Rides – Maxim https://www.maxim.com Catering to the modern man with content that promises to seduce, entertain and continuously surprise readers. Thu, 02 Oct 2025 14:38:38 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://www.maxim.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/cropped-maxim-favicon-32x32.png Rides – Maxim https://www.maxim.com 32 32 Aston Martin And Bollinger Champagne Join Forces For Global Luxury Experiences https://www.maxim.com/food-drink/aston-martin-and-bollinger-champagne-join-forces-for-global-luxury-experiences/ Thu, 02 Oct 2025 08:20:00 +0000 https://www.maxim.com/?p=273096
(Bollinger)

Luxury automaker Aston Martin and famed French Champagne house Bollinger have forged a prestigious global partnership, the two brands announced. The upscale union brings together two icons of the luxury market known for their enduring heritage, impeccable craftsmanship, and pursuit of excellence–as well as joining James Bond’s preferred automobile and the superspy’s favorite Champagne under one experiential umbrella.

Champagne Bollinger was named the Official Champagne Partner of Aston Martin, which in turn becomes Bollinger’s Official Automotive Partner. “This partnership is a natural alignment of two iconic brands,” said Charles-Armand de Belenet, Managing Director of Champagne Bollinger. “We are proud to see Champagne Bollinger become part of Aston Martin’s most exceptional moments around the world.”

Founded in 1913, Aston Martin is a symbol of British performance and handcrafted excellence. The marque’s century-long history of creating celebrated sports cars, which combine cutting-edge engineering with timeless design, mirrors the values held by the 196-year-old Champagne house. Since its founding in 1829, family-owned Bollinger has maintained a distinctive balance between heritage and forward-thinking excellence, even holding a continuous Royal Warrant from the British Royal Household since 1884.

Stefano Saporetti, Director of Brand Diversification at Aston Martin, said the partnership exemplifies the automaker’s spirit of creating “unforgettable experiences that blend performance, craftsmanship, and artistry.”

As part of the agreement, Champagne Bollinger will be present at key Aston Martin VIP events and customer gatherings globally, from exclusive launches to intimate unveilings. The strategic partnership aims to reinforce both brand’s commitment to elevating lifestyle experiences for discerning global audiences. Stay tuned to see what the collaboration has in store for fans of both brands.

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Thu, 02 Oct 2025 10:38:38 +0000 Food & Drink
‘The Impossible Collection Of Motorcycles’ Gets Bigger With High-Octane Coffee Table Book https://www.maxim.com/entertainment/the-impossible-collection-of-motorcycles-gets-expanded-edition-of-gorgeous-coffee-table-book/ Wed, 01 Oct 2025 10:45:00 +0000 https://www.maxim.com/?p=272745
The famed “Bat Pod” from Christopher Nolan’s megahit film “The Dark Knight Rises,” 2008 (©Thepropstore/Bournemouth News/Shutterstock)

“One of the things I love about motorcycles is the variety of people who are fanatics about them—you tend to have this idea of a motorcyclist as either a super trendy tatted café racing hipster, or a Sons of Anarchy denimed-up gangster.

Vincent Rapide Series B “Blue Bike,” with which Marty Dickerson set a speed record, 1948 (©webbs.co.nz/Photo by Neil Campbell)

But the truth of the matter is that people who love escaping into the hills on motorcycles are about as varied as they come,” reveals Maxim Deputy Editor Nicolas Stecher, who also happens to be co-author of Assouline’s new uber-luxe The Impossible Collection of Motorcycles coffee table book. “That means that the type of motorcycles that were built to appeal to these passionate riders over the past 150 years are about as varied as Ben & Jerry’s.”

(Uma Thurman as The Bride riding a Kawasaki ZZR 250 in the 2003 Quentin Tarantino film Kill Bill: Volume 1 / © Entertainment Pictures/Alamy)

For the second edition of The Impossible Collection of Motorcycles, Stecher and co-author Ian Barry added ten new 21st-century bikes to the hundred they collected for the first edition, which focused on the previous century.

Tamara Dobson, “Cleopatra Jones,” 1973 (©Screen Archives/Getty Images)

Featuring only the rarest, coolest, and most pivotal motorcycles since 1900, this new edition adds to Assouline’s vaunted Impossible Collection series, which has previously shined a light on everything from wines to Patek Philippe timepieces to even Formula One cars—which also happens to be included in our Ferrari F1 feature in Maxim’s September/October issue.

