#100 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Maybach – Epitome of the tree pointed star luxury

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is always associated with enduring prestige, state-of-the-art luxury and world class safety features. Over the years Mercedes-Benz has used its flagship saloon to pioneer many modern technologies, such as airbags, antilock brakes and stability control. The S-Class has also offered the most room for rear-seat passengers, making it a favourite of the wealthy, monarchy heads, business moguls and of course heads of state.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Maybach

The current Mercedes-Benz S-Class, christened W222, continues with the same tradition established by its many innovative forbears and remains one of the most desirable choices for a flagship luxury saloons. In fact the current generation model is so popular, it is now regarded as one of the best-selling S-Class’ of all time. In one year the W222 managed to sell more than 100,000 units. Besides its wealth of features, opulent interior and bulletproof construction, the S-Class also stands out with an unmatched number of engine, body and model choices.

Standard S-Class

New to the range is a more luxurious stretch version, which promises to offer the very best from the Mercedes-Benz brand. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Maybach is based on the S600. With an extra 8.1-inches of length this monumental car, named after the two influential and synonymous people in the automotive industry, is now the flagship saloon for the Mercedes-Benz brand.

S-Class Coupe

The car also marks the return of the Maybach brand. However, Maybach will now become a sub brand, which will offer first-class exclusivity to selected Mercedes-Benz cars. Some of the features that distinguish these vehicles from production models include extra spaciousness with lavishly designed interiors.

Longer than the standard car

Design

Subtle yet noticeable changes in both the front and rear area differentiate the longest S-Class from its smaller siblings. Chrome touches are visible on the grille, air intakes and rear bumper. At the left of the boot lid is the ‘Maybach’ lettering. The key distinguishing features between the standard S-Class and the Maybach S-Class are visible from the side.

Powerful V12 heart

The door has no triangular window. This has been relocated into the C-pillar. As a result, the rear seats are situated beyond the door cut-out, which creates a feeling of exceptional privacy and exclusivity. The triangular windows and other glass areas alike have chrome surrounds. The B-pillar is also covered in chrome. The elegant Maybach logo adorns the C-pillars on both sides.

Chauffeur's office  

Performance

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Maybach is available with two power units. The entry level power unit is the V8 biturbo engine in the Mercedes-Maybach S 500. This particular 4.6-litre engine has an output of 335 kW (455 hp) and 700 Nm of torque. Paired with the engine is a 9-speed automatic transmission. Fuel consumption is recorded at nine litres per 100 kilometres.

Champagne cabinet  

The top-of-the-range model is the Mercedes-Maybach S 600. Its 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine has an output of 390 kW (530 hp) and 830 Nm of torque. The Mercedes-Maybach S 600 completes the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds, while the top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. paired with the engine a 7-speed automatic.

large panoramic glass roof 

Interior

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Maybach features a top notch luxurious interior, which can be fully customised to suit a customer’s individual needs. The doors feature a hand stitched trim as part of the standard equipment. Exclusive features used in the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class are wood/chrome trims, leather at shoulder height in the door panels and fibre-optic cables for the ambience lighting. For an exclusive look, the front centre armrests feature an embossed Maybach logo.

Front seats

As standard the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is fitted with a panoramic sliding sunroof. This roof system and its large glass areas make for an especially bright and friendly ambience in the interior. Rear passengers are protected from prying eyes by the standard electronic blinds. Between the rear seats is a wine chiller box allowing for some champagne popping while on the move. 

A DVD player (located in the centre arm rest), two high-resolution 10.2-inch displays, radio remote control and two wireless headsets keeps the rear passengers entertained. A 24-speaker, 1540 watts Burmester high-end 3D surround sound system offers occupants with an unparalleled mix of fine, natural sounds and high bass.

Rear DVD entertainment package 

Space

The benefits of extending the wheelbase are felt entirely in the back of the luxury saloon. The shape of the roof has boosted headroom at the rear. Multi adjustable executive seats are fitted at the back. Each part of the seat can be adjusted individually. As standard, the luxury head restraints come with an extra cushion. The front passenger seat can also be moved forward to further free room for the rear seat behind it.

Individual rear seats 

This in turn allows the rear seat to be fully reclined allowing one to even sleep or rest while on the move. Both executive seats feature a massage, heating and cooling function as standard. Like an aircraft seat, the centre console is available with two tables which can be easily folded in or out using one hand. Two articulated joints on the stem and underside of the table enable it to be adjusted to almost any position. The automatic A/C system filters air coming into the interior. The system also sprays fragrance to enhance the air.  

