Showing posts with label Cars. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cars. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

The Brand New Bentley EXP 9F SUV = Put Your Budget Up, Nigga!





"Bentley’s SUV Is a Rapper’s Delight
By Peter Orosz


GENEVAIt isn’t often that a car literally makes you say WTF aloud. But it isn’t often that you see a V12-powered SUV. A Bentley SUV, no less.

Pictures cannot convey the obnoxious scale of the Bentley EXP 9F concept here at the Geneva auto show, so we’ll tell you it rides on 23-inch wheels and leave it at that. It’s hard to make sense of the 9F and its unashamed bling at a time when so many automakers are stuffing small engines into small cars, or eschewing engines and petrol for motors and batteries.

Naturally, the 9F comes with a 12-cylinder engine, although Bentley’s Peter Guest was quick to note a plug-in hybrid would be an option, were the behemoth to make it into production. Bentley is currently gauging reception from the few hundred people in the world who a.) would want a Bentley SUV and b.) could afford it.


The 9F feels terribly wrong on all levels until you sit in on a few press conferences with luxury automakers who say the United States remains their largest market, but China isn’t far behind. Maserati, for instance, already sells half as many Maserati GranTurismos in China as they do in the states. And Bentley, which saw a banner year in 2011, enjoys particularly brisk sales in China.

So from that perspective, the 9F makes a ton of sense (more like four tons, given the car’s dimensions). It’s perfect for a violently nouveaux riche market. It’s big, it’s brash and it’s completely obvious, a Continental GT on steroids.

The EXP 9F — Bentley has since 1919 used the EXP designation for all experimental or concept cars, and says it “is meant to stand for ground-breaking innovation” — looks like it was carved from a block of alloy. It’s got everything you’d expect from a vehicle that will never go off-road, including all-wheel drive, along with a 6.0-liter V12.

No word on when, or if, the 9F might see production, but Bentley did say many of its current customers also have an SUV in the garage, and there’s no sense giving that business to, say, Mercedes-Benz.


Information Courtesy Of: Wired.Com x Forbes.Com
CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS:  Some observations merely hold a single grain of weightless truth whilst others constitute an entire private beach's worth of sea soaked sand. The recent Wired.Com piece titled "Bentley’s SUV Is a Rapper’s Delight" (NOTE: Cited for this entry) which simultaneously extols both the virtues AND the ridiculous appeal of such a vehicle to a small yet perpetually papered up "violently nouveaux riche" market represents the latter. Yeah, this is 1 of those "The truth hurts" moments ... lol.

I admit it, I can be hyper-sensitive to the casual contempt with which "Hip Hop" culture is addressed and remain particularly weary of the ever-present sly-grinned silhouette of passive racism that likes nothing more than to loiter around such conversation.

That having been said, the all-wheel drive, 6.0-liter V-12 Bentley EXP 9F SUV behemoth just unveiled @ the 2012 Geneva Auto Show IS poised to be EVERY rapper's new car crush! Fuck the dumb shit.

Y.O.U. should fully expect brash EXP 9 (NOTE: Since 1919 Bentley Motors has used the "EXP" designation for all experimental or concept cars and says it “is meant to stand for ground-breaking innovation”) wishes to infiltrate the verses of your favorite "look-at-me" luxury enamored MC any day now. Shiiiiiiiiiiiit, I wouldn't mind spilling some Perrier-Jouët Brut Rosé on these diamond-quilted shouldered, saddle leather seats my damn self ... lol. You've gotta do it early though ... no "Johnny-come-latelies" on this trip ... lol. It is what it is.  This is Livestyle!

Monday, December 5, 2011

Swizz Beatz Unveils The Brand New Special Edition Red Chrome Lotus In NYC.


CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Surely, much to the chagrin of more than a few of his "boom bap" production peers, Swizz Beatz - a man who, thanks to his early calling card of ridiculously simple yet irresistibly catchy preprogrammed-sounding CASIO® keyboard beats, once enjoyed a dizzying streak of platinum hits that garnered him commercial and financial success while simultaneously invoking the enmity of many of his contemporaries - has recently engineered a gradual though complete image overhaul recasting himself as a true artist (NOTE: For demonstrative purposes integral to the effectiveness of this post to be pronounced in the pompously pretentious European count/countess manner of "arteest").

