Latest news with #Barrett-Jackson


Business Wire
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Business Wire
Country Music Superstar Cole Swindell to Headline Barrett-Jackson's Annual Rock The Block Concert, January 16, 2026
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Barrett-Jackson ( The World's Greatest Collector Car Auctions, is ready to thrill concert-goers with one of the hottest stars in country music, Cole Swindell, during the annual Rock The Block concert, January 16, 2026, at WestWorld of Scottsdale. The auction's kickoff concert will open with singer-songwriter Chris Lane, followed by headlining artist Cole Swindell, who recently released his fifth studio album, 'Spanish Moss.' Concert tickets start at $85 and go on sale Friday, July 18, at 10 a.m. MST. 'From Foreigner to Sammy Hagar and now a country music superstar, our Rock The Block concerts have become the ultimate kick-off for auction week in January,' said Craig Jackson, chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson. 'This year, we couldn't be more excited to welcome chart-topping country music artists, Cole Swindell and Chris Lane, to the stage to get us geared up for another incredible auction week at WestWorld of Scottsdale. They are among the most celebrated voices in country music today, and you'll get to see them together at our Rock The Block concert in January.' Cole Swindell has produced chart-topping hits like 'She Had Me at Heads Carolina,' 'Forever To Me,' 'Chillin' It,' 'Single Saturday Night,' and more. With over 8 billion total global streams to date, Swindell is firmly established as a powerhouse in country music. A Georgia native, Swindell's appearance at Rock The Block will follow his 2025 Happy Hour Sad Tour, which kicks off this September. 'There's nothing that compares to the energy of a live crowd, and I am so excited to hit the stage during Barrett-Jackson's Rock The Block concert this January,' said Swindell. 'I have no doubt this show is going to be something special. I can't wait to see y'all there and make it a night we'll never forget.' A North Carolina native, Chris Lane has stepped into a more grounded and personal era with his new album 'Shade Tree,' which debuted with an impressive 1.65 million streams in its first week. With more than two billion career streams, Lane's catalog includes hits like 'Dancin' In The Moonlight' with Lauren Alaina, 'Howdy,' and 'Stop Coming Over.' He's earned nominations from the iHeartRadio Music Awards, ACM Awards, and Radio Disney Music Awards, as well as toured with Rascal Flatts, Florida Georgia Line, Brad Paisley, Dan + Shay and Kane Brown. 'Much like the diversity of our collector car dockets, our Rock The Block concerts bring in an incredible range of talent that showcase different sounds and stories across different genres,' said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. 'This year the talent on our stage will be extraordinary and our guests can expect an unforgettable experience filled with great music, energy and the kind of moments that make Barrett-Jackson the ultimate lifestyle experience.' Rock The Block concert-goers will receive exclusive early access to the Barrett-Jackson auction site before it opens to the public and the opportunity to preview some of the world-class auction vehicles. Guests can begin the evening with a first look inside the Sponsor Pavilion, showcasing the latest vehicles and displays from leading automakers and enjoy drinks and a light bite to eat while viewing the auction's star vehicles displayed in the North and South Showcase Pavilions that surround the auction arena. Tickets for Rock The Block are on sale Friday, July 18, with reserved seating and hospitality packages in the Premium Hospitality Suite located in the Muscle Lounge - an incredibly intimate setting offering elevated views with food and beverage service. Be a part of Barrett-Jackson's online conversation with #BarrettJackson and #BJAC on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Barrett-Jackson, The World's Greatest Collector Car Auctions, is the leader in collector car auctions and automotive lifestyle events, which include authentic automobilia auctions and the sale of private collections. Welcoming hundreds of thousands of attendees per year, Barrett-Jackson hosts live collector car auctions in Scottsdale, Arizona; Palm Beach, Florida; and Columbus Ohio, where thousands of the most sought-after, unique and valuable vehicles cross the block in front of a global audience. With broadcast partner A+E Networks, Barrett-Jackson features live television coverage of their events on FYI and The HISTORY Channel, as well as all the cars, all the time via their produced livestream on Also based in Scottsdale, the Barrett-Jackson Collection Showroom offers a rotating selection of premium vehicles that meet the high standards for which the company is known. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit or call 480-421-6694.


