The upcoming 2010 BMW X1 was spotted recently during filming of a commercial. Not surprisingly, it looks much like the X1 concept that was shown at the 2008 Paris Auto Show last fall.
We were hoping for some measure of improvement in the styling department. As is, the BMW X1 isn't really giving us to much to get excited about. We'll see how it looks when it shows up in the States this fall.
We weren't expecting Lexus to undercut its competitors with its new hardtop convertible, but the prices announced yesterday are quite a bit lower than BMW is asking for its hardtop 3 Series convertible.
The base IS 250C will start at $38,490 with a six-speed manual transmission. An IS250C with a six-speed automatic will run you another $1,170. Opt for the more powerful IS 350C and the price jumps to $43,940.
Seems a little steep until you consider that a base 328i Convertible runs $44,500 to start while the 335i version tops $50,000. We're guessing that the Infiniti G37 Convertible will end up somewhere between the two.
With rumors flying that the Estoque was DOA, Lamborghini issued a press release to clarify the situation.
Turns out, no official decision has been made as the car is still being studied for production. Inside Line correspondent Matt Davis was with Lamborghini officials at the launch of LP560-4 Gallardo Spyder and got the inside scoop on the story behind the Estoque.
Hmm...probably not the way the BMW X 1 engineers planned it back in Munich. Oh well, once you've augured yourself into a snow bank in the middle of nowhere there aren't too many options.
In this case, a call to the Volkwagen Tiguan that was along for comparison was all it took to get the new BMW sport utility free. I'm sure there's a joke in there about Xdrive versus 4Motion, but we'll leave that up to you.
The surprise announcement that the Chevrolet Orlando concept would go into production in 2011 didn't get much attention at the Detroit Auto Show. Maybe these spy photos of the Chevrolet Cruze-based crossover will help out the cause.
Judging by this prototype, the 2012 Chevrolet Orlando will come to market with very few changes. Slightly larger side mirrors and a taller overall greenhouse are the most obvious differences. There was a turbo diesel four-cylinder engine under the hood of the concept, but we're expecting to see GM's Ecotec gas engines powering the U.S.-bound models.
#DAS09 During GM's wide-ranging press conference at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, Troy Clarke, president of GM North America, slipped in a surprise announcement that quickly got lost among all the hysteria over the Cadillac Converj. The Chevrolet Orlando, a seven-seat concept shown at the 2008 Paris Auto Show, will arrive in U.S. showrooms by 2011.
Built on the same platform as the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, the Orlando concept has a 108.6-inch wheelbase. That's about 3-inches longer than the Cruze. The Orlando also has a wider front and rear track than the Cruze to open up more space inside. A 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine powered the concept, but expect the production vehicle to switch to a similarly sized gasoline engine for the U.S. market. -- Ed Hellwig, Senior Editor, Inside Line
Now that all the cars have been laid bare for everyone to see, oggle, berate or just ignore, AutoObserver offers their opinion as to what works and what doesn't work at this latest Parisianne offering.
So what's your take? Do you agree with AO? Or do you have some favorites that you just love to hate, or love to love?
As to me? I disagree with them on the Honda Insight, even though it may well resemble a Prius. Both these cars were wind tunnel-designed--and when you're going for max fuel mileage, the wind tunnel will always win over visual distinction. Prius-like or not, the Insight (left) is better looking than the Prius; plus I see a lot of Honda FCX Clarity (right) styling there as well.
At the Paris show they displayed their latest version of their Active Wheel technology. This is not exactly new, as Michelin has been experimenting with this idea for several years.
Essentially the Active Wheel is nothing more than a normal wheel that houses two electric motors. One of the motors transmits power to the ground, whereas the other controls the suspension to provide comfort, handling and stability. It's designed for battery or fuel-cell powered electric vehicles. So-equipped vehicles will no longer need any gearbox, clutch, transmission shaft, universal joint or anti-roll bar.
The compact drive motor and integrated suspension system have allowed engineers to fit a standard brake disc between the motors, which means the braking, drive and suspension components are all fitted within the single wheel.
The hardtop-convertible battle is going to heat up shortly, as the American and European luxury carmakers will shortly also have Lexus and Infiniti to contend with. Actually the new Infiniti G37 convertible (2008 Los Angeles Auto Show: Infiniti G37 Convertible) and the Lexus IS 250/350 (2008 Paris Auto Show: 2010 Lexus IS 250/350C) will likely do battle among themselves first, with the other entries being secondary targets. Even so, that's not good news for BMW, Saab, etc.
