By Ronda Racha Penrice

There’s something about the Acura TL that makes it a perennial favorite among car buyers. While it’s not as pricey as some other vehicles that those of a certain income can easily afford, its style and performance make it just as worthy. This is certainly the case with the 2012 Acura TL Tech which typically clocks in at just over $40,000, a bargain compared to its higher-priced competitors.

Great looks always attract attention and the 2012 Acura TL is as head-turning as ever. The 2012 version has actually been streamlined a bit from the 2011 edition so it fits in even more. For example, during this acquaintance phase, it traveled well to Atlanta Symphony Hall where the remarkable Ledisi was headlining her own tour and to Atlanta real estate developer Lee Najjar’s house where our faves Mekhi Phifer, Larenz Tate and Omar Byrd, among many others, were gathered for Casino Royale, the kick-off event for the Sixth Annual Jaden’s Ladder Fairway Affair and Golf Tournament hosted by New York Yankees player Andruw Jones and his wife Nicole.

Even when flanked by Beamers, Ranges and Benzes, the 2012 Acura TL holds its own. A lot of that credit goes to its sporty and stylish exterior. It’s easy to forget that it’s a sedan actually but that makes it even better.  A sporty-looking car that drives well and is roomy is definitely a winner because it allows the driver to look adventurous while still being responsible.

Inside, it doesn’t stop. Janet Jackson’s “Control” is a fitting theme for the center console. The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition is impressive and, of course, the push button start is always a pleasure. Who doesn’t love simply stepping up to the door with the key in a pocket or purse and having it unlock itself?

The blind spot indicator is another cool perk. When another car approaches, an image of a full car with a slash mark and part of another car shows up in the little corner of the side mirrors. It’s both helpful and discreet. And, thanks to the Driver Recognition Memory Seat, never worry about another driver disrupting your driver settings in that comfortable leather seat. There’s also the must-have rearview camera in addition to the 440-watt, 10-speaker surround sound system that makes the standard XM radio service sound even sweeter.

Under the hood, the performance of the V6 engine is maximized by the 6-Speed Automatic Transmission with Sequential SportShift. On the highway, the 2012 Acura TL Tech gets a fuel-friendly 29 mpg and 20 in the city.

As always, the Acura TL delivers maximum wow without breaking the bank, making it an attractive buy, even for those with super deep pockets. After all, exercising preference is the real American way.

Weaving her way through the endless traffic of new cars, our Atlanta-based contributor Ronda Racha Penrice test drives the best of the best in automotive innovation. Always “On the Move,” Ronda has even been known to pull her bumper du jour into some of the hottest destinations accessible by wheels. Catching her isn’t easy, though, unless it’s on UPTOWNmagazine.com.

By Kimatni D. Rawlins, Automotive Rhythms

It was an exciting flight to Pula, Croatia to experience and drive Bentley’s 2012 Continental GTC. Not long ago the country was engaged in a fierce war. An undiscovered landmark on the European map, Croatia is full of energetic tourism and is geographically one of the most extraordinary locations I’ve ever laid eyes on. Our stay in Rovinj at the Hotel Montel Mulini off the Adriatic Sea was a picture perfect rendition of what you would see on the Travel Channel. Croatia is also one of the few parts of the world where you can find delectable truffles. (In case you’re ever on Jeopardy, here’s a fun fact: the world record for the largest truffle was recorded here.)

On the eve of our drive tour through Croatia, Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive, Wolfgang Dürheimer, briefed us on the company’s history and presented the second generation Continental GTC. He spoke with great passion and vigor. And after driving the $212,800 super convertible, I can truly relate to his enthusiasm. Simply put, the GTC is open-top luxury redefined.

It’s been five years since the first GTC was launched, so you can imagine the amount of new technology and sophistication instilled into every aspect of the vehicle. The formula begins with a 6-liter, twin-turbocharged W12 engine with 567 horsepower and 516 lb.-ft. of torque available up to 2000 rpm. W.O. Bentley came from a railroad engineering background and preferred powerful, high capacity engines. Today, the company is still keen on keeping with this philosophy, though an 8-cylinder will soon be on the way. The GTC’s rapid acceleration capability was evident when we needed to pass several slower moving vehicles on open roads. Like tennis phenomenon Serena Williams, the engine to vehicle size combination is utterly powerful, quick and a bit intimidating; while also being simultaneously charming and tranquil. It is possible to achieve 11 city and 19 highway mpg in your GTC, which can also operate on ethanol fuel, though mileage will decline somewhat. Full-time AWD is standard, as is the new QuickShift transmission (borrowed from Bentley’s Supersports models) that allows for double downshifts. Track width has been increased and available 21” wheels added to empower the GTC with a dominant stance. A programmable air suspension and adjustable springs (comfort or sport) allows the driver to manipulate the vehicle’s ride quality to his or her liking. Additionally, 0 to 60 mph clicks off in 4.5 seconds –almost like some of your favorite two-door sports cars!