Yup, gone are the Ruff Ryders logo laden bandannas and oversized t-shirts - now it's sharply tailored Maison Martin Margiela suits and Christian Louboutin boots. Baby mommas have been replaced and upgraded too - son got Mashonda the fuck up outta here and went and snatched up the beautiful and incredibly talented "1-bad-day-fried-Oreos®-binge-away-from-my-White-sides-genes-kicking-into-full-cankle-mode" Alicia Keys. Clearly, this man has a plan! Next up is cosmopolitan social positioning ... or, in this case, pole positioning!

Taking his matured metropolitan aesthetic to the racetrack, the newly minted VP of creative design and global marketing for the legendary British luxury sports and racing car manufacturer Lotus, just unveiled this special edition Red Chrome Lotus (NOTE: Personally designed by Swizzy!) a few nights back @ a star studded gala in NYC. *Cue "Coming To America" Voice* "That boy good!" LOL. "Vroom! Vroom! Start it up!"

Friday, April 15, 2011

The 2013 Bugatti 16C Galibier = Smh. And Y.O.U. Thought Your Lamborghini Was Saying Something, Huh?




"Bugatti Galibier: A family sports car for only $1.4 million

By Alex Taylor III, senior editor at large
April 4, 2011: 4:12 PM ET


FORTUNE -- News item: A four-door model will be joining the lineup of Bugatti, the maker of world's fastest production car. Volkswagen AG, Bugatti's corporate parent, has given the go-ahead to build the 16C Galibier sedan, which has a 1,000 horsepower engine, a top speed of approximately 220 miles per hour, and will cost about $1.4 million.

This is no April Fool's joke. The fever to add two more doors to some of the world's most iconic sports cars has apparently reached epidemic proportions. Bugatti, maker of the super-fast, super-expensive Veyron, has been teasing cognoscenti with the Galibier since its unveiling at a private showing during the Frankfurt auto show in September, 2009. The project was presumably put on hold while Europe and North America recovered from the financial crisis, but Bugatti has been leaking photos in the interim and now appears ready to go ahead. (For those not in the know, the Col du Galibier is a mountain pass in the southern region of the French Alps that is often the highest point of the Tour de France. Despite the origin of their founder, who was born in Milan, Bugattis have always been built in France).

Bugatti's move to add a family-friendly model to its heretofore exclusively sports car lineup follows on the heels of two other European manufacturers who previously specialized in two-door and two-seat cars."

Read The Full Article Here: Money.CNN.Com


CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Since it's inception the Bugatti brand has been synonymous with pushing the limits of speed and exclusivity ad extremum. After failing during the coming of World War II (NOTE: As many popular European brands did @ the time), in 2000 the Volkswagen Group secured the international rights to the fabled Bugatti name and have spent the better part of the past decade reviving the eccentric exclusivity associated with the house that founder Ettore Bugatti originally started waaaaaaay back in 1909.

Much as the storied Maybach monogram was resurrected by the Chrysler-Daimler corporation, so to has this status symbol from yesteryear - retaining all of it's silver-haired elegance while jettisoning into the future in unrivaled style. Case In Point: The 2013 Bugatti 16C Galibier.

First unveiled as a concept car @ a private showing during the Frankfurt Auto Show in September, 2009, this 4-door front-mounted 8-litre/W16 engine sports sedan (?) has been quietly revving up atop the toy list of billionaire's for a minute.

Approximately 32.3 inches longer than the Veyron and touted as a "family" car (NOTE: Presumably perfect for Lil Wayne and Birdman on long winding bromantic drives through the countryside ... lol.), the 220 mph racing entirely carbon fiber body Galibier could never be mistaken for a Subaru ... lol.

Limited to only 300 production models worldwide, the Galibier represents that "top 1%" tax bracket type of ballin'! Put $1.4 million to the side and get ready to ride homie! Now, tell me, can Y.O.U. buy that? This is Livestyle!

Saturday, January 22, 2011

The 2012 Ferrari FF "Fastback" = A Perfect "Prancing Stallion" For Mom x Dad!




