Category: Test Driven

Test Driving the best cars in the Arab region from SUV, Luxury Cars, Super Cars, Sports Cars and more.

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Insane Video for the 800 horsepower Fenyr on the track

The New Fenyr SuperSport is the latest addition to the W Motors line-up of Hypercars Focusing purely on performance, power and speed. Limited to only 25 units per year, reaching a total of 100 units worldwide, the carbon fiber masterpiece perfertly balances advanced aerodynamics engineering with the aggresive W Motors aesthetics conceived by the Dubai-based W Motors Design Studio.

It is no secret that W Motors makes the most beautiful and powerful cars, and what really sets it apart is its Emirati identity. Last spring, we got the opportunity to fully drive one of W Motors Cars “The Fenyr”. However, the test drive was a little bit limiting the full capacity of that wolf as it was performed on the streets of Dubai where speed limits are highly respected. We didn’t fully understand the power behind this machine until…

We were invited by W Motors during the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK to experience the VIP passenger ride and feel the true power of its Fenyr Super Sport on the Goodwood Hill Climb. The driver was a professional with several 24H Le Mans endurance titles. So how can we say no to such experience that will put us behind the wheels and feel firsthand the enormous power of this car?

We arrived at the super sports cars yard, overwhelmed by all the super and hyper cars there, one car stood out with its silky white color that was our ride. Wore the helmet and the right outfit and hopped in inside the Fenyr, as the engines roared and the checkered flag dropped announcing the start of the race; The Fenyr was first on the track which gave us an exhilarating experience as we rushed into the 0-100 KM/h under 2.8 sec you feel your soul leaving your body, to catch it up again as we reach the 200 KM/h in a blink of an eye. This wolf is capable of reaching a top speed of 400 km/h which honestly I don’t remember if we reached it or not as this experience was surreal.

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The Fenyr proved once more that with its twin-turbo 6-cylinder flat mid-engine upgraded by RUF, the experts in Porsche engine tuning, can compete and sometimes exceed the 12-cylinder Super Cars. The Fenyr engine is a 3.8-liter capable of producing 800 horsepower and 980 Nm or torque and if you don’t know what these figures mean all you have to do is watch the video.

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The perfect car for a cruise in nature: The Infiniti QX30

infiniti qx30

A long winter reigned over Lebanon this year, it wasn’t until April that the weather cleared out. This weekend, I looked outside my window and I could clearly see the birds singing, flowers blossoming and the aroma filled the air; it was definitely springtime.

I had to hit the road and was in a mood for a cruise alongside trees and the beautiful scenery of the Lebanese mountains and what would be the perfect car for such a cruise other than the Infiniti QX30.

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The Infiniti badge on the front grille defines the nature of the car, it is the definition of Japanese premium cars, QX means that this car is made for on-road driving with an adventurous side hidden in its gems, it may not be an extreme off-road vehicle but it has capabilities to give you the pleasure of discovering nature in its fine formats.

This small crossover equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged engine producing 210 horsepower delivered a smooth ride uphill while I was enjoying my favorite tunes on the Infiniti Infotainment System displaying all the info I needed on my 7” screen and pumping my beats on the clear sound 10 Speakers Bose system.

All of a sudden, an herb of sheep crossed my path and gazed into the human eye-shaped headlights “Infiniti signature lights” and I felt like nature is calling and had to take that turn into the offroad path at that specific moment for that sense of freedom that you can only get with unplanned trips.

Entering that pathway, I couldn’t but think out loud, discovering new roads in nature is simply satisfying but doing so indulged with premium leather, stitching, and the premium material cabin is another Infiniti experience.

One thing I regretted while driving the Infiniti QX30, is the fact that I was alone enjoying that spring experience as despite the fact of being a small crossover, this vehicle is more than capable of fitting a group of friends into its cabin sitting comfortably and still have enough space to carry their backpacks needed for a hiking ride or some time alone away from the noise of the city.

On my way back to civilization, I came to realize that the Infiniti QX30 is not just made for off-roading and adventure seekers, it is also the perfect car for the city with a very comfortable steering and suspension systems turning your ride into a joy able experience, adding to it the tons of technological features that will surely make your life easier such as Start/Stop function, Cameras….

If you are looking for a small premium crossover and love that aggressive yet elegant looks of an Infiniti then the QX30 is your choice.

