No More New Victory Motorcycles, But Here Are 7 Great Models They Built

  • Jason Unrau

After twenty-one years of production, Victory Motorcycles has ceased production. It’s too bad because a Victory bike has the appeal for cruiser aficionados without some of the, shall we say ‘nefarious’, associations of a Harley Davidson. Checking out some of the Victory models, you can’t help but come back to one overused term to describe them: sexy.

Nevertheless, a company has to turn a profit to stay in business, and Victory couldn’t keep their books in the black. So, after barely more than two decades, we bid adieu to the manufacturer. Yet, we continue to ogle some of the artwork produced over the years, like these seven following models.

Victory V92C

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/victory-motorcycles-v92c-300x171.jpg" id="14895" class=""]

The first bikes to roll off the Victory assembly line were the V92C. They took direct aim at the notorious HD biker brand with a 92 cubic inch, 1507cc overhead cam engine. While the original engine was 55 horsepower, that number could be jacked up to 83hp. Easily enough for a pretty powerful cruiser.

The Victory V92C looked great. Classic styling, a swooping teardrop tank, a fat rear fender, and dual cannons on the right side. The real success was with the ride. Many riders report continuous treks of more than 600 miles in a day, barely feeling the effects after settling the V92C onto its kickstand.

Victory Vegas

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/victory-motorcycles-vegas-300x171.jpg" id="14894" class=""]

Injecting some bling into your bike is easy Las Vegas-style. The Victory Vegas has serious eyeball with flashy wheels, bright color schemes, and a couple of variants. If you like chrome, the Victory Vegas was your choice. If you want something off the beaten path, you look at the Victory Vegas 8-Ball with black powder-coated parts instead.

Built on an all-new chassis in 2003, the Victory Vegas offered options like the Vegas Low. Throwing a bone to shorter riders with a 1-inch lower seat and a 2-inch shorter reach for the handlebars. In 2006, the engine upgraded from a 92 ci V-twin to a 100ci V-twin, spinning up 85hp for the belt-driven rear wheel.

Victory Kingpin

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/victory-motorcycles-kingpin-300x171.jpg" id="14893" class=""]

The custom cruiser bike in the Victory Motorcycles lineup might be the Kingpin. It’s a big bike, there’s no doubt, but it looks rather unassuming. You get your typical chrome V-twin upgraded from 92ci to 100ci in 2006, a pair of chrome pipes, traditionally-styled front forks and handlebars, and so on. The most visible difference is the tank design with the Victory flair and texture set into the sides of the tank.

It’s a custom cruiser, and that means it’s a bit of a blank slate. Do what you will with your Kingpin – add saddlebags, tack on a windshield, adjust the suspension damping rate, add a fatty rear tire…you get the idea. The Kingpin model also has a variant, the Kingpin 8-Ball, that’s more than your average blank slate. A black paint scheme and black powder-coated metal components make it even more popular for customizers.

Victory Gunner

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/victory-motorcycles-gunner-300x171.jpg" id="14892" class=""]

From 2015 to 2017 Victory Motorcycles offered a bike in the bobber category, the Victory Gunner. This is where performance found a home. Carrying a 1731cc V-Twin slung low in the chassis, the Gunner has a top speed rating of 135 miles per hour. But since most Victory riders don’t actually test the top speed, it’s just meant to be a selling feature on paper and an intimidation factor on the street.

The bobber styling includes a trimmed away front fender, a very clean rear tub, fat tires, less steering rake, and the black and charcoal paint scheme. Pipes, motor, and plastic are all painted black for a sinister appearance. A mere 25-inch seat height makes the ride comfy but also places the center of gravity lower, adding stability with its awesome performance. This bike – you gotta love it.

Related Search Topics (Ads)

Victory Hammer

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/victory-motorcycles-hammer-300x171.jpg" id="14897" class=""]

It’s a muscle cruiser. The name isn’t very subtle, and it doesn’t need to be with as much attitude as the Victory Hammer exudes. There's one seriously fat tire in the rear, a sleek and low design with curves in all the right places, a sexy naked styling along the sides, and the throaty rumble that makes those little hairs on the back of your neck quiver with delight.

97 horsepower and 113 lb.-ft. of torque breaks the rear wheel loose at pretty much any speed, even with that fatty 250-series tire on there. The slightly less powerful and more basic Hammer was made available as well, the Hammer 8-Ball, with a lower seat and just 85 hp to toss you around the open road.

Victory Octane

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/victory-motorcycles-octane-300x171.jpg" id="14891" class=""]

That modern retro look comes out in the Victory Octane with the café racer styling eking out from the tank, seat, and rear fender. It’s squarish, which isn’t the norm for a modern bike. But the retro look melds with advanced engineering once you see – and experience – the engine and its performance.