"200 mph Ferrari FF four seater to debut at Geneva Motor Show

I keep looking at the photos of this new Ferrari and am thinking: "this can't be real?" A Ferrari with seating for more than 2 and also four wheel drive?

It is real though and there is a V12 under the hood my fellow petrol heads so don't think for one minute this Prancing Horse can't tear up the tarmac.

Called the Ferrari FF it is the first Ferrari with four wheel drive and a V12. More specifically the V12 is good for 651 horsepower (no that is not a typo) and 504 lb ft of torque. When rang out to the top speed all occupants of this Ferrari can experience speeds over 200 mph at 208. The zero to sixty is healthy too with the speed ringing in at 3.7 seconds according to Ferrari.


With other brands like Porsche offering a four seat super car, and Lamborghini on the way with one as well, it was a no brainer for Ferrari to step into this car category. Now I am just wondering when the Ferrari SUV will be confirmed? If you did not know there is already a Maserati SUV in the works!

As much as it is a departure from traditional Ferrari , there is no doubt this car is a performer. I want to drive from Milan to Naples , Italy. One can always dream though...

The Ferrari will amaze the public first at the Geneva Motor Show coming up soon."

Information Courtesy Of: Luxevelocity.Typepad.Com


CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Long the toast of young men and women whom actually DID plan their parenthood roles, the decidedly chaste hatchback has finally received a sleek and sexy makeover courtesy of the masters of luxury sports car innovation @ Ferrari.

The 2012 Ferrari FF (NOTE: Ferrari Four) "fastback" (NOTE: Yes, the hyperbole DOES have to match the lofty ambitions of this bold new automobile as well ... lol) is a V12 all wheel drive monster that does NOT quite look the part. I mean, when was the last time that Y.O.U. saw a soccer mom of means straddling a 651 horsepower pumping engine 4-seater and topping out @ 208 mph on her way to pick up Becky from practice? Huh? Exactly. Good shit!

Friday, July 16, 2010

The Rolls-Royce White Ghost Limited By Mansory = This Is A Mansory Man's World!




"The last time Mansory showed us one of its Rolls-Royce Ghost creations, it was OMG! drenched ihe last time Mansory showed us one of its Rolls-Royce Ghost creations, it was OMG! drenched in blue and gold. But if you took that same car and re-hued it in white, well, all of a sudden we could be on to something. The White Ghost Limited is a three-of-a-kind special that adds a mild body kit and rear spoiler, LED running lights up front and on the mirrors, and a new dual exhaust out back.

The inside is a little more intense, but put into Mansory context next to the Bentley Vitesse Rose and Panamera Turbo, it's as subtle as an English butler. Thankfully, things are upgraded under the hood, with a 66-horsepower jump to 629 ponies and a boost of 60 pound-feet to 634. That means a 4.5-second run from zero to 62 miles per hour and a higher top speed of 180 mph. It'll run you €119,800 ($152,407 U.S.) on top of the price of the standard Ghost ..."

Information Courtesy Of: Autoblog.Com


CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: In Livestyle I have created a center for free thinking individuals that celebrates the art of "Solitary Refinement" (NOTE: The name of my sleeping giant of a clothing company that I started in 2003) - that is the unabashed encouragement that one embrace and actively cultivate their more unique self-indulgent side.

To that end, although the German based aftermarket luxury automobile tuning company Mansory has been vilified by purists as a Dr. Frankenstein like mangler of fine cars, I can appreciate some of their ambitious modifications. The Rolls-Royce White Ghost Limited By Mansory is 1 such stellar creation.

This 3-of-3 gift to the wealthy and edgy fans of Rolls-Royce is more about visual enhancements than actual performance upgrades (NOTE: Under the hood the engine did receive a 66-horsepower boost from the V12 engine for 629 HP overall.) The body kit features fender vents, a spoiler and side skirts all with a blinding pearl white paint job. This is NOT for the faint of heart ... so, don't mention this whip to Dick Cheney ... lol.

If you've got an extra $152,000 to drop for this mod bod on top of the $250,000 Rolls-Royce Ghost base price, go for yours! A "limited" run on anything usually means unlimited fun and stuntin' opportunities ... lol. It is what it is. Holla @ ya boy in BK!

