Photographs: Denis Balibouse/Reuters
Every year there is a rush to see the most luxurious cars, new launches and makeovers at numerous auto shows across the world. This year wasn't any different.
As car enthusiasts wait with excitement, car makers ensure that they don't let their audience down. Also, with the rapidly evolving automobile technology, along with the intense focus on luxurious interiors and bespoke features, luxury car makers all over the world are attracting more attention than every before.
So, this year from Ferrari, Lamborghini to Bentley, Land Rover and many other luxury cars have made a significant impact across every auto show that this year. Read on to see which car meets your fantasy:
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Aston Martin
Aston Martin Dragon 88
Introduction: 2012 Beijing Auto Show
British luxury car manufacturer unveiled the all new Aston Martin Dragon 88 at the 2012 Beijing Auto Show. The Dragon 88 will bear a 24 carat gold-plated Aston Martin wings logo that will be showcased on the hood as well as the rear of the car.
Each of the Special Edition cars feature bespoke details of the dragon symbol.
The exterior features a 24-carat gold badge on the hood and rear.These three exterior colours are complemented by Spicy Red, Chancellor Red and Deep Purple interior colors. Piano black trim, dragon-embroidered headrests and gold inlays further add some serious luxury to the Chinese-style Aston.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Aston Martin
To ensure exclusivity, Aston Martin will also include the widely acclaimed Aston Martin One-77 supercar in its Dragon 88 collection, along with the four door Aston Martin Rapide that has been especially customised for the series by in-house 'Q by Aston Martin' service.
The entire Dragon 88 collection will be introduced to the Chinese and other Asian markets this year.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Chrysler
Jeep Wrangler Dragon Concept
Introduction: 2012 Beijing Auto Show
Chrysler introduced the Jeep Wrangler Dragon Concept amid a lot of fanfare. This beautiful vehicle has been designed as a tribute to the Chinese' Year of the Dragon'.
The Jeep Wrangler Dragon Concept features bronze-gold details along with a fabulous black paintjob. The gold details have been meticulously placed on the car's front grille, headlamps, as well as on the Jeep logo on the front and rear of the vehicle.
The Wrangler Dragon Concept will feature bespoke 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, LED exterior lighting package and 35 inch off road tires. It will be powered by a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine that will deliver 284 hp and will be tethered to an all-new automatic transmission.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Reuters
Lamborghini Urus
Introduction: 2012 Beijing Auto Show
Developed as the company's very first luxury SUV for the bespoke list of cars of 2012, the Urus takes inspiration from the much vaunted Lamborghini Aventador, wherein the designers have crafted a fascinating blend of Aventador with that of an off-road SUV.
On the outside, the Urus features high performance LED headlights, 24 inch wheels and comes with a carbon fiber reinforced polymer chassis that has been aerodynamically fashioned.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Lamborghini
Further, to ensure maximum performance, the interiors of the Urus have also been crafted in carbon fiber reinforced polymer, while sporting comfortable bucket seats, a multifunctional steering wheel and a state of the art infotainment system.
The 2012 Lamborghini Urus is slated for production in the year 2017.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Bentley
Bentley Mulsanne Mulliner
Introduction: 2012 Geneva Motor Show
Developed by the British car maker, Bentley Motors, the 2013 Bentley Mulsanne was unveiled as a new upgrade package for the renowned Bentley Mulsanne that would bring more exclusivity as well as bespoke features to the model.
It offers 21-inch wheels and Flying B vents along with leather trimmed interiors. On the inside, the Mulsanne Mulliner takes luxury to a whole new level with the introduction of three hand‑blown and hand-cut lead crystal champagne flutes.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Bentley
This new luxury car is powered by 6.75-liter twin-turbo V8 that gives an impressive output of 505bhp and is equally complemented with a cutting edge transmission system.
The new Mulsanne Mulliner Driving Specification blends a range of striking design features including unique 21-inch alloy wheels, Bentley Flying 'B' wing vents and Diamond Quilted leather trimmed cabin with driver-selectable, sports-tuned suspension and steering, underscoring the performance credentials of Bentley's 6.75 litre V8 ultra-luxury sports saloon.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Jaguar
Jaguar XJ Ultimate Edition
Introduction: 2012 Beijing Auto Show
The XJ Ultimate Edition will feature plenty of luxury additions, including two separate, fully-reclining rear seats, folding aluminum tables, along with a cabinet specifically for a champagne bottle. iPads have also been fitted behind the front seats in addition to a pair of TV screens on the back headrests.
