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1978 Porsche 911 Turbo 3.31967 Mercedes-Benz
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Mercedes-Benz USA Celebrates U.S. Mercedes-Benz Premieres the All-New CLA at the Grand Opening of Manhattan Flagship Dealership

NEW YORK (April 18, 2025) – Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) unveiled the highly anticipated all-new CLA during a milestone event celebrating both the vehicle’s U.S. premiere and the grand opening of its flagship dealership, Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan. The celebration marked a defining moment for the brand – taking a bold step forward in the evolution of its vehicle portfolio and the future of customer experience.

U.S. Premiere of the All-New CLA
With the U.S. debut of the all-new CLA, Mercedes-Benz reinforces its legacy of setting benchmarks and redefining standards. This new model introduces a new era of digital experience and efficiency, designed to cater to the needs of customers in every dimension: more space, more refinement, more comfort, more intelligence, and more efficiency. As the most intelligent and efficient Mercedes-Benz ever, the new CLA seamlessly integrates electric performance with a state-of-the-art digital experience, setting unprecedented standards in efficiency, intelligence, and adaptability.

The CLA is poised to elevate electric mobility in everyday life to new heights with impressive efficiency and electric range. At launch, the CLA U.S. product portfolio will be comprised of the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology and CLA 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology. With up to 492 miles of range according to the WLTP cycle1, the 268-hp CLA 250+ with EQ Technology offers exceptional versatility. The 800-volt system will significantly reduce charging time in conjunction with the new generation battery, allowing the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology to be charged to a range of up to 202 miles in as little as ten minutes2. The new CLA will also be available as a high-tech 48-volt hybrid. Further details on the all-new CLA are available here.

Notably, the CLA is the first model of a completely new family of Mercedes-Benz vehicles and the pioneer to fully operate on the revolutionary, in-house developed Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), delivering a seamlessly connected and highly personalized digital experience. Set to arrive in the U.S. later this year, the all-new CLA represents a bold step forward in the brand’s product strategy for the North American market.

“With the all-new CLA, we are taking another step toward the future of mobility – guided by our customers’ evolving needs and expectations. The vehicle embodies the essence of our brand: intelligent technology and progressive design. Presenting the CLA in the U.S., alongside a cultural collaboration that embraces creativity and individuality, adds a meaningful dimension to its launch. It’s a statement about connection, innovation and the evolving role of the car in culture.”

– Mathias Geisen, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG Marketing & Sales

Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan: Reimagining Customer Experience
Serving as a fitting platform for the CLA’s U.S. premiere, the newly reimagined Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan dealership respects the brand’s proud heritage and legacy while offering an immersive look into the future of luxury retail. The flagship facility merges personalized digital touches with an experiential environment, reflecting layers of luxury and classic elegance.

“Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan has symbolized automotive excellence in the New York community for more than 70 years. One constant in the fast-paced city of New York is change, and this incredible new facility illustrates our innovative vision for the future, showcasing our reimagined design standards that best positioning us to continue to offer an exceptional experience to our valued customers that sets the benchmark in the luxury segment.”

– Dimitris Psillakis, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA

One of the focal points of the renovation is the debut of the first bespoke Maybach Lounge in the U.S. dealer network – a refined space featuring an exclusive Maybach MANUFAKTUR paint and leather sample wall, offering customers an exceptional personalization experience. MANUFAKTUR is the cross-brand individualization program of Mercedes-Benz, offering an extensive range of premium paints, finishes and bespoke interior options, allowing the customer to personalize every detail for a unique and first-class experience. Whether it’s leather cladding, cutting, embroidering or sewing – all interiors are finished with exquisite craftsmanship and the utmost precision.

The dealership introduces an expanded AMG Performance Center Plus, featuring a first-in-dealer-network “Unboxing the Star” AMG vehicle delivery experience – bringing a sense of exclusivity to every handover. Using high-energy visuals and multi-speaker surround sound, this immersive moment builds anticipation and stirs the emotional thrill of owning an AMG.

