Click above for a hi-res gallery of the 2007 Greenwich Concours d’Elegance
If you’re an Autoblog reader and plan to be in the New York metropolitan/tri-state area the weekend of June 6 and 7, you ought to be making tracks to Connecticut for the annual Greenwich Concours d’Elegance at Roger Sherman Baldwin Park. The concours is this blogger’s favorite event of the year, and for good reason. The two-day showcase features American cars on Saturday, and international metal on Sunday.
Both days feature a supercar display, gorgeous wood-hulled yachts in adjacent Greenwich Harbor, and an impressive lineup of vintage motorcycles, to boot. This year, the husband-wife organizing team of Bruce and Genia Wennerstrom has arranged for the Terrafugia Transition flying car to be displayed all weekend amidst the classics. Morgan and MINI will also be featured in honor of their respective anniversaries. Bonham’s has its own tent on the premises, where you can check out all the rides scheduled to go under the hammer at Sunday’s auction. Finally, the public parking lot across the street from the venue becomes an impromptu show itself, loaded with classics and exotics driven in by people visiting the concours.
So, if you’re available, go. You won’t regret it. Admission is $20 per day, or $30 for a two-day pass, with the proceeds benefiting AmeriCares. Bring your kids — children under 12 get in free. Parking’s free, too. It’s right off I-95 if you’re driving and easily accessible via the MTA Metro-North railroad’s New Haven Line. Complete details can be found in the press release posted after the jump, as well as the Greenwich Concours website, https://www.greenwichconcours.com. Hope to see you there.
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December 21, 2012 is thought by some to signify the end of the world because that’s the date when the Mayan calendar stops. No serious scholar agrees with this interpretation, but that hasn’t stopped people from preparing for the end. In fact, 10 percent of people worldwide think the world will end December 21, according to a survey by Reuters and Ipsos Global Public Affairs. While you may have stockpiled food and ammunition and run up your credit card bills, it’s time to give some thought to what could be your final ride. Here are 13 of the best cars for the Mayan Apocalypse: Five to help you survive as long as possible, five to help you go out in style and three that will help you do both.
For more stories from U.S. News& World Report, check out the 12 Deals Of Christmas and 10 Best Cars To Give And Get.
The Chevrolet Express never seems to make anyone’s “Best” list, but with the world ending, the Express’ time has come. Available as a cargo van with up to 284.4 cubic feet of cargo space or as a passenger van with seating for up to 15 people, the Express has plenty of space for everything you’ll need to repopulate the planet. The Express can also tow up to 10,000 pounds when properly equipped, so you can have a boat handy in case the oceans rapidly rise. It has available four-wheel drive for getting over Armageddon-roughened roads, and has an available diesel engine so you can gather grease from abandoned fast food joints to make your own biodiesel fuel.
It’s tough to beat the Chevy Express when it comes to end-times utility, but the Toyota Land Cruiser is almost as capable and a lot more comfortable. The Land Cruiser can seat up to eight people in three rows and has standard features like HDD navigation and Toyota’s Entune infotainment system. Entune allows you to control various apps on your smartphone like Pandora and Bing, so you can listen to your favorite music while searching for the closest National Guard armory. The Land Cruiser also comes with XM NavTraffic and NavWeather, so you can find the fastest routes out of town and avoid any impending meteor showers.
A big SUV or van is great for people who have a lot of friends or stuff to save, but if you’re more of an every-man-for-himself sort of person, the Subaru Impreza is your best bet for riding out the apocalypse. Vans and SUVs may beat the Impreza when it comes to cargo or passenger capacity, but with the world ending, the Impreza has better fuel economy. With an EPA-estimated 36 mpg on the highway and 27 mpg in the city, the Impreza can cruise through deserted cities and towns without worry. The Impreza also has standard all-wheel drive. Though it can’t handle serious off-roading, it should be able to scramble up logging or fire roads, taking you deep enough into the wilderness to avoid roving bands of survivors after your supplies. Speaking of supplies, you’ll be able to carry more if you opt for the Impreza wagon.