Comfortable airline like reclining seats 

Silence

For passengers in the rear, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is the world's quietest production saloon car. That is as a result of positioning the passenger away from the side windows. The luxury saloon also features noise proof seals at the doors. Other sound proofing measures in the rear are a generous area of insulation around the single seats. The underbody of the car and wheel arch lining have an insulating and absorptive effect, which reduces high-frequency tyre noise in the interior.

With the tables out

Verdict

As an addition to the portfolio of S-Class saloons, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class sets new benchmarks in the luxury segment. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class melds the perfection of the S-Class with the exclusivity of Maybach. Impressive spaciousness, elegant design and high-quality materials create an ambience of the highest standard, particularly in the rear of the vehicle. The luxury vehicle is also more affordable compared to close rivals from Bentley or Rolls Royce.

Maybach lettering and chrome touches

Whether the saloon will be popular like its shorter sibling will be known as the car goes on sale later this year. There is no denying the fact that the latest S-Class range of vehicles are the best Mercedes-Benz has ever created. Prices for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Maybach start $ 166,700 in America.  

#99 Cadillac CTS-V – The thrilling V8 tire shredder

In an effort to take advantage of its recent return to popularity, Cadillac decided to build high-performance versions of several of its cars. Collectively called the V-Series, they are meant to be high-powered, tight-handling, all-around track-tuned performers aimed squally at European performance marques, such as BMW's M series and Mercedes-Benz's AMG line-up. The Cadillac CTS-V was the first and easily the most successful example.

Cadillac CTS-V

The first-generation CTS-V had the wild power output to go up against the Germans, but came up lacking a little in terms of polish and engineering sophistication. The second-generation CTS-V, though, is a totally different beast. Packing a ferocious 556 hp supercharged V8 into the grown-up and dynamically advanced second-gen CTS. For the third generation model, Cadillac is taking no chances. The new car features a head turning design, impeccable luxury and an engine that packs a punch.

First generation CTS-V

Looks

Almost every exterior panel on the CTS-V is unique, from the bumpers and fenders, to the bonnet and rear spoiler. Each of the unique panels have been designed to support the car's capability by improving cooling and aerodynamic qualities of the car. The Cadillac CTS-V features unique exterior adornments, which make it different from the standard saloon. The headlamp housings incorporate crystalline LED light daytime lights in the upper and lower forward corners.

Wider fenders; larger wheels

The large front grille feeds more air to the supercharged engine. Even the mesh pattern of the signature grille openings is enlarged to allow more air into the radiator. At the lighting elements within the tail lamp housings offer a distinctive rear signature for the CTS when illuminated. LED lights within crystal like tail lamps structures give the rear a crisp, uniform look. The wide fenders accommodate unique 19-inch wheels dressed with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres.

Performance

Behind the large grille is a powerful 6.2-litre supercharged V8 power unit. The eight cylinder orchestra works with the supercharger to deliver 477 kW (640 hp) and 855 Nm of torque. 0 to 100km/h takes just 3.7 seconds. Top speed for the CTS-V is an impressive 322 km/h, making it the fastest Cadillac you can buy today.

Second generation CTS-V

Paired with the engine is a new 8-speed automatic transmission with full manual control via steering wheel paddles. The CTS-V shares the same wheelbase as the CTS non-V-Series models, but has wider front and rear footprints that enhance grip, reduce body motion and contribute to more direct-feeling steering. Stopping power is provided by the standard Brembo brake system.

Striking interior 

Interior

The Cadillac CTS-V’s roomy, driver-focused interior blends technology and hand-crafted appointments. Performance-oriented front seats are fitted as standard and are trimmed in leather. The seats feature both heating and cooling. Available RECARO performance front seats deliver aggressive, adjustable bolsters that help hold the driver and front passenger in place during high-load cornering. The distinct ‘Cadillac brow’, which houses the CUE infotainment and other function buttons, spreads across the centre console. In front of the driver is a large 12.3-inch instrument panel cluster display. The screen displays key vehicle information like speed, temperature or millage using easy to read graphics.

Sporty RECARO seats

A heads up display, fitted as standard, ensures the driver keeps his eyes on the road. Rear passengers enjoy plenty of head and legroom thanks to the large wheelbase. Distinct LED ambient lighting in the instrument panel, door panels, foot wells, door map pockets, various storage locations and the front door sills gives the interior a posh feel especially at night. Sound is delivered to the interior by a standard 13 speaker Bose Surround Sound system.