The transformation also debuts many first for the brand, including one of the largest Mercedes-Benz lifestyle and accessory boutiques, including exclusive collaborations with Maybach Icons of Luxury. Additionally, the dealership offers an integrated IWC Schaffhausen shop-in-shop featuring Pilot’s Watches, Mercedes special editions and sports watches, further amplifying the long-standing partnership between Mercedes-AMG® and the legendary Swiss luxury watchmaker. 

Sustainability was also a priority throughout the renovation, with the facility incorporating energy-efficient features such as advanced energy management systems and comprehensive electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

The overall grand opening event theme of “Stars, Sounds and Slices” took guests on a journey paying homage to the neighborhood and celebrating many quintessentially New York elements. This included carefully curated pizza and wine pairings alongside engaging performances from the cast of Broadway’s Tony Award-Winning musical Hell’s Kitchen and a special-guest appearance from four-time GRAMMY-nominated Ice Spice.

Bridging Luxury & Culture
In a dynamic blend of high fashion, music, and artistry, Mercedes-Benz also introduced the multi-collaboration “Class of Creators” with the all-new CLA serving as the artists’ muse and canvas. Partners for the campaign include Ice Spice, who was born and raised in New York, interior designer Gustaf Westman from Sweden, U.S. fashion designer and artist Colm Dillane (aka KidSuper), as well as the gaming platform League of Legends and the toy car brand Hot Wheels. Each creator will present future-facing visions and content inspired by the all-new CLA as a creative platform – merging the essence of Mercedes-Benz with the artists’ DNA. During the evening, Ice Spice was the first of the five partners to unveil her design, showcasing a unique art piece that fuses the CLA with her unmistakable creative signature and personality. Click here to read more about the multi-collaboration.

Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion Reconfirms Unwavering Commitment to Car Eligibility Standards

MONTEREY, Calif. (April 17, 2025) – The highly valued acceptances into the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion have been sent to owners of 448 extraordinary race cars to compete August 13-16 at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. The diversity of the 14 run groups covers nearly every era of motorsport history, ranging from a 1909 Locomobile Model I to a 2011 Ferrari 458 Italia Grand Am.

The Motorsports Reunion Advisory Council, an all-volunteer committee of motorsport historians, scrutinizes each car to ensure it meets the ongoing standards of preserving the authenticity and period correctness demanded for inclusion in the Rolex Reunion. This principle, established in 1974 with the inception of the Monterey Historic Automobile Races, continues to be a cornerstone of the event today.

In a letter to entrants, the council outlines that the overdevelopment of historic racing cars has become a growing concern worldwide. The letter addressed that in recent years, the push for faster lap times has led to an “arms race” of modifications, which undermines the integrity of historic competition.

“When cars equipped with modern, non-period components appear at the Rolex Reunion, they compromise the very principles upon which the event was founded,” read the letter. “This not only creates an unfair advantage but also diminishes the experience for competitors who adhere to period-correct specifications.”

Each race car undergoes a technical and safety check once they arrive in the paddock and prior to racing. To further ensure compliance, there will be random eligibility checks throughout the event week. These inspections will be conducted by group experts who will focus on non-period-correct modifications or components, which may include engine capacity, gearbox, brakes, shocks, suspension, wheels and tires, and car weight.

Cars that do not pass this eligibility inspection may still be permitted to participate, provided the owner or preparer commits to making the necessary corrections before 2026.

The Advisory Council’s goal is to uphold the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion as the premier showcase for authentic, original, period-correct race cars. Maintaining these standards will ensure the Rolex Reunion remains one of the world’s most prestigious racing events—a place where motorsports heritage is celebrated in its purest form.

Guests will be immersed in motorsport history, and highlighted by the 75th Anniversary Celebration of Formula 1® with a curated exhibit and historic F1 race group. Complementing the experience will be the IROC race that features many of the series’ legendary drivers behind the wheel, such as Jeff Gordon, Mark Martin, Danny Sullivan, Bill Elliott, Scott Pruett, Ken Schrader, and Bobby Labonte. Special guest Al Unser Jr. will represent the Unser family as the honorary pace car driver.

