First Sight: Mercedes-Benz S-Class W222

It was one of the more memorable automotive events this year, and the massive thunderstorm only added to the drama. Last night Mercedes-Benz launched its new S-Class sedan in the delivery hall of Airbus in Hamburg and Car Design News was there to get the low-down on this eagerly-awaited limo. Context was fittingly provided by an A380 lounging in the background as the current lineup of Mercedes-Benz escorted Benz's big boy onto the stage, amidst artificial fireworks and real thunder and lightning.

Kia K900 luxo-barge debuts in Los Angeles

Kia unveiled the K900 rear-wheel drive executive sedan at the LA Auto Show on Wednesday. Kia plans for it to compete in the full-size luxury segment starting in the first quarter of 2015. The company's new halo car comes wrapped in a handsome and brawny package, but it still managed to squeeze in a cute tiger nose grille.

Disney and Pixar announce 'Cars 3'

Variety is reporting that Pixar will introduce a third chapter to the "Cars" franchise, the company's second trilogy behind "Toy Story." It will join a long-awaited sequel to "The Incredibles," written by Brad Bird, a sequel to "Finding Nemo," and a sequel to "Planes" called "Planes: Fire and Rescue." That one will come out this year, on July 18. The first "Cars" was something magical, a love letter from car guy John Lasseter to the insular world of car enthusiasts. The second "Cars" sold over $2 billion in merchandise and was a massive commercial success.