Rear of the CTS-V

Verdict

The most powerful car is Cadillac’s 112-year history continues with the CTS-V’s legacy of offering performance, practicality and luxury. The CTS-V’s punchy engine and great handling characteristics make it a worthy rival to its more established German rivals. There is no denying the fact that the Cadillac CTS-V is one of the most revered American made super saloon. 

#98 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider – A stunningly exquisite Italian masterpiece

The acronym '4C' draws its inspiration from the brand's great cars such as the 8C and 6C which, in the 1930s and 1940s, distinguished cars fitted with the powerful 'eight cylinders' and the innovative 'six cylinders'. Hence the name 4C is an indication the sport car’s engine has ‘four cylinders’. The Alfa Romeo 4C coupe credentials have made it a success all over the world. The all-new 4C Spider hopes to build that success even further with its open air experience. Handcrafted in Modena, Italy in carbon fibre, the Alfa Romeo 4C certainly has the right qualities to charm sports car enthusiasts all over the world.

Alfa Romeo 4C Spider 

Design

At the front, the 4C Spider features sculpted air intakes. In between the headlamps are two robust lines running along the bonnet, tracing the unmistakable "V" and coming to their natural conclusion around the Alfa Romeo logo. A carbon fibre windshield frame separates the front and rear design is located behind the seats.  The windshield frame offers attachment points for the removable cloth roof. The hallmark of the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider’s design is the engine cover located behind the driver. The cover features three functional openings that extract hot air from the engine. At the back the 4C Spider features the round LED illuminated tail lamps, which blend with the muscular rear wings for a wide and powerful stance. The rear wings feature large functional air intakes to cool the engine. Below the LED taillights is the all-new, Akrapovic dual-mode centre-mounted performance exhaust system, which deliver a joyous exhaust note.

A aerodynamic and sporty profile

Performance

Powering the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider is an all-aluminium 1750 cc (1.8-litre) turbocharged VVT with an output of 176 kW (237 hp) and 350 Nm of torque. Teamed with the engine is a paddle-shifting Alfa TCT (twin-clutch transmission) tuned specifically for the all-new Alfa Romeo 4C Spider. Instantaneously optimizing the 4C Spider's level of performance is Alfa’s DNA selector. The DNA selector features four modes, including a ‘Race’ mode. The Alfa DNA selector can optimize the engine, transmission and other vehicle parameters to the levels needed by the driver. In ‘Race’ mode, for example, the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 4.1 seconds. Top speed is capped at 250 km/h. To ensure decisive braking even under the most intensive conditions, the braking system has four self-ventilating perforated discs, with Brembo four-piston aluminium callipers on the front axle. The body colour matched brake callipers are visible behind the standard 18-inch (front) and 19-inch (rear) light alloy rims.

Alfa Romeo Spider and Coupe

Interior

The driver focused racing inspired interior features two composite-framed sport seats with standard leather and carbon fibre. The driver grips a flat-bottom, leather performance steering wheel with paddle-shifters. For an upscale look, the fully wrapped premium-leather interior with accent stitching is standard on the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider.

Driver focused interior 

The pedal unit and footrests for driver and passenger are all made of aluminium, highlighting sports character down to the smallest detail. The air vents are finished in carbon fibre for a more sporty touch. A 7-inch full-colour driver information display (DID) cluster, located behind the steering wheel displays critical vehicle information. A new Alpine premium radio offers multiple connectivity options such as Bluetooth, USB port, iPod interface and CD/MP3 capabilities.

View from the top

Verdict

The Alfa Romeo 4C Spider continues the success of its coupe sibling. The sports car’s striking design, open air driving experience, the enhanced performance from its punchy engine and its joyous exhaust note makes it a must have toy. The recent efforts by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) to return Alfa Romeo to its past glory seem to be working well so far. The 4C is probably one of the best modern Alfa Romeo’s out there. 

#97 2006 Nissan Skyline – A must have gem

Ever since its premiere in 1957, the Skyline has been enthusiastically favoured by many customers as a saloon that always provides outstanding driving pleasure, joy of ownership and other superior attributes backed by cutting-edge technologies. While undergoing changes in form and incorporating enhanced performance over the years, the Skyline has consistently remained true to its roots.