(© Mike Biggins/Zero Motorcycles and Huge
Design)

And these aren’t just routine coffee table books, mind you. They’re massive in scale (16 x 19 inches), and boast beautiful time-consuming and rare printing techniques such as hand-tipped images and hand-binding; the 170 images come presented on thick, archival-quality cotton paper with a PVC clamshell case and metal plaque.

With Barry’s pedigree designing and building museum-level custom bikes under the Falcon Motorcycles marque, and our esteemed editor’s long history in automotive journalism, the hundred bikes assembled here are each a gem worthy of the book’s title. Consider Evel Knievel’s famed Harley-Davidson XR750 on which he leapt over the Caesars Palace fountains, breaking countless bones upon impact when his jump fell awry.


Photo by Bill Eppridge/The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock (12109516a)
Aerial view of contestants in the Mint 400 Motocross endurance race through the Mojave Desert, Nevada, September 1971. Journalist Hunter S. Thompson, contracted to write an article on the race for Sports Illustrated magazine, turned his coverage into the novel ‘Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.’
Mint 400 Motocross Race, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

Or early unicorns of engineering, such as Glenn Curtiss’s iconic 1907 V8, for which the famed aviator impossibly bolted a massive 4.4-liter V8 engine onto essentially a glorified bicycle frame to create a true spectacle of mechanical force. Hitting 136 mph, the Curtiss V8 shattered the land speed record and held it for decades.

(© Michael Furman/Private Collection)

But which is our deputy editor’s favorite? “That’s a tough one,” Stecher struggles, seemingly running through the hundred motorcycles in his mind. “I’d say my two favorites are the BMW R7, which graces the cover—an unbelievable one-off specimen of German engineering and art-deco design that was thought lost for nearly 70 years until discovered in 2005 in a BMW warehouse. What a story, and what a bike. And maybe the Britten V1000—a superbike entirely designed and built by a New Zealand madman in his garage, which beat factory teams with infinitely deeper wallets. That’s another thing: I really dig the visionaries behind these bikes, all of them the best kind of rogues and renegades this planet needs.”

(© Alexander Babic)

Of course, a tome of this rare scale and quality boasts a $1,400 price tag to match. Find The Impossible Collection of Motorcycles (2nd Edition) at Assouline.com.

(Assouline)

This article originally appeared in Maxim’s September/October 2025 issue. Follow Deputy Editor Nicolas Stecher  on Instagram at @nickstecher and @boozeoftheday.

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Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:31:21 +0000 Entertainment
Rolls-Royce CEO Chris Brownridge On $375 Million Expansion, Black Badge Program And How To Get A ‘Private Office’ Invitation https://www.maxim.com/rides/rolls-royce-ceo-chris-brownridge-on-375-million-expansion-black-badge-program-and-how-to-get-a-private-office-new-york-invitation/ Tue, 30 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.maxim.com/?p=272828
The Cullinan Series II is seamless blend of power, elegance and craftsmanship (Rolls-Royce)

As the storied Rolls-Royce marque celebrated its 120th anniversary last year, a sea change was taking shape in its top office. After nearly 14 years as CEO, during which time the opulent automaker saw a 500 percent surge in sales, Torsten Müller-Ötvös announced he was stepping aside in favor of UK-born industry veteran Chris Brownridge—a return to the brand’s roots, you might say.

“To be invited to lead this great British brand, at such a pivotal moment in its long and remarkable story, is an extraordinary privilege,” Brownridge said of his ascension. “Rolls-Royce is one of the world’s most recognized, desirable, and influential brands, and I’m keenly aware of the enormous affection and esteem in which it’s held.” Earlier this year, he demonstrated his commitment to the evolution of the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy, presiding over the debut of Black Badge Spectre, the most powerful car in Rolls-Royce history, based on its $400,000-plus electric ultra-luxury grand tourer.

Rolls-Royce CEO Chris Brownridge (Rolls-Royce)

Just prior to that, he’d announced plans to invest around $375 million to expand the marque’s famed Goodwood, U.K. factory to focus more on the bespoke side of the business, a thriving division that has gained a reputation for ever-more-incredible custom creations. Some of its most notable bespoke commissions in 2024 included solid 18-karat gold sculptural elements, hand embroidery consisting of more than 869,500 stitches, veneers including 500 individually-shaped pieces of wood, and one-of-a-kind holographic paint finishes.

At the same time, the brand opened an impressive new Private Office in New York, catering to stateside clients wishing to order bespoke vehicles and collaborate directly with the marque’s designers. We recently spoke to Brownridge about his appointment, vision, and plans for the future.

Courtesy Rolls-Royce

What aspects of the brand’s direction are you most eager to develop or refine?