The 2013 Jaguar XJ Ultimate Edition will be introduced with a starting price tag of a $155,000.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Jaguar
The features which are highlighted in this luxurious car are a champagne cooler with two handcrafted Goran Hongell champagne glasses, a heated steering wheel, a whopping 20-speaker surround system custom-made by Meridian Audio.
The first 20 Ultimate models made will be painted in Celestial Black, but customers can also order their car in Polaris White--and any colour in between.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Bugatti
Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse
Introduction: 2012 Geneva Auto Show
This stunning supercar is the result of combining the Veyron Super Sport with the more lifestyle-oriented Veyron Grand Sport.
Designed as a convertible variant of the Grand Sport series, the all new Vitesse carries a price tag if a mind blowing $2.64 million.
The Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse is powered by a 8.0-liter, quad-turbocharged W16 engine and is coupled with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Bugatti
This luxury supercar can easily achieve a maximum speed of 410 km/h, while making a sprint of 0 to 100 km/h under 2.6 seconds.
The Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse is crafted entirely from carbon fiber that can also be found on the car's centre control panel.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Ferrari
Ferrari F12 Berlinetta
Introduction: 2012 Geneva Auto Show
The best part of Ferrari F12 Berlinetta is its powerful high-performance. In fact, the F12 Berlinetta is said to be the fastest Ferrari ever built.
The new F12 Berlinetta was designed by the Ferrari Styling Center in cooperation with Pininfarina.
It is designed to carry forward the legacy of the world renowned Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano and Ferrari 550 Maranello, while this magnificent supercar is heavily inspired from the Ferrari FF sports car.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Ferrari
The F12 Berlinetta is powered by a cutting edge naturally aspirated 65 degree V12 engine, delivering 750 hp of power and the engine is tethered to a F1 dual-clutch transmission.
This increase in power also comes with a decrease of fuel consumption, specifically a 30 per cent reduction.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Maserati
Maserati GranTurismo Sport
Introduction: 2012 Geneva Auto Show
Maserati Gran Turismo Sport adds increased performance and an elegant overall restyling that stresses its sporty nature. It is designed and developed as a perfect amalgamation of bespoke luxury and cutting edge technology.
Maserati Gran Turismo Sport is powered by a 4.7-liter V8 that pushes the car with 460 hp and almost 384 ft-lbs of torque to a top speed of more than 184 mph.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Reuters
The GranTurismo Sport also has an updated exterior, restyled for a sporty appearance with aggressive-looking sides and a deep-reaching oval grille.
Further, the Italian marquee has added LED accents to the headlights for an updated style boost. Aside from LEDs, 20-inch wheels further augment the coupe's styling to sit over paint-matching Brembo calipers.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Reuters
Lamborghini Aventador J
Introduction: 2012 Geneva Auto Show
Lamborghini Aventador J was designed and developed as a one-off model, which immediately took the world of automobiles by storm. It is priced at $2.75 million.
The Lamborghini Aventador J is a radically open automobile – exterior and interior meld into each other. The designers and engineers in Sant'Agata Bolognese have not only dispensed entirely with the roof, but also with the front windshield.
It is powered by a 6.5 L V12 engine, delivering 700 bhp and when paired with a seven speed single clutch transmission, this bespoke supercar can achieve a top speed of 186 mph.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Bentley
Bentley EXP 9 F
Introduction: 2012 Geneva Auto Show
The EXP 9 F will be developed to bring forth a perfect combination of high performance technology and bespoke interiors as well as eye popping features. The Bentley EXP 9 F takes its inspiration from the company's famous Grand Tourer Bentley model.
The standard EXP 9 F will be powered by a 6.0-liter twin turbo-charged W-12 engine that would produce some 600 hp and will be tethered to an eight speed transmission. However, Bentley will also offers its customers with the choice of a 4.0 liter V8 twin-turbo charged engine that will be part of a hybrid engine configuration.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Jason Lee/Reuters
"We are very excited by the potential of a high performance, ultra-luxury Bentley SUV. We know that many Bentley customers already own SUVs, admiring their style, luxury, performance and versatility. With EXP 9 F, Bentley is making a clear statement of intent that we have both the expertise and desire to meet and exceed their expectations." Wolfgang D rheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors said in a press statement.
The Bentley EXP 9 F has been given signature bodywork and comes with 23-inch alloy wheels. The interiors of the EXP 9 F spell nothing but opulence with its silk wool floor mats, leather and polished metals.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, BMW
BMW X1
Introduction: 2012 New York Auto Show
The German luxury auto giant introduced this compact crossover as a perfect alternative to large and bulky SUVs.
BMW is offering its customers with two engine configurations for the X1, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 240 hp and a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with 300 HP.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, BMW
Like all BMWs, the X1 has good driving dynamics, however, do not consider it to be an off-roader.