Both these new hard-droptops will go on sale this spring.Also of note is that Infiniti will be offering AWD on their 2009 fixed-roof G37 coupe (Infiniti Adds All-Wheel-Drive Coupe to 2009 G37 Lineup), thereby making it a G37x coupe. Also interesting to note that 40 percent of all G37 sedan buyers opt for AWD, and Infiniti is expecting the percentage for the AWD coupe will be between 30 and 40 percent of their total coupe sales.
At the debut of the Mini Crossover concept in Paris it was learned that the next generation of Minis will likely be smaller than the current models.
Mini spokesman Dr. Wolfgang Armbrecht, states: "While I am working in this job no Mini will be longer than 4.10 [i.e. four meters and ten centimeters, or 162 inches]." That's exactly the length of the Crossover concept.
There's an interesting comment over in AutoObserver today, regarding the just-introduced at Paris Honda Insight concept:
Fuel economy? Somewhere close to the Civic hybrid,...
Okay, if that's the case, then what's the point? Shouldn't this car get better--if not significantly better--gas mileage than the Civic hybrid? Is this just going to be a styling statement much like the original '60s-era Karmann Ghia VW, a "designer hybrid," so to speak? Is this Insight merely something in which owners can drive around whispering to the neighbors that, hey, I'm green?
Sort of reminds me of a while back when Bentleys and Roll-Royces were identical, save for the grille. It was often said that Bentley owners were a bit more restrained, and that they, unlike RR owners, didn't want to announce their wealth so much.
If you live in France and want to drive some serious American muscle, I've found your candy store. It's called American Car City and I stumbled upon its booth about an hour ago. How could anybody miss it? Mustangs. Challengers. Hummers. American Car City has them all. According to their catalog, they can also sell you any Chevy, Ford or Dodge truck, any Cadillac or new Corvette you desire. Even a Ford GT is ready for purchase, and it looks like they're taking orders on Camaros.
See, the French aren't so bad. At least the ones who are into le muscle. -- Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief
No need for me to waste your time here with a bunch of contrived humor and unnecessary explanation. Earlier today was a Lamborghini Fashion Show at the Lamborghini stand right in front of the awesome Estoque supersedan. I was there. I took photos. Enjoy. -- Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief
Whether the look of the new 2009 Ferrari California turns you on or makes you want to dig out your eyes with a dull paring knife (I'm still on the fence), you've got to give the car demerits for its exhaust pipes. Not only are they stacked, an unusual look we've chided the Lexus IS-F for, but those chrome tips aren't actually part of the exhaust system.
That's right. Just as they are on the Lexus, those shiny tips are part of the bumper cover and don't actually have any contact with the car's exhaust system. They're just eye candy. I'm not a fan. This is a Ferrari. A mechanical beast and everything about it should express that.
If this trend keeps up, automakers will begin faking everything. Next thing you know, phony hood scoops that don't actually feed air into the engine will be everywhere. Oh, wait a minute, that already happened. -- Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief
We've already had some seat time behind the wheel of the new Audi RS 6, but seeing it again under the lights of the Paris auto show stage reminded us of just how tough the new four-door looks. It didn't hurt that this particular example had what Audi calls the "black optical pack," an option that replaces all the chrome on the car with flat black trim.
Would a Cadillac CTS-V look as good with a similar package? Yes.
Will we ever find out? No. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
After months of PR machine press releases and official drawings, the big unveiling of the long teased Aston Martin supercar, the One-77, hasn't happened. Well, it kinda sorta hasn't happened. Only the right front corner and left rear of the car have been revealed. As you can see, the rest of the car remains covered.
And the weirdest part is that nobody from Aston will tell us why. Rumor is the car isn't finished. Another conspiracy theory suggests that it isn't really a car at all, just a fiberglass buck without any real chassis, engine or interior. Some, on the other hand, have just chalked it off to a publicity stunt that has worked because everyone is still wondering what's under there. -- Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief
The official unveiling of the 2011 Chevy Cruze had all the pomp and circumstance of a Tuesday. No press conference. No dancing girls. No nothing. Just the car sitting in the Chevy stand on a plain white platform.
This understated approach could not be more appropriate for GM's soon-to-be small sedan, which will be sold around the world and will replace the Cobalt in the States. The car itself displays a welcome simplicity. Sobriety in the center of an auto show filled with machines that are simply trying too hard.