Every day, I gain a deeper appreciation for our ability to connect with clients through Bespoke. I am continually inspired by the talent and vision of our artisans in Goodwood and our teams around the world. Our ambition is to further expand personalization options, ensuring each motor car reflects the unique desires of its owner. This includes investing in the Goodwood facility to accommodate increasingly complex Bespoke projects—reinforcing our unwavering commitment to individualized luxury.

The new Spectre Black Badge (Rolls-Royce)

How does the Black Badge Spectre embody the pinnacle of the Black Badge ethos?

Black Badge is the alter ego of the Rolls-Royce brand— darker, bolder, and more visceral. Spectre, our electric super coupé, provides the ideal canvas for this expression. Its emotionally charged design and powerful stance made it the natural choice for our most performance-focused model to date. With 650 brake horsepower and exclusive features like “Infinity Mode” and “Spirited Mode,” Black Badge Spectre pushes the boundaries of bold design while maintaining the serene luxury expected of Rolls-Royce. In many ways, this is the motor car Black Badge was destined for.

Courtesy Rolls-Royce

How has the Black Badge program evolved over the past decade?

Black Badge was introduced to appeal to a younger, more dynamic clientele. It has since matured into a bold symbol of individuality— perfectly aligned with the expressive capabilities of our Bespoke division. Over time, we’ve introduced enhanced performance features, culminating in the Black Badge Spectre—the most powerful Rolls-Royce ever. Simultaneously, Black Badge has allowed us to innovate with new materials, further expanding the visual and tactile palette available to our clients.

What is the current state of the Black Badge program, and who are its clients?

The Black Badge collection continues to thrive, attracting those who seek a more daring and unconventional Rolls-Royce experience. Our client base for Black Badge is very diverse, but our Black Badge owners value bold design married with dynamic performance. They are seeking a truly personal connection to the image their motor car projects and deliberately move away from expected aesthetic codes.

Courtesy Rolls-Royce

What was involved in engineering the most powerful Rolls-Royce in history?

The development of Black Badge Spectre required a transformative approach to power and performance—executed the Rolls-Royce way. Teaching Spectre how to behave with increased torque and horsepower while remaining, first and foremost, a Rolls-Royce demanded precise calibration of the transmission, suspension, and steering systems. Our engineers also crafted a sound profile befitting this elevated performance. The result is a motor car that redefines power for the brand with-out any compromise regarding the refined character that defines Rolls-Royce.

Courtesy Rolls-Royce

How do you balance innovation and electrification with the heritage that defines Rolls-Royce?

At the start of the 20th century, our founder, Charles Rolls, declared that electric drive would be the technology of the future, ideally suited to the type of car he–together with Henry Royce–was destined to create. Traveling in a Rolls-Royce has always been defined by silence, effortless power and the unrivaled “magic carpet ride.” With our meticulously engineered Rolls-Royce electric drivetrain, that renowned feeling of “one endless gear” takes on a new quality: Even more powerful, silent and refined than our legendary V12, it delivers the ultimate Rolls-Royce experience.

What motivated the $375 million expansion of the Goodwood manufacturing facility?

This strategic investment is dedicated to expanding our Bespoke and Coachbuild capabilities, not to increase annual production volumes. As client demand grows for increasingly complex and highly individualized commissions, the enhanced facility will support advanced paint techniques and intricate “one-off” interior treatments, reducing wait times for our clients. Our mission is not more volume, but more magnificent, meaningful commissions.

Rolls-Royce Private Office is where the bespoke magic happens (Rolls-Royce)

How has Rolls-Royce come to lead the industry in vehicle customization?

Bespoke is not an option at Rolls-Royce—it is the essence of what we do. From the initial consultation to the final handover, every touchpoint is tailored to transform each motor car into a singular expression of the client’s lifestyle. Our goal is to ensure that no two Rolls-Royces are alike—each is a one-of-one commission that reflects the individuality of its owner.

What is driving the increase in Bespoke and Coachbuild demand?

True luxury lies in individuality and exclusivity. Our clients are highly accomplished individuals who turn to Rolls-Royce to express and celebrate that success. They don’t want a car—they want a statement. A unique Bespoke commission is their way of making that statement.

The Black Badge Spectre is the ultimate version of the marque’s electric super coupé (Rolls-Royce)

What inspired the growth of the Private Office program? Doesn’t its invite-only nature create limitations?

Private Office was conceived to serve clients with highly ambitious bespoke visions—clients for whom time is their most precious resource. Not everyone can travel to Goodwood [UK], so we brought the experience closer to them. The Private Office allows direct access to our design team and creative resources, empowering our most visionary clients to bring their ideas to life in collaboration with our brand.

