Luxury Life Style
People’s ‘bling obsession’ that the poor luxury cars are made to undergo a golden makeover. And the latest beauty to get all “blinged-up” is a BMW M5. This luxurious car covered in gold was spotted in Moscow, Russia. The owner must be another bling addict who thinks it’s extremely cool and trendy to sport a gold car and laugh in the face of recession.
(1) 2008 AUDI R8 ($110,000). I’ve driven some impressive cars this year, including the $1.4 million Bugatti Veyron 16.4. Yet I was unprepared for the wide-eyed adulation that greeted Audi’s challenger to the Porsche 911. Everywhere the R8 went, cameras clicked and cellphones spread the word. Young dudes in a Dakota pursued the R8 across New Jersey on Interstate 80, sometimes hanging out of the windows in ecstasy. Adoring crowds gathered in parking lots. Isn’t this why people spend $100,000 and more for a trophy car? (Along with the fact that the R8 handles beautifully and makes a growl that stirs your soul.)
2) CADILLAC CTS ($47,590 as tested). Like the Corvette, the CTS proves there’s life left in Detroit. The CTS is not only the best American luxury sedan, it’s a no-apologies rival to models from Europe and Japan. It handles with creamy precision and is as quiet as any Lexus or Benz. A sophisticated interior replaces the old Caddy-shack design.
3) HONDA ACCORD ($21,995-$31,105) The first time I got into this elegant new sedan and drove off, I had to ask myself, “Have I accidentally stolen a BMW?” This latest Accord, all new for 2008, positively oozes style, sophistication and mechanical savvy. Always very good, the new Accord has graduated to great.