2006 Nissan Skyline

The outgoing Skyline, introduced in 2006, has enjoyed a strong reputation for their sporty designs, high-quality interiors and exhilarating performance. The latest 13^th generation Nissan Skyline is already on sale in Japan, having debuted in 2014.

Nissan Skyline coupe

Looks

The 2006 Nissan Skyline’s exterior is dominated by fluid lines, combined with a sleek aerodynamic and sporty-look. Its longer nose, sharply raked A-pillar, forward-leaning roofline, and fluidly curving character line, which wrap around the rear wheel arches, bring out the Skyline’s rear wheel drive proportions. The bonnet features a sculptured front-grille and headlamps. The front bumper is adorned at each end with distinct fog lamps.

2014 Nissan/Infinity Skyline

The integrated spoiler for the rear blends with L-shaped tail lamps, while the double exhaust tips adds to the purposeful high-performance image. The sportier models, such as the 370GT Type SP, get a unique front splitter and rear diffuser. The 2006 Nissan Skyline rides on larger 18-inch (sports models) and 17-inch (standard models) aluminium wheels. In the sport models, it is equipped with different sized front (225/50R) and rear (245/45R) tyres for added performance.

Nissan Skyline crossover 

Performance

The 2006 Nissan Skyline is powered by a choice of two V6 engines. The entry level 2.5-litre unit generates 190 kW (255 hp) and 262 Nm of torque. The more powerful 3.5-litre unit delivers 234 kW (315 hp) and 358 Nm of torque. Both power units are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission, which sends power to the rear wheels (2WD) or all wheels (4WD). All sporty versions of the 2007 Nissan Skyline feature paddle shifters as standard. The paddles are made of solid, light-weight magnesium. A four-wheel active steering system, adjusts the steering angles of the front and rear wheels in accordance with driving speeds and steering operation, allowing for greater control at low and medium speeds, and smooth effortless cruising at higher speeds. The result is a car that responds well to the driver’s commands no matter the driving condition.

Cockpit

Interior

Inside the 2006 Nissan Skyline is a classy and welcoming driver focused interior. The lowly placed seats deliver a more sporty drive position. A greater margin for adjustment is offered on the seats as well as the steering wheel. The front seat offers firm support and comfort to ensure tireless driving in either day-to-day traffic or long-distance cruse. There is also plenty of headroom and rear-seat space. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear-shifter are hand-stitched for refined craftsmanship quality.

Seating arrangement

All the switches and dials are ergonomically designed for smooth easy-to-reach operation and offer a refined tactile feel. An infotainment system offers digital television, music playback and USB connectivity. Sportier Nissan Skylines come equipped with a powerful Bose sound system as standard equipment to enable the occupants of all seats to enjoy concert hall-like sound quality.

The Skyline's rear 

Verdict

The 2006 Nissan Skyline is a great looking sporty car, fit for a great cruise on the road or for short hops across town. The car’s comfortable and striking interior is a joy to sit in and the music from the Bose sound system will calm your nerves even in the craziest of traffic jams. A more off-road suitable crossover version of the Nissan Skyline is also available for sale. It offers the same features as the saloon but with a more raised height. A sportier coupe version is also on offer. 

#96 Toyota Mirai – A preview of future propulsion

The car has been around for more than 125 years. Huge developments have been made in terms of design, power, speed and safety. However the car has solely continued to use fuel from crude oil to generate its own power. This has resulted to air pollution and massive environmental degradation across the world. The other sad news is that the very fuel the cars use is quickly running out. Hence, time has come for auto manufacturers to find new and better alternatives for vehicle propulsion.

Toyota Mirai 

The first lead is hybrids, cars that combine energy from an electrical motor and a combustion engine to move. Although they consume less compared to normal cars, they still require the same depleting fuel to move and generate electricity for their batteries. The second take is pure electric cars. Such cars have large lithium batteries, which provided power to the vehicle’s electric motor. However, this particular technology has a huge problem. It takes longer to fully charge the electric car batteries compared to filling up the tank with petrol.

The third option is hydrogen fuel cell technology. The technology comprised of many individual cells that are clustered together to form a fuel cell stack. Each individual cell contains an anode, a cathode and an electrolyte layer. When a hydrogen-rich fuel enters the fuel cell stack, it reacts with oxygen to produce electric current, heat and water. The best news about this form of propulsion is that hydrogen readily available. Another benefit is that topping the car with hydrogen gas takes the same time as filling up a car with fuel.

