Wanderlust

Category: News

  • Expedition Motor Company’s Latest Mojave Silver 1992 Wolf Convertible Remastered Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen

    Expedition Motor Company’s Latest Mojave Silver 1992 Wolf Convertible Remastered Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen

    • This Classic Convertible Restoration Took Over 2,300 Hours of Meticulous Restoration, Resulting in an Elegant New Vehicle Built with Adventure Travel in Mind

    [source: Expedition Motor Company]

    FRENCHTOWN, NJ – When it comes to pristine vintage Geländewagens (G-Wagens), few builders feature the blend of vehicle expertise along with the necessary restoration capabilities of Expedition Motor Company (EMC). Following more than seven years of experience and over one hundred and fifty 250GDs built and delivered, the team behind Expedition Motor Company has a deep respect for the heritage and go-anywhere capabilities of the iconic Geländewagen. EMC specializes in bringing former military G-Wagens back to life—transforming them into luxury, collector-grade vehicles designed to provide owners with a unique, old-school driving experience. EMC’s passion for precision, even down to the smallest components, and dedication to world-class quality, allows them to create the finest G-Wagen restorations in the marketplace today. These restorations not only capture the vehicle’s original character but also seamlessly integrate modern enhancements to add a new level of elegance and style. In this spirit, EMC proudly unveils their latest masterpiece: a beautifully restored 1992 Mojave Silver (mojavesilber; metallic UNI; 859; Mercedes-Benz) G-Wagen, featuring an exquisite Doppio interior and Mercedes’ “million-mile engine,” the OM602 Diesel.

    “We couldn’t be more excited to introduce this new Wolf V5, which is a direct showcase of EMC’s design and engineering prowess. You’ll feel just as at home cruising a beachside highway as you are traversing your favorite off-road trail,” founder Alex Levin comments. “This timeless classic stands as a testament to the unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail that our team at EMC is known for.”

    The exterior of this stunning G-Wagen is finished in Mojave Silver, paying homage to one of Mercedes-Benz’ most popular colorways. The “Mojave Silver” color also provides subtle nods to both the ruggedness of desert landscapes and a refined, understated luxury. Named after the Mojave Desert, this color evokes the resilience and natural beauty of an environment known for its challenging terrain and extreme conditions, aligning well with the tough, adventure-ready nature of the 250GD G-Wagen. The metallic silver exterior gives the vehicle a modern, polished look that reflects light beautifully and accentuates the iconic lines and contours of the G-Wagen. It offers a sleek aesthetic without sacrificing its 1990s heritage. This exterior is perfectly complemented by luxurious weatherproof interior upholstery. Adding to its distinct charm, this convertible G-Wagen comes with both a bikini top and a full soft top, offering drivers multiple options to suit their preferences.

    Each EMC build undergoes a rigorous 2,300 man-hour restoration, where every detail is expertly crafted with precision and care down to the nuts and bolts. The process begins with a full disassembly of the vehicle. The body is taken down to bare metal and EMC’s craftsmen hand-mend all imperfections caused by age or combat. The frame is media blasted and receives an anti-corrosive primer and a durable powder coat finish. Other key components, such as fuel lines, brake lines, and body mounts are replaced to guarantee longevity and optimal performance. The factory axles are disassembled, thoroughly cleaned, and meticulously refinished, while the brake system is fully revamped to ensure enhanced stopping power. EMC’s custom-designed suspension is then installed and fine-tuned, perfectly integrating with the vehicle to provide an unmatched driving experience.

    Under the hood of this Mojave Silver Wolf lies a rebuilt OM602 diesel engine, expertly paired with a rebuilt 5-speed 722.6 automatic transmission. Built for terrains of all types, this vintage G-Wagen is ready to take on any journey with strength and style.

    The Mojave Silver Wolf from EMC is available for purchase at a price of $204,150. Expedition Motor Company trucks start at $180,000 and are available to commission today. For more information, please contact Expedition Motor Company at (267) 714-4112, or visit expeditionmotorcompany.com.