The Octane is one of the most aggressive Victory motorcycles ever sold from the showroom. The 1200cc engine spits out 104 horsepower and can scream through a quarter mile in 12 seconds, bone stock. It’s built lighter with a cast aluminum frame and competed in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb, which says something on its own.

The Victory Octane, only available as a 2017 model, shares 35 percent of its parts with the Indian Scout. Coincidentally, both Victory and Indian are owned by the same parent company, Polaris. Funny how that happens…

Victory Judge

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/victory-motorcycles-judge-300x171.jpg" id="14890" class=""]

Inspired by muscle car design, the Victory Judge arrived on the scene in 2013. It’s a sport cruiser with Victory’s 106 cubic inch V-Twin nestled tightly into the chassis. The riding position is quite comfortable with mid-mounted controls and an easy foot position, lending the Judge to a surprisingly carefree ride for long stretches.

Notice the race-inspired stripes on the tank, the racy red paint scheme and the ‘106’ emblazoned on the side panel. The Victory Judge has no qualms about showing off its muscle car inspiration. And it has the performance to back it up.

It’s too bad Victory motorcycles like the Judge are no longer in production, but you’ll continue to see great designs and performance in a different brand owned by Polaris. Under the Indian brand.

Current Post Tags
Motorcycle: 12
Victory: 7
Motorcycle: 7

Points: 36.5000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Electric Motorcycles: What Hath Tesla Wrought?
Motorcycle
name: Motorcycle type:
name: Motorcycle type: Driving
name: Victory type: Make

Points: 35.3333 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%The Best Electric Motorcycles and Why You Should Pay Attention to EV Bikes
Motorcycle
name: Motorcycle type:
name: Motorcycle type: Driving
name: Victory type: Make

Points: 33.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Four of the Best New Motorcycles for 2020
Motorcycle
name: Motorcycle type:
name: Motorcycle type: Driving

Points: 33.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Motorcycle Accessories: 5 You Need and 5 You Didn’t Know You Had to Have
Motorcycle
name: Motorcycle type:
name: Motorcycle type: Driving

Learn with Confidence on the Best Motorcycles for Beginners

  • Jason Unrau

Nothing feels as free and exhilarating as driving without a seat belt on, the open sky overhead, taking corners on two wheels, the wind rushing past your face. But, since that’s not a legal way to drive your car, you’re entertaining the idea of buying a motorcycle. But you want to know, what are the best beginner motorcycles? How can I get the thrill without getting in over my head?

As a rider myself, I know how thoroughly intimidating it is when there’s huge horsepower under the seat and hundreds of pounds you need to keep upright at a stoplight. And trust me, I also know the embarrassment of lifting your bike up after tipping over unexpectedly at a stop. You need to pair up with a motorcycle that’s the right size and the correct purpose for your needs. To that end, read on about the best motorcycles for beginners that are currently available.

Harley Davidson Street 500

Because a Harley gets immediate respect, it’s always a good buy. The HD Street 500 is purpose-built for the brand new rider. It accomplishes its role by being a very easy-riding, stylish, and comfortable beginner bike. And it looks dead sexy, just like a Harley Davidson should.

Related Search Topics (Ads)

The 500cc Revolution X V-Twin makes 29.5 lb.-ft. of torque, which is more than plenty for a new rider. The 25.7-inch seat height is great for comfort, and makes balancing the nearly 500-lb two-wheeler possible for most heights. It’s definitely one of the best beginner motorcycles.

Honda Rebel

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/HondaRebel.jpg" id="10385" class=""]

Just because you’re new on a motorcycle shouldn’t mean you’re stuck with a kiddie bike. Honda understands that and brings you a motorcycle that looks aggressive and sounds badass, yet is surprisingly easy to ride. Nobody wants to look like a beginner, even if they are one. The Honda Rebel is a sexy bike with matte black paint and a sporty look. Most of all, it’s available in as a Rebel 500 and a Rebel 300, ready for beginners and novices.

The Honda Rebel 500 has a comfortable seat height of 27.2 inches, and weighs an easy-to-manage 408 pounds. Its 471cc is powerful enough for city and highway use. The Rebel 300 is very much the same but weighs 44 pounds less and is just 286cc, which is good for city bikers.