How the fuel cell works  - image courtesy 

Hydrogen gas can be generated using a wide range of natural resources and man-made by products such as sewage sludge. It can also be created from water using natural renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. When compressed, it has a higher energy density than batteries, and is relatively easy to store and transport, therefore it also carries expectations for potential future use in power generation and a wide range of other applications. The Toyota Mirai is one example of what are now known as Fuel Cell Vehicles (FCV). The name Mirai means future in Japanese.

Fuel Cell Unit 

Design

The front of the Toyota Mirai features large left and right grilles, which draw in air for the oxygen supply and for Fuel Cell system cooling. The rear of the vehicle presents a bold profile with a trapezoidal shape extending from the license plate garnish to the bottom of the bumper corners and out toward the wheels. The headlights feature an ultra-thin profile with an inline arrangement of four LED lights plus visible heat sinks and other optical equipment. The Toyota Mirai rides on light 17-inch aluminium wheels.

Toyota Mirai Fuel Cell system

Power

The Toyota Mirai’s fuel cell propulsion system delivers a maximum output of 113 kW (152 hp) and 335 Nm of torque. 0 to 100km/h takes 9.0 seconds. The fuel cell features a new of 3D fine mesh flow channels, which ensure maximum generation of electricity. A compact converter is paired with the fuel cell. The converter is used to charge the Toyota Mirai’s batteries, which are linked to the car’s electric motor. Hydrogen gas is stored inside large and light carbon-fibre reinforced storage tanks. All the key components of the Toyota Mirai’s fuel cell technology allows it to cover 480 km with a full hydrogen tank. When the Toyota Mirai is not being used one can plug it to a house mains and enjoy an interrupted power for a whole week!

Cockpit 

Ride

The high output Toyota FC Stack and batteries drive the electric motor and ensure powerful responsiveness at all vehicle speeds. Handling stability and ride comfort are both improved through the location of major parts such as the Toyota FC Stack and high pressure hydrogen tanks centrally under the floor to achieve a low centre of gravity. Outstanding quietness is achieved by electric motor drive at all speeds and reduced wind noise. All body parts feature sound absorbing and blocking materials optimally arranged around the interior. The use of noise-reducing glass for the windshield and all door windows further boosts interior quietness.

Seats for four 

Interior

The Toyota Mirai's interior features soft padding on door trims and other interior surfaces. Silver add-ons spread across the interior add a luxury feel.  The front seats are designed to provide support and comfort. A large central cluster, located at the top level of the dashboard, includes a speedometer and multi-information display using a 4.2-inch high-definition TFT liquid crystal display. The driver is able to change the display using steering-wheel-mounted controls. A touch operated flat panel display allows for control the Mirai’s air conditioning system. The rear seating consist of two comfortable independent seats.  The battery layout allows for plenty of storage in the boot.

Wide rear 

Verdict

The process of finding the next sustainable fuel to propel future cars has been on-going for the last few years. Hydrogen fuel cell technology has so far proven its viability as the best alternative to crude oil. The Toyota Mirai proves that cars can be cleaner and environmental friendly. Toyota is so focused in making hydrogen fuel cell technology acceptable to the masses that it has offered 5680 patents for free to other auto manufacturers. Only time will tell if Toyota’s efforts will bear fruit. 

#95 2015 Honda CR-V – More striking and well refined

When the original Honda CR-V debuted in the late 1990s, its mission was simple; to offer a distinct alternative to more mainstream mid- and full-size large SUVs. With its car-based design, economical four-cylinder engine, saloon like ride and handling, the first Honda CR-V was an instant hit. Priced competitively as well as offering plenty of passenger room and cargo capacity for most people's needs, the Honda CR-V continues to enjoy strong sales numbers and loyalty from consumers. In 2011 Honda introduced the fourth generation model, which builds on the past models successive history. The fourth generation model has sold more than 50,000 units all over the world. For 2015, the fourth generation model receives some major updates to make it more attractive.

2015 Honda CR-V

Looks

The 2015 Honda CR-V’s changes are most notable at the front, with redesigned headlamps flowing into the new grille. Additionally, the new bumper and skid plate give the CR-V a wider appearance and also lowers the crossover’s centre of gravity. The sleek new front headlamps incorporate powerful halogen bulbs, LED daytime running lights and HID projector headlamps.

Profile 

The new front lighting mechanism gives the crossover a bold face while also optimising visibility of the road ahead in low light conditions. At the rear, the LED combination lamps have been restyled to give the CR-V a more fluid, three-dimensional appearance. Newly-styled 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels are also available, complementing the exterior enhancements and highlighting the improved look of the CR-V.