All-wheel drive may not get you far enough away from civilization to eke out a few weeks of post-apocalyptic living. To get away from burning cities, mass panic and extreme weather, you’re going to need four-wheel drive. The four-wheel drive system on the Jeep Wrangler is tough to beat. Not only is the Wrangler one of the oldest and most-trusted off-road models built today, but it also has some performance features to keep you moving when the road ends (or starts to collapse under you). The Wrangler Rubicon can ford 30 inches of water (more if you add a snorkel), has sway bar disconnect for better front wheel articulation and a removable air dam for better approach angles. With some added tech, your sway bars will be the only thing that’s disconnected. The Wrangler’s optional Garmin navigation system can keep you informed with weather and traffic updates  all the better to avoid mobs of screaming people who weren’t prepared.
A few people may be lucky enough to survive Armageddon, and those people are going to need to rebuild. When you need to build something, you need a truck. When you need a truck, you need the Ram 1500. Sure, the Ram can tow up to 10,350 pounds when properly equipped and haul up to 1,910 pounds in its bed, but when the world ends, you’re going to be upset. You’ll want some comfort. Reviewers say there’s no truck with an interior more comfortable than the Ram 1500. The Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn has a leather-swathed interior, features like memory seat and pedal adjustment, a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, a rearview camera, park assist (so you don’t back into the rubble that was your home town) and a UConnect infotainment system with navigation.
The Porsche 911 Carrera S will probably not protect you from the end of the world, but it will make sure that you’ll go with a smile on your face. With a 400-horsepower engine, 4.5-second 0-to-60 time and a top speed of 187 miles per hour, you can spend your final hours on this mortal planet in the fast lane. Since the world is going to end, you shouldn’t have to worry about any speeding tickets you might get.
Because the end of the world is so close, a lot of people won’t get to do everything they wanted to do in life. If you never got to spend a summer living la dolce vita in Tuscany, you can still make your last few weeks on earth bellisimo with the Lamborghini Gallardo. The Gallardo comes with a 550-, 560- or 570-horsepower engine and rear- or all-wheel drive. We recommend the 570-horsepower Superleggera model. Sure, it’s the most expensive, but with the world ending, it’s not like you’ll be around when the bill comes due. The 570-horspower model also comes with an ultra light carbon fiber body and special paint colors. If you’re going to see your friends and family for the last time, you might as well be in a car with a memorable paint job.
The end of the world is a great time to unleash your inner super spy. You might not be able to save the world like James Bond does, but you can still drive like him. The Aston Martin DB9 has a 12-cylinder engine that makes 470 horsepower. Though reviewers say it isn’t as much of a driver’s car as other exotics, the interior of the DB9 should make anyone feel at home. With exquisite leather on almost every surface and a coddling front seat, you’ll be more than comfortable in the DB9 when you meet your end.
The Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet isn’t from a luxury marquee. It doesn’t have incredible performance or an opulent interior. What it does have is awkward looks and less-than-impressive sales numbers. So why get this car before the world ends? Well, why not? Look: The world is ending. Now is the time to try something you’ve never tried before. Take a break from crossing things like skydiving and calling up your junior high crush off your bucket list and get in the Murano CrossCabriolet just to experience what it’s like to drive a convertible crossover. While you’re at it, try some other unexpected combinations, like peanut butter and sushi or hang gliding in flannel pants. You just may find something amazing — and if you don’t, everyone will be dead soon anyway, so it’s not like they can make fun of you for getting a Murano CrossCabriolet.