Current Post Tags
Honda: 7
BMW: 7
Yamaha: 7
Suzuki: 7
Harley Davidson: 7
Triumph: 7
Motorcycle: 12
Kawasaki: 7
Rebel: 5

Points: 26.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%The Best Dual Sport Motorcycles Offer the Best of Both Worlds
Motorcycle
name: Honda type: Make
name: Kawasaki type: Make
name: Motorcycle type:
name: Suzuki type: Make
name: Yamaha type: Make

Points: 26.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Four of the Best New Motorcycles for 2020
Motorcycle
name: BMW type: Make
name: Honda type: Make
name: Motorcycle type:
name: Suzuki type: Make
name: Triumph type: Make

Points: 26.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Here Come the British! Top Models from Triumph Motorcycles
Motorcycle
name: Motorcycle type:
name: Triumph type: Make

Points: 24.8335 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%9 of the Best Sport Touring Motorcycles on the Road
Motorcycle
name: BMW type: Make
name: Honda type: Make
name: Kawasaki type: Make
name: Motorcycle type:
name: Suzuki type: Make
name: Triumph type: Make

The Best Hybrid SUV: Family Fun and Efficiency

  • Steven Symes

SUVs rule the market these days, thanks to shoppers wanting something that’s more utilitarian than a car. A large rear hatch, tall cargo area, possible all-wheel drive for inclement weather, and the perception of improved safety are big draws to these machines. There is one big drawback: fuel consumption. But if you're in the market, you might be asking yourself, "What is the best hybrid SUV?"

Whether you’re trying to live greener or just want to keep more green in your pocket, cutting down on visits to the fuel pump should be a priority. Hybrid SUVs promise to help you achieve that goal, without cramming into a tiny and not very utilitarian car. Choosing the best hybrid SUV presents some challenges, since not everyone has the same needs and preferences. By going with the most balanced option, the result should be something most people will find useful. We've put together a list of good hybrid SUVs, with the best one at the very end.

Volvo XC90

You can get the XC90 as a plug-in hybrid, so taking only short local trips means you might not need to burn a single drop of gas. Using only electricity, you can go about 19 miles. The EPA says when driving on gasoline, the SUV gets an estimated 27 mpg combined. The 63 MPGe estimate is also pretty impressive. You also enjoy a wonderfully luxurious cabin. Just remember this option costs a cool $70,050 MSRP.

BMW X5 xDrive40e iPerformance

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/best-hybrid-suv-bmw-300x171.jpg" id="14670" class=""]

The BMW X5 xDrive40e iPerformance gets an estimated 56 MPGe, or a fairly good 24 mpg combined. In purely electric mode, the SUV will go about 14 miles, which is enough to run most errands without burning gas. Of course, BMW knows how to make an SUV that doesn’t feel or handle like an SUV, which makes this option that much more interesting. Of course, with a starting MSRP of $63,750, this can also be a financially interesting option.

Toyota Highlander Hybrid

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/best-hybrid-suv-toyota-300x171.jpg" id="14673" class=""]

This three-row hybrid SUV doesn’t come with a plug-in powertrain, which is a shame. The EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined is pretty good for such a large and utilitarian vehicle. You also enjoy stellar reliability, a well-composed, quiet cabin, and smooth driving dynamics. What’s more, the starting MSRP is pretty reasonable at $36,870.

Nissan Rogue Hybrid

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/best-hybrid-suv-nissan-300x171.jpg" id="14669" class=""]

With the Nissan Rogue Hybrid, the EPA estimates it gets 31 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined. That’s pretty good, considering the SUV comes with a third row, although it’s admittedly pretty cramped. Still, the $27,020 MSRP for the SV Hybrid trim is a pretty compelling deal.

Related Search Topics (Ads)

There are a few big drawbacks with the Rogue Hybrid. First off, the powertrain doesn’t exactly get this SUV moving in a hurry. You might not always be racing around, but getting up to freeway speed in reasonable time does matter. Add to that the huge blind spots and bad rearward visibility in general. Plus, the infotainment system is absolutely maddening to use.

Porsche Cayenne e-Hybrid

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/best-hybrid-suv-porsche-300x171.jpg" id="14668" class=""]

Some think by virtue of being a Porsche the Cayenne S e-Hybrid is a great option. While it does serve up some nice road dynamics, the EPA’s 47 MPGe and 22 mpg combined ratings don’t look great. Using only electricity, this SUV can go about 14 miles, which is okay. But, considering the starting MSRP is $79,900, it doesn't have a great return on investment. Sure, you get the status and luxury of owning a Porsche, as well as explosive performance, but that’s about it. Most people don’t need to win the race to the grocery store with their hybrid SUV.

Kia Niro

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/best-hybrid-suv-kia-300x171.jpg" id="14667" class=""]

There’s no denying the amazing fuel efficiency of the Niro. The EPA estimates it gets 49 mpg combined, which is amazing for an SUV. Keep in mind, too, that the starting MSRP is a mere $23,340. With several different trims, you can choose a fair amount of luxuries, although the top one pushes MSRP to a lofty $32,000. And don't forget, this is a subcompact. That means it doesn't have a lot of space. For example, the cargo area contains just shy of 20 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, less than what you get with a Toyota Prius, which achieves an astounding 52 mpg combined.