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Adventure in Austria onboard the new Jeep Wrangler 2019

The adventure with Jeep began about 77 years ago and continued over the years evolving to become the synonym of adventure, freedom, and authenticity.

We are all familiar with the legendary Jeep Wrangler and classify it as King of off-roading, however, the all-New Jeep Wrangler is a whole new story or should I say a whole new chapter in the book of Jeep’s adventure tales.

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The new Jeep Chapter starts with our story seeking adventure and entertainment and what would be a better choice for such experience other than Camp Jeep’s location in the wild forest of Austria?

We landed in Austria around noon time and were truly exhausted from the overnight flight, the journey began as we moved from the airport towards Camp Jeep’s location. Once off the highway, the roads started to get narrower and the tire marks on the muddy roadsides started to get bigger reciting the Jeepers’ tale from the night before, our hearts started to beat faster as the adrenaline rushed into our veins with every sign we pass along the way as we came closer to the camp.

Our driver dropped us at the gate, the huge sign said “Welcome to Jeep Camp”, and just like a kid coming home from school on that first day of vacation, I threw out my luggage and took my camera and strolled among the all-new Jeep Wrangler models parked inside the camp. Gazing around, I was thrilled to come across a magnificent heavily modified Mopar Jeep with 707 horsepower and more importantly going through a trip back in time in the history corner with the 1941 Willis and other historical milestone vehicles by the American Manufacturer Jeep.

Our joy didn’t last much as we were informed that driving the New Jeep Wrangler will be taking place on the next day. So as soon as we returned to our hotel and without any hesitation, I jumped into my world of dreams fast forwarding the hours to the next day. At first sight of sunrise, I was the first one to be on set and ready for the new Jeep Wrangler adventure in the forest of Austria.

But first, I couldn’t but mention the beautiful mountainous view in the morning with the golden sunrise reflecting a must-have painting on the exterior of the new wrangler.

At first glance, the exterior of the all-new Wrangler has kept the authenticity of the Wrangler’s iconic designs with the round headlights and the instantly recognizable seven slots grill however with a closer look and for those who are Wrangler freaks, the difference is noticeable. The Jeep Wrangler is now bolder, sportier and most importantly still screams wrangler in its iconic design.

Perhaps the most important change in the new Jeep Wrangler is the twist in functionalities, especially that now you can alter its shape easier and faster with the adoption of new hinges for doors and roof panels.

You can not start an adventure without removing the doors, windshields and roof panels, the doors come now with lightweight aluminum and can be easily removed with the new hinges screws, the windshield can be folded as easy as it comes with the fact that you can keep the rearview mirror useable after removing the windshield, the roof panels especially the rear ones are now one click away from total freedom.

Now that the exterior is set, converted and ready for adventure, we started packing the needed tools and equipment for the adventure. The All-New Wrangler 2019 has now a wide variety of smart storage solutions in door panels nets, new locations for cup holders, several phone storage locations, under-floor storage and places you won’t even believe it can be used to hide stuff or keep it safe when roof panels are up, what I liked personally and was really handy is the presence of the Screws and bolts organizer where I got a safe place to store and organize all the screws that I removed when unboxing my wrangler.

Having said that and now ready for the roads, one thing comes to our mind: we are now on our way to hit the dirt, mud, rocks, water and whatever nature throws in our way so we need to be ready to receive some mud, sand, and water inside the cabin, and since now the interior cabin is more advanced in technology with the new Uconnect infotainment system bragging its capabilities on the 8.4 inch screen and also with the adoption  of high-quality finishes materials, will you be able to enjoy it to the max without worrying about the aftermath? Well, Wrangler’s engineers added a final touch to protect the cabin’s high-quality materials with fully washable interior and a protective rubber cover for the information and entertainment system screen, so now nothing can stop us.

Let the adventure begin on aboard the New Jeep Wrangler with the Engine Start button first appearance on a wrangler and off we go. We started our journey on some paved roads and here you can clearly notice the driving sensation from the previous generation, the cabin is much quieter and the driving is much softer. However, the test drive is for the off-roading capabilities, we already knew what we were in for but nevertheless we had to go for it: mud, rocks, trees, dirt, water, wind and fire and all the elements of nature couldn’t stop us from having fun, laughter, adventure, and freedom. The mechanical capabilities of the New Wrangler are no different from the previous generation with the PentaStar V6 3.6-liter engine setup with off-roading systems capable of overcoming any obstacle. Additionally, the new wrangler came equipped with an electronic front swing bar for more flexibility especially on sandy dunes and rocks.