Monday, October 5, 2009

The 1 Million-Euro Bugatti 16C Galibier = A Luxury Car Coupe D'etat.




"The Bugatti 16C Galibier was supposed to be one of three concept cars which the most exclusive of automakers was set to unveil as a potential replacement for the legendary Veyron supercar, now nearing the end of its production run. But reports now suggest that the Alsatian marque is preparing to put the four-door super-saloon into production.

With a de-tuned version of the Veyron's quad-turbo W16 engine producing "only" 800 horsepower instead of its predecessor's 1000, the production version of the Galibier could borrow its chassis from the new Bentley Mulsanne and carry a seven-figure price tag to match the Veyron's if and when it hits the market, which sources peg around 2013. Better start saving now."

Information Courtesy Of: Luxist.Com


CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: When craving the need for speed, truly discerning (and rich) automotive enthusiasts have long since abandoned their stuffy chauffeurs idling in their Rolls Royce Phantoms and Daimler-Chrysler Maybachs and gone it alone for the 1-of-a-kind Bugatti driving experience. Although founded by eccentric engineering genius Ettore Bugatti waaaaaaaay back in 1909, now, under the direction of the Volkswagen Group (Volkswagen AG), this formerly floundering brand has enjoyed new life and flourished as a leader in the super exclusive, über limited production sports car market. Most popular of their current models being the Bugatti Veyron (NOTE: Of which they even have an Hermès edition), the Bugatti firm has just pulled the wraps off of their latest 4-door concept supercar, the enchanting 1 Million-Euro fetching Bugatti 16C Galibier.

The silhouette of this hatchback - or fastback - coupe pays pronounced homage to 1 of the greatest Bugatti models ever assembled, the immortal Type 57 Atlantic, while the feel is reportedly much the same as the Veyron. Now, the Galibier is slightly slower than the sound barrier smashing Veyron, but, topping out @ around 217 MPH aint nothing to be ashamed of homie ... lol.

Named after a particularly difficult Alpine pass along the Tour de France, the Bugatti Galibier is a quad-turbo W16 8-liter engine revving carbon fiber finished vision from Heaven. The Moral Of The Story: Keep your head up AND get that bread up! This is Livestyle.

Sunday, September 20, 2009

Ferrari "458 Italia" Official Movie @ Ferrariworld.


"Ferrari has launched a new video about 485 Italia model, now at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Ferrari 458 Italia is a stunning car, the result of an uncompromising design approach that integrates styling and aerodynamic requirements.

The design features compact, aerodynamic lines, underscoring the concepts of performance-oriented efficiency that inspired the project.

And now in this new video you can discover all these things with the incredible engine’s sound, as a melody for every Ferrari’s fan.

In the short movie two 458 Italia, one red and one yellow, challenging each other on the Mugello circuit and in the wonderful Tuscan hills. Enjoy the official 458 Italia video directed by Alexander Paul."

Information Courtesy Of:  Luxuo.Com


Wednesday, September 2, 2009

The 2010 Holland & Holland By Overfinch Edition Range Rover = The ONLY Way To Ride "Shotgun".



"The Holland & Holland Range Rover by Overfinch, the "ultimate all purpose, all season luxury supercar" with a sporting edge billed as the most luxurious Range Rover ever made, will make its debut in the UK later this month. Limited to only 100 examples and expected to be priced at around $300,000, it will be a contender for the title of world's most expensive SUV, in competition with Spyker's Peking-to-Paris. Based on the supercharged 503 hp 2010 Range Rover, bespoke tuner Overfinch collaborated with Holland & Holland, maker of fine shotguns established in London in 1835 who hold two Royal Warrants, on the vehicle. A saddle-stitched leather interior is offset by a 32 piece, hand-carved woodwork set available in a selection of finishes. The rear console includes an integrated refrigerator, capable of chilling two full size champagne bottles, along with storage space for two flutes. The luggage compartment contains a beautiful hand-crafted bespoke gun cabinet with multiple drawers capable of holding up to eight crystal champagne flutes and whisky tumblers, as well as two cased shotguns, cartridges and all the accessories."