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/best-hybrid-suv-mitsubishi-300x171.jpg" id="14666" class=""]

There can only be one top option on the list, and this is it.

Most people underestimate the Mitsubishi Outland PHEV, but when you look at the numbers, they’re downright impressive. The EPA has given it a 74 MPGe combined rating, plus 25 mpg combined. You can go about 22 miles using just the electric motor.

The starting MSRP is $34,595. Of course, this plug-in hybrid SUV seats five (not seven), unlike others on this list. Your passengers won’t feel like sardines in a can. There’s also about 30 cubic feet of cargo space with the second row up, and about 78 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

It gets even better. Waiting for your SUV’s battery to charge up isn’t the most convenient thing. Mitsubishi helps by including fast charging on the Outlander PHEV, the only plug-in hybrid SUV on the market with this feature. In under half an hour you can use a public charging station to replenish up to 80 percent of the battery, instead of giving in and burning gas. The vehicle also works with Level 1 and Level 2 charging options, or 120 and 240-volt outlets, respectively.

This plug-in hybrid SUV hugs the road, too. The Super All-Wheel-Control system (S-AWC) is an advanced version of all-wheel drive. The two electric motors supply instant torque to each axle, making this setup extremely responsive. You won’t mistake it for a sports car, but it will wow you.

Is the Outlander PHEV a perfect vehicle? By no means. But, it provides a great all-around offering, balancing fuel efficiency, all-electric range, utility, comfort, and price. Of course, if you need something with seven seats, this option won’t work. But most people looking for the best hybrid SUV are interested in good, everyday utility, and not necessarily three rows. They also want something efficient that drives well on the road in traffic, which is exactly what Mitsubishi delivers.

Think this is the wrong choice? Just take an Outlander PHEV for a test drive and you might be surprised. Mitsubishi has been working hard to revamp its image, with this vehicle being an important step in that direction.

Current Post Tags
Porsche: 8
Nissan: 8
Toyota: 8
Kia: 8
Hybrid: 5
Rogue: 15
BMW: 8
Mitsubishi: 8
Outlander: 15
Cayenne: 15
X5: 15
Truck/SUV: 9
Highlander: 15
Volvo: 8
XC90: 15

Points: 28.5000 Recency: -6.0 -1.0%Driven: Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Review
Truck/SUV
name: Hybrid type: Type
name: Mitsubishi type: Make
name: Outlander type: Model

Points: 26.0000 Recency: -6.0 -1.0%Volvo XC90: Lots of Tech, Lots of Combos
Truck/SUV
name: Volvo type: Make
name: XC90 type: Model

Points: 26.0000 Recency: -6.0 -1.0%2021 Nissan Rogue: Best Value for Your Money
Truck/SUV
name: Nissan type: Make
name: Rogue type: Model

Points: 18.5000 Recency: -6.0 -1.0%Nissan Rogue Sport: A Perfect Compact SUV
Truck/SUV
name: Nissan type: Make
name: Rogue type: Model

Dressing Up Your Truck: Top 10 Pickup Truck Accessories

  • Chris Smith

If you drive a pickup, chances are you've added some truck accessories. From custom wheels to flaps, running boards and more, there are many items considered to be the best truck accessories.

According to the Specialty Equipment Market Association, owners of full-sized trucks spend an average of $1,831 on accessories. So what are they buying? Here's the list of top 10 truck accessories that buyers have installed, or plan to install.

10. Wheel Splash Guards

[imageSource url="http://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Wheel-Splash-Guards.jpg" id="1936"]

According to the survey 40 percent of truck owners have either purchased or plan to purchase wheel splash guards for their truck. They are some of the best truck accessories you can buy. We suspect that the low cost and relatively easy installation of the guards are responsible for the popularity. Splash guards give the owner an opportunity to customize their ride and communicate a message be it a favorite sports team, brand of truck or the ubiquitous Yosemite Sam warning to "Back Off."

Related Search Topics (Ads)

Whatever the reason, motorists behind a truck with splash guards are grateful for the protection from gravel, mud, sand and other debris thrown up by those deep tread 17"+ tires. Splash guards AKA mud flaps can be purchased from $20 to $200.

9. Tonneau Covers

[imageSource url="http://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Tonneau-Covers.jpg" id="1934"]

The bed of a pickup truck is one of the principal benefits of driving a pickup truck. Even a short bed gives you room to haul stuff and we all know how important that is even if it's a laundry basket that you take to Mom's for cleaning. But that big open space can be problematic. From a security standpoint it's kind of like taking the trunk deck off your car and driving around. Everybody can see what you have and those with dark hearts will try and steal it. There's a reason this is one of the best truck accessories.