  • Sonderwunsch Porsche 911 Dakar Shines with Extraordinary Design

    Sonderwunsch Porsche 911 Dakar Shines with Extraordinary Design

    After building 2,500 examples, Porsche has celebrated the end of the 911 Dakar model with the handover of a Sonderwunsch special at the Porsche plant in Zuffenhausen. Extensively customised and refined, this Sonderwunsch 911 Dakar was commissioned for an Italian collector of sports cars.

    [source: Porsche AG]

    Porsche introduced the 911 Dakar, a sports car equally at home off-road as it is on country routes, in November 2022. The car’s standard ground clearance is approximately 50 millimetres higher than that of a 911 Carrera with sports suspension. Off-road-specific details include red, forged aluminium recovery eyelets at the front and rear, as well as widened wheel arches and sills. The three-litre twin-turbo six-cylinder engine producing 480 PS (353 kW) and a maximum torque of 570 Nm delivers impressive performance with a distinctive and emotive boxer sound.

    To the final of the model: customised three-tone paintwork

    Now, a special example of this limited-run model has been handed over in the Porsche Museum – but not before getting the full Sonderwunsch treatment, including a unique three-tone paint job. Signalyellow (signalgelb; nonmetallic UNI; 1YH; Porsche) and Gentianbluemetallic (enzianblaumetallic; metallic UNI; W96; Porsche) tie neatly into the Rallye Design Package, echoing the look of the winning vehicle from the 1984 Paris-Dakar Rally, while a painted blue line between the two larger coloured areas completes the trio. The shade, which has been named Lampedusablue after the Italian Mediterranean island, was created in collaboration with the new owner of the car.

    The spokes of this one-off car’s alloy wheels are also painted in Signalyellow, while the rim edge features Lampedusablue. The livery was done entirely by hand and in close co-operation between the customer and Porsche designers. The LED Matrix headlights are individualised with a Lampedusa-coloured accent ring, and the stainless steel protective elements on the front, rear, and sills are black.

    Inside, more yellow appears against the contrasting black, such as in the stitching and trim strips on the dashboard, centre console, and door panels. The ‘911 Dakar’ lettering is also embroidered in Speedyellow thread on the headrests of the Sports Seats Plus, and the gear selector of the eight-speed PDK is enhanced with a Speedyellow leather insert. When the doors are opened, LED projectors cast the Sonderwunsch logo onto the ground. The extensive customisation ensured that this 911 Dakar of type 992 was refined right up to the end in the Sonderwunsch manufactory.

    Before the car makes its way to its new home, visitors to the Porsche Museum can catch a ‘last’ glimpse of this special model. Sitting alongside other unique derivatives of well-known limited series, it will be on display in the museum’s foyer.

  • INEOS Grenadier Grandmaster by Chelsea Truck Company

    INEOS Grenadier Grandmaster by Chelsea Truck Company

    [source: Chelsea Truck Company]

    Following the success of the Series II Expedition Grenadier, The Chelsea Truck Company proudly unveils its latest Ineos transformation—The Grandmaster. 

    This exclusive model redefines luxury, elevating the Grenadier to unprecedented standards of sophistication, comfort, and style.

    Commissioned through the renowned KAHN® design house, The Grandmaster offers a masterful blend of clean, bold design and exquisite craftsmanship. Premium materials and meticulous detailing elevate this Ineos to the pinnacle of the luxury 4×4 market, setting a new benchmark in refined off-road elegance.

    Where the Series II Expedition showcased a bold, rugged spirit ready for any terrain, The Grandmaster captures that same soul but with a refined, more road-focused aesthetic that embodies the OEM+ philosophy of design. Crafted for those who favour luxury and sophistication over wilderness exploration, The Grandmaster seamlessly merges performance with elegance.

    Signature exterior details, like wide wings and wheel arches, now boast a satin body finish with exposed carbon fibre accents for a subtle yet striking look. The utilitarian front and rear bumpers feature refined colour splits, creating seamless harmony with the Grenadier’s original design.