Well, almost. Somebody at Chevy fitted the showcar with oversize rubber and a massive set of cross-drilled brakes (pictures after the jump). Something tells me the production model will get a different set of stoppers. Just a hunch. -- Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief
When it came time to update the 2009 Mazda MX-5, there wasn't much to do. It was recently redesigned and even then it was only a modest departure from the previous model. This time around the MX-5 gets a new grille, revised bumpers and reshaped side sills on the outside.
On the inside, the piano black trim has been changed to a dark silver color, while the climate controls get silver trim rings. Those with tender elbows will be glad to know that both the doors and center console were upgraded with softer armrests. There are improved electronic features as well like an auxiliary jack, a six-channel equalizer for the Bose audio system and optional Bluetooth connectivity.
The mechanical changes are similarly modest, all of them geared toward refining the driving experience. Peak horsepower now arrives at 7,000 rpm instead of 6,700 and the rev limiter moves to 7,500 rpm thanks to a new forged crankshaft, fully floating pistons and redesigned valve springs. Mazda's engineers also added a new Induction Sound Enhancer (ISE) to channel additional intake noise to the cockpit. There are minor suspension changes as well, like new front suspension knuckles and revised shock and spring tuning. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
Today we sat in on a roundtable discussion with Fiat Chairman and Ferrari President Luca di Montezemolo. Here are a few of the super-suave chairman's most informative and/or entertaining comments:
In response to the inevitable question about whether Ferrari might be interested in producing a four-door model. (The four-door Lamborghini Estoque concept was unveiled earlier at the show):
"I say, 'Good luck, to them.' We will never do a four-door. If I am chairman for 20 more years and I hope I will be, we will never."
To a journalist who'd fallen asleep in the front row during Montezemolo's talk:
"[to his Ferrari handlers] Could we get our friend here a strong coffee -- an espresso. With sugar. No milk."
To a question regarding potential Ferrari measures to increase fuel economy:
"Seven-thousand people in the world. It won't make much of a difference."
Other items of interest: The dual-clutch transmission that will be used first in the new California model will be used throughout the Ferrari range, first with the 612 and then, later in the 430 and 599.
Ferrari is also expanding its personalization program which it recently launched for the 612 to the 599 and, eventually, to other models. According to Montezemolo, the program will allow buyers to change virtually everything on the car except the body and the engine. -- Daniel Pund, Senior Editor, Detroit
The Smart ED (electric drive) might excite like a trip to the dentist, but there's no denying this display is cool. -- Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief
Despite the Volkswagen group's apparent disdain for hybrids, the latest A1 Sportback concept is in fact, a hybrid. It combines a 1.4-liter TSFI gasoline engine with a 20-kilowatt electric motor that's able to deliver as much as 110 pound-feet of torque for short bursts of acceleration. Audi also claims that the A1's electric motor is powerful enough to propel it up to 62 miles on electric power alone thanks to its powerful lithium-ion batteries.
And that's not all. How does a 0-60 time of 7.9 seconds sound? What about a top speed of 124 mph? Still not enough? It gets 60 mpg, too. Well, at least that's what Audi says, and when it comes to concepts, who's checking?
Expect to see an A1 similar to this concept on the roads of Europe in the not-too-distant future. Given its subcompact dimensions, there's little chance Audi will bring it to the U.S., unless of course that hybrid drivetrain actually works. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
Take it from a man who knows. The 2011 Chevy Volt looks much better in person than it does in photographs. Much better. -- Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief
Really, what were the chances that since Mercedes unveiled a hybrid S-Class that BMW wouldn't show a hybrid 7 Series? Apparently, not great, since that is exactly what BMW did.
The Paris show is the official debut of the new 7 Series line, but BMW saved all its stagecraft for the surprise Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid. Seriously, BMW unleashed more smoke than we'd seen in quite some time.
Unlike Mercedes' big hybrid sedan, the 7 hybrid uses a V8 that is augmented by electric drive. (The Mercedes has a V6). The company claims that the setup will result in a 15 percent reduction in fuel consumption compared to conventionally powered cars in its class.
And BMW will produce the 7 Series hybrid, too. The company says that it will introduce a production version (without the garish body graphics) as early as next year. The X6 hybrid will arrive at the same time. -- Daniel Pund, Senior Editor, Detroit
We've grown comfortable with the idea that we will be uncomfortable with any new BMW design. Such is the case with the smaller-than-an-X3 X1 Concept vehicle. The nose of this Concept, soon to make it to production, has the slightly melted look of the new 7 Series. But we don't necessarily mean that in a bad way. But it's not as appealingly taut a design as the new X5.