The open bed also becomes a collection point for undesirable stuff like rain, leaves, tree sap and road dust and dirt. A hardtop or soft top tonneau cover solves both problems and gives your ride a sleek customized look as well. These come in a variety of applications and will run the truck owner from $250 to $1,000.

Current Post Tags
Pick-Up: 6
Accessories: 14
Truck/SUV: 9
Truck: 5
Security: 2

Points: 18.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Best Off Road Accessories: Helping You On and Off the Trail
Truck/SUV
name: Accessories type: Retail

Points: 10.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%What We Know About the Jeep Pickup Truck Right Now
Truck/SUV
name: Pick-Up type: Type

Points: 10.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%2017 Nissan Titan Platinum Reserve: Despite Fancy Name, It’s Still a Good Truck
Truck/SUV
name: Pick-Up type: Type

Points: 10.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Best Off Road Truck: Ford Raptor vs Tacoma TRD vs Ram Power Wagon
Truck/SUV
name: Pick-Up type: Type

Not All Created Equal: 12 Different Types of Motorcycles

  • Jason Unrau

If you were to close your eyes for a second and picture yourself riding a motorcycle, which one would it be? There’s a good chance you’ve got a specific make, model, or style underneath your posterior. You gravitate towards certain types of motorcycles for a reason: color or graphics, riding position, power, speed, handling, or something else entirely.

There are—count ‘em—12 different types of motorcycles on the market, and it would be a shame to picture yourself on just one of them. Some categories are similar while others have stark differences. For example, a chopper is nothing at all like a sport bike. What you’ll discover, though, is that each style shares one indisputable thing in common: a love for riding on two wheels.

12 Types of Motorcycles

Cruisers

When you think of a typical motorcycle, it’s probably going to be a cruiser. We’re talking bikes that have a comfortable, upright seating position or a slight lean back. Handlebars are placed naturally for long rides without too much strain. Some even have saddlebags, a clear sign that cruisers can be ridden for the long haul. Chrome certainly has its place on cruisers. The motor, trim, handlebars, screw caps—they’re all shiny chrome.

Related Search Topics (Ads)

Cruisers are meant to be easy to ride, and are often more bark than bite. That is, they aren’t overly powerful even though the exhaust could rupture your eardrums. If you’re looking for a cruiser with more power, it’s fittingly called a power cruiser.

Most motorcycle manufacturers have at least one cruiser bike in their arsenal; some have several. The Honda Rebel 500, the Suzuki Boulevard series, the Triumph Rocket III Range, and the Kawasaki Vulcan series are just a few of the popular ones. But standing out among cruisers are the Harley Davidson bikes. The HD Sportster and Softail motorcycles are among the Harley Davidson models because they’re a comfortable cruiser.

Current Post Tags
Honda: 7
Suzuki: 7
Harley Davidson: 7
Triumph: 7
Motorcycle: 12
Ducati: 7
Kawasaki: 7
Adventure: 5
Vespa: 7
Cruiser: 5
Sport Bike: 5
Cafe Racer: 5

Points: 31.0001 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Here Come the British! Top Models from Triumph Motorcycles
Motorcycle
name: Adventure type: Type
name: Cafe Racer type: Type
name: Cruiser type: Type
name: Motorcycle type:
name: Triumph type: Make

Points: 26.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Italian Moto Soul: Here are Six of the Best Ducati Motorcycles
Motorcycle
name: Ducati type: Make
name: Motorcycle type:

Points: 24.8335 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%9 of the Best Sport Touring Motorcycles on the Road
Motorcycle
name: Ducati type: Make
name: Honda type: Make
name: Kawasaki type: Make
name: Motorcycle type:
name: Suzuki type: Make
name: Triumph type: Make

Points: 24.2500 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Four of the Best New Motorcycles for 2020
Motorcycle
name: Honda type: Make
name: Motorcycle type:
name: Suzuki type: Make
name: Triumph type: Make

Saving In Style With The Best Used Luxury Cars

  • Evan Williams

There are a few things that define luxury cars other than the obvious luxury features. The biggest one is a high price. If you want a luxury car fresh off the lot, you're going to have to pay for it. However, they also lose a lot of that value shockingly fast. That means what was a six-figure luxury car just a couple of years ago could now be about the same price as a new Honda Civic. If you're looking for a new ride on a budget, that's flush with features,  here are some of the best used luxury cars.

BMW E38 7 Series

E38 is the code for the 1995-2001 BMW 7 series. You know the car. It's the hulking full-size sedan that made Jason Statham into the greatest thing on four wheels in The Transporter. The first one, not the sequels. It's the car that James Bond drove from under the rear seat in Tomorrow Never Dies. It wears classic styling that looks nearly as good today as it did when it launched. You can get your 7 in 282 hp 740i and long-wheelbase 740iL, or you can go for the real boss. That's the silky smooth and even more powerful 750i and 750iL; the 5.4L V12 that offers up 320 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque. That one lets everybody around you know who the boss is.