By Kimatni D. Rawlins, Automotive Rhythms

They say, “good things come to those who wait.” It’s the simplest proverb in the English language eulogizing the virtue of patience. And, it’s exactly what connoisseurs of high-performance Bravarian sports sedans have to endure before moving to the ownership stage. Is it because “M” is the most powerful letter in the alphabet, or that it equates to the lethal performance division of BMW? Is a two-year wait worth its weight in gold? Maybe so, but then there are those who care less about context and logic and more about experience and reason. In other words, drop the subjective theories and pass the keys please!

“All I want to do is drive an M5,” is a very popular philosophy, almost cult-like. Whether it’s the latest fifth generation model, with multitudes of new technological features and mechanical innovations, or the iconic M5 (E28) from 1984 with 286 horsepower, the fascination over the capabilities of M Brand vehicles has always automatically identified them as mavericks of the industry. For starters, the basic premise of BMW 5 Series models already begins with a performance orientation that allows gentlemen and ladies alike to experience not only the executive aptitude, but sporty personas of the German sedan. Once these qualities have been engineered into the M5, a bevy of illustrious transformations take place to quell the insatiable desires of any potential or current M owner.

Lexus has become such a part of the automotive landscape that sometimes it’s hard for it to truly stand out. That’s so not the case with the 2011 GS350.

Like most Lexus cars, the GS350 has a distinctive look. Only here, it’s more eye-catching. It’s as if the power oozes out into the exterior.  Instead of a quiet luxury, the GS350 screams with performance.

Normally, a four-door sedan isn’t expected to pull race-car duty on the highway but, luckily, the GS350 didn’t get that memo. Because the handling is just that good, zipping in and out of traffic just becomes natural.

Sensors in the front and back bumpers power the intuitive parking assist feature, which alerts its driver as to how close the car is to other objects or vehicles, keeping it dent-free. Thanks to SmartAccess, never take that key out: a simple touch of the handle opens the car and just push the button to start the car. This feature also extends to the trunk, eliminating the circus-worthy balancing act of juggling the key to open the trunk without dropping those trunk-stuffers.

As with all Lexus vehicles, safety is a top priority so, here, dual front airbags as well as driver and front passenger knee airbags are in place in the event of an accident while Safety Connect provides automatic collision notification.

To enhance safety further, the luxury value edition includes the increasingly more valuable back-up camera as well as navigation and an XM subscription. The Lexus Pre-Collision System and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which means you automatically keep a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you, is also included.

Comfort-wise, the leather seats are heated in the front. In addition to automated dual climate control inside, there are dual heated outside mirrors. The one-touch open/close moonroof is also a nice feature while the HomeLink Universal Transceiver can be programmed with security gates or garage openers, bringing a nice close to any day.

With a mpg of 18 in the city and 25 on the highway, the GS350 has good fuel economy. MSRP begins at $47,950. Throwing in goodies like the Luxury Value Edition and Rear Spoiler can bring it to a cool $51, 754.

Overall, the 2011 GS350 is a winner because you can get your speed racer on with style and grace.

Yes, 2012 is going to be a great year, especially if you spend it in the all-new, ultra-sexy and highly functional Audi A7. Whispered to be Audi’s answer to the Porsche Panamera, the A7 will probably have more takers.

Don’t get me wrong. I absolutely adore the Panamera but it doesn’t move everyone. I seriously doubt that’s the case with the Audi A7; there’s just something about it that can please a lot of the people most of the time.

If you’re single and looking for an impressive ride that speaks to how hard you work to afford the finer things in life, then the A7 is your car. And, if you have a family but don’t want the typical, we’ve-been-beat-down-by-growing-up-and-accepting-responsibility ride, then the A7 is definitely your car too.

