Here at Speed Lux, we take our cars seriously. Just browse our website and you will find posts on everything from the best selling cars of 2011 to the best Mercedes-Benz models of all time. We try and cover whatever it is that you want, which is why we are going one step further. Yes, today we are going to predict the future and bring you the best luxury cars of 2016.
There is nothing better for a petrol head than the anticipation of a new car. It is what drives (excuse the pun!) people to consume as much car related news as possible. Why? Mainly because we car lovers can’t wait to see what the geeks in the labs have been up to all these years. Plus, we love to compare the big rivals against one another and see who comes out on top, just like a sports fan would. Thankfully, the waiting is now over. Here’s what you have to look forward to in 2016 regarding luxury models.
Acura RLX Sport Hybrid
You may not think of an Acura when you think of luxury, but you should. The fact is that Acura has been producing top-quality cars for well over a decade, as the numbers show. Acuras are one of the most popular cars in the United States thanks to the cost and the high standard of the drive. Think of the RLX Sport Hybrid as one of the best kept secrets in the industry, until now of course. The 2016 model has revisions to the suspension and the chassis, making it more comfortable and easier to drive. Plus, it also has an array of features that will blow your mind. If that isn’t enough, you can get all of this for less than $60,000. That may sound steep, but compare it to a Mercedes or a BMW and you will soon change your mind.
Audi A8
Audi is a luxury brand that every self-respecting car lover on the planet will know. Even laymen know about Audi such is their reputation in the car world. The A8 is a sedan, so it differs from the sporty models that you may associate with one of the kings of German car manufacturing. But, that didn’t put us off when we saw the car and read the specifications. To start with, the aesthetics are awesome. The car looks like a town car that would transport royalty or politicians around big towns and cities. And, the interior matches the exterior. The seats premium leather, and come with massage software. There is an active noise cancellation option. And, there is entertainment in the form of TVs in the headrests. There are jets that don’t have as extensive a specification as this car! It is worth noting that reflects in the price. This model will cost you upwards of $137,000.
BMW xDrive
Wherever there is an Audi, there is a BMW. They are inextricably linked such is their rivalry, so you can’t mention one without the other. If you thought that the Audi A8 was technological, wait until you get behind the wheel of the xDrive. It is like being in a spaceship with all of the advanced gadgets they have incorporated, and it sounds amazing. We particularly like the sound of the motion controlled infotainment system. Apparently, just one wave of your hand and you can control the system as you would with a remote control. But, the xDrive isn’t all about gadgets because it is still a car. And, this car can go from 0-60 in four seconds. Power and grace – that is the sort of motor we love!
Cadillac CT6
Our readers outside of North America may not understand why Americans love Cadillacs. It is true that a Cadillac is a sign of wealth and prosperity in most parts of the country, and the CT6 is the perfect example why. The first thing that you will notice about this car is its size – it’s massive. Like all great Caddies, it is to host the beast under the hood. This year, Cadillac has decided to go with the turbocharged V6 instead of the usual V8. And, they are even starting to make up for common mistakes they make every year. The CT6 is a lot lighter, under 3,700 pounds, thanks to the mainly aluminum construction. And, it should also handle very nicely. Like all Caddies, the interior is a joy.
Jaguar XJR
In the past, the British used to be at the forefront of car manufacturing. They gave the world cars like Bentleys, Aston Martins and, of course, Jaguars. Although they are no longer British, that doesn’t mean they are no longer desirable. The great thing about a Jag is the mix between pace and handling that you can only find in a European model. The XJR certainly has plenty of pace thanks to its 550 horsepower V8 engine. Did we mention that it is also supercharged? But, the chassis and the drivetrain also give the driver smooth and agile handling. Pricing for this car starts at $121,000.
Kia K900
Out of all of the 2016 cars to come out this year, we would bet a lot of money that you didn’t expect to see a Kia. Are we right? That’s because no one expected to see a Kia in the section of the luxury cars of 2016. Kia tends to make cheap and cheerful cars that drivers go for when they can’t afford their first choice. At the moment, that makes them a steady if unspectacular player in the market. However, the K900 might change all that for the Korean car manufacturer. Let’s start with the style because the K900 is beautiful. It is strikingly simple, resembling a newer version of the Aston Martin which is never a bad thing. Under the hood, this Kia also has some mega horsepower with its 5.0 liter V8 engine that reaches a top speed of 155 mph. It’s most appealing trait, however, is the fact that it is less than $50,000. Who says luxury has to be expensive?
Mercedes-Benz S550
Let’s face it – it isn’t worth having the conversation without mentioning a Mercedes-Benz. Mercedes are probably the most reputable of all the German car manufacturers. And, that is a statement in itself. The reason they are so reputable is because of the cars they produce. Every year, they come to the table with a motor that demands to be involved in the conversation. Okay, it might not be the best of the year, and it might not be the best Mercedes ever. But, it is still a car that you would love to have in your garage. The S550 is not one of these cars by the way. As soon as you see it and sit in it, you can’t help but feel at home. What the Germans do so well is put lots of emphasis on the attention to detail. They are meticulous, and it puts their Western and Eastern counterparts to shame. Just take a look at the cabin fragrance system that shoots air freshener into the car at regular intervals. You just wouldn’t get that touch with any other manufacturer.
Porsche Panamera
Can you tell that we have a thing for German cars?! You might see a Porsche as a supercar, a lot like a Ferrari or a Lamborghini. And, to a degree that is a good point. But, we think about Porsches a little differently. To us, they are one of the only ‘supercars’ that you can drive around town in without feeling an idiot. Yes, they have a certain reputation and glamor. But, they also have an understated feel thanks to their design. The Panamera is no different and even takes it to another level with its four doors. Before you get judgmental, remember that Porsche also brought us the first supercar SUV. That car was a success, and this is also a success because it keeps its many Porsche like qualities. For example, the interior is first rate and the handling as smooth as ever. Plus, it also has 570 bhp and is one of the fastest sedans on the market.
Tesla Model S
It is 2016, so we thought we should include a car that is a representation of the times. Step forward the Tesla Model S, an electric car. Whether the purists like it or not, electric cars are here to stay because they provide a vital function. And, they also have great specs that make them a joy to drive. The Model S, for example, goes from 0-60 in just over 3 seconds. Any car lover has to doff their hat to that sort of speed. Plus, what is more luxurious than a futuristic car that can drive out of the garage unassisted?
Thankfully, there won’t be too long to wait before you can get a glimpse of most of these vehicles.