Related Search Topics (Ads)

Those numbers might not be very impressive now, but they're still more than enough to move this big sedan very quickly. And while it might not have all the bells and whistles of the latest 7, it offers a much more connected drive and feel than the modern cars can.

Lexus LS

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/best-used-luxury-car-lexus-300x171.jpg" id="14490" class=""]

When the Lexus LS arrived on the luxury market, it changed everything for the German and American sedans that had been owning that segment for decades. Lexus pitched luxury, but it went even further than that. The early Lexus ads showcased an engine that was so smooth you could build a fountain of glassware that would stay standing. You could roll a ball bearing down the car's seams and it wouldn't stray from its channel. Lexus offered a level of quality that was rare in 1989.

The current LS continues that mission. And while the competition has mostly caught up, Lexus hasn't exactly been sitting on its heels. The 2007-2017 LS offers all the luxury features you could want in a car, but with the early cars now 10 years old, those features can be yours for less than you might think.

The LS comes as the LS460, which has a 380 hp 4.6L V8, but if you want to save some fuel along with saving when you buy it, check out the LS 600 h, which is the hybrid version. It packs a 5.0L V8 and two electric motors. The total output is 439 hp, and it uses a CVT that makes the power delivery even smoother. If you want to drive, the LS 600h even has a limited-slip differential, all-wheel drive, and active air suspension.

It's understated in the styling department, including the facelift models with the big Lexus spindle grille. But it's everything you need on the inside, and that's more luxurious anyway. After all, you don't need to look at it from behind the wheel. Or from in the back seat.

Current Post Tags
Mercedes-Benz: 10
Hyundai: 10
Volkswagen: 10
Toyota: 10
BMW: 10
Lexus: 10
Jaguar: 10
Rolls-Royce: 10
Luxury: 6

Points: 11.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Reliability and Luxury: The Best Used BMWs You Can Buy
Luxury
name: BMW type: Make

Points: 11.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%2019 BMW M850i Review: Rocket Coupe
Luxury
name: BMW type: Make

Points: 11.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Driven: 2019 Lexus ES 350 F-Sport Review
Luxury
name: Lexus type: Make

Points: 11.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Rolls-Royce Ghost Elegance Actually Uses Crushed Diamonds in the Paint
Luxury
name: Rolls-Royce type: Make

8 of the Best Bond Cars

  • Steven Symes

James Bond films are known for a number of things, chiefly among them the awesome cars. While some of the modern films have featured impressive vehicles, many of the best have been from the series' past.

Th James Bond books and movies contain many memorable items but many will argue that the vehicles of the James Bond movies were the most iconic. From the classic Aston Martin to the AMC Hornet, there are many classics. So what is the best James Bond car? We've narrowed down our top eight favorites.

8. Sunbeam Alpine Series II

[imageSource url="http://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Sunbeam-Alpine-Series-II.jpg" id="1765"]

The first car James Bond drove on the screen is worth mentioning, because it started the tradition of the spy ripping through the streets of different countries in pursuit of the bad guys, or being pursued by others.

While the Alpine Series II only boasted 80 horsepower and no flashy looks, plus it wasn't outfitted with all kinds of high-tech hardware, it still wasn't a bad-looking vehicle for James Bond to be driving. Sure, there are plenty of more impressive Bond cars, including everything else on this list, but this vehicle's status as the first makes it worthy of being here.

7. Toyota 2000GT

[imageSource url="http://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Toyota-2000GT.jpg" id="1766"]

Related Search Topics (Ads)

So often we associate Agent 007 with British cars because he's a British spy. But he's driven plenty of non-British vehicles, including a completely awesome Toyota 2000GT. As the first supercar to come out of Japan, it was the perfect fit for the Bond movies.

If you watch You Only Live Twice, you'll notice the Toyota is a convertible, which people who know the 2000GT are aware wasn't an option when the car was produced. This customized design actually came about because Sean Connery was so big he couldn't fit inside the 2000GT unless they chopped off the roof. Two vehicles were used in the film, and both are big collectors' items today.