Information Courtesy Of: Luxist.Com


CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: The aftermarket enhanced customization of any product is tricky terrain, however, the course can become particularly perilous for those attempting to dramatically alter a prestige item. The tightrope wire that hovers above the bottomless pit of "tackiness" requires a nimble foot and a focused mind. In the auto world, when unsuccessful, Y.O.U. get a Daimler-Chrysler Maybach with "Louis Vuitton" guts, sitting on 32 inch rims. Yuck! When done correctly though, Y.O.U. get the 2010 Holland & Holland by Overfinch Edition Range Rover.

First of all, fuck "1-in-a-million", this bad boy is 1-in-100. Yeah, let that $300,000 gem sink in. The Overfinch group has been in the bespoke Range Rover business for close to 40 years and their exclusive derivative models have become synonymous with world class quality and refinement.

Now, if that wasn't good enough already, also factor in that this latest collaboration incorporates the talents of formidable firearm firm Holland & Holland - a company founded waaaaaaaaaay back in 1835 by Harris Holland (later to include his nephew and apprentice Henry Holland in 1876), notable for their precision innovations and having created some of the world's best known calibres - and Y.O.U. have the highly anticipated unveiling of what promises to be "The World's Most Luxurious Range Rover" ever.

I could easily ramble on about this ravishing special edition Range for days (available on the Range Rover Supercharged and TDV8 Range Rover Autobiography), but, I'ma let my man Overfinch COO, Neil Underwood tell it: "There has always been a great deal of talk in the media, speculating that Range Rovers could start approaching Bentley levels of luxury - for one hundred fortunate customers, that will now become a reality. We have worked closely with designers, engineers and the quite astonishing craftsmen of Holland & Holland, who have helped us create the most exclusive, most luxurious off-roader ever built.". Whoaaaaaaa! Say no more. Wait! I just realized that this super SUV comes with 2 shotguns! Holy shit!

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

The 2011 Bentley Mulsanne = Move Over Maybach, It's Mulsanne Music Time!






"2011 Bentley Mulsanne unveiled
08/16/2009, 8:02 PM
By Nick Aziz


Bentley took the wraps off its new Mulsanne flagship ultra-luxury sedan, which replaces the aging Arnage and takes aim at the Rolls-Royce Phantom. Previously thought to be named ‘Grand,’ the Mulsanne is said to be inspired by the Bentley 8 Litre of the 1930s and it is set to arrive in showrooms next year as a 2011.


Displayed for the first time ever at the Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance, the Mulsanne will be the centerpiece of Bentley’s showcase at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Specific details like engines, new technologies, pricing, and features will likely be announced then.

“The challenge we set for our engineers was to create a new grand Bentley that would stand as the pinnacle of British luxury motoring, offering the world’s most exclusive driving experience,” said CEO Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen.

“They have responded to this challenge with real passion and the result is a luxury grand tourer that sets new standards in terms of comfort, effortless performance and hand-crafted refinement – the very qualities for which Bentley is renowned.”

Design chief Dirk van Braeckel said the car represents the next evolution in Bentley’s design direction. “From the very first hand sketches in the styling studio, we were inspired by the traditions of the grand touring Bentleys and have sought to evolve this story for a new generation of Bentley enthusiasts.”

Information Courtesy Of: Leftlanenews.Com


Read The Official Bentley Mulsanne Press Release Here: Mulsanne.Bentleymotors.Com



CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Much as Daimler-Chrysler and Rolls-Royce resurrected both their historic Maybach and Phantom names respectively, the British purveyors of automotive aristocracy @ Bentley Motors are set to reintroduce their epic Mulsanne series to the luxury market.

Formally unveiled over the weekend @ the majestic annual convention of rare and collectible cars that is the Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance in California, the 2011 Bentley Mulsanne is a magnificent mobile monument to superior engineering and elegance. Originally produced by Bentley Motors Limited from 1980 until 1992, this direct precursor to their beloved Azure and Continental T models, shares a healthy heritage and provenance with other redesigned celebrated nameplates.

Effectively replacing the popular Bentley Arnage, the new Mulsanne - featuring a V-8 engine and the handcrafted excellence that we have come to expect from the Bentley brand - is a grand tourer for those with more than a few extra grand to drop on some wheels. Niiiiiiiice.