How does one receive an invitation to the Private Office?

Invitations are extended to clients who demonstrate a strong affinity with the brand, often through previous Bespoke commissions or a clear vision for a one-of-a-kind vehicle. At Private Office New York, for instance, access is granted via dealer-client advisors. While every Rolls-Royce dealership houses a Bespoke Lounge, clients whose requests are particularly elaborate are invited to the Private Office where they can work directly with a Rolls-Royce designer and dedicated client experience manager.

Courtesy Rolls-Royce

How does direct collaboration with Goodwood designers enhance the commissioning experience?

Working directly with our designers—whether at Goodwood [Rolls’ UK headquarters] or in Private Office locations—immerses clients in the creative journey. Their personal stories and preferences are deeply integrated into the final design, resulting in a motor car that is not only one-of-a-kind, but profoundly personal. These collaborations often inspire new techniques and innovations in design, material use, and craftsmanship.

Are there plans to open additional Private Office locations? What determines their placement?

Currently, our Private Offices in Goodwood, Dubai, Shanghai, Seoul, and New York are serving hundreds of clients on highly complex projects. Our focus remains on delivering world-class service at each location. While we have no immediate plans to expand, we will continue to evaluate based solely on one criterion: our ability to meet and exceed client expectations.

Courtesy Rolls-Royce

Are more ultra-limited Coachbuild commissions planned? What determines eligibility?

Wait and see! We continue to explore ultra-limited Coachbuild projects with clients who have a deep understanding of the brand and a compelling vision. These commissions are profoundly collaborative and ensure alignment with Rolls-Royce’s heritage and standards. While we can’t reveal specifics at this time, we are always seeking opportunities to evolve the Coachbuild concept in response to client demand.

This article originally appeared in Maxim’s September/October 2025 issue.

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Mon, 29 Sep 2025 09:38:12 +0000 Rides
This Ultra-Luxe Racing Package Gets You A McLaren Supercar And A Trackside Man Cave https://www.maxim.com/travel/this-ultra-luxe-package-gets-you-a-mclaren-a-trackside-man-cave-and-the-ultimate-motorsports-lifestyle/ Tue, 30 Sep 2025 08:15:00 +0000 https://www.maxim.com/?p=272939
(Apex Motor Club)

A luxurious new membership package aimed at deep-pocketed racing buffs just hit the market. Apex Motor Club, a private racetrack and experiential motorsports lifestyle community in Phoenix, has launched the ultimate membership for enthusiasts, bundling a brand new McLaren with a custom, trackside man cave. The $2,000,000 package is an all-inclusive opportunity for anyone looking to live out their professional racing fantasies. It kicks off with a new McLaren supercar, provided by McLaren Scottsdale, that’s immediately ready to hit the track.

(Apex Motor Club)

But an exotic, ready-to-race ride needs a proper home. The membership includes a private, customizable trackside garage condo with direct access to the track’s Pit Lane. To transform this space into the owner’s personal sanctuary, the package allocates $250,000 toward creating a customized man cave. Apex even offers an interior design service to help owners turn their private garage into a personalized motorsports haven.

(Apex Motor Club)

The value of the membership extends beyond the hardware. Forty hours of professional driver coaching are included to elevate skills on the track, along with entry into the Apex Challenge series of races to allow members to compete like a professional. Members get their choice of an all-inclusive Formula 1 VIP Experience or a Monterey Car Week VIP Experience, both featuring first-class transportation and exclusive event access.

(Apex Motor Club)

The package also includes a fully custom race suit and helmet, a customized Louis Vuitton personal shopping experience with $75,000 to spend, and the ability to name a turn on one of Apex’s signature racetracks. Finally, the package wraps up the membership initiation fee and three years of annual membership fees.

(Apex Motor Club)

Apex Motor Club features three private racetracks in Phoenix. Its newest track was designed by race industry veterans Darren Law and Ian James and integrates iconic design features and turns from legendary international tracks, including the Nürburgring, Silverstone, and Monaco.