The apocalypse is coming and you’ve spent years driving yourself around like a chump. Now is the time to pamper yourself. The Audi A8L has quad-zone temperature control so everyone can stay comfortable while hell freezes over on one side of the car and fire rains from above on the other. It’s also available with the Audi Connect system, which turns the car into an Internet hot spot so you can tell each and every one of your Facebook friends what you really think of them. The best part about the A8L, however, is its long wheelbase and exceptional back-seat comfort. Get the A8L, and hire yourself a driver. Tell him he’ll get his first paycheck December 22.
The Land Rover Range Rover is legendary for its off-road capabilities and its interior luxury. The base model comes with a 5.0-liter V8 engine that makes 375 horsepower, an eight-speed automatic transmission and a terrain response system. The terrain response system allows the driver to dial in the type of terrain the Range Rover is facing and it automatically adjusts its responses. That makes it easy for even the least experienced off-road driver to go wherever seems safest. Inside, the Range Rover has high-end leather and a choice between wood and lacquer finishes, as well as an optional rear-seat entertainment system to keep little survivors quiet while Mom and Dad argue over which kid they should trade for some gasoline.
The Mercedes-Benz G550 SUV is designed with one thing in mind: getting you where you want to go, no matter where that is. With a 382-horspower V8 engine and three locking differentials, the G550 is capable on fast roads and slow rock crawls. The G550 can drive up an 80 percent grade and hang on with 24 degrees of sideways tilt. It can tow up to 7,500 pounds and has an 80 GB hard drive navigation system with Zagat survey information. Just because the world has ended doesn’t mean you want to eat at a subpar restaurant.
The Bentley Continental Supersport features the most powerful Bentley engine ever: a twin-turbocharged 12-cylinder engine that makes 621 horsepower. That will certainly get the Supersport ahead of any world-ending tidal wave, but when asteroids start falling right in front of you, you’ll need strong brakes. Bentley says the Supersport has”the largest carbon ceramic brakes ever offered on a production car.” Once you’re done outrunning nature’s fury, enjoy the Supersport’s interior, which features quilted Alcantara door panels, carbon fiber finishes, Breitling clock, iPod interface and available TV tuner for the infotainment system. We’re not sure what will be on TV after December 21, but if you have a Bentley Supersport, you’ll be able to find out.
For more stories from U.S. News& World Report, check out the 12 Deals Of Christmas and 10 Best Cars To Give And Get.
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There’s some big powertrain changes for two upscale models of crossover vehicles. The BMW X3 is switching from a V6 to a four-cylinder engine. The Acura RDX is going in the opposite direction, from a four to a six-cylinder engine.
Both changes have resulted in big improvements, according to the latest ratings fromConsumer Reports for compact SUVs. In its latest findings, the magazine had glowing things to say about both overhauls.
“The RDX had been a weak spot in the otherwise competent Acura lineup,” said David Champion, senior director of the consumer organization’s consumer test center. “The engine upgrade, along with a roomier, user-friendly cabin and an improved ride, helps it score near the top of its category.”
Here’s a look at the sporty CUVs that Consumer Reports endorsed, the ones that got a thumbs-down and others that got more middling reviews:
MSRP: $38,500 – $43,600
Invoice: $35,600 – $40,290
Fuel economy: 21 city/28 highway
Powered by a six-cylinder engine since its inception eight years ago, the inline six is replaced with a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that should get 23 miles per gallon combined, one mile better than the original.
According toConsumer Reports, which ranks the X3 at the top of its category, “precision handling and a taut ride make the X3 drive like the best sporty sedans.” Although it grades out as the highest of the ratings, it is too new for the consumer organization to assess its reliability.
Research the BMW X3
BMW X3 Photos & Information
BMW X3 Specs
BMW X3 Local Dealer Price Quote
MSRP: $34,320 – $35,720
Invoice: $32,245 – $33,541
Fuel economy: 19 city/27 highway
“A weak spot in an otherwise competent Acura lineup.” Ouch. Good thing for Acura that’s a description that’s now passed. The change in powertrain from a turbo four to a 273-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 has paid dividends.