A new entry class for Audi, the A7 is a sleek hatchback that seats four. If needed, it also has the storage capabilities of a station wagon. Simply fold the rear seats forward. A mere touch of a button lifts the rear hatch, making loading up a breeze.

Backtracking to the A7’s sex appeal, the headlights easing back into the body gives it a flirty, fast-ride flair. The signature four rings even appear more distinctive. Sitting low to the ground further enhances its sports car bravado. Actually, the overall contour of the exterior is a testament to fine craftsmanship.

In keeping with Audi’s performance-driven reputation, the A7 doesn’t limp along either. It goes from 0 to 60 in 5.4 seconds and tops out at 130 mph with no signs of distress. Turning is effortless too, a joy even. Gas mileage is a pocket-friendly 18 mpg in the city and an impressive 28 on the highway.

Taking our technology-filled lives into account, Audi connect means look for a Wi-Fi Hotspot no more because it’s literally in the car. So, a parked A7 easily transforms into a mobile office for busy professionals on the go. And work is never an excuse for a passenger to back out of a road trip either. With laptop in hand, just work along the way. If that weren’t enough, Google Earth™ has been integrated into the navigation system plus there’s Google™ Local Search.

Base price starts at $59,250 but goodies like moonlight blue metallic paint, a Bose® surround sound system, 19-inch wheels as well as front and rear parking sensors with back-up camera on the one I drove can push the price to $68,830. It’s probably one of the few cars on the market, however, that’s worth every penny. It’s not every day you get sexy and functional in one complete package. So, when it comes to that question, the Audi A7 definitely has the answer.

Weaving her way through the endless traffic of new cars, our Atlanta-based contributor Ronda Racha Penrice test drives the best of the best in automotive innovation. Always “On the Move,” Ronda has even been known to pull her bumper du jour into some of the hottest destinations accessible by wheels. Catching her isn’t easy, though, unless it’s on UPTOWNmagazine.com.

Place a daunting task in the face of any Land Rover vehicle and it will comply with ease, while skillfully showcasing its physical capability, durability and go-anywhere mobility. This was the case during an off-roading session in Scotland with the new LR4 model. We crossed rivers, scaled steep slopes, muscled over boulders and slid down muddy hills with complete control. What can I say, it’s in their nature, and has been since 1948 when Land Rover developed the original Series 1. Yet, as history has told us many times over, the moment to pass along the torch has arrived. With that very point in mind, a new set of concepts have been manifested for the “world traveler” in the form of the Land Rover DC100 and DC100 Sport.

It’s not easy replacing a vehicle that’s been a brand hallmark for 60 years. And though the DC100 is not a solid confirmation of what to expect in 2015 for Land Rover, it does convey the message that the British SUV maker is ready to make a progressive move. The vehicle’s nomenclature is simple. “DC” equates to Defender Concept with the “100” denoting the length of wheelbase. The DC100 Sport, aka “cool” is the active, convertible variation of the concept while the DC100, aka “tool” is the ultra-aggressive, utilitarian adaptation of the vehicle. Original and clever layout cues such as three-across seating and folding windshields have made their way into these concepts.

This summer, the ninth annual The Quail luxury and vintage auto show rolled into Carmel, California.

Held during Pebble Beach Motor Week, this exclusive event played hosts to some of the world’s most sought after exotics, sports cars, classics and much more. Think GranTurismo,  Aventador, Veyron, vintage Bentleys and more. Automotive Rhythms takes us on a full tour.

Inhale deeply and dare to dream if you will.

Bugatti Veyron

As luck would have it, there was a flash thunderstorm blowing through New York City during my Range Rover Sport HSE test drive.

Up and down FDR Drive, there were frighteningly deep puddles and, for miles on end, all I could see was the very faint outline of the taillights directly in front me—and that’s only when huge splashes of water from passing cars weren’t crashing into the windshield.

It was a treacherous driving day for most, but I wasn’t the slightest bit tense.

Sure, the Range Rover Sport HSE is a very pretty SUV and it has plenty of curb appeal, but what most people don’t realize is that all of the vehicles in the Range Rover line are built like nimble tanks. I was lucky enough to see this for myself recently when I joined a group of Range Rover owners on a trip into Utah’s Moab desert. While there, I learned that every Range Rover that rolls off the assembly line can handle just about any terrain.

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Too bad it was literally raining cats and dogs and more cats and dogs for a drive that’s about seven hours. With a great time to be had, however, rain was a poor obstacle. Besides, what better way to see what a car can do than a wet road trip?