(Apex Motor Club)
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Mon, 29 Sep 2025 23:30:39 +0000 Travel
Inside Casa Maranello, A Ferrari-Themed Florida Mega Mansion https://www.maxim.com/travel/inside-casa-maranello-a-ferrari-themed-florida-mansion/ Mon, 29 Sep 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.maxim.com/?p=272854
(Mike Ruiz/Legendary Productions)

Recently, a mansion made splashy headlines the world over for its record-breaking purchase. And while you might think the draw would be the $55 million that architect and developer Aldo Stark of Prestige Design Homes earned from its sale, it’s actually the abode’s opulent Ferrari-themed design that dropped jaws. Casa Maranello, as it’s so eloquently named, is not only an ode to lavish living, but to the Italian supercar maker whose identity ripples through the DNA of the 2.5- acre lakefront campus like the crimson flags flown by Ferraristi the world over.

(Mike Ruiz/Legendary Productions)

The Prancing Horse obsession starts as soon as you pass the gates and walk by an expansive fountain at the home’s entrance. Floating on the pool-like water, a defiant horse rears on its hind legs—a life-size Ferrari logo fully manifested in bronze. Walk through the imposing front double doors to the grand salon and you’ll see a replica of one of the planet’s most valuable cars centerstage. There in the room’s pole position, a reduced scale Ferrari 250 Testarossa reminds all who enter the abode where its name was born (the Italian city being, of course, the home of Ferrari).

(Mike Ruiz/Legendary Productions)

From that vantage, you can also catch a view of Casa Maranello’s focal point: the 12-car garage, outfitted in photos with a lust-worthy suite of gleaming Ferraris—and a lone Rolls-Royce Phantom. Unfortunately, none of these vehicles are included in the sale, but that’s OK. The glass-walled garage allows the proud owner to park his own collection for stunned onlookers to enjoy from the comforts of the living room, viewed behind glass like an adult-size Hot Wheels collection.

(Mike Ruiz/Legendary Productions)

While Italy plays prime muse, its Douglas Elliman agency states the home was “inspired by European artistry and precision.” And that inspiration emanates not just from Italy but also Switzerland—specifically the iconic “Goldfinger Route,” aka the Swiss Alps’ Furka Pass through which Sean Connery escapes the titular Goldfinger’s goons in his Aston Martin DB5. Located in what is humbly dubbed “Billionaire’s Row” in the prestigious Stone Creek Ranch development of Delray Beach, Florida, Casa Maranello is clearly built with one focus in mind: revelry. But beyond the ample hosting capabilities of the 21,725-squarefoot mansion lies a profound ability to relax, recharge, and meditate.

Casa Maranello was not merely paid for via cash, but was partly swapped for a nearby $26 million mansion. Like trading baseball cards, but for the G800 crowd.

(Mike Ruiz/Legendary Productions)

Despite its hefty price tag, Casa Maranello seems not to have been imagined as a first home, but rather more of a Miami party pad. Small hints to its festive purpose abound: the 20-person Brazilian onyx dining table in the dining room, crystal chandelier-festooned high-ceilings, and a marble-lined 30-foot-long cocktail lounge dubbed the Maranello Bar all seem to suggest Casa Maranello might be more of an afters-at-mine destination for one of Magic City’s sports superstars. Perhaps the perfect pad for Tua Tagovailoa or Bam Adebayo to call home.

Should any of your new friends want to sleep over, the halfdozen bedroom suites, including a pair of primary suites, supply five-star resort levels of comfort. Each boasts walk-in closets and en-suite spa level bathrooms. For your other playmates, you can offer four well-appointed guest suites which still ensure both lavish style and privacy in case anyone should need it.

(Mike Ruiz/Legendary Productions)

Of course there are plenty of distractions outdoors should you want to keep the party going the next day—centered around the 95-foot pool plucked directly from an Aman Resort. Most of the verdant campus looks out onto the glimmering lake, all landscaped for decadent daytime soirées. Drinks can be served from the pool cabana’s bar, which also comes equipped with a full kitchen and bathroom. Or guests can elevate the rest and recovery to the next level by indulging in the home’s insane Bulgari-inspired spa. The five-diamond wellness oasis boasts its own indoor pool, as well as a Himalayan salt room, sauna, and steam room.

If action is more your bag, Casa Maranello also entertains with its own basketball court that doubles for pickleball. There’s even a putting green and its own private soccer field. Because what would a $55-million Ferrari-dedicated mansion be without its own pitch? One amusing detail reported is that Casa Maranello was not merely paid for via cash or loan, but was partly swapped for a nearby $26 million 18,000-square-foot mansion. Like trading baseball cards, but for the G800 crowd.

(Mike Ruiz/Legendary Productions)

This article originally appeared in Maxim’s September/October 2025 issue.

