"Free" upgrades to the next class of service is a feature offered by USA based airlines on domestic flights. This does not apply to transatlantic travel. Instead you would need to redeem miles for the upgrade. Some airlines would require that you purchase an "upgrade eligible" fare (which means the lowest fares are excluded), others offer upgrades from any fare, but require a "co-payment" when redeeming miles for the upgrade.

In general, miles earned through credit card spending do not count toward elite status, but some airlines do offer elite qualifying credits if your spending on their affinity card reaches a threshold. These incentives make it easier to achieve status, but you'll still need to earn many miles by flying.