The first engine configuration will be available with the X1 28i model, while the latter will come with X1 xDrive35i model. On the inside, the 2013 BMW X1 features centre console cupholders, electroplated trims and an optional navigation system.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Rolls Royce
Rolls Royce Phantom Series II
Introduction: 2012 Geneva Auto Show
Rolls-Royce is the first to include full LED headlamps as standard on a production car. Further, every part of the Phantom has a modern user interface with re-designed multi-media controller.
The new satellite navigation system has been fully updated with functions that include 3D maps with landscape topography, guided tours and enhanced points of interest, as well as composite route planning.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Rolls Royce
Also, the refined in-cat infotainment system is now comprised of an 8.8 inch touchscreen interface and provides the driver with up to eight pre-set functions instantly.
A new 8-speed automatic gearbox and rear differential enhance already exemplary driving dynamics perfectly complementing the V12 direct injection engine. Fuel consumption improves by 10 per cent on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions fall from 388 to 347 g/km as a consequence.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Land Rover
Beckham Edition Range Rover Evoque (Limited Edition)
Introduction: 2012 Beijing Auto Show
Land Rover proudly unveiled the all-new 2013 Beckham Edition Range Rover Evoque, a luxury SUV that has been designed by the fashion icon, Victoria Beckham.
The special edition model is powered by a 2.0 litre petrol engine and will be hand-finished by Land Rover's Engineering to Order division (ETO) in Warwickshire.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Land Rover
The special edition of the Range Rover Evoque Special, designed in association with Victoria Beckham, goes on sale first in China with deliveries due from October 2012.
The indicative pricing is 79,995 pound, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) said in a statement.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Andrew Burton/Reuters
2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG
Introduction: 2012 New York Auto Show
To mark the 45th anniversary of AMG, Mercedes-Benz plans to build the 2013 SL65 AMG 45th Anniversary Edition in a limited run of 45 cars, with the first batch slated to reach US dealers in November.
All the anniversary cars will be rendered in a new silk-matte gray finish called design magno graphite.
The exterior is finished off with black-chrome dual exhaust pipes and AMG forged multi-spoke wheels painted matte titanium gray with polished rims. Tires are 255/35R19 front and 285/30R20 rear.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Mercedes-Benz
The anniversary model is loaded with much of the same equipment as on the standard SL65 AMG, including a twin-turbo 6.0-liter V12 that makes 621 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque.
AMG Performance Media with telemetry function is an extra-cost option.
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG '45th Anniversary' Edition features extensive use of carbon fiber which can be seen on the external mirrors, spoiler lip and the front apron.
The SL65 AMG joins the SL550 roadster and the SL63 AMG roadster. The SL550 has a starting retail price of $106,375.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Soo Hoo Zheyang/Reuters
Aston Martin V12 Zagato
Introduction: 2012 Geneva Auto Show
Aston Martin V12 Zagato is considered as a fabulous addition to the high end luxury cars of 2012. This expensive Aston Martin is greatly inspired by the famous Aston Martin One-77 and incorporates an elegant mix of carbon fiber and hand crafted aluminum.
The V12 Zagato is powered by a monstrous V12 engine that delivers an impressive 510 hp, which in turn enable this exotic luxury car to achieve a top speed of 190 mph, while making an acceleration of 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Denis Balibouse/Reuters
Bentley Continental GT V8
Introduction: 2012 Detroit Auto Show
The new Continental GT V8 will be available in both CT coupe and GTC convertible models.
The new 4.0 litre, twin turbocharged V8 engine will be offered for both the CT coupe and GTC convertible models and will go on sale in the summer of 2012.
The new V8 engine delivers 500 HP at 6000 rpm and 487 lb-ft of torque available between 1700 to 5000 rpm. The models equipped with this new engine will be offered with a new close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission and will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds, while top speed will go up to 180 mph.
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16 cars that will even make James Bond drool
Photographs: Courtesy, Bentley
Here, fuel economy and CO2 emissions have been improved significantly. Further, Bentley has promised that when equipped with the new V8 engine, the Continental models will be capable of travelling over 500 miles (800km) on a single tank of fuel.
"With the new 4.0 liter V8 engine we are widening the appeal of the latest generation of Continentals, introducing a completely new driving experience.
On the inside, the Continental GT V8 features bespoke interiors that are highlighted by eliade cloth headlining and dark fiddleback eucalyptus veneers, while the centre console is clad in gorgeous two tone leather.
The 2013 Bentley Continental GT V8 in the CT coupe form will be available with a price tag of $214,074, while the GTC convertible model carries a price tag of $235,485.
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