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Sat, 27 Sep 2025 18:32:05 +0000 Travel
This Elite Mercedes-Maybach V12 Edition Features 24-Karat Gold Details https://www.maxim.com/rides/the-mercedes-maybach-v12-edition-features-24-karat-gold-details/ Mon, 29 Sep 2025 09:15:00 +0000 https://www.maxim.com/?p=272811
(Mercedes-Benz)

Mercedes is honoring its historic 12-pot lineage’s power, performance, and poshness with the the ultra exclusive Mercedes-Maybach V12 Edition. The massive powerplant has been a hallmark of the brand since the 1930s, when the first Maybach-produced 12-cylinder debuted in the Maybach Zeppelin. That legendary model, engineered by Karl Maybach, was lauded for its technically advanced features, performance, and ride comfort, described in a 1934 brochure as “the ultimate automobile of wish fulfilment, characterized by distinguished elegance and power.” The Maybach Zeppelin was one of few of its contemporaries that could crack 100 mph.

The Mercedes V12s that are so revered today were born in the 1990s with the M120, which not only powered its most opulent S-Class sedans but served as the basis for the legendary CLK GRT supercar and even the Pagani Zonda. The modern twin-turbo iteration of the German marque’s V12 primarily powers the Mercedes-Maybach S 680, in which it develops 612 horsepower that pushes the 5,000 pound-plus behemoth to 62 mph in 4.5 seconds.

That very vehicle serves as the basis for the V12 Edition seen here, which has been beautified by the Mercedes’ Manufaktur personalization division. The striking two-tone exterior features olive metallic on the upper body and obsidian black metallic on the lower, separated by a contrasting high-tech silver metallic pinstripe—a meticulous paint application that can take up to ten working days. The exterior’s olive metallic also appears on the five-hole forged wheels but the most striking single detail is arguably the C-pillar’s unique Maybach emblem, featuring chrome, gold and a prominent “12,” a direct tribute to the hood ornament of the historic Maybach Zeppelin.

Inside, the cabin brings a smorgasbord of bespoke luxury with Nappa leather in Manufaktur-exclusive saddle brown and complementing high-gloss brown burr walnut wood trim that extends to the handcrafted steering wheel. The vehicle’s rarity is plainly marked by a “1 of 50” badge in the center console and a golden inlay on the rear center console, which features the Maybach emblem framed by twelve golden circles. This intricate inlay alone requires up to seven working days of precise handcraftsmanship. Each of the 50 vehicles will also come with bespoke accessories, including Robbe & Berking silver-plated champagne flutes with edition-specific engraving and a handcrafted key gift box.

The Mercedes-Maybach V12 Edition is only available in select markets, with deliveries to customers set to begin in autumn 2025.

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Sat, 27 Sep 2025 11:07:29 +0000 Rides
A Chinese EV Has Dethroned Bugatti To Become The World’s Fastest Production Car https://www.maxim.com/rides/a-2959-hp-chinese-ev-has-dethroned-bugatti-to-become-the-worlds-fastest-production-car/ Fri, 26 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.maxim.com/?p=272686
(BYD Auto)

Six years after the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ broke the 300 mph barrier and the record for the fastest production car, a new speed king has been crowned. A pure EV from China dubbed the YangWang U9X Xtreme took to Germany’s Automotive Testing Papenburg track to hit a maddeningly quick top speed of 308.4 mph, usurping the Bugatti’s 304.8 mph.

(BYD Auto)

In the Chiron’s speediest spec, its 8.0-liter quad-turbocharged W16 cranked out 1,578 horsepower. That sounds like—and objectively is—a ridiculous figure, until the U9 Xtreme’s powertrain is considered. According to Car and Driver, a 1,200-volt system features a motor per wheel, each producing a peak 744 horsepower, adding up to a combined output of 2,959 horsepower.

(BYD Auto)

The record-setting driver is Marc Basseng, a seasoned endurance race winner who previously set a production-car lap record at the Nürburgring with a Pagani Zonda F in 2007. “This record was only possible because the U9 Xtreme simply has incredible performance,” Basseng said. “Technically, something like this is not possible with a combustion engine. Thanks to the electric motor, the car is quiet, there are no load changes, and that allows me to focus even more on the track.”

(BYD Auto)

The YangWang U9 Extreme is a more specialized version of the standard U9, a hypercar currently available in China with a 1,287-hp quad-motor configuration that’s good for a 60 mph time of 2.3 seconds. While a foreign nameplate in the states, YangWang is a luxury brand under the umbrella of BYD, which has just surpassed Tesla in European EV sales for the second consecutive month. BYD has a vehicle that competes with just about other body style of EV on the global market, including the Volkswagen ID.3-rvialing BYD Dolphin, the Tesla Model 3-rivaling BYD Seal sedan, and even the BYD Shark, a plug-in hybrid pickup truck.