    This exclusive prototype also debuts a Central Roof Light with integrated LED light, drawing inspiration from Formula 1 air intakes for an aerodynamic, high-performance edge. This F1-inspired feature not only enhances functionality but also pays homage to Ineos’s distinguished history within Formula 1.

    Inside, the cabin has been completely reimagined with our exclusive comfort leather interior, elegantly finished in Volcanic Blue. 

    The bespoke Italian Nappa leather upholstery delivers a seamless blend of luxury and comfort, providing an experience as indulgent as it is refined.

    The Grandmaster stands as the ultimate expression of sophistication—the most luxurious and distinguished Ineos Grenadier on the road today.

    The Grandmaster features:

    Exterior Specification:

    • Exposed Carbon Fibre Dakar Central Lamp Grille
    • 3-Piece Front Outer Grille
    • 3-Piece Front Bumper Valance in Carbon Fibre 
    • 40mm Wide Wheel Arches in Exposed Carbon 
    • Wide Wings with integrated Bolt Apertures in Exposed Carbon Fibre
    • Central Roof Light with integrated LED Light in Exposed Carbon Fibre
    • Alpine Window Covers
    • Large Upper Roof Wing 
    • 3-Piece Rear Bumper Valance in Carbon Fibre 
    • Chelsea Truck Co. Hard Spare Wheel Cover in Piano Black
    • 100mm Crosshair Exhaust System In Satin Black
    • 9×20″ Mondial Retro Deep Concave RS-Forged Light Alloy Wheels in Satin Black
    • 35” All Terrain Tyres
    • Satin Body Colour Coded Paint
    • Gloss Black Contrast Roof
    • Exposed Carbon Fibre Details

    Interior Specification:

    • Front Seats Upholstered in Volcanic Blue Nappa Leather with CTC Branding
    • Rear Seats Reupholstered in Volcanic Blue Nappa Leather with CTC Branding
    • Front and Rear Door Panels Reupholstered in Nappa Leather
    • Front and Rear Door Tops Reupholstered in Nappa Leather
    • Centre Armrest Reupholstered in Nappa Leather
    • Passenger Grab Handle Reupholstered in Nappa Leather 
    • Handbrake and Gaitor Reupholstered in Nappa Leather
    • Drive Select Gaitor Reupholstered in Nappa Leather

    The Ineos Grenadier Grandmaster brings together formidable engineering and sophisticated luxury, highlighting Chelsea Truck Co’s mission to enhance the 4×4 market and elevating the 4×4 experience. This vehicle blends the practicality of the Ineos Grenadier with KAHN®’s signature craftsmanship.

    Every detail shows a dedication to excellence that never wavers. The Grandmaster is more than just a vehicle—it’s a statement of prestige that combines classic heritage with modern elegance. It proves that luxury, performance, and design can come together naturally, turning every drive into something special.

    Please visit www.projectkahn.com or www.chelseatruckcompany.com for more information.

  • Color Check: UK-Spec Audi RS 6 Avant GT in Arkona White

    Color Check: UK-Spec Audi RS 6 Avant GT in Arkona White

    The special limited edition Audi RS 6 Avant GT is beginning to land in certain markets, which means we’re also getting our first good look at real world photos. In this case, it’s the UK market specification built in Arkona White with Heritage stripes and graphics provided in this set of PR photos from Audi UK.

    One of the things we like to analyze about galleries such as this one is the detail work that maybe wasn’t revealed in the initial run of launch photos. For instance, we can see inner layers of carbon fiber within the vents aft the front wheels on the carbon front fenders, or the exposed carbon fiber on the all-carbon hood.

    Though right hand drive, this is the same specification we’re expecting in the USA save the optional shell sport seats that tragically haven’t been federalized.

    We’ve gone ahead and published the whole set. Enjoy.