Business Wire
10-07-2025
- Automotive
- Business Wire
Barrett-Jackson to Bring World's Greatest Collector Car Auctions to Columbus, Ohio, June 25-27, 2026, at Ohio Expo Center & Fairgrounds
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Barrett-Jackson ( announced today the company is bringing The World's Greatest Collector Car Auctions to Columbus, Ohio, June 25-27, 2026, at the Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds. The 2026 Columbus Auction marks Barrett-Jackson's first automotive lifestyle event hosted in the Midwest and will include a broad range of classic, custom, supercars and collectible vehicles, as well as authentic automobilia pieces. The 2026 Barrett-Jackson Columbus Auction will be held at the Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds, long considered one of the most dynamic and unique event venues in the Midwest. Located in the heart of Columbus on a campus occupying 360 acres, the Expo Center features 19 buildings and 1.4 million square feet of event space under roof, as well as on-site parking for 14,000 vehicles, making it one of the most flexible and accommodating sites in the region. 'We're thrilled to team up with the city of Columbus to host our first-ever collector car auction in America's heartland,' said Craig Jackson, chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson. 'Home of the Ohio State Buckeyes National College Football Championship team, the city is also known for its upscale hotels, restaurants and entertainment options – all providing a perfect setting for our collector car auctions. We've anticipated the completion of the Expo Center's $460 million renovation for some time now, and look forward to bringing our automotive lifestyle experience to Columbus next year.' With almost half of the nation's population within a 600-mile radius, and just minutes from downtown Columbus and the John Glenn Columbus International Airport, the Expo Center's $460-million renovation will be completed in 2026. 'We're thrilled to host Barrett-Jackson and their world-class collector car auction in Columbus next June,' said Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds Executive Director Adam Heffron. 'Our state has a rich legacy of bringing together enthusiasts, experts, and events from across the automotive industry. We're proud of the ongoing improvements to our facility and honored to welcome Barrett-Jackson to the grounds. We look forward to the impact the auction will have on our local community.' Ideal for seasoned collectors, new buyers and fans, Columbus has a history with national collector car events, making it a great fit for Barrett-Jackson. The centrally located region, with its proximity to Detroit, has deep automotive roots and is one of the nation's largest vehicle and parts manufacturing sectors. 'A dynamic and diverse city, Columbus is a vibrant location for one of our world-famous collector car auctions,' said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. 'Our automotive lifestyle events will be a perfect addition to the area's flourishing culture of art, food, sports and entertainment. Mark your calendars now to join us in Columbus in 2026, because we're ready to make collector car history in the Buckeye State.' Be a part of Barrett-Jackson's online conversation with #BarrettJackson and #BJAC on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Barrett-Jackson, The World's Greatest Collector Car Auctions, is the leader in collector car auctions and automotive lifestyle events, which include authentic automobilia auctions and the sale of private collections. Welcoming hundreds of thousands of attendees per year, Barrett-Jackson hosts live collector car auctions in Scottsdale, Arizona; Palm Beach Florida; and Columbus, Ohio, where thousands of the most sought-after, unique and valuable vehicles cross the block in front of a global audience. With broadcast partner A+E Networks, Barrett-Jackson features live television coverage of their events on FYI and The HISTORY Channel, as well as all the cars, all the time via their produced livestream on Also based in Scottsdale, the Barrett-Jackson Collection Showroom offers a rotating selection of premium vehicles that meet the high standards for which the company is known. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit or call 480-421-6694.