(BYD Auto)

The U9 Xtreme is sure to be among the rarest of Chinese EV behemoth’s offerings, with production limited to just 30 examples. Unfortunately, no BYD products are currently sold in the U.S.

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Thu, 25 Sep 2025 15:11:30 +0000 Rides
A Stay At This Nashville Hotel Comes With A Ferrari Or Lamborghini Supercar https://www.maxim.com/travel/this-nashville-hotel-is-offering-ferrari-lamborghini-loaners-to-guests/ Thu, 25 Sep 2025 08:30:00 +0000 https://www.maxim.com/?p=272588
(Daniel Miegs/The Joseph, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nashville)

Extensive spa services, rooftop bars and Michelin-star dining are all signs of a stellar hotel, but The Joseph in Nashville is offering a truly next-level amenity that’s sure to turbocharge your stay: 200 miles of road-tripping in an Italian supercar.

facebook-Linked_Image___Ferrari 488 Pista_3
Ferrari

The Marriott-owned hotel’s new Luxury Auto Escape package puts its guests behind the wheel of either the Ferrari 488 or Lamborghini Huracan EVO for a two-night stay. As gearheads know, those are some serious rides with sub-three-second 60 mph times and 200 mph-plus top speeds. The Prancing Horse was deemed “Supercar of the Year” by Top Gear in 2015 and Motor Trend‘s “Best Driver’s Car” in 2017, thanks to a phenomenal twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V8 that puts down 661 horsepower. Meanwhile, the Raging Bull, powered by a 5.2-liter V10, also won Motor Trend‘s “Best Driver’s Car” title in 2020.

Lamborghini Huracan Evo (5)
Lamborghini

The Joseph’s package practically ensures its guests will get the most out of the vehicles by including a curated driving itinerary. The route visits the storied Natchez Trace Parkway, a national park site that follows a historic route trekked by early settlers, Victorian downtown Franklin, and the peaceful rural community of Leiper’s Fork. Also included is a Taste of Italy starring Burrata cheese, Sicilian tapenade and focaccia bread that greets travelers upon arrival, breakfast for two, and nightly valet parking.

The Joseph’s Luxury Auto Escape is one of several packages offered by Marriott as a part of its Iconic Drives series, which also includes luxury automobile loans at The Ritz-Carlton locations in Maui, Amelia Island and Portland, as well as the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa in Phoenix. The choice in vehicle varies from a Porsche 911 and Chevrolet Corvette to a Range Rover Sport, depending on location.

For The Joseph’s Nashville Luxury Auto Escape, tap here to learn more or book—prices start at around $1,500 per night.

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Fri, 26 Sep 2025 11:22:58 +0000 Travel
Lamborghini’s First Superyacht Is A 101-Foot Missile With 7,600 Horsepower https://www.maxim.com/rides/lamborghinis-first-superyacht-is-a-101-footer-with-7600-hp/ Wed, 24 Sep 2025 10:05:00 +0000 https://www.maxim.com/?p=272400
(Automobili Lamborghini)

In 2020, the Italian Sea Group’s Tecnomar brand made waves with the release of a 63-foot speedboat featuring styling a la the the low-volume Lamborghini Sian, which attracted mass publicity and a celebrity buyer in UFC legend Conor McGregor. Knowing that, expect the significantly larger and more powerful Tecnomar for Lamborghini 101FT, the first Lamborghini-branded superyacht, to create a metaphorical tsunami.

(Automobili Lamborghini)

Following a similarly inspired design formula, the 101-footer takes cues from the few-off Lamborghini Fenomeno, the Revuelto-based masterpiece that debuted at Monterey Car Week 2025 with a naturally aspirated V12 and triple-electric-motor system, just under 1,080 horsepower, a 2.4-second 60 mph time and a 217 mph-plus top speed.

(Automobili Lamborghini)

Much care went into ensuring the yacht’s color scheme matched the Fenomeno’s lime green and black “Giallo Crius” launch livery, and there are plenty of nods to Lambo’s geometric motifs in the vessel’s geometry. The extent of the design inspiration is especially obvious in the stunning image of the vehicle and yacht in-profile seen above. Additionally, the yacht’s helm station nods to the cockpit of the the Huracan-replacing Temerario supercar, with the goal of giving the captain “the same feeling as being behind the wheel of a Lamborghini super sports car.”