The result is that the All-New Jeep Wrangler 2019 is more than ever capable of delivering both joys of improved on-road calmer experience and off-road rugged driving with a more modern design that remains authentic to it true origins equipped with outdoor freedom, advanced safety, and technological features.

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Alfa Romeo Stelvio unconventional SUV

Each person has his/her own day start routine; from some, it is the morning coffee and off to work, for others, a newspaper is a must before anything and for some breakfast is the most important meal of the day and off we go. For me, I start every day in a different way.

Today I have decided to have an unusual day start. After my morning coffee and breakfast, it was boxing time. This may look strange for some and unusual for others, but I consider myself an unusual person and a routine breaker girl. To complement my today’s unconventional experience, I had to drive an unconventional SUV from the Italian manufacturer: Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce .

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Conventionally, The SUV is perceived as either a family car or businessmen’s vehicle or adventure-oriented, however, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce, in my opinion, broke the conventional routine and the traditional positioning of an SUV: it is the abovementioned and so much more. And here’s why!

Italian Fashion designers have a worldwide known reputation for being the best in the Fashion industry and are always the most elegant and most distinctive among all other designers. This reputation flows as well to the universe of car designs and is clearly reflected in the exterior shaping and curvy lines of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce. The Stelvio received a unique and an unusual yet daring and sporty design that is attractive for both men and women, young and young at heart and to whom ever is fascinated by the unique appeal of the Italian taste.

The flowing lines from the front to the rear give the Stelvio its sporty character and, of course, the relatively lowered rear with dual exhaust and the aggressive front act as a reminder that this is an offspring of excellent sports cars by the Italian manufacturer “Alfa Romeo”

Personally, I was attracted by the two chrome tailpipes integrated into the rear bumper and the shark look-alike front. It gave the Alfa Romeo Stelvio an offensive look with style yet elegant drawing attention of all passbyers.

As for the interior cabin, it is a whole new story. Even the word “Italian design with distinction” does not give this cabin Justice. The combination of the brushed aluminum with the Carbon Fiber touch, the Piano Black, white stitching on black leather give the interior an elegant and sporty style. I am sure that it charms all types of clientele.

The interior architecture reflects the same contradiction of the exterior design, it imitates the outward appearance of sportiness and elegance in terms of design and functionality clearly seen in the craftsmanship of the center console, dashboard, seat stitching with Alfa Romeo logo on the headrest and the multi-functional D-Shaped steering wheel.

Moving forward, the first sign of being unorthodox in the Stelvio is the presence of the Start/Stop button on the steering wheel and not the conventional dashboard placement, a different start to a distinguished day.

And the journey began from city roads moving up towards great scenery in the Lebanese mountains, the roads started to get narrower and the turns started to get faster, I was enjoying my new Stelvio equipped with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine connected to the 8-speed automatic gearbox producing 280 Horsepower however what gave me that safe feeling and sporty curve turning was the Q4 suspension system that also helped out on some unpaved roads we had to take to reach our final destination.

Even though the trip was long in distance however the Infotainment system “Alpha Connected” kept us connected to the outside world and at the same time we got the chance to enjoy our own music.

Taking the trip up the mountains in Lebanon can only be accompanied by nature’s flipping weather that added more excitement to our day. The vision began to weaken as the atmosphere started to be filled with fog however the B-Xenon headlights stepped in to restore the vision and give us a feeling of comfort and safety.

What I forgot to mention is the DNA Driving modes system present in most modern Alfa Romeo cars including the Stelvio, The DNA has contributed significantly to either adding more driving fun with the Dynamic (D) mode that turns the car into a sporty vehicle for full enjoyment as we did on the quick turns or the “natural” mode for the most comfortable and relaxed driving style on the coastal roads or in the city, but the main reason for mentioning it at this point is the change in weather and the drops of rain that changed the roads conditions to slippery so “All Weather” mode was on for a safer and more entertaining experience despite the crazy weather of the mountainous area.

Finally, we have reached our unusual destination; a golf course on the top of the mountain with light rain and fog, it was super exciting. To experience something for the first time is always filled with joy, excitement, and feelings to last forever. To experience the Alfa Romeo Stelvio the first SUV by the Italian manufacturer is not different and proved to be not your ordinary SUV and worthy of holding the Alfa Romeo Badge.