Thank goodness the wipers worked very well. The rear window wiper is genius since having front and rear visibility in a monsoon is so very important. Rain aside, the Terrain mostly glided though Interstates 85, 65 and 10. The leather seats were very comfortable and so was the leather-wrapped steering wheel, which comes with audio controls by the way. And, despite the weather, the sound system boasting Pioneer Premium 8 speakers never faltered.

Almost there, in virtual darkness mind you, the navigation system, aided by OnStar, became a true friend as it not only warned of intense construction on I-10 near New Orleans but, most importantly, steered us there safely.

Once in New Orleans, the InterContinental on St. Charles became home base. The traditional character of the InterContinental suited me just fine. It was just old enough and modern enough, sort of like New Orleans itself. A quick shower later, it was off to Tales After Dark presented by B&B Liqueur at the Royal Sonesta where their Irvin Mayfield’s Jazz Playhouse was transformed into a speakeasy.

Do note that due to the high liquor consumption that goes with Tales, the GMC Terrain remained parked. Luckily, everything was walking distance so, in the morning, it was the Kahlua Coffee Bar, followed by a “Rum Cocktails” tasting room from Bacardi at host site Hotel Monteleone, then the Leblon Cachaca liquor truck, the beautiful Cupcake (Vodka) Lounge at the Royal Sonesta and, back at Hotel Monteleone, the Angostura Bitters luncheon, which had the best marinated chicken breast.

From there, it was off to experience Caorunn Gin, a handcrafted Scottish variety relatively new to the U.S., before hitting the best happy hour ever with Diageo. Try 40 bartenders set up at The Cabildo (The Louisiana State Museum) mixing up “Cocktails From Around the World” complete with a drink passport to document liquid adventures that included Africa and Asia. Even though it was hard to top, the night ended with the Bombay Sapphire VIP Party at the House of Blues.

The original plan was to stay until Saturday afternoon but an emergency in Atlanta cut the trip short. So, back on the road Friday afternoon, the GMC Terrain maintained its composure through even more rain. The brakes were stellar and the lights never failed to shine brightly plus the Terrain accelerated and decelerated with ease. It is unfortunate there weren’t more people on the trip because the backseats come with dual-screen DVD and headsets and that has to be a perfect feature for families and groups.

Highway driving rarely calls for backing up so the rearview camera was on vacation. At an estimated 24 mpg, gas came in at under $200 roundtrip. And though MSRP starts at $24,995, a version like the New Orleans-bound Terrain is $37,145.

Overall, the 2011 GMC Terrain proved to be a true road warrior worth its weight on the highway.

Weaving her way through the endless traffic of new cars, our Atlanta-based contributor Ronda Racha Penrice test drives the best of the best in automotive innovation. Always “On the Move,” Ronda has even been known to pull her bumper du jour into some of the hottest destinations accessible by wheels. Catching her isn’t easy, though, unless it’s on UPTOWNmagazine.com.

Something about the Equus that just commands attention. On first glance, people are not quite sure what it is because the sleekly-designed exterior is hard to ignore, especially if it’s in black noir pearl. So don’t be surprised if you’re stopped often–at the light, in a parking lot, wherever—answering inquiries about the Equus.

Inside the car, perks await. Putting the controls to the seat on the door is genius. It’s so much easier to navigate and probably safer too. Having a massage therapist in the driver seat is the best perk of all though. Yes, it sounds crazy but it’s a very relaxing feature, especially in trying situations. While it’s easy to see how some would label it distracting, it actually is a huge plus in the war of calming the nerves.

Some reviews have criticized the Equus for only coming with a V8 engine but most potential Equus drivers will not mind that at all. At 15 mpg in the city and 23 on the highway, fuel economy isn’t the greatest but it’s not deal-breaking horrific either. Oh and it must be noted that Hyundai is indeed blazing new trails by putting its owner’s manual on an iPad. Maintenance can even be scheduled on it.

All in all, the Hyundai Equus Signature is a winner. Luxury driving at roughly $58,000 or slightly above is just hard to beat in any economy.

Weaving her way through the endless traffic of new cars, our Atlanta-based contributor Ronda Racha Penrice test drives the best of the best in automotive innovation. Always “On the Move,” Ronda has even been known to pull her bumper du jour into some of the hottest destinations accessible by wheels. Catching her isn’t easy, though, unless it’s on UPTOWNmagazine.com.