The automotive industry continues to be extremely competitive, so automakers have to find inventive ways to stand out from the rest. One of the most effective methods to stand out from the rest is to attract the eye of owners and prospective buyers. Be it a makeover of an existing model or in one case, an all-new trim making its debut this year, here are some of the most stunning exteriors presented in 2018.
2018 KIA Stinger GT
The KIA brand has made extraordinary progress from their independent launch into the US market in the early 90s. Revered for their improvement in virtually every specification, they have taken their design and power output to new heights with their head-turning Stinger GT. Peaking at 365 horsepower thanks to its 3.3-liter twin turbo engine under the hood enhanced with “Launch Control,” KIA’s talented design team successfully crafted the Stinger’s looks to match its brawn. Popularly showcased in an intimidating “Hichroma Red,” the LED lighting package, and Brembo brakes adorning the 19-inch wheels collectively confirm a bright, boundary-pushing future for this Korean powerhouse.
Price reviewed: $38,350 with all options
For more information, visit Kia.com.
2018 Lexus RC350 2-Door Coupe
Lexus is world-renowned for its attention to detail inside and out, but when it comes to a reasonably priced coupe with a plethora of amenities, they have outdone themselves with the RC350. Sleek and curvaceous in all the right places, we highly recommended the F-Sport Package ($4,105) including the customary “spindle” grille, 16-spoke wheels, aluminum pedals, and numerous other racing-inspired amenities in the cabin. Complete the head turning with orange caliber brakes; premium triple-beam LED headlights and floodlights, and the glistening “Atomic Silver” paint before igniting the road with 311 horses under the hood.
Price: $43,570; $55,660 as reviewed
For more information, visit Lexus.com.
2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4x4
The Jeep brand is as American as apple pie and continues to produce dream automobiles for the adventurous, off-roaders—and recently—the fashionably hip. To cover all the bases, the current stylization of the 2018 Rubicon will please both traditionalists and its burgeoning fan base of millennials. We were wowed by the Granite Crystal Metallic paint adorned by some must-have, yet affordable packages, including LED lighting ($895); “Street Bumper Group” (1,295); and Black Freedom Top 3-piece Hard Top ($1,095). The 17-inch x 7-inch black wheels take on any terrains with a 3.6-liter V6 engine controlled by a six-speed manual transmission. Ultimately, this model successfully preserves Jeep’s decorated history.
Price: $36,995; $47,665 as reviewed
For more information, visit Jeep.com.