Individual and multi-day tickets, VIP hospitality packages and camping may be found online at WeatherTechRaceway.com or by calling the tickets and accommodations specialists at 831-242-8200.

Lexus Opens Curated by Lexus Pop-up Experience in New York City

NEW YORK (April 17, 2025) – Lexus has opened the doors to Curated by Lexus, a pop-up showroom in New York City that brings the brand’s inspired design, relentless innovation, and uninhibited performance to life. Situated in the heart of the Meatpacking District, Curated by Lexus invites guests to “Experience Amazing” with its display of luxury vehicles alongside works from local artists.

The vehicles featured within the space include the:

  • LX 700h: The all-new LX 700h takes luxury to even greater heights with its newly developed electrified powertrain. The interior of the LX comforts with hand-selected premium materials, including our open-pore wood trims and available front massaging seats, plus a flexible cargo area with third row seating.
  • GX 550: A true body-on-frame SUV, the GX features squared-off body lines and powerful stance. Inside, up to three rows of finely appointed seating and the advanced Lexus Interface system bring comfort and convenience to every journey.
  • LC 500 Convertible: For those who dare to seek the extraordinary, the LC Convertible captures your attention while stirring your senses. Uniting dynamic proportions with ground-hugging luxury coupe elegance, the LC looks and feels like nothing else on the road.
  • IS 500 Special Appearance Package: The IS continues to be a popular Lexus vehicle for first-time luxury owners. For 2025, the IS line broadened its available options with the new limited edition IS 500 Special Appearance Package, which includes eye-catching Flare Yellow exterior paint, complementary interior stitching, and intuitive technology.

Upon entry, guests are greeted by the bold 2025 IS 500 Special Appearance Package. As they walk through the showroom, visitors are able to browse the LC 500 Convertible, GX 550, and LX700h, explore the range of customizable options including exterior colors, trims, and interior materials, and learn more about Lexus design and its history in the automotive industry. In the back of the studio is “Boundless Beauty,” a multi-sensory, interactive installation that transports guests to the bamboo forests of Japan through immersive visuals and lush scents.

To further illustrate Lexus’ craftsmanship and precision, the luxury vehicle maker has engaged local artists, Alana Tsui and Sam Horine, to create eye-catching displays in their respective crafts – muralism and photography. Alana Tsui’s mural combines the New York City skyline with lines and shapes that reference Lexus’ sensory design. Meanwhile, Sam Horine’s photography exhibition captures the hustle and bustle of “the city that never sleeps” through the lens of a Lexus.

Curated by Lexus is located at 401 W 14th Street through July 6, 2025. The pop-up is open daily 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.  Hours may vary on holidays.

How Ferdinand Piëch and the BUGATTI Veyron Changed the Automotive Industry

At the turn of the millennium, automotive engineering stood on the brink of a transformative era – but few could have foreseen just how profoundly one visionary’s ambition would redefine the limits of performance. Prof. Dr. Ferdinand Karl Piëch, whose birthday is celebrated today, was then Chairman of the Volkswagen Group and the driving force behind one of the most audacious automotive projects in history: the Bugatti Veyron 16.4. His goal was as clear as it was unprecedented – to create a road-going car that would break every convention and surpass every limitation in automotive design and engineering.

Born in Vienna on April 17, 1937, Ferdinand Karl Piëch was fascinated by technology from an early age – a passion that would define his entire life. He studied mechanical engineering in Zurich before beginning his career at Porsche, where he played a pivotal role in the creation of the legendary Porsche 917. His engineering brilliance later transformed Audi with innovations like the five-cylinder engine, TDI technology, and the quattro all-wheel-drive system. By 1993, as CEO of Volkswagen AG, Piëch had become one of the most influential figures in the automotive world.

And yet, the growth of his legacy would continue further. In 1997, when on a Shinkansen express train between Tokyo and Nagoya, Piëch sketched an idea on the back of an envelope that would change the automotive world. In conversation with Karl-Heinz Neumann, then Head of Powertrain Development at VW, he outlined an engine with 18 cylinders. Powerful, revolutionary, and unlike anything before it. This concept was the genesis of the powertrain that would later evolve into the legendary Bugatti W16.