Current Post Tags
Ford: 10
Mustang: 5
Toyota: 10
BMW: 10
Mach 1: 5
Movie: 2
Lotus: 10
Esprit: 5
Aston Martin: 10
GT: 5
Sunbeam: 10
Alpine: 5
Vanquish: 5
z8: 5
Amc: 10
Hornet: 5
DB5: 5
Performance: 6

Points: 18.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Ponies in the Pictures: Top 5 Mustang Movies
Performance
name: Ford type: Make
name: Movie type: Event
name: Mustang type: Model

Points: 16.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Aston Martin Making 99 More Supercars For The 1 Percent
Performance
name: Aston Martin type: Make
name: Vanquish type: Model

Points: 16.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Ford Mustang Gets a 10-Speed Transmission
Performance
name: Ford type: Make
name: Mustang type: Model

Points: 16.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%The New Aston Martin Vanquish S: A Fitting Finale For a Dying Breed
Performance
name: Aston Martin type: Make
name: GT type: Model
name: Vanquish type: Model

It’s Top-Down Time: These Are the Best Convertibles for Under $50K

  • Jason Unrau

The warm weather is here and you're looking for the best convertible cars. We know. Everybody starts thinking about taking the top down when the sun is shining.

However, when you're dropping the top, you might not want to drop the amount of money that could buy a new house. These are the best convertible cars for under $50,000.

Mercedes-Benz SLC300 Roadster

Style, luxury and performance all combine in the Mercedes-Benz SLC300 Roadster. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder pushes the nine-speed SLC’s 241 horsepower from 0 to 60 in just 5.8 seconds. All that while the open sky is above, turning elongated foreheads a bright shade of red.

It’s the classic two-seater convertible design, but with one really nifty feature (can I still say nifty?). The retractable hardtop has a dimmable sunroof as well. It comes in under $50,000, but just barely.

Mazda MX-5 Miata

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/MazdaMX-5Miata.jpg" id="8224" class="right"]

It’s been a Car and Driver 10 Best for 16 years, and that alone says something. The Mazda Miata has been a driver’s car from the get-go, even though it’s far from the most powerful. The 2.0-liter SKYACTIV 4-cylinder has just 155 horsepower, but the car weights 1,000 lbs less than most of the competition.

Related Search Topics (Ads)

Because of its pared-down nature, the MX-5 Miata focuses on the thrill of the drive. Nearly perfect 50/50 weight distribution sets the tone for precise handling, making the Mazda MX-5 Miata one of the most fun convertibles to drive. It’s one of the least expensive too – entry-level pricing is just around $25,000. Definitely one of the best convertible cars.

Current Post Tags
Ford: 10
Chevrolet: 10
Convertible: 5
Mercedes-Benz: 10
Camaro: 10
Fiat: 10
Mustang: 10
Mazda: 10
Miata: 10
Volkswagen: 10
Buick: 10
BMW: 10
Audi: 10
Mini: 10
Beetle: 10
124 Spider: 10
Cabriolet: 10
Commuter: 5

Points: 22.0000 Recency: -3.0 -1.0%Ponies in the Pictures: Top 5 Mustang Movies
name: Convertible type: Type
name: Ford type: Make
name: Mustang type: Model

Points: 22.0000 Recency: -3.0 -1.0%Fiat 124 Spider: It’s Hot but Is It a Fiat or a Mazda?
Commuter
name: 124 Spider type: Model
name: Fiat type: Make
name: Mazda type: Make
name: Miata type: Model

Points: 17.3335 Recency: -3.0 -1.0%Popular Microcar Models in the US
Commuter
name: BMW type: Make
name: Chevrolet type: Make
name: Convertible type: Type
name: Fiat type: Make
name: Mazda type: Make
name: Miata type: Model
name: Mini type: Make

Points: 17.0000 Recency: -3.0 -1.0%First Camaro Built On Display At Dream Cruise
name: Camaro type: Model
name: Chevrolet type: Make

Take a Trip Down Memory Lane With The Best Classic Trucks

  • Steven Symes

When most people think about classic vehicles they usually think of cars, specifically sport cars. If you’re a truck enthusiast, you think of vehicles that can take it to the trail, pull a boat, or haul sod back to your house. There’s a certain rugged charm about classic trucks that boast some utility, which is something that can be said for each of the following makes and models on our list. Some are even a blast to drive on a track, rather than just dirt roads.

Without further ado, here's our list of our favorite classic trucks (in no particular order):

Ford F-250 Highboy

The Highboy was the original jacked-up truck off the factory line. Made from 1967 to 1977.5, these pickups could accommodate a 35-inch tire without an aftermarket lift kit, which is pretty impressive. During their heyday, these things towered over Chevrolet, Dodge, and other lesser trucks.

Ford lowered the F-250’s suspension after 1977 by 2 inches. Needless to say, enthusiasts weren’t pleased, while non-truck people didn’t get it.

Related Search Topics (Ads)

A 360 V-8 lurked under the hood of many Highboys, which was a rugged and brutal engine. It paired up with either a C6 automatic transmission or a “granny low” NP 435 4-speed manual. Collectors have tuned in to the Highboy, so grab one now before they’re all in expensive, private collections.

