Elite Traveler Summer 2019

INSPIRE TOP CARS

Lexus RC F Track Edition

Thoughtful and deliberate has long been the Lexus way. But the introduction of the RC F Track Edition is building excitement as Lexus continues diversifying not only its lineup but its broader cultural position. From the LC 500’s cameo in last year’s Marvel film Black Panther to the freshly launched, track-friendly RC F sports car — and even the gentle teasing of the LC Convertible concept, which is leisurely making its way into production — Lexus is reaffirming its stance as wieldy luxury. The Track Edition has a more aerodynamic signature, as it's slimmer by 176 lbs than the RC F model thanks to a salubrious dose of carbon fiber in the roof, rear wing, front splitter and hood. Brembo carbon ceramic brake rotors as well as a titanium muffler and tailpipes — an uncommon material for production cars — create a more metallic, slightly higher pitched sound. It’s worth noting that Lexus doubled down on its naturally aspirated motor, meaning no hybridization, twin-turbos or electrification here. Price from $96,650 Engine naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 Power 472 hp

Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Concept cars debut as a company’s statement of purpose, a directional intention. The arrival of the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 marks the freshest concept- to-fully-realized production vehicle for Mercedes- Benz. Although, the $2.8m Mercedes-AMG One hypercar and the recently announced Vision Mercedes-Maybach Ultimate Luxury SUV are certainly stirring the pot, compelling fans of the brand to rethink the notion of conception when defining automobiles. The one-time independent tuning shop AMG now builds new models under the Mercedes-Benz umbrella, albeit with its own dedicated team of engineers and designers. The 2017 concept-cum-GT 63 marks the ninth GT variant on the market. Originally pitched as a hybrid drive system, the four-seat ‘supercar’ squarely falls in the twin- turbo realm. Like every AMG, a single master craftsman hand-builds each engine. Inside, 64 LED ambient light settings ensure ample variety, while Mercedes-Benz touches, such as seat sides that actively grip a driver encouragingly through corners, guarantee a familiar marque thru line. Price from $136,500 Engine 4.0-liter AMG V8 Power 577 hp

Photo dejansokolovski.com