Thursday, August 13, 2009

LiveStyle Luxury x The Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 - Versace Edition





In 2006, the holy grail of speedsters everywhere, Lamborghini Murciélago was unveiled as a new and upgraded versions, the Murciélago LP640 at the Geneva Motor Show. This halo car has an almost mind boggling V12 engine’s uprated power output, 6.5 liters of displacement, making the car dash at a dazzling 631HP.

While it seems almost inconceivable to make the car even more prestigious and desirable than it already is, a collaboration with Versace manages to skyrocket the LP640 to a brand new luxury standard. The Versace Edition first debuted at the Paris Motor Show 2006 in white, and now we found out for all you who indulge in superfluities of automobiles, a black LP640 Versace edition customized and now sold by Al & Ed’s Autosound in West Hollywood. As there are only 20 pieces ever made with customized Versace interior and now only one with new spec such as Focal K2 Power Series 6.5″ and tweeter component speakers with JL Audio 10″ W3 Series subwoofers, for those who have $318,000 to spare and are dying to roll around in maximum style, be quick and pop over to Al & Ed’s before it’s gone. Seriously, this will be the car to make all other cars feel bad about themselves.


Information Courtesy Of: www.freshnessmag.com


Looks like I found my inspiration. For those that know me and for those that don't: I, GTAisha, have a true Need for Speed. That nickname holds more meaning to it than Y.O.U. think. How many of Y.O.U. can say Y.O.U. recall hearing the likes of cams and a cut out exhaust alongside the blow off valve whistling as every gear shifts after your turbo spools, but can clearly differentiate between the two? Yeaaaaa... Thats what I thought. This über limited edition Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 automotive beauty dripped in Versace brings back some very good memories. 

Signing Off... 

P.S. 
I did say memories right? Peep the time stamp kids! I've been there before, I'll be there again! LiveStyle is a Lifestyle! WE do this. Question is: What are Y.O.U. doing?

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

The 2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost Looks Scary Good.






"Shanghai 2009: Rolls-Royce ditches RR4 for Ghost nameplate

by Damon Lavrinc on Apr 20th 2009 at 3:58AM


At the Shanghai Motor Show this morning, Rolls-Royce finally put the temporary RR4 moniker to rest by officially naming its new Flying Spur-fighting sedan the "Ghost". Shown in concept form as the 200EX at last month's Geneva Motor Show, the Ghost will be built later this year on a separate assembly line at the automaker's newly expanded Goodwood facility, where it will share paint, wood and leather with its flagship brother, the Phantom. The Ghost is built using 20% of the parts from the recent BMW 7 series platform and will be equipped with a 500+ hp, twin-turbocharged V12 mated to an eight-speed transmission. Expect sales to begin in late 2009, with coupe and convertible variants to follow in the next two to three years.



PRESS RELEASE

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has announced the name for its new model series which until now has been known as RR4. The name was announced by CEO, Tom Purves at a press conference held at the Shanghai motor show.

The new car will be called the Rolls-Royce Ghost and production will begin at the company's Goodwood manufacturing facility on the south coast of England later in 2009.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars CEO, Tom Purves, said, "We are delighted to formally announce the Rolls-Royce Ghost. It is one of the most revered names in the automotive industry, evoking images of adventure and technical innovation. The name reflects this new model's breadth of abilities. The first cars to bear the Ghost name were known not only for impressive dependability and refinement but also great flair and style. This car will be the first in a new generation of models to carry this evocative name and will give us two pinnacle product lines – Phantom and Ghost.

The Rolls-Royce Ghost will be built on its own dedicated production line at Goodwood but will share paint, wood and leather workshops with the Phantom series of cars. Rolls-Royce has expanded all areas of its manufacturing facility over the last 18 months to prepare for the introduction of the Ghost model."

Information Courtesy Of: Autoblog.Com


CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: In spite of what Y.O.U. may have been erroneously lead to believe by non-conformist (READ: Good) nouveau riche (READ: Not so good) rappers, exemplary feats of automobile aristocracy such as the Maybach and the Rolls-Royce Phantom were actually designed with the passenger in mind. Yes, these venerable vehicles possess both a power and a prestige that make them a joy to actually get behind the wheel of and drive, however, the real luxury in these whips lies just beyond the cockpit in the sumptuously carpeted cabins of these modern day chariots. Now, far be it from me to suggest that all Maybachs and/or Phantoms be chauffeur driven - that is not my intention. On the contrary, Livestyle is in the high end business of providing information, making distinctions and clearly delineating a measure of greatness to which we can all aspire. With that said, if Y.O.U. really want to tear the road up, the 2010 Rolls Royce Ghost is where it's @ my nigga.