  • First Bentley Speed Six Delivery in 94 Years, as a Blower Finishes a 24 Hour Race

    First Bentley Speed Six Delivery in 94 Years, as a Blower Finishes a 24 Hour Race

    • First Speed Six customer car since 1930 leaves the Mulliner workshop
    • The first of 12 Speed Six Continuation Series cars, each handcrafted over the course of eight months
    • Follows completion of development programme in July
    • Destined for an existing Blower Continuation Series customer in the USA, and curated in a classic Parsons Napier Green specification
    • Meanwhile, a Blower Continuation Series customer car completes a 24 hour endurance race at Portimão as part of the ‘Benjafield’s 24’
    • The achievement marks the first time a factory-built Bentley Blower has ever finished a 24-hour race

    [source: Bentley]

    Crewe, England – The first customer Speed Six Continuation Series car has been completed, and is soon to be dispatched to the USA – marking the first delivery of a new Bentley Speed Six since 1930. Existing Mulliner customer John Breslow will be the first person to receive his Speed Six as a racing companion to his Blower Continuation Series. 

    Commissioned just over 12 months ago, the classically curated Speed Six is resplendent in Parsons Napier Green bodywork on top of a black-painted chassis. The iconic face of the Speed Six is dominated by the twin round headlamps, finished in Chrome with a protective mesh and separated by a large number ‘4’ on the radiator.

    Crafted by hand from scratch, each car takes eight months to complete, with the expert team of Mulliner technicians and artisans working closely with a network of specialist suppliers across the UK to recreate every detail of the original Speed Six with exactitude. 

    The cockpit is as authentic as the exterior, with every gauge, switch and control exactly as per the specification of the Speed Sixes that raced at – and won – Le Mans in 1930. Leather trimmed in a rich deep brown with dominant red tones, the Rust leather and carpet pair seamlessly with the Parsons Napier Green to the exterior. 

    At the start of the project, the Mulliner Classic team visited the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, Hampshire, to verify the five authentic period Parsons Paints that are available to customers. Over 600 individual new parts, including a new engine block casting, were fabricated for the new 6½ Litre race spec engine, which at the time developed 200 bhp. Dyno testing has shown the Continuation Series engines to develop 205 bhp; while higher outputs have been achievable with the aid of modern engineering materials (as many classic racing teams do), the aim of the Continuation Series team was to create a Bentley exactly as it would have looked and performed in 1930.

    The Speed Six is regarded as one of the most important Bentleys in history, being the most successful Bentley racing car ever produced. Using the same manufacturing processes as the original car from the late 1920’s, the Speed Six is the second pre-war Continuation Series by Mulliner, Bentley’s bespoke and coachbuilding division.

    The Blower Continuation Series was the first pre-war continuation series ever created, and has been built by hand using a combination of modern laser-scanned data and original drawings. Both the blueprints and the 3D data were taken from the 1929 4½-litre supercharged Team Car #2 – the most famous Bentley in the world, and one of the icons of the Bentley Heritage Collection.

    Famous for pushing Bentley’s main competitor Mercedes-Benz to the point of breakdown in the Le Man 24 hour in 1930, the Bentley Blower was known for outright pace – at the sake of reliability – whereas the Speed Six was known for its dependable performance.

    To celebrate Bentley’s first ever win at the Le Mans in 1924, the Benjafield Racing Club hosted a 24 hour endurance event at the famous Algarve circuit of Portimão. The event consisted of 25 period Bentleys, piloted by 87 club members, with one of the competitors being a Blower Continuation Series customer car, entered into the event by its dedicated owner. In a defining moment for the Blower family and of the Continuation Series, the car completed the race – becoming the first factory built Blower to ever finish a 24-hour event, and highlighting the quality of engineering behind the world’s first pre-war continuation series. 

    For any further enquiries or product information, the Mulliner team can be contacted via the following email address, mullinercoachbuilt@bentley.co.uk.