After the end of this unusual day filled with unconventional experiences onboard an unusual SUV, I have one question for you: when was the last time you did something for the first?

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Arab Motor World takes the Infiniti QX50 for a spin

When we’ve heard that the all-new INFINITI QX50 has arrived at RYMCO INFINITI showrooms across Lebanon. we had to take the car for a spin just to get it to know it better but we promise you a more in-depth drive very soon.

The all new QX50 has been created to fully meet the needs of today’s premium car buyers and to deliver on their desire to own the latest masterpiece of technology. The QX50 introduces what is possibly the most innovative internal combustion engine on the market at this time. Considered by many industry observers the holy grail of internal combustion engines, the company’s engineers succeeded in bringing a world’s first to the market for INFINITI: variable compression technology. The VC-Turbo engine delivers the strong and convincing performance of a V6 and the fuel economy of a 4-cylinder engine, transforming on demand and based on the input of the drivers. Instantly adapting to their needs, the VC-Turbo lets them harness the exhilarating performance of 268 hp and 380 nm at 4,400 rpm of torque.

The QX50 appeals to buyers who seek a unique combination of interior space, power, efficiency, hand-crafted quality, modern design and effortless on-road performance.

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Developed on an entirely new platform, the QX50 features the sophisticated and assuring INFINITI Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. Drive Assist technologies react instantaneously to critical driving situations, supporting drivers with a range of empowering ‘co-pilot’ features and enabling them to be in total control at all times.

The aerodynamically efficient exterior remains true to the QX50 and QX Sport Inspiration concepts, bringing a fresh interpretation of INFINITI’s distinctive ‘Powerful Elegance’ design language to the SUV segment.

Combining a confident SUV stance with intelligent packaging, and deep character lines with INFINITI signature design cues, the appearance of the QX50 highlights the influence of human artistry in the design process and emphasizes the car’s premium quality.

The unrivalled interior space, artistic application of high quality materials and advanced craftsmanship make the cabin as welcoming and comfortable as it is flexible. Driver-centric, yet passenger-minded, the QX50 offers a package of technologies to enhance the driving experience, while a calm, connected and relaxing cabin features an asymmetric layout – designed to meet different needs of the driver and the passengers.

Our Test drive for the Infiniti QX50 this time was a 24-hour cruise and we were really impressed with what we saw and drive.

The full review and the journey onboard the Infiniti QX50 is yet still to come so wait for it very soon.

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The Porsche 718 Boxster GTS a future blast from the past

Porsche 718 Boxster GTS Test Drive

Our story begins today from the late 1950s when the German manufacturer Porsche decided to enter the race arena with a revolutionary car: the “718”.

The “718” of the 1950’s shocked all race enthusiasts by being able to out-race its competitors equipped with a relatively smaller four-cylinder mid-engine. This phenomenon car created a new milestone in the history of automotive racing and manufacturing.

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Fast forward 40 years later to 1996, Porsche introduced the first generation of Boxster, this particular car is one of the main factors that contributed to the financial recovery of Porsche at that time.

To be followed later on with three successful generations of Porsche Boxster, out of which is this 4th generation amazing machine.

Taking our time machine back to the current present, we have decided to experiment the legend of the 718 mixed with the lucky charm of the Boxster adding to it the GTS badge: “The Porsche 718 Boxster GTS”, and there is no better place to go enjoy this experience other than the empty paved desert roads of Dubai.

Our Journey in Dubai began with a Rendez-vous with Two Porsche Boxster fanatics and owners trying to understand the passion behind their attachment to the Boxster previous generations: Mario Maatouq owner of a Porsche Boxster generation II and Melanie Schindler owner of Boxster Generation III GTS and of course I had to show up with the fourth generation Porsche 718 Boxster GTS.

As expected, stories were swapped across about our passion for the Porsche brand especially that I’m a Porsche fanatic myself and the life they lived inside their Porsche noting that both of them own several Porsche as well.

After going through the history of the Boxster and trying to prove which is the best generation, we took a pause and decided to put the 3 cars next to each other for a visual evolution of this amazing machine.

If I want to talk about the car I’m driving: the 4th generation of Boxster, it was clear that this generation has the slickest appearance with the adoption of “Sport design” by Porsche backed up by its completely new front bumper and the latest technology and design for the front and tail headlights.