This latest reincarnation of the classic Rolls-Royce Ghost (NOTE: The actual name "Silver Ghost" refers to both the original 1906 car model and to one specific car from that series which predates the introduction of the "Phantom" range by nearly 2 decades) model is based largely on the current BMW 7 Series platform, yet, still maintains the marquee's signature silhouette albeit in a much slimmer streamlined profile than that of the Phantom.

Featured previously here (Can Y.O.U. say "early"? LOL.) as the "RR4" concept, the word is that this "baby" Rolls will have a big boy V-12 cylinder 6.6 liter engine with upwards of 500 horsepower. Did I mention that this is Rolls-Royce's "entry-level" sedan, meaning that this is poised to be their "economy" car? LOL. Yeah, $300,000 aint too steep - relatively speaking of course ... lol. Hey, have I ever allowed price to determine to what spectacular heights I set my ambitious sights? Exactly, and neither should Y.O.U. my friend. This is Livestyle.

Thursday, March 19, 2009

The Infiniti Essence Sportscar + Custom Made Louis Vuitton Luggage = Kanye West Might Break Into Your Car.






"At the Geneva Auto Show, Infiniti presented their new Essence sportscar. The beautiful car does not only impress with its design and its 600 HP hybrid engine, but also with the details. As you can imagine the tunk is pretty small and therefore Infiniti commissioned Louis Vuitton to create a custom luggage collection, that fits perfectly into the trunk. The outcome is just perfect."

Information Courtesy Of: Highsnobiety.Com


CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Described by Infiniti as "a celebration of the brand and its 20 years of history as a creator of sporty luxury vehicles," and an "exploration into the brand's future," this custom Louis Vuitton Luggage Set exclusive to the "Essence" line of automobiles is official tissue my nig. I mean, yes, the Infiniti Essence Concept is impressive in-and-of-itself what with it's twin-turbo, direct-injection 3.7-liter V6 engine and some new fancy-schmancy electric drive design dubbed "3D Motor", but this post isn't about all of that ... lol. No, this entry is all about the specially designed luxury luggage that might make even a multi-millionaire like Kanye West throw his "murse" through this sportscar's window and pull a good ole fashioned smash-and-grab ... lol. Let's get it!

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

The 2010 Jaguar XFR = Make Room For Jaggy.







"If you caught the third installment of our 2009 Detroit Auto Show preview earlier today, you already know that we were expecting to see the debut of the 2010 Jaguar XFR. Well thanks to some website we've never heard of, photos and details on the new Jaguar super sedan are now available.


As expected, it's powered by a new supercharged 5.0-liter V8. The slightly larger engine is rated to produce 510-horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque which puts it right up there with the BMW M5, Cadillac CTS-V and Mercedes-Benz E63, at least in terms of horsepower. Jag says it's enough power to get the XFR from 0-to-60 in 4.7-seconds while the top speed is electronically limited to 155mph.

Like most cars of its ilk, the Jaguar XF-R gets a revised front fascia, extended sills, a small decklid spoiler and quad exhaust tips. A set of 20-inch are standard as well. Interior upgrades are limited to new dashboard trim, sport seats and a sport steering wheel. Expect to see the Jaguar XFR in dealers this spring."

Information Courtesy Of: Blogs.Edmunds.Com


CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Making it's debut this week @ the 2009 North American Auto Show in Detroit, the Jaguar XFR (a superbly modified version of the Jaguar XF sedan), much like the previously featured Maserati Quattroporte (NOTE: The Maserati, however, costs approximately $50,000 more though), is yet another heavyweight contender in the fancy-schmancy world of high performance sports vehicles. Make no mistake, the Jaguar XFR is going directly @ the heads of the Audi RS6, BMW M5, Cadillac CTS-V and Mercedes-Benz E63 and any car enthusiast in that market.