  • New Aston Martin Vantage AMV24 Edition: Tribute to Historic Victory at CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa 2024 

    New Aston Martin Vantage AMV24 Edition: Tribute to Historic Victory at CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa 2024 

    • Aston Martin celebrates Vantage GT3 victory at iconic Spa-Francorchamps race in 2024 with launch of Vantage AMV24 Edition 
    • Just 24 examples of Vantage AMV24 Edition will be created, exclusively for clients in Continental Europe
    • Unique race-inspired exterior and interior features curated by Q by Aston Martin, the British ultra-luxury brand’s in-house bespoke division
    • Every owner of Vantage AMV24 Edition invited to drive on Spa-Francorchamps iconic circuit in 2025 as part of personalised ownership program

    [source: Aston Martin]

    07 November 2024,Frankfurt, Germany: Aston Martin is celebrating the historic 2024 Crowdstrike 24 Hours of Spa race win in June 2024 by Vantage GT3 partner team Comtoyou Racing, with the launch of the limited-edition new Vantage AMV24 Edition. Only 24 examples of this unique specification Vantage will be created – designed and built exclusively for clients in Continental Europe.  

    Finished in Aston Martin’s unique Podium Green (podiumgreenmetallic; metallic UNI; 6224/6332; Aston Martin) paint, the new Vantage AMV24 Edition is the latest exciting creation from Q by Aston Martin, the British ultra luxury performance brand’s in-house bespoke division. The unique exterior specification of Vantage AMV24 Edition also includes an Aston Martin Racing (AMR) Lime livery featuring vent surrounds, mirror caps and a racing line running the length of car, accentuating the motorsport-inspired character of the 665PS/800Nm Aston Martin sports car. Gloss Black finishes to the lower and upper body are matched to striking 21” Y-Spoke Wheels in Satin Black, completing the Vantage AMV24 Edition’s overtly sporting appearance.

    The theme of exclusivity continues inside the car with a sill plaque featuring a unique Vantage AMV24 Edition logo, designed by Q by Aston Martin. Matching headrest embroidery, a dark chrome jewelry pack and contrast stitching in AMR Lime across the Black ventilated seats deliver an interior experience reminiscent of the Aston Martin Vantage GT3 race car, which was launched alongside the new Vantage sports car and the AMR24 F1®challenger at the famous Silverstone race circuit in February this year.

    The new Vantage AMV24 Edition shares its technical platform and suite of advanced technologies with the new Vantage – the definitive front-engine, rear-wheel drive sports car. With a perfect 50:50 weight distribution, the chassis and powertrain of Vantage are tuned to deliver maximum thrills and driver engagement.

    Capable of 0-60mph in 3.4 seconds and delivering a top speed of 202mph, technical highlights of Vantage include industry-leading Active Vehicle Dynamics, Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers, Electronic Rear Differential (E-diff) and AML-specific 21” Michelin Pilot S5 tyres. An all-new interior architecture and bespoke, state-of-the-art infotainment system set new standards of quality, style and sophistication. 

    Aston Martin Vantage AMV24 Edition owners are guaranteed a personalised ownership experience that goes beyond the spectacular livery and interior appointments of this thrilling performance car. Each owner of the Vantage AMV24 Edition will be hosted at the 2025 24 Hours of Spa race by Aston Martin Europe, where they will be given the chance to explore the performance of the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 heart of Vantage and its array of advanced vehicle dynamics technologies on the famous circuit ahead of the main race event.

    Andreas Bareis, Aston Martin Europe Regional President said: “The new Aston Martin sports car portfolio has been revolutionized in 2024, with every one of our new cars offering class leading performance, advanced technologies and exquisite luxury. Some of our most discerning clients value rarity and exclusivity above all else, which is why our Q by Aston Martin team have crafted the fantastic new Vantage AMV24 Edition.

    “Owning the Vantage AMV24 Edition will mean owning a unique piece of history. The Aston Martin Vantage GT3 win at Spa this year was the first overall win for an Aston Martin car since 1948. I congratulate and thank the Comtoyou team for an exceptional victory.

    “The thrilling prospect of driving the new Vantage AMV24 Edition on track ahead of next year’s race in front of 100,000 fans will be one to savor for its group of new owners. Every element of owning and driving Vantage AMV24 Edition will be memorable.”   