Paradoxically, although Mario and Milani were dazzled by the new design, Mario was hooked on his second generation Boxster that for him had a unique family value. Melanie insisted that she is somehow connected to her third-generation Boxster from first sight despite the fact that they own several Porsche cars at home. However, the fourth generation had a different appeal for everybody and from here our journey begins.

Once inside the cabin, you cannot but notice that the car you are driving is a GTS by all means. The Porsche 718 Boxster GTS features two standard Sport Seats Plus engraved with the GTS logo on the headrest, a GTS logo on the RPM dials reminding you at all times that this is not an ordinary vehicle. In addition, and for that extra athletic design the Porsche 718 Boxster GTS cockpit comes with Alcantara materials, carbon fiber, and brushed aluminum laid out on most cabin design parts.

The dream starts at the first engine spark as the “GTS” logo welcomes you on the TFT screen coped with a unique symphony emanating from that sporty exhaust system. In just a few seconds, I was pumped up and ready to roll joined by my two Porsche fellows with their 2nd and 3rd generation Boxster. Rooftop down, I was enjoying my time with the new “PCM” infotainment system keeping me company, entrained and connected at all times with the easy to use touch-screen as we cruise the urban side of Dubai.

Unfortunately, Mario and Melanie’s journey came to an end as we reached the last metropolitan scenery of Dubai and started to enter the empty free roads of the tranquil desert. The silence was torn by the thunder of the Boxster’s revving; I was living a performance experience like no other “within speed limits off course” that brought back the history of the legendary 718 in the 1950s taking its competitors by surprise with a smaller engine size.

A quick comparison between the third and fourth generation engines came as a surprise: the first is a 3.4-liter V6 engine and the second is a four-cylinder 2.5-liter turbocharger, however despite the smaller displacement, the 718 produced an additional 35 hp reaching a total of 365 horsepower and an acceleration of 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and a maximum speed of 290 km/h coped with the PDK gearbox.

On the drivability level, the adrenaline rush and action flairs don’t come only from engine performance, it is a combination of several factors that make the Boxster GTS one of the most stable vehicles in speeding cornering. In addition to the mid-car location engine, the complex systems of suspension and stability control using Porsche’s experience in racing give the driver an unprecedented sensation of joy. The 718 Boxster GTS comes equipped with Porsche Active Suspension System “PASM”, PSM Sport and PTV coped with a mechanical rear differential lock, allows aspiring drivers to get closer to the maximum vehicle limits without taking the risk of losing control.

For me, one of the most important features of the fourth generation is the “PTPA” application, allowing the driver to record driving data directly from the race ring on his smartphone and being able to share it on his social media accounts or even analyze his driving techniques.

And if that isn’t enough, for straight line racers like myself the “Launch control” function is what makes it all worthwhile and don’t get me started on that small button on the steering wheel “Sport Response button” that gets you all drooling to get the maximum rush for 20 seconds simulating Hollywood movies experience or even race games.

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Unprecedented luxury onboard the Rolls Royce Phantom 2018

Rolls Royce Phantom Luxury Cars Test Drive Arab Motor World

On every occasion and at every new release by the British Manufacturer Rolls-Royce, the same eternal question pops up: Do you think that Rolls-Royce Luxury vehicles are made to be self-driven or Chauffeur Driven?

So we took advantage of our presence in the United Arab Emirates, specifically in Dubai, to answer once and for all this eternal question.

Rolls Royce Phantom Luxury Cars Test Drive Arab Motor World (1)

Landing in Dubai for a short 8-hour trip and as a first timer in the city of dreams, I wanted to indulge myself in luxury and elegance but I didn’t know where to start. I initiated a call to my colleague Nabil and asked him to prepare a fast tour around the main landmarks of Dubai.

Stepping out of the hotel, I was immediately stunned with Super Cars and Luxury Cars gathered at the Hotel entrance, however, only one magnificent palatial mansion gleaming in front of my eyes in English white and elegant Tuscan Sun colors captured my attention. It was the 2018 Rolls Royce Phantom the icon of pure elegance and luxury.

Admiring this British Masterpiece moving slowly towards my direction, time froze for a moment as the handsome driver stepped out of the vehicle and gently with a hand gesture invited me in as he opens the doors with a poise. I was transported immediately to the Cinderella Fairytale waiting to step into her carriage for that unforgettable experience.