At the heart of Piëch’s fascination with technology was an imagination unbound by convention. He envisioned a car that could produce 1,000 PS and exceed speeds of 400 km/h, all while maintaining the refinement and usability of a luxury grand tourer. This was an idea that no existing vehicle architecture could support – and one that required an entirely new approach to engineering.

At the time, Piëch was searching for an automotive brand that could realize his bold vision. As considerations leaned towards Bentley and Rolls-Royce, fate intervened during his Easter vacation in 1997, when his son Gregor insisted on buying a model of a Bugatti Type 57 SC Atlantic. Inspired by his passion for the iconic marque, Piëch decided that Bugatti, a name synonymous with performance and luxury, was the perfect fit. And so, on May 5, 1998, Volkswagen secured the rights to the Bugatti brand – and the first steps towards making the W16 engine a reality were set in stone.

With the brand secured, Piëch commissioned his friend, the renowned designer Giorgetto Giugiaro of Italdesign, to develop a concept that faithfully honored his vision. The result was the Bugatti EB 118 – a two-door coupé whose model designation pays homage to its 18-cylinder engine. To the public’s surprise, the vehicle was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in September 1998 – just a few months after Volkswagen AG had acquired the brand.

The possibilities for such an incredible feat of engine-development spread wide in the minds of the pioneers behind it – extending beyond the concept of the EB 118. Thus, in March 1999, the second study with 18 cylinders followed at the Geneva Motor Show: the EB 218 luxury saloon. In September of the same year, Bugatti presented the EB 18/3 Chiron super sports car at the IAA in Frankfurt. The rearrangement of the numbers in the model designation was done for trademark reasons, as the number 318 was already protected by another manufacturer.

Another highlight followed in October 1999, when the EB 18/4 Veyron was unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show – the concept that would ultimately form the basis for the future production model. Unlike the previous studies, the design-study did not come from Giugiaro’s hand, but from the young Czech designer Jozef Kabaň, under the direction of seasoned design veteran Hartmut Warkuß.

In 2000, Ferdinand K. Piëch announced that Bugatti would be building a production car with 1,001 PS, capable of exceeding 400 km/h. The real challenge, however, was not just the sheer technical performance; it was to meet Piëch’s ultimate ambition: to create an automobile that would reach 400 km/h in the morning and still be suitable for an elegant drive to the opera with the wife in the evening.

His ambition was clear: Bugatti was to deliver the extraordinary, the unsurpassed, the ultimate. Every vehicle had to be a solitaire – incomparable and unique. “Only that is Bugatti,” he once wrote.

In 2005, his vision became reality. The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 was unveiled to the world and set new standards in performance, speed and luxury. With a top speed of 407 km/h and acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 2.5 seconds, it was the fastest production vehicle in the world – and underscored Bugatti’s dedication to technological excellence.

But beyond the numbers, the Veyron was more than a technical marvel; it was the embodiment of Prof. Dr. Ferdinand Karl Piëch’s relentless pursuit of perfection. His determination to achieve the seemingly impossible shaped the hyper sports car landscape and laid the foundation for every Bugatti masterpiece that followed.

Even today, two decades later – on Piëch’s birthday – the legacy of the Veyron remains unmatched. It was a revolution; it was the origin of the hyper sports car, and a testament to what happens when engineering genius meets an uncompromising vision. Prof. Dr. Ferdinand Karl Piëch had led Bugatti back to the forefront of automotive engineering, elevating it once again to its historic role as the pinnacle of performance and luxury – and it all started with the drive to create the extraordinary.

“Prof. Dr. Ferdinand Karl Piëch was a visionary who refused to accept limitations. His ambition was not just to create a fast, high-performance vehicle, but to redefine what was possible in automotive engineering. The Bugatti Veyron was his ultimate statement – a car that set entirely new benchmarks for speed, power, and luxury. On what would have been his birthday, we honor the legacy he left behind. Two decades later, the Veyron’s legacy remains incomparable, inspiring every Bugatti innovation that followed and cementing its place as one of the most significant automotive achievements in history.”

– Christophe Piochon, President of Bugatti