    The Aston Martin GT3 Victory at Spa-Francorchamps in 2024 was the first in more than 40 years for a British-built car, and the first overall victory for Aston Martin in the modern GT-era of the event. Aston Martin works drivers Mattia Drudi (ITA), Marco Sørensen (DEN), and Nicki Thiim (DEN), alongside Aston Martin partner team Comtoyou Racing, combined to deliver a victory seventy-six years in the making.

    Deliveries to clients in Continental Europe of the exclusive new Aston Martin Vantage AMV24 Edition will begin in the first quarter of 2025.

    About Podium Green

    A nod to Aston Martin’s racing prowess, Podium Green embodies the raw emotion of speed with a subtle notes of heritage and lineage. A timeless colour, seamlessly blending performance with redefined elegance. Proudly seen on the latest AMR24 F1® race cars, Podium Green also features on the Vantage Official FIA F1® Safety car and DBX707 Official F1® FIA Medical Car for the 2023 and 2024 season.

  • A Look Inside Rolls-Royce’s New Abu Dhabi Luxury Showroom

    A Look Inside Rolls-Royce’s New Abu Dhabi Luxury Showroom

    Dedicated to offering its clients unparalleled and individually tailored experiences, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Abu Dhabi is delighted to announce the opening of its new luxury showroom in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. By bringing their dreams to life, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars offers clients a fully immersive brand experience while foregrounding the art of Bespoke craftsmanship.

    [source: Rolls-Royce]

    • Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Abu Dhabi celebrates the opening of its new luxury showroom in the capital city of the United Arab Emirates
    • New visual language offers an eclectic, modern style designed to resonate with younger demographic of clients
    • Interior design provides a contemporary, luxury retail space, offering clients an immersive Rolls-Royce experience
    • Includes the Bespoke Commissioning Atelier and lounge area with a Cabinet of Curiosity feature and hospitality lounge, complemented by innovative digital technology and lighting installations

    “The unveiling of our new Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ showroom in Abu Dhabi marks a significant milestone in further cementing our brand’s position as a true House of Luxury. It provides a perfect home to showcase our exceptional motor cars in a space that embodies the spirit of Rolls-Royce.

    Abu Dhabi, with its rich blend of cultures and visionary approach to sustainable development and economic diversification, stands as a beacon of human ambition and progress. Opening our doors here in the capital is not only an honour, but also a reflection of the importance of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Abu Dhabi to our distinguished marque.

    This showroom brings to life the unparalleled creativity and craftsmanship that are at the core of Rolls-Royce while also incorporating the brand’s latest visual identity and cutting-edge digital technologies. Within this luxurious space, we look forward to offering our clients the Bespoke, personalised luxury experiences that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is renowned for and turning their dreams into reality.”
    — Tarek Moataz, General Manager, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Abu Dhabi

    Dedicated to offering its clients unparalleled and individually tailored experiences, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Abu Dhabi is delighted to announce the opening of its new luxury showroom in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. By bringing their dreams to life, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars offers clients a fully immersive brand experience while foregrounding the art of Bespoke craftsmanship.

    Showcasing the brand’s latest visual identity, the showroom radiates sophistication, modern luxury, and creativity, seamlessly integrating innovative digital technology with a warm and inviting interior design. Designed to resonate with a younger, self-made, and distinctly individual clientele, this new visual identity offers a fully immersive experience and a welcoming environment where both current and prospective clients can explore and admire the marque’s stunning motor cars.

    At the core of the new showroom lies the Bespoke Commissioning Atelier, a centrepiece designed to immerse clients in the enchanting world of Rolls-Royce. Showcasing some of the marque’s finest examples of craftsmanship, the Atelier invites customers to explore and select personalised surface finishes, wood veneers, leathers, embroidery threads in a spectrum of vibrant colours, and fabrics for their Bespoke commissions, all tailored to reflect their unique personalities and desires. This sensory-inspired environment allows clients to envision their dream commission taking shape, further inspired by the nearby Cabinet of Curiosities. Situated in the lounge area, this collection features captivating pieces that encourage conversation, alongside a hospitality lounge that provides a tranquil space for clients to relax and connect.

