design was inspired by the triangular shape of the Testarossa. The interior, meanwhile, dons Ferrari's dual-cockpit layout from the Roma and the Purosangue to make it more driver-focused. Complimented with the handcrafted materials in the making of sports seats and trim, the 12Cilindri shows its true colors as contemporary art on four wheels.

Powering the 12Cilindri is the 6.5L V12 engine with Direct Injection lifted from the 812 Competizione. It produces 830PS of power and 678Nm of torque. Mated to an 8-speed F1 DCT and weighing nearly one-and-a-half tons, it does 0-100kph in 2.9 seconds and flat-out at 340kph. That's supercar quick in Super GT standards.

Being a road-focused GT car, going through the open roads is the main specialty but for the 12Cilindri, that's not the case because while being an excellent road car, it incorporates Ferrari's F1 know-how to make it vaguely usable on the track. It takes a Charles Leclerc-level driver to get a good grip on its dynamic character and with notable track-honed gizmos such as the brake-by-wire, ABS Evo, and the new SSC 8.0, among many other useful gadgets in store, the 12Cilindri is too addictive to be ignored or fully satisfied.

From the road to the track, the Ferrari 12Cilindri is the ultimate V12 Super GT ever made thanks to its addictive features too impossible to miss, especially for those who ended up with the keys to the old 812 Competizione. However, by the time the 12Cilindri made its inception, this is no longer the ultimate V12 Super GT in the world because of this...

2025 Aston Martin Vanquish

2025 Aston Martin Vanquish interior

Yes, Aston Martin managed to resurrect the Vanquish as the ultimate V12 Super GT in the world. The nearly half-a-million-pound Super GT is the must-have for the 2024 Autumn Season.

For the Vanquish's third outing, what the folks from Aston Martin did is make a mashup between the DB12 and the rear view of the non-existent Vanquish Zagato Shooting Brake from 2017, don the familiar DB12 interior, make it macho, and Bob's your uncle. This is the Vanquish's third coming the world anticipated and by the looks and feels of it, the Turn 10 Studios people should better think twice before turning a cold shoulder on it.

Powered by an all-new 5.2 V12 Twin Turbo engine, it produces a historical 835PS of power and 1000Nm of torque. Mated to an 8-speed AT, it has a 0-62mph time of 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 214mph. The Ferrari 12Cilindri should be slightly worried about taking this one on.

With its bonded aluminum structure, front double wishbones, rear multilink suspension, a heavily advanced ABS, and Corner Braking 2.0, among other sport-tuned dynamics outlandish for Super GT standards, it takes a Fernando Alonso-level driver to master the Vanquish on the track but no need while on the road because it drives extremely beautiful. Dynamic as expected but like the 12Cilindri, it's too addictive to be ignored to be fully satisfied.

The 12Cilindri and the Vanquish are two of the top V12 Super GTs on the market. It's hard to choose between the two, but the Vanquish is probably the clear winner. The Vanquish features a bonded aluminum structure, front double wishbones, rear multilink suspension, and Corner Braking 2.0. All of these amazing features make for one fantastic car.

Photo: Ferrari/Aston Martin