Sitting lower than the XF, perched on stock 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in speed rated rubber and running on a 5.0L supercharged V8 engine, this bad boy is not fucking around. I mean, if Y.O.U. could pull 60 MPH from a cold start in just 4.7 seconds, Y.O.U. might have an attitude too ... lol. What's good? Holla @ ya boy in BK!

Friday, December 26, 2008

Yeah, The New Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S Is Not Havin' It In The Oh-9.


"Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S pricing starts at $138,400
Posted Tue Dec 23 2008 2:20 AM by Viknesh Vijayenthiran


Late last year we saw Maserati introduce a new performance ‘S’ variant of its already sporty Quattroporte GT, and now the Italian carmaker has released the first details of a similar model based on the recently revealed 2009 Quattroporte facelift. The new car is the Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S, and it is set to make its world debut next month at the Detroit Auto Show.

While the facelifted Quattroporte and Quattroporte S make do with a 400hp (298kW) 4.2L V8 and a 430hp (320kW) 4.7L V8 respectively, the new Sport GT S produces 440hp (328kW). The small power bump is courtesy of a high-flow exhaust system, which comes with an adjustable valve to keep the engine muffled around town and let loose once in the open country.

Along with the engine upgrade is a lowered suspension set-up, stiffer springs, and new shock absorbers. The Quattroporte’s ZF six-speed automatic transmission remains, however, in the Sport GT S the paddle-shift operated ‘box receives new management software that allows for quicker gearshifts.

Inside, the car’s usual wood panels are replaced with carbon-fiber pieces, while the seats are covered in a mix of leather and Alcantara. The exterior, meanwhile, only receives subtle updates such as blacked-out headlight surrounds and a darkened grille.

The first vehicles are expected to arrive in U.S. showrooms shortly after the Detroit debut, and according to Edmunds pricing will start at $138,400 - including a $2,600 gas-guzzler tax and a $1,800 destination charge. This is only $1,000 less than the stunning GranTurismo S, which made its debut earlier this year."

Information Courtesy Of: Motorauthority.Com


CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Dating back to the 1960s when the Aga Khan ordered a stately but sporty Maserati sedan, which became the prototype for the vehicle, the Quattroporte has been 1 of the premiere sports cars in the world. For 2009, the automobile artisans @ Maserati have taken their Triton emblazoned wheels to the next level with the Quattroporte GT S (the performance version of the über popular Quattroporte S type) which will receive it's official unveiling @ the upcoming Detroit Auto Show in SIDENOTE: Woooooooooooooow! It's about to be International Auto Show season again? Like, already? This is ridiculous ... lol.

Featuring a souped up 440hp V8 engine and a sleeker silhoutte, Maserati's newest Quattroporte competitor is going directly @ the head of the Porsche Panamera and the Lamborghini Estoque respectively. I mean, Y.O.U. see that they took this promo shot on the Brooklyn side of the Brooklyn Bridge, right? Yeah, this big boy toy is ready to fight!

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Now, 1 Lucky Owner Can Lay Even More Waaaaaaaaay Back In A Custom Maybach 72.






"A one-of-a-kind six-seat Maybach 72 is being offered for sale for those who find the regular luxury model a bit too cramped. The car started out as a 2004 Maybach 62, and was stretched an extra 10 decimeters (about 3.3 ft.) in order to add an additional pair of rear-facing back seats. The one-off vehicle is being offered for sale at $780,000, twice what the unmodified Maybach originally cost. Our sister site Autoblog has an image gallery of the over-the-top limousine. Back in October we reported on Maybach's new $1.4 million open-topped Landaulet."

Information Courtesy Of: Luxist.Com


CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS:  Some car customizations are tacky (Think: 30 inch rims and automobiles audaciously emblazoned with the Cheetos© brand chips logo) and some are classy.  Obviously, the 10 decimeter stretch of the imagination that modified the already grandiose Maybach 62 making it the Maybach 72, falls into the classy category of dignified enhancement and design.  For traditionalists, this conversion may be too much, but fuck them and their caviar packed asses ... lol. All that Y.O.U. need to know is that this is NOT the car service limo that Y.O.U. took to the prom homie ... lol.  Good shit.