The eventual production version of the car, planned for U.S. sale in September 2009, will be powered by a 170-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline and 177-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder common-rail diesel, as well as a 265-hp 3.0-liter six-cylinder gasoline engine and the company's new 245-hp 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel.
In person, the X1 doesn't look any smaller than an X3. But just as on the car side of the business, BMW is expected to march each of its crossover SUVs up a class with each new generation. So expect the next X3 to be a half-size larger than the current model. -- Daniel Pund, Senior Editor, Detroit
The debut of the Mazda Kiyora took eco-boasting to new highs -- or lows, depending on your prospective. Among its numerous and highly suspicious-sounding features: roof rails that channel rainwater into an onboard purification system which then feeds water bottles between the front seats, a dashboard partially made of carbon for scrubbing the incoming air of toxins, and an onboard CO2 meter that delivers a real-time estimation of the Kiyora's carbon footprint.
Back on Planet Earth, the Kiyora would be powered by a 1.3-liter gasoline engine connected to a six-speed automatic. The engine's use of direct injection, dual sequential valve timing and variable valve lift make it one of Mazda's most efficient engines ever. There's also a Smart Idle Stop system that shuts down the engine at stoplights and an advanced catalytic converter that uses nanotechnology to filter even the smallest particles from the exhaust. The Kiyora is also surprisingly small, with an overall length that's nearly 4 inches shorter than the subcompact Mazda 2.
Oh, did we forget the Nagare design details? Yes, it has all those, too, but we were over that stuff after the first three concepts. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
According to Dieter Zetsche, Mercedes-Benz AG chairman of the board, the ConceptFascination strongly foreshadows the 2009 Mercedes-Benz design. Characteristics of this design will appear in next year's Mercedes-Benz models.
Translation: This is what the all-new 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class will look like.
The work of Gorgen Wagener (that's him up on stage), the new global head of design at Benz and the former head of the company's Irvine, California, studio, the ConceptFascination does more than show the Mercedes' new look. It also hints at an all-new model, the E-Class coupe wagon.
Just as the company's CLS blurred the line between coupe and sedan, the Fascination blurs the line between coupe and wagon. "We want to reinvent the shooting brake (that's wagon in Eurospeak)," Wagener told me after the Benz press conference. "We see an opening for a new niche and we want to claim it as our own concept. We want to combine sportiness with functionality, like in the old days with the Volvo P1800 and others."
Then I asked him if such a vehicle would see production. He wouldn't answer, but his eyes gave it away. This thing is for real. -- Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief
I'd call the Smart ED (electric drive) the hit of the entire 2008 Paris Auto Show, but I wouldn't be able to keep a straight face. The electric-powered Smart, which the company today called the future of mobility, is quite simply an electric version of the Smart Fortwo, a very small two-seater that has seen success in Europe and began sales in the USA earlier this year.
Production of the Smart ED could start as early as next year, according to company officials. In the meantime, development of the little city car continues. Apparently a prototype has been running around the clogged streets of London for the past year with very positive results.
In other Smart news, the company recently built its 1millionth Smart, and will begin sales in China sometime next year. -- Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief
It's the answer to the question nobody has really asked besides Lexus with its slow-selling LS 600h. This is the 2010 Mercedes-Benz S400 BlueHybrid, and Mercedes says it's the most fuel-efficient luxury car on earth.
The German automaker debuted its new green flagship today at the Paris auto show during a low-key press conference, but the news wasn't all that shocking since Inside Line drove the S400 Hybrid a couple of weeks ago in Germany.
Powered by a 275-horsepower 3.5-liter V6, an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack, the S400, accorded to Dieter Zetsche (that's him on the right), Mercedes-Benz chairman of the board, puts out the equivalent of 299 hp while emitting the lowest CO2 levels in the luxury class.
"This is just the beginning," Zetsche told the gathered media today. "With this technology, we can hybridize all of our models in rapid succession. This car proves Mercedes will be able to downsize its emissions without downsizing its products."
The S400 Hybrid will go on sale in America in September 2009. -- Scott Oldham, Inside Line Editor in Chief
Nissan says the Nuvu Concept is its vision for the future of urban transportation, which indicates that some time in the future we will all be very, very silly.
The company has promised a production full-electric car (for fleet customers) in 2010. The Nuvu ain't it. There was a moment during the unveiling of this little three-seater when we honestly forgot we were in Paris. Surely this is the Tokyo show, no? No.