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
13 Cars From the 90s That are Worth a Fortune Now
The 1990s, back when Nickelodeon cartoons were actually funny, and Furbies kept chattering even after you took the batteries out. It was the last moment when car culture felt truly organic, before Hollywood and video games co-opted it, stylized it, and sold it back to us. Some of these cars were affordable, others were more aspirational. Yet few could have predicted just how valuable they would become, in part due to the very Hollywood blockbusters and game franchises that once borrowed from car culture and eventually helped amplify it. What started as grassroots enthusiasm was repackaged for mass consumption, and along the way, these cars became global icons. Driven by rising demand, limited production runs, and a tidal wave of nostalgia, these '90s heroes have surged in value and cultural cachet. You might not have owned one back then, but if you were flipping through magazines at the grocery store or Waldenbooks, you definitely knew these cars. They were the cool cars before Fast & Furious or Need for Speed made them cool. To build this list, we put on our financial spectacles. We focused on production cars from the 1990s that have demonstrated significant, consistent appreciation in value over the past decade or more. We analyzed market data from auction houses like Bring a Trailer and Mecum, consulted collector platforms, and reviewed classic car indexes to track meaningful trends rather than one-off spikes driven by nostalgia or impulse. Each car had to demonstrate genuine, growing demand among enthusiasts and collectors, not just a one-time price surge from someone trying to recapture their high school glory days. We also weighed factors like standout engineering, cultural influence, and ties to motorsport or media. Let's be honest: Fast & Furious and Gran Turismo helped turn plenty of fun weekend cars into six-figure status symbols. This is not just a list of cool old cars. These are machines that have earned their place in the modern collector market, both in relevance and real-world value. Ah, the fourth-generation Toyota Supra. If there's one car that encapsulates the meteoric rise of '90s Japanese performance legends, it's this twin-turbo beast. Once just a cool, fast Japanese car, the A80 Supra has become an absolute benchmark in the collector world, with values appreciating faster than a lottery winner's ego. Its nearly indestructible 2JZ-GTE twin-turbo inline-six engine (a mechanical marvel capable of mind-boggling horsepower with basic mods) and sleek, muscular design helped define Japanese performance during the decade. Low original production numbers, especially in pristine condition, have only compounded its rarity. Interest surged globally after strong showings at major auctions (remember that Barrett-Jackson sale that broke the internet?) and, yes, renewed attention from a certain street racing movie franchise. Today, clean, factory-stock examples often command six-figure prices, and frankly, there are no signs of it slowing down. Just avoid the ricers, which are not worth as much as the OGs. Estimated collector value: $90,000 to over $180,000, depending on mileage, originality, and trim. Factory-stock six-speed manual models fetch the highest premiums. The Acura NSX didn't just reshape how enthusiasts viewed Japanese engineering; it flipped the supercar world on its head. Forget temperamental Italian divas; the NSX offered genuine supercar performance with legendary Honda reliability and everyday usability. Its all-aluminum monocoque construction, groundbreaking mid-engine layout, and high-revving VTEC V6 were truly revolutionary for the era. As early models age, well-maintained cars are becoming harder to find (many were actually driven; imagine that!). Collectors prize the NSX for its originality and its historical importance in proving that exotic performance didn't have to come with exotic breakdowns. Strong auction results and relatively limited production runs (especially in its early years) cement its position as a standout from the decade, earning it a spot in many a serious collection. The early '90s models with pop-up headlights are the most desirable. Estimated collector value: $75,000 to $140,000, with top-dollar going to early, low-mileage examples and rare color combinations. Though technically introduced in the late '80s, the early '90s BMW E30 M3 models (produced until 1991 for North America) remain some of the most in-demand, revered, and financially appreciating performance cars of their time. Built purely to satisfy Group A touring car racing regulations, it wasn't about creature comforts; it offered drivers a lightweight, nimble platform and track-tested engineering straight from BMW's motorsport division. Collectors drool over the raw, analog driving experience and the increasingly rare, unmodified examples. It holds paramount historical significance as a cornerstone of BMW's motorsport legacy, dominating racetracks worldwide. Demand remains stratospheric across Europe and North America alike, proving that pure driving machines never go out of style. Keep an eye on its service records while buying — it's still a BMW. Estimated collector value: $80,000 to $160,000, with prices continuing to rise for clean, low-mileage, and original-spec models. The third-generation Mazda RX-7 (FD) is universally lauded for its near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, sublime handling, truly iconic twin-turbo rotary engine, and aggressive, timeless design that still looks fresh today. With fewer and fewer clean examples remaining on the market (many have suffered from engine woes or been heavily modified — or both), buyer competition has intensified. Originality and a meticulously documented service history (especially those rotary engine rebuilds!) significantly affect demand and pricing. The car's global influence in racing and pop culture (Keisuke Takahash raced this car in Initial D, and you can drive it in Forza) and its distinct, highly unconventional engineering make it a frequent target for collectors of 1990s Japanese performance. It continues to attract both nostalgic enthusiasts (who probably spent their youth staring at one on a poster) and seasoned investors looking for something unique. When searching for an RX-7 of your own, avoid Fast & Furious rejects with cheap body kits. Estimated collector value: $45,000 to $90,000, depending on mileage, condition, and stock configuration. For many a Porsche purist, the 993 generation (1994-1998) marked the bittersweet end of Porsche's illustrious air-cooled era. This fact alone has given these models a near-legendary, almost mythical, status. Blending genuinely modern performance with the visceral, mechanical charm of its air-cooled flat-six engine, the 993 represents a turning point in the storied 911 lineage. Values have soared consistently, especially for limited editions (like the Carrera RS) and low-production trims (Turbos, S models). Pristine examples with impeccable documentation are meticulously tracked by global collectors. It's widely considered one of the most beautiful and mechanically engaging 911s ever made, embodying the perfect blend of tradition and progression. If you had one of these and sold it for under six figures, you probably still kick yourself. Estimated collector value: $120,000 to $250,000 or more, depending on variant. The Carrera RS and Turbo models often exceed these ranges. The Nissan Skyline GT-R earned its fearsome "Godzilla" global reputation through relentless motorsport success (dominating Australian touring car racing, for example). The nickname was coined by Skyline enthusiast and journalist David Yu, who spread its popularity beyond Japan at the time. As import restrictions (like the dreaded 25-year rule in the US) have eased, collector interest has surged in markets that previously had no legal access. Authentic, well-documented models (especially those with minimal modifications) are extremely attractive to buyers. Collectors value its advanced all-wheel-drive tech (ATTESA E-TS), its potent RB26DETT twin-turbo inline-six engine, and its undeniable cultural legacy as a gaming and tuning icon. The GT-R's status as a JDM legend ensures steady, strong long-term demand. Estimated collector value: $55,000 to $120,000 depending on condition, mileage, and chassis generation. R32 models are slightly more affordable than the rarer R33s in excellent condition. The Ferrari F355 introduced a new level of modern refinement and usability to the Prancing Horse lineup, marking a significant shift toward a better balance between exhilarating performance and genuine drivability. Its iconic gated manual transmission and a high-revving, howling 3.5-liter V8 engine (which produced a glorious sound thanks to its five valves per cylinder) appeal directly to enthusiasts seeking a classic exotic with undeniable character. The model's limited production numbers and, yes, rising maintenance costs have created a natural divide between those who want to drive it and those who want to invest in it. Clean service histories are absolutely essential for top value. Its critical place in Ferrari's transition era, bridging the analog and digital worlds, only adds to its collectible status. Just be prepared for "Ferrari tax" if you buy it — that's a fun way of saying maintenance costs. Estimated collector value: $90,000 to $160,000, with manual-transmission Berlinettas and Spiders fetching the highest prices. Wait... What happened to the sports cars? Don't scroll back up and hear us out! The Toyota Land Cruiser FZJ80 (1990-1997) is no ordinary SUV. Regarded universally for its legendary build quality, tank-like durability, and genuine off-road capability (especially with factory lockers), the 80 Series has earned a fanatical following among adventure vehicle collectors and discerning enthusiasts. Many surviving units have high mileage (but it's more a badge of honor than a concern), making truly well-kept, original examples with minimal rust increasingly rare. Collectors favor models with factory-locking differentials and full, documented service records. Its unshakeable reliability and timeless, rugged design continue to drive interest. Global demand from both overland adventurers and classic SUV buyers keeps values moving steadily upward. The 1FZ-FE 4.5L inline-six engine (1993-1997) is preferred for its power and reliability. Estimated collector value: $30,000 to $70,000, with high-spec models in excellent condition occasionally exceeding that range. As one of the boldest, most unapologetically brash American sports cars of the decade, the original Dodge Viper RT/10 (1992-1995) brought raw, unadulterated performance to the road. It quickly gained a reputation as the "Widowmaker." Its low production numbers (especially in the early years) and notoriously minimal driver aids (no ABS, no traction control, just you and that monster V10) give it lasting appeal among purists and those who appreciate a truly visceral driving experience. The earliest models are the most collectible due to their purity, simplicity, and direct connection to the original concept car. Survivors in the original condition have grown scarcer, especially those with clean ownership history and original side pipes that could melt tarmac. The Viper has become a beloved fixture in U.S.