The RDX now grabs a“recommended” status from the magazine. The V6 uses Acura’s Variable Cylinder Management fuel-saving technology. That contributes to its “respectable” combined 22 mpg figure, and CR calls it “smooth” and “responsive.”
The all-new RDX is larger and more functional that its previous iteration, and includes more room for both passengers and cargo.
Research the Acura RDX
Acura RDX Photos & Information
Acura RDX Specs
Acura RDX Local Dealer Price Quote
MSRP: $35,600 – $43,000
Invoice: $33,108 – $39,990
Fuel economy: 20 city/27 highway
The Q5 is powered by either a 211-hp 2.0T four-cylinder or a 3.2-liter FSI V6 engine, the 2.0T gets an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic, while the 3.2 is bolted to a six-speed Tiptronic automatic. Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system provides sure-footedness in all conditions
Consumer Reports calls the Q5 “another good choice,” and lauds it for its “enjoyable handling and well-trimmed interior.” It also earns recommended status.
Research the Audi Q5
Audi Q5 Photos & Information
Audi Q5 Specs
Audi Q5 Local Dealer Price Quote
MSRP: $35,985 – $49,585
Invoice: $34,006 – $46,858
Fuel economy: 17 city/24 highway
On the other end of the spectrum, there’s the Cadillac SRX, which draws less-favorable reviews from Consumer Reports, which notes that its score has dropped because revised suspension tuning hurt its emergency handling performance. It also noted the SRX had demonstrated “below-average reliability.”
For 2012, the Cadillac SRX replaces both 2.8-liter and 3.0-liter V6 engines with one new 3.6-liter V6 engine. Despite the power increase, CR reports that“the heavy SRX still feels sluggish in every day driving,” and also that driver visibility is “problematic.”
Research the Cadillac SRX
Cadillac SRX Photos & Information
Cadillac SRX Specs
Cadillac SRX Local Dealer Price Quote
MSRP: $27,525 – $39,060
Invoice: $25,942 – $36,424
Fuel economy: 19 city/27 highway
Consumer Reports examined the SEL trims of the Ford Edge and really likes the optional EcoBoost 2.0-liter turbocharged V6, lauding it for is power and lower engine noise. “The four-cylinder turbo actually sounds more than the V6,” the report notes.
You can’t get all-wheel drive with the EcoBoost engine, but fuel economy is improved. On the downside, CR notes “the six-speed transmission lacks refinement and handling comes up short on agility.”
Research the Ford Edge
Ford Edge Photos & Information
Ford Edge Specs
Ford Edge Local Dealer Price Quote
MSRP: $26,900
Invoice: $25,095
Fuel economy: 22 city/29 highway
The Kia Sportage is gaining renown for being an affordable compact SUV, and its improving standing inConsumer Reports ratings is starting to reflect that. CR notes that the design is stylish and stands apart from the crowd, and that its top-level SX with the 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine is “even more fun.” Its handling is noted as “agile and responsive.”
On the downside, CR says the ride, already stiff in the base Sportage, is even worse in the SX model.“There is also quite a bit of wind noise and pronounced road noise,” the report says.
Research the Kia Sportage SX
Kia Sportage Photos & Information
Kia Sportage Specs
Kia Sportage Local Dealer Price Quote
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Scion FR-S Concept front
Scion FR-S Concept rear
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PRESS RELEASE:
2009 GREENWICH CONCOURS d’ELEGANCE
To Feature The Incredible “Flying Car”
The Greenwich Concours d’Elegance – one of just three concours listed in the North American edition of the best-selling book, 1000 Places To See Before You Die – is noted for showing some of the rarest, fastest, exotic, most beautiful, historic and exclusive cars in the world.