    Opening its doors to a hub of creativity and craft, on top of housing unrivalled masterpiece motor cars, the showroom will provide an experience tailored to the specific and personal needs of the dealership’s most discerning clientele with meticulous attention to detail.

    To commemorate this momentous occasion, the highly anticipated Ghost Series II was unveiled for the very first time in the region. Featuring a strikingly modern design with an illuminated Pantheon grille and refined headlamp graphics, Ghost Series II embodies the marque’s pursuit of understated elegance. Beneath its sleek exterior lies a potent 6.75-litre V12 engine, delivering effortless performance paired with Rolls-Royce Motor Car’s signature ‘Magic Carpet Ride’. Inside the cabin, innovative craftsmanship comes to life, with Bespoke materials and cutting-edge technology. This exclusive debut reinforces the showroom’s status as the premier destination for the region’s most discerning clientele.

  • Color Check: Samoa Orange Audi RS 3 Sedan

    Color Check: Samoa Orange Audi RS 3 Sedan

    Some colors are just made for the season, and if it’s autumn then we can’t imagine a better fall color than Samoa Orange Pearl (samoaorangepearl; pearl UNI; LX2U / J0; Audi exclusive). Launched initially on the first R8 GT, Samoa Orange is an Audi exclusive finish on this current-generation RS 3 sedan.

    We caught this car and a few photos by Ryan Raymond on the Audi Club North America Facebook Group and it looks fantastic. Whether paired with the factory black wheels or aftermarket gold, it’s hard not to love this car.

  • Color Check: New BMW M5 in Daytona Violet Metallic

    Color Check: New BMW M5 in Daytona Violet Metallic

    As part of a recent drop of fresh photo assets of its latest (G90) M5 sedan, BMW has included mixes of the car in rare and eye-catching colors. One color is a notable purple from BMW Individual – Daytona Violet Metallic (daytonaviolett; metallic; 283; BMW).

    In addition to photos, BMW also released footage of the same car. We’ve added them to our YouTube channel and will embed them here as well. Below these, you’ll find the full gallery of shots dropped by BMW in this latest round.

  • Color Check: Audi RS 6 performance in Nimbus Grey

    Color Check: Audi RS 6 performance in Nimbus Grey

    With Audi having most unfortunately ended production on all of its coupe, the TT, R8 and now A4 and all their variants now cut from the lineups, the brand is getting a bit short on cars that represent in-your-face passion over sensible upright people movers. We’d wager the Avant embodies some place in between – sensible yet passion-inspiring when built to the right specification… like say… an RS 6 performance in an Audi exclusive color.

    What you see here is a mix of public relations photos dropped by Audi in Germany of the current RS 6 performance model, but here painted in Nimbus Grey (nimbusgrau; pearlescent UNI; Z7X; Audi exclusive), a paint that is a throwback to the earliest days of the TT, and has paired that with wheels in neodym gold finish. Those wheels reveal a new facet to the decades old and familiar Nimbus Grey Pearl paint that we really appreciate.

    Back in Audi Sport’s Le Mans era, factory drivers would get their choice of company car and virtually all of them chose the RS 6 Avant. Even back then with the R8, TT RS or RS 5 to distract them, most preferred the have-it-all mentality of an RS 6 Avant. Several would order Audi exclusive colors like Lucas di Grassi who’d ordered Vegas Yellow as a hat tip to his Brazilian Heritage. However, that year, we most appreciated Andrea Lotterer’s choice – Nimbus Grey Pearl. That would have been the full previous generation RS 6 (C7), so we have to credit Andrea for having the idea to pair a classic TT color with the RS 6 Avant. We’ll take it though, and we’d encourage anyone ordering a new RS 6 Avant to consider doing the same.