As the magical moment slips out, I just realized that the Rolls Royce Driver was none other than my colleague Nabil fulfilling his pledge to take me for an unforgettable drive around Dubai filled with Elegance and Luxury. Let the Journey begins.

The rear seat view in the Rolls Royce Phantom was beyond imagination, a fantastic experience that stimulates senses in every aspect. The comfort of the seats along with the luxury materials used from leather with tan and arctic white colors, Paldao veneer and other refined tissues simulate and even exceed any First-Class services. The 2018 Rolls Royce Phantom is luxury at its best.

Having said that, the Rolls Royce Phantom is designed to be the perfect luxury station for any businessmen or women as it comes heavily loaded with connectivity and controls guaranteed to save time and provide the perfect setup to conduct business efficiently.

For successful people, Business and leisure are a must to maintain creativity and excellence in life, the Rolls Royce Phantom is no stranger to that concept as the same connectivity and controls used for business can be implemented in leisure for an extraordinary entertaining experience. The Veneered Picnic Tables along with the folding screens and the astonishing controls of the full vehicle including the entertainment system provide you with a chance to unwind and relax in the rear seats in elegance and style. Taking it a step further, massage seats and reclining seating configuration as you admire the starlight headliner and rest your head on those RR Monogram hand-stitched on all Headrests after that long working day surely exceeds any 5-Star SPA experience.

Pampered in luxury onboard the Rolls Royce Phantom moving from one landmark to another around the busy streets of Dubai, I was intrigued to learn more about the other side of this luxurious mansion “The Driving Experience”. I turned to my colleague Nabil for that different point of view since he took the role of chauffeuring me for these few hours (in my opinion he didn’t seem to mind doing so, I mean he was driving a Rolls Royce Phantom).

The feedback from the cockpit was instant, the smile on his face says it all. The same look and feel of the rear seats are clearly reflected on the front seats as well. The luxury and elegance is laid out in every single detail of the Rolls Royce Phantom 2018 from Art Gallery to the famous Rolls Royce bespoke Watch…, I mean you can literally place your favorite painting or even diamond or Swarovski on the dashboard, our Phantom came with the Regatta Sails in Arctic White Gallery.

As for the driving sensation, the British chef d’oeuvre floats on the roads even on bumpy ones providing ultimate comfort for the driver as well as the passengers. the Rolls Royce comes fully loaded with countless driving assistance, safety and control systems guaranteeing a stress feel and enjoyable drive even on long trips. What captured Nabil’s attention was the newly developed suspension system for that extra comfort and the eight-speed ZF satellite connected gearbox. And Yes he affirmed: “Satellite connected gearbox” that actually receives information via satellite connectivity about the various types and elevation of terrains and automatically adjusts the torque and acceleration to eliminate any chance of discomfort during the journey.

“Now imagine the engine on the Rolls-Royce Phantom”, he added: “We are talking about a V 12-cylinder engine with a capacity of 6.75 liters Twin-Turbo Charged capable of generating 563 horsepower and a torque of 900 N/m @1700 RPM, the sound of that engine must be extremely loud”. In reality, I personally couldn’t hear the engine sound not even any road noise despite that the streets were busy and traffic surrounded us from every angle. Once more Nabil’s input cleared out the picture, the 2018 Rolls Royce Phantom has the best in class road noise reduction with improved glass isolation, 9 layers of paint and even specially designed tires filled with foam eliminating any chance of undesired noise trying to squeeze into the Phantom and disturbing your unwinding.

Lots of attention to details and features are built into this elegant palace, makes it really hard to answer that eternal question posed since the first Phantom was created in 1925.

So will you drive your Rolls Royce Phantom or have it chauffeur driven?

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Driving the most beautiful car in the world “Velar”

VELAR

Back in November 2017, and while cruising the Dubai Motor Show my eyes fell on the most beautiful creation ever made, it was love at first sight.

Her body is sculptured with perfection, smoothness and exactly how you imagine it will be. If I wanted to create the perfect creature this is how I would have done it. A charismatic appearance, athletic silhouette, just enough rounded curves to make it attractive without overdoing it, the perfect shape with a magnetic rear that you literally cannot take your eyes off it.