-based collector circles, a roaring symbol of American excess done right. Just remember — this car is out to kill you. Estimated collector value: $55,000 to $90,000, with early 1992 production units commanding a premium. Ah, the Mercedes-Benz 500E / E500 (1991-1994). If you know, you know. Built in an extraordinary partnership with Porsche (yes, you read that right — Porsche actually hand-assembled these at their Zuffenhausen plant), the 500E offered staggering performance wrapped in the most understated executive styling. It was a true sleeper that could devour autobahns and embarrass sports cars while looking like a regular (albeit very handsome) E-Class. Its limited production and painstaking hand assembly make it a true standout among '90s sedans — only 1,500 were sent to the United States at the time. Collectors seek out well-preserved examples with full documentation, particularly those that haven't suffered from the dreaded biodegradable wiring harness issues of the era. Its understated design and incredible engineering story have earned it a cult following. Values have seen a quiet but very steady increase over the past decade as discerning collectors recognize its unique pedigree. Estimated collector value: $45,000 to $85,000, depending on originality, mileage, and factory options. The Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 (and its Dodge Stealth R/T twin) was a true technological tour de force for its time, a grand touring coupe that offered a dizzying array of features rarely seen together: twin turbos, all-wheel drive, four-wheel steering, active aerodynamics (yes, pop-up spoilers and active front air dams!), and even active exhaust. Many of these cars were used hard or heavily modified by eager enthusiasts, unfortunately leaving few clean, original examples behind. Collectors now actively seek original-condition cars, especially with lower mileage and complete service records. Its reputation as a technical showcase and its unique place in '90s Japanese performance has made it increasingly appealing as buyers revisit overlooked models from the era. Interest has been steadily growing in recent years, proving that complexity, when it works, is appreciated. Just make sure everything works! The 300GT VR-4 was considered for a role in the original The Fast and the Furious movie, but it was rejected. That's good for those who want to snag this car before it hikes up in price even more. Estimated collector value: $30,000 to $60,000, with premium prices for unmodified early models with active aero still functioning. It may seem surprising to see a Subaru on this list at first (especially at such a high value), but the 22B STI is the equivalent of automotive royalty. Widely considered the holy grail of Subaru's rally heritage, this beast was built to celebrate the brand's hat-trick of World Rally Championship manufacturer titles from 1995-1997 and Subaru's 40th anniversary. It combined aggressive, wide-body styling (100mm wider than a standard WRX!) with a truly limited production run — only 400 units for Japan, plus 24 for export markets and a few prototypes. Its direct motorsport connection, hand-built details, and extreme scarcity have transformed it into one of the most desirable and expensive performance cars of the '90s. Unlike many of its contemporaries, the 22B was engineered with a surgical focus on balance, grip, and responsiveness, not just brute speed. It's now firmly established as a crown jewel among JDM collectors, fetching prices that would make a new Porsche owner blush. Estimated collector value: $200,000 to $300,000, with auction prices steadily climbing for low-mileage, original-condition examples. The Honda Integra Type R (DC2 chassis, 1995-2001, US: 1997-2001) is a testament to Honda's engineering prowess and commitment to driver enjoyment. This lightweight, high-revving front-wheel-drive coupe wasn't about flashy numbers; it was built with laser-like focus and intent, earning universal respect from drivers and critics alike. Stripped of unnecessary weight, stiffened, and blessed with the legendary B18C5 VTEC engine (delivering a jaw-dropping 195 hp from just 1.8 liters without a turbo!), North American production was limited, making surviving examples (especially unmodified) increasingly hard to find. Enthusiasts and collectors alike seek out stock cars with matching numbers and impeccably clean service histories. Its raw performance legacy, surgical handling, and relative rarity give it serious long-term collectibility. The Integra Type R continues to gain recognition as one of the finest driver's cars of its time, proving that front-wheel drive can be a riot. You'll end up paying more for a Type R in Championship White paint, but this is the color that people reminisce about the most. Estimated collector value: $50,000 to $90,000, with top-tier examples showing rapid year-over-year appreciation. The 1990s produced a wave of cars now seen in a brilliant new light (Furbies, not so much). Their rising value reflects both shrinking supply and enduring appeal, drawing in enthusiasts who remember them fondly and a new wave of fans discovering them for the first time. With demand on the rise and nostalgia in full swing, these cars have outgrown the label of mere collectibles. They are cultural milestones, with stories still unfolding one auction at a time. If you have one sitting quietly in your garage, congratulations. It might just be your retirement plan. If not, it may be time to check the classifieds before the next Fast & Furious sequel drives prices up again.
