It was just about five years ago that American auto enthusiasts had something to celebrate. After years upon years of anticipation, the iconic Nissan Skyline GT-R was now available in the States branded simply as the GT-R. Sure, we know that other versions of the Skyline made it here under the Infiniti G35 name, but this was the GT-R or as it is so kindly referred to, Godzilla. Fast forward to 2013. After an 18 year hiatus, Alfa Romeo is making its triumphant return to the US with the Alfa Romeo 4C. Thanks for the history lesson, right? But, this begs the question, what the f else are we missing out on? Behold, the coolest cars we just can’t get here in America.
Land Rover Defender
No list like this would be complete without the Defender. Sometimes we can get it, sometimes we can’t. Presently, it is not available here. Which sucks because we all know the Defender is one of the coolest off-roaders in the history of off-roaders. Land Rover
Volkswagen Scirocco R
If you are old enough, you might remember the Scirocco which was available in the US until 1988. Sadly, since then we have been missing out on this compact rocket as VW claimed it might affect GTI sales. Available everywhere else, the Scirocco R is equipped with a 2.0 turbo making 261hp, xenon headlamps, and 18inch aluminum wheels. Volkswagen
Citroen DS3 Red
Sounding more like a type of vodka than a car, Citroen is a major auto manufacturer based in France. Unfortunately, unless you are a fan of the World Rally Championship, you probably haven’t heard of them. The DS3 Red is styled with sporty red roof and matching mirrors, LED daytime running lamps, and 155 hp engine. Citroen
Renault Sport Megane
Ever since the days of the Renault Le Car (we won’t picture it here but Garth Algar from Wayne’s World would feel right at home in it), Renault has been absent from the US. Well-suited to long days at the racetrack, the Megane RS features sport seats, a 265 hp engine, and optional limited slip differential. Exterior styling is aggressive with wing extensions and Formula 1 inspired front splitter. Renault
Lotus Evora Sports Racer
While we are indeed lucky to have the Lotus Elise available here, the Evora Sports Racer is deemed Europe only. Which sucks cause this car is awesome. Available in four exterior color options, the Sports Racer is powered by either a naturally aspirated or supercharged 3.5 liter V-6. A sports package adds to the fun by raising the RPM limit, more aggressive settings for the Dynamic Performance Management system and cross drilled brake rotors. A plethora of race ready components complete the suspension and the power is put to the road via 19 inch & 20 inch Pirelli P-Zeros. Interior styling is all business but still complements the exterior very nicely. Lotus Cars
Opel Astra GTC
Yep, another sport compact. The Opel Astra GTC gets an engine update this year with a 1.6 liter SIDI (Spark Ignition Direct Injection) turbo that puts out about 168 horsepower. Eh, so? Well, this engine also has an overboost function (sort of a really small afterburner) that bumps torque output for passing other lesser equipped vehicles. Clearly not a rocket but offers a sporty overall ride with subtle aggressive exterior styling. Interestingly enough, Opel is a wholly owned subsidiary of General Motors and in fact, designs all of GM’s modern, fuel efficient models. Car Scoops
ABT R8 GT(R)
Well, we were pretty certain that the Audi R8 was just about automotive perfection. Clearly, the folks at Gemany’s ABT thought differently. ABT, like a handful of other tuners, sells both performance parts and complete vehicles. The spec sheet on the GTR reads like a race car: polycarbonate rear and side windows, adjustable suspension, complete aerodynamic package, roll cage, and even a racetimer. ABT also coaxes approximately 100 additional ponies out of the 5.2 liter, enough for 0 to 60 times in the low 3 seconds and a top speed of about 201mph. Thankfully, ABT also throws in a complimentary racing helmet! ABT
Peugeot RCZ
Available in 80 countries, except the US, is the Peugeot RCZ. Looking very much like a French Audi TT, the RCZ received widespread critical acclaim as a concept and entered full production in 2010. Power comes from a 197 horsepower turbocharged 4 cylinder through a 6 speed manual transmission with a top speed of 146 mph. The clean and modern design of the RCZ is highlighted by the “double bubble” roof and rear window that merges with a very sophisticated interior. Well done Peugeot. Peugeot