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So I came closer to her and ask about her name as she stood gracefully like a princess waiting for her prince charming for that first dance. The name by itself is glamorous and attractive it made me want to know her more. Let me stop here before my wife thinks I’m wooing one of the hostesses at the show. I was truly in love with the “Velar”.

Backing things up a bit, the Velar has one of the best designs in the world and has won several awards in that direction. Our Velar was coloured in one the most elegant colours a Flux Grey with Black Contrast roof and came with a burnished Copper Bumper accents, Range Roger badge on bonnets Vents with side vents, tailgate script for that extra sportiness. On top of that, it was equipped with a Matrix Laser LED headlights with Signature Daytime Running lights and coped with a 22” 9 Split-Spoke Style 9007 Diamond Turned finished. The Velar looks was out of this world.

Fast forward to our test drive, I took hold of the Velar keys and I was ready to drive this astonishing machine. The best part is when you click on the keys to open the door, the shaved handles pop out of the doors, I mean I did that phenomenon several times just to see how it opens and closes. The question is would you buy a car just for its handles? Well, I will.

Inside the cabin, it was a whole different story. Luxury, comfort and technology are what defines the interior of the Velar. The combination of colours of Nimbus/Ebony with Windsor leather and piano black with satin chrome defines the elegance within the Velar. The steering wheel by itself is a design prodigy with Satin Chrome gear shift pedals to enhance the sportier feel. Technology is purely defined by a 12.3” Interactive Driver Display and the Pro Duo touchscreen 10” high definition is the language of the future.

The Velar R-Dynamic came loaded with features that will make your life easier in every way such as enhanced navigation, infotainment and connectivity capabilities, Acoustic Laminated Windscreen, Solar Attenuating Glass, Infrared Absorbing Windscreen, 20-way heated and cooled memory, massage front seats with heated rear seats, Power Recline Rear seat, Split Armrest, Auto Dimming Rear View Mirror, illuminated metal front tread plates with R-Dynamic branding, Foot Pedal-metal Finish, Tailgate/boot lid-powered with Hands Free and most importantly for the best entertaining journey ever the Meridian Signature Sound System with 23 speakers including Subwoofer 1500 w output.

This SUV is not just a beautiful vehicle. It has comfort, future capabilities and most importantly driving capabilities that will surely surprise any car connoisseur. To prove its Off-roading and driving capabilities, we have decided to take the Velar on a desert Off-roading trip but with an aching heart, I mean why would you take such a beautiful sporty machine made to impress on tarmac roads out in the desert. So why we did it because we can and it can.

On sandy roads, the Velar performed incredibly. The 3.0-Liter V6 Supercharged engine coped with an 8-speed Automatic Transmission generating 357 HP was more than we needed to get through the sandy dunes of Dubai’s desert. Armed with the All-Terrain Progress Control (ATPC) – Terrain Response 2-, Twin-Speed Transfer Box (High/Low Range) and Active Rear Locking Differential nothing was capable of stopping us. Sand was flying from all sides and the Velar was moving sideways as we turned off the Electronic Traction Control (ETC). it was drifting and dune bashing with elegance.

Our trip on the sand was over and it was time to hit the tarmac again. Adrenaline pumping and closed roads are a superb combination, so we floored down the pedal and we were in for a surprise. I mean the Velar can do 0-100 Km/h in just 5.7 seconds very impressive for an SUV in its class. After the rush, we reached the highway heading towards the hotel and we were exhausted. Throughout the journey, the Velar basically drove itself and even facilitated the parking process since it comes loaded with driving assistance and safety systems exceeding any expectations set out for this SUV. The Velar comes equipped with Torque Vectoring by Braking, Dynamic Response, Adaptive Dynamic Low traction launch Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS), Anti-Locking Braking System (ABS), ESP, Roll Stability Control, Trailer Stability Assist (TSA), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Hill Descent Control (HDC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Electric Parking Brake, Electronic Air Suspension, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep assist, Driver Drowsiness Monitoring, Adaptive Cruise Control and queue assistant, Front and Rear Park Distance Sensor with visual display, rear parking aid Surround Camera System, Wade Sensing, Perpendicular Park Assist, Reverse Traffic Detection, Blind Sport monitoring, Closing Vehicle Sensing and so much more.

Our verdict on this SUV will be biased as we were truly madly deeply in love, we leave it up to you to decide if this the SUV of your dreams or not?

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