(Automobili Lamborghini)

More quintessentially Lamborghini design elements, including hexagons and “Y”-shapes, are found inside, which can accommodate up to nine guests plus a full crew across three dedicated cabins. Imagery shows rather sparse interior spaces largely clad in muted gray tones without a rounded edge in sight—even a Raging Bull figurine features the angular cuts seen on Lambo bodies.

As impressive as the design is the powerplant: three powerful MTU 16V 2000 M96L engines, combined with three surface propellers, are capable of pushing the massive watercraft to a top speed of 45 knots (about 52 mph), thanks to a combined output of 7,600 horsepower. That makes the Tecnomar for Lamborghini 101FT one of the fastest boats of its size, right up there with the 7,800-hp AB Yachts 100 Superfast.

(Automobili Lamborghini)

“With the Tecnomar for Lamborghini 101FT, we are taking Lamborghini’s DNA to sea,” said Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann. “Performance, design, and innovation come together in a motoryacht that redefines the concept of nautical luxury. It is not only a yacht, but an affirmation of Italian excellence. The Italian Sea Group and Automobili Lamborghini share an exclusive clientele, who are passionate about beauty, technology, and extreme performance. It is exactly this shared vision that makes our collaboration so natural and so significant.”

(Automobili Lamborghini)

A likely eight-figure price tag and more info will be announced closer to the Tecnomar for Lamborghini 101FT’s maiden voyage in 2027.

(Automobili Lamborghini)
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Thu, 25 Sep 2025 13:19:02 +0000 Rides
Tommy Bahama & Airstream Collab On Beach-Ready Mercedes Sprinter Van https://www.maxim.com/rides/tommy-bahama-airstream-collab-on-beach-ready-mercedes-sprinter-van/ Tue, 23 Sep 2025 09:30:00 +0000 https://www.maxim.com/?p=272272
(Airstream)

With help from dadcore-approved apparel brand Tommy Bahama, Airstream is bring its brand of silver-bullet glamping style to a lineup of Mercedes-Benz-based Touring Coaches.

2026 Airstream Interstate 19GT (Airstream)

Available on the nimble Interstate 19GT, the spacious Interstate 24GT, the mobile party-worthy Interstate 24GL, or the flagship Atlas, the Tommy Bahama Resort Edition upgrade aims to transform each into a sort of coastal sanctuary. The interiors draw inspiration from the serenity of island resorts, featuring soft blue hues in the upper roof lockers that echo the ocean and sky, complemented by warm wood tones reminiscent of driftwood and sun-drenched boardwalks. Breezy neutral shades tie the space together, creating a calming atmosphere that invites relaxation.

The 2026 Airstream Interstate 24GL (Airstream)

All Resort Edition models feature wooden blinds, styled like tropical shutters, that open and close via remote control. Seating throughout the coach is upholstered in Ultraleather, offering both elegance and durability. The flooring, inspired by luxury yacht design, is made from woven vinyl that is both stylish and practical. Matte cabinetry in Caribbean tones and brushed nickel hardware add a refined touch, while ambient lighting sets the mood for relaxation or celebration. To complete the island experience, each Resort Edition coach comes with a curated Tommy Bahama accessory kit, which includes items like a teak shower mat, a fleece throw, two towel sets, decorative pillows, and a set of four stainless steel cups.

The 2026 Airstream Interstate 24GL (Airstream)

The 24-foot Resort Edition models have a built-in bar for bottle storage and space to craft cocktails. The Atlas has a dedicated wine and bottle cabinet with space to store drinkware as well as a small storage drawer and Tommy Bahama Queen duvet with two decorative shams.

The 2026 Airstream Interstate 24GL (Airstream)

This is all in addition to the core features of each of the four opulent Airstream vans. The compact Interstate 19 still squeezes in many amenities that are typically only available on a large RV, including a kitchen, bathroom, and lounge area that converts into a bed. The Interstate 24GT is designed for comfort and extended travel for couples, featuring a more spacious galley kitchen, a dedicated workspace, and a large rear lounge with a bed. The Interstate 24GL is focused on seating and entertaining, with accommodations for up to nine nine passengers that include two LED smart HDTVs, a large galley and a wet bath. The leading Atlas’s standout features are a power slide-out that expands the interior living area at the push of a button, a residential-style Murphy bed, and a massive three-piece rear bathroom.

The 2026 Airstream Interstate 24GL (Airstream)

Priced from $8,000, the 2026 Tommy Bahama Touring Coach package is available as an add-on across Airstream’s Touring Coach range.

2026 Airstream Interstate 19GT (Airstream)
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Tue, 23 Sep 2025 11:49:37 +0000 Rides