Jeep Gladiator

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Jeep-Gladiator-300x171.jpg" id="14424" class=""]

The Gladiator and J-Series trucks were made from 1963 to 1987, replacing the Willys and FC trucks. While the predecessors are classic trucks that many people enjoy, the Gladiator and J-Series offered more modern features, so they’re far more livable. At the same time, they have a distinct look that set them apart from other trucks, both past and present, which only adds to the fun factor of owning them.

The Gladiator came with a 6-cylinder engine at first, but bigger and more powerful V-8s made their way into the lineup later as options. Just know the V-8s come from Buick and AMC, for better or worse. If you can grab one with the AMC 401 under the hood, it’s the largest engine ever used in a Jeep truck, so there are some bragging rights for that.

In 1976 a Honcho package was offered, which is retro and ridiculous in every way the name would suggest. A stepside bed Honcho, which were made in small numbers from 1980 to 1983, are big time collectibles today.

Current Post Tags
Ford: 8
Chevrolet: 8
GMC: 8
Jeep: 8
Pick-Up: 5
Dodge: 8
Classic: 5
Studebaker: 8
Muscle Car: 5
Truck/SUV: 9
SRT: 5
Truck: 5

Points: 16.0000 Recency: -6.0 -1.0%Ram Trucks Lineup: Good Luck Picking Just One
Truck/SUV
name: Dodge type: Make
name: Pick-Up type: Type

Points: 16.0000 Recency: -6.0 -1.0%What We Know About the Jeep Pickup Truck Right Now
Truck/SUV
name: Jeep type: Make
name: Pick-Up type: Type

Points: 16.0000 Recency: -6.0 -1.0%Chevy Silverado 1500: Perfect Mix of Comfort and Utility
Truck/SUV
name: Chevrolet type: Make
name: Pick-Up type: Type
name: Truck type: Type

Points: 16.0000 Recency: -6.0 -1.0%Test Drive: 2019 Ford Ranger FX4
Truck/SUV
name: Ford type: Make
name: Pick-Up type: Type
name: Truck type: Type

Top 9 Luxury Car Brands for Riding in Style

  • Chris Smith

What is luxury? We all know it when we see it, but we don’t all see the same thing. The one thing we can all see, and generally use to define luxury car brands, is the badge on the hood. Luxury car builders rely heavily on how their brand is perceived by the public.

That’s not to say that luxury car brands don’t deserve the reputation. They generally produce high-quality vehicles and have a history of reliability. But the brand still plays a major role. For example, would you consider Kia a luxury brand? If you define luxury as high quality and reliability, the Cadenza sedan fits that description. It excels in performance, handling, and comes standard with many luxury features like heated leather seats and navigation. But Kia is known for building economy cars, which makes it difficult to be taken seriously as a luxury brand.

Toyota, Nissan, and Honda realized their success in the economy class would hurt their chances in the luxury market, so Lexus, Infiniti, and Acura were born. All three of those brands are some of the most popular, and hottest selling, luxury cars available today.

So, when we list out “Top Luxury Car Brands,” keep in mind we are trying to focus on on the high quality aspects, and not the brand name alone.

With that said, we'll start off with an iconic name.

Jaguar

A couple of decades ago Jaguar was having its problems, but as this legendary luxury car brand moves through the 21 century it is cranking out sedan, coupe, and convertible designs that personify elegance and performance. The F-Type coupe or convertible is one of the few in its class still offering a V8. In this instance a 495 horsepower naturally aspirated monster. Sleek lines, a cabin dripping in luxury, the F Type (and there are 35 permutations of the model) has become one of Jaguar’s sales stars.

Related Search Topics (Ads)

The XJ competes in the super luxury class, and while it has a trio of impressive engines to choose from, and niceties like footrests and fold down table, it doesn’t have the élan of a Mercedes-Benz S-Class or Porsche Panamera.

Current Post Tags
Porsche: 10
Mercedes-Benz: 10
Genesis: 5
BMW: 10
Lexus: 10
Audi: 10
Cadillac: 10
Jaguar: 10
Alfa Romeo: 10
Luxury: 6

Points: 11.0002 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Putting on Airs: The Most Affordable Luxury Cars
Luxury
name: Audi type: Make
name: BMW type: Make
name: Cadillac type: Make
name: Jaguar type: Make
name: Lexus type: Make
name: Mercedes-Benz type: Make

Points: 11.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Cadillac CTS: This Luxury Sedan Is All About the Driving Experience
Luxury
name: Cadillac type: Make

Points: 11.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Driven: 2019 Lexus ES 350 F-Sport Review
Luxury
name: Lexus type: Make

Points: 11.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 4Matic: Drive Well for Less
Luxury
name: Mercedes-Benz type: Make