Original Honda CR-V

Performance

The performance is provided by a choice of two power units. The entry level engine is a 2.0-litre litre 4-cylinder unit with an output of 114 kW (152 hp) and 192 Nm of torque. The more powerful 2.4-litre 4-cylinder unit churns out 140 kW (187 hp) and 220 Nm of torque. All power units are now teamed up with a newly-developed nine-speed automatic transmission replacing the previous five-speed automatic. With a greater number of gears and smaller gear steps, it also provides better response to driver inputs, and smoother shifts. The suspension and chassis have been upgraded to offer an improved ride. Steering has also been enhanced to deliver more precise manoeuvrability and handling.

Restyled cockpit 

Interior

To shelter occupants from the outside noise, Honda engineers have implemented a number of Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) management measures. These include a doubling in the thickness of the door seals, changes to the floor carpet, and enlargement of sound absorption materials in the dash, doors and pillars.

Front seats 

The dashboard has been redesigned to allow easy visibility and access to the new 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The sliding armrest, located between the front seats, further boosts interior comfort. The front seats are now closer to the doors, for easy exit and entry. This has also freed some space between the seats for a centre console that houses three cup holders, storage compartment and air vents for the rear seats.

Rear seats

The rear seats offer a more comfortable seating position and increased headroom to the rear passengers. A change in the design of the rear seats now makes them easier to fold down. The 2015 Honda CR-V also features a one action fold down rear seat system. The system allows for 60/40 split rear seats to be folded completely flat with the simple pull of a handle. This in turn increases boot space from 589 to 1648 litres. The boot door can be opened and closed automatically with the Honda CR-V’s keyless entry system.

Revamped rear design 

Verdict

While some models offer more powerful upgrade engines and true off-road capability, the Honda CR-V remains focused on its more practical aspirations. True to form, it is one of the best choices available in the all-important areas of being both easy to drive and family-friendly. The latest updates have tuned the latest Honda CR-V into a must have classy family crossover. 

#94 All-New Ford GT – Legendary and futuristic

Arriving in prototype form just in time for Ford's Centennial celebration in 2003, the Ford GT debuted for 2004 as the modern, road-going interpretation of the GT40 endurance racing car that beat Ferrari and swept the 24 Hours of Le Mans race four years in a row from 1966-69. The high-performance two-seat Ford GT was produced from 2004 through 2006 and showcased many advanced technologies. The super car sported a supercharged mid-mounted V8 engine, an aluminium chassis, body panels and a carbon-fibre engine cover.

Ford GT

Not only did these exotic features showcase a technological masterpiece, they also formed a visual feast once the large rear engine cover was opened. The successor to the 2004 Ford GT takes the sporty credentials to the next level with an eye catching design and improved performance. The all-new Ford GT features rear-wheel drive, a mid-mounted engine, and a sleek, aerodynamic, two-door coupe body shell.

Original Ford GT

Design

The all-new Ford GT makes extensive use of lightweight materials, including carbon fibre and aluminium. The result is a sports car with outstanding acceleration and handling with improved efficiency. Although each surface on the Ford GT is functionally crafted to manage airflow, it also features fully active aerodynamic components to improve braking, handling and stability.

Previous generation Ford GT

An active rear spoiler is set to respond to both speed and driver input, reactively deploying and adjusting its height or angle. The 20-inch light alloys are wrapped with Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup 2 tyres. Multi-spoke alloys encircle the carbon-ceramic brake discs at all four corners.

View from the top

Performance

Powering the all-new Ford GT is a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 with an output of more than 600 hp. Paired with the engine is a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Designed to cut through air smoothly 

Interior

The Ford GT’s purposeful interior provides state-of-the-art technology to the driver ensuring control, comfort and safety. The two-seat cockpit is accessed by upward-swinging doors, and features driver and passenger seats integrated directly into the carbon fibre body.

F1 styled cockpit 

The fixed seating is combined with adjustable pedals and steering column to accommodate a very wide range of driver heights.  A fully digital and configurable instrument cluster provides a wealth of driver-focused data. The display is configurable for multiple driving situations or car modes.

Wide and low rear 

Verdict

The mighty Ford GT return in a more modern and advanced guise, which matches its already advanced competitors. The Ford GT is also one of the 12 new performance vehicles that will be introduced by ford before the year 2020. The Ford GT is set to go on sale from next year in LHD only.