For 2009 add, “the highest-flying car in the world,” for on June 6-7 the Greenwich Concours will unveil for car enthusiasts for the first time what television and the popular press have called “The Amazing Flying Car.” Carl Dietrich, CEO of Terrafugia, which designed and built the craft, which they’ve named Transition, more carefully and precisely describes the Transition as a “roadable aircraft,” for it is a sophisticated two-place 115-mph airplane with a 10,000-foot ceiling that, upon landing, can fold up its wings and transform into a car in just 30 seconds at the touch of a button.
During the weekend of June 6 and 7 it will occupy center stage on the Greenwich Concours show field that includes classic Dusenbergs, Auburns, custom-bodied Mercedes, historic race cars, present-day supercars, rare motorcycles, and – floating close by – classic yachts, such as the America’s Cup contender America II.
There will be two vintage Detroit Electric cars, a 1911 and a 1914 model shown by Concours entrants, in counterpoint to the new high-performance Tesla electric roadster – that can hit 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds! The most significant difference brought about in a century of technological advances is the high-tech batteries in the Tesla.
Among the special displays for the 2009 Greenwich Concours d’Elegance will be a circle of Morgans to mark the 100th Anniversary of Morgan. With great help from the members of the 3/4 Morgan Group, over 20 of the iconic British roadsters, including a large number of the Pre-WWII trykes, the oldest being a 1928, have been brought together.
Mini, too, will be celebrating an anniversary – its 50th – and MINI USA will be serving complimentary birthday cake to everyone who visits its pavilion displaying its new convertible.
And, on a special test track at the Concours, Volvo will be demonstrating its new XC60 that features its “City Safety” automatic braking system. Designed to prevent rear-ender accidents by distracted drivers, the XC60’s sensors will detect if the car ahead of you has stopped and, should you fail to slow down, will apply the brakes automatically before you hit the stopped car ahead of you.
Bruce and Genia Wenerstrom,founders and co-chairs have created a format for the Greenwich Concours d’Elegance that is unique, for itis actually two separate concours – American makes are shown on Saturday and imported marques on Sunday – plus a major auction of collector cars and automobilia by Bonhams, the noted international auction company, on Sunday. There are approximately 150 cars on display each day, ranging from 1900 to the present, plus a selection of vintage motorcycles, a select in-the-water display of significant wood-hulled boats, and – usually – a vintage aeroplane.
Automobile Magazine is the Title Sponsor of the Greenwich Concours, Motor Trend a supporting sponsor, and AmeriCares, the renowned international relief organization, is the charitable beneficiary.
One of the reasons for the great popularity of the Greenwich Concours is the extraordinary range of activities for spectators to enjoy. Both days show a circle of Supercars, a gallery of automotive artists and authors; demonstrations and workshops; delightful alfresco dining, both casual and elegant; and the fun of being able to look over – and often try out – the newest offerings of such sponsor companies as
Mercedes-Benz, Maybach, Bentley, Lexus, Maserati, Ferrari, Bugatti, Rolls-Royce, Infiniti, Smart, Mini, and Tesla.
Another reason is the stunning beauty of its site, Roger Sherman Baldwin Park, a verdant peninsula at the head of Greenwich Harbor, which affords cooling sea breezes and a delighful setting for alfresco lunches. alfresco lunches.
The Greenwich Concours America and the Concours International are open from 10am to 5pm of Saturday and Sunday. The admission is $20 per day, or $30 for a two-day pass, and children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. Parking is free, and food service is available on site. The dates for 2009 are June 6 and 7, rain or shine.
The ease of getting to the Concours also contributes to its popularity, for it’s immediately off Exit 3 of I-95, and within a block of the train station with express service from New York. And, within walking distance, is Greenwich Avenue – the Rodeo Drive of the East – with all of its many restaurants, antique shops, luxury stores, and numerous boutiques. Hotels, ranging from modest to ultra-luxe, are also close by. The Concours web site, www.greenwichconcours.com includes a map, driving directions, and contact information.
In short, for car enthusiasts, Greenwich represents heaven on wheels.