Yahoo
27-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Best images, moments from the 2025 Barrett-Jackson car auction in West Palm Beach
The Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach Auction, televised live on the History Channel, is one of four held across the country annually by Barrett-Jackson, a Scottsdale, Ariz.-based company that specializes in collector vehicles and automotive memorabilia. Auctions are also held in Scottsdale, Las Vegas and Houston. The auction isn't limited to automobiles, there are hundreds of pieces of vintage automobile memorabilia, or "automobilia," that are also included in the auction's docket. And car collector enthusiasts were back in full force the weekend of April 26 at the South Florida Fairgrounds. Here's a look at some of the top exotic and classic cars at the 2025 Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach auction. Laura Lordi is the digital audience editor for The Palm Beach Post. Contact Lordi at llordi@ This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach auction: exotic cars, Fast & Furious Rover


Forbes
07-04-2025
- Automotive
- Forbes
Baseball, Hot Dogs, And A Genesis GV80: How To Road Trip In Arizona
Genesis GV80 Kristin Shaw If you're a baseball fan but have never stepped foot in a major league baseball spring training facility, start making plans for next season. There's something special and magical about the spring training games, and you can find them in the Phoenix, Arizona area as well as several cities across Florida. One thing you're going to need, in either region, is a car to get from stadium to stadium. This year, I piloted a Genesis GV80 for spring break, and it got me and my family to the games in style and plush comfort. Several years ago, my family and I explored the Grapefruit League and attended eight games in six different ballparks over 13 days. It was quite the baseball gauntlet, especially since the games in Florida are spread out across the state. In Arizona, the ballparks are all roughly within an hour of each other. That makes it a lot easier to see more fields and more teams. My favorite home base is the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, located northeast of Phoenix in the posh Scottsdale neighborhood. Sloan Park, home of the Cubs, is only 20 minutes away and even the furthest fields are a pleasant ride from the Princess. This year, my family and I stayed in a Privado suite, one of the well-appointed villas that has its own valet and check-in station. The Privado section looks over one of the meticulously-kept golf courses on the property, framed by gorgeous flowers and rock gardens. It was an easy walk to the resort's eateries from our villa. I highly recommend La Hacienda for excellent margaritas and tableside guacamole; if you do, do not miss the spectacular flaming coffee for dessert, which combines tequila, coffee, cream, and cinnamon with a show of fire. The Genesis GV80 is a great match at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, holding its own next to alternative luxury rides driven by other guests. I even spotted a 90s-era Ferrari a visitor had purchased just weeks before (likely at the annual Barrett-Jackson auction nearby). Car and Driver rates the Genesis GV80 a 10 out of 10, and for good reason. The brand is part of the massive Hyundai Motor Group as the luxury arm of this growing company. Kia is also under the HMG umbrella, cranking out hit after hit like the Telluride and Sorento. Genesis, Hyundai, and Kia have launched creative and beautiful concept cars in past years, with no signs of slowing down. I'm particularly excited about the X convertible concept unveiled at the Los Angeles auto show two years ago. Psst, Genesis, let's see this one in production! Equipped with two engine options--a 300-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder and or a 375-hp twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6--the Genesis GV80 offers excellent handling around town and on the highway. While the V6 is markedly more thrilling during acceleration, fuel economy takes a hit from 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway with the inline-four to 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway with the larger engine. The Genesis GV80 SUV is road-trip ready. Kristin Shaw Inside the GV80, ambient lighting accentuates wood and metal trim for an elegant feel. A 27-inch display wraps across the dashboard, and the map graphics are crisp and clear. The wireless smartphone charger worked well as long as no other items were placed on top of phone (like earbuds or keys). At nearly 35 cubic feet behind the second row, there was more than enough space for our luggage for a weekend trip; we could have doubled our luggage allotment easily. I found the upscale Bang & Olufsen audio system to be immersive, with high-quality sound. Need a road trip tune suggestion? Try 'Panama' by Van Halen or for something newer, go with 'Stargazing' by Myles Smith. Last, but certainly not least, one of my favorite features of the Genesis GV80 is its extensive warranty: 10 years for the powertrain, a 5-year limited warranty, and 3 years of complimentary maintenance. All in all, excellent value starting at around $60,000 for the base model.