The Nuvu has two front seats and one rear seat and a large light-blue stalactite hanging down from the ceiling inside the cabin. Oh, no wait. We just checked the press release. That's not a stalactite. That's a "tree." We think even the spokesmodel paid to drive this electric car on stage was embarrassed.
Note: Our Ferrari-branded Olympus camera refused to take a clear shot of the front of this thing. -- Daniel Pund, Senior Editor, Detroit
Weeks ago Honda released images and basic information on its Insight hybrid concept. So what can we add, having now seen it in person? Well, it's a fair bit more glittery than we expected, what with its searing white LEDs front and rear. Also, the wheels, which are unlikely to make it to production, are really very unattractive.
The production version, which goes on sale next year, is powered by a 1.3-liter engine along with Honda's familiar IMA electric-motor assist. Honda has taken a page from Toyota's book, making a specific body for the hybrid (as it did back before the turn of the century with the original two-seat Insight). The similarities to the Prius in its basic shape are undeniable once you see the thing in person. It's not a pretty thing. But Honda will do Toyota one better by undercutting the Prius' price. It's expected to start at less than $20,000. -- Daniel Pund, Senior Editor, Detroit
If there's one good thing about the massive venue Volkswagen chose for its premiere party, it's the fact that the cars could actually drive around a little on stage. Nothing too crazy, just a few figure eights to give the crowd a little taste of what each car looked like in motion. When it came time to roll out the new 2010 Volkwagen GTI, the executive behind the wheel couldn't help goose the throttle a few times as he navigated the show stage. The tires squealed as the GTI displayed massive understeer, but it was fun to watch nonetheless.
As for the car itself, there's not much to say. It's almost indistinguishable from the current model and its 2.0T engine only has 10 additional horsepower. A standard electronic limited-slip differential should get it out of the corners a little faster than before, though, so expect a solid all-around hatchback when it goes on sale in the U.S. next fall. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
Here's the BMW 3 Series fighter we've been expecting from Lexus for years. Dubbed the 2010 Lexus IS 250C and IS 350C, this new two-door features a three-piece retractable hardtop that folds away in 21 seconds, according to Lexus. The collapsible roof is made entirely of aluminum to save weight and all the seals have been optimized to deliver the same interior noise levels as the IS sedans. There will be no hardtop coupe, so if you were hoping for a two-door IS-F you're out of luck for now.
Compared to the sedans, the IS 250/350C is identical underneath the skin; same engine lineup and same suspension except for a few tweaks to compensate for the added weight of the convertible roof. The doors are 11.8 inches longer and there are 2 additional inches of rear overhang in order to maintain sufficient cargo room in the trunk -- two golf bags' worth with the top up, according to Lexus. A revised gauge cluster is said to be easier to read in bright sunlight, while the climate control and audio systems are both speed-sensitive to compensate for top-down driving.
It's classic Lexus in terms of precise execution, but the result is an awkward mess of conflicting lines and odd proportions. The A-pillars are too short compared to the long nose, and the rear end appears abnormally high and bulky. Put it next to a 3 Series convertible and the Lexus would look even more thrown together. You'll be able to judge for yourself next year as the IS 250/350C is scheduled to go on sale late next spring. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
Sick of hearing all the hybrid hype? Well, we already know how the Mechanic feels, and now we have a pretty good idea what Martin Winterkorn, chairman of Volkswagen, thinks about the emerging technology. In the final presentation at Volkswagen's pre-show premiere party, Winterkorn not only introduced Volkswagen's cleanest Passat diesel ever, he delivered a few choice words about the competition.
"Why drive a hybrid when you can have a clean diesel now?" he asked rhetorically. He went on to call diesel "a reliable and affordable alternative" to hybrids and noted that although hybrids might imply high technology, "we set the pace when it comes to technology." You hear that, GM and Toyota? -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
Volkswagen unleashed 12 world debuts at its pre-Paris auto show extravaganza, but only one -- the Lamborghini Estoque concept -- generated much excitement. You can get all the details in our First Look on the Lamborghini Estoque, but seeing it up close added some additional perspective.
Yes, the very Reventon-like front end is as garish as it looks in the photos, with gaping intakes that look out of place on a four-passenger sedan. From the front wheels back, however, the Estoque is a well-proportioned four-seater thanks to its high beltline, low roof, bulging rear fenders and tightly cropped rear end. We couldn't get inside to see how much space there is in those rear seats, but from what we could see through the windows, it looks like it would be a tight fit for two adults. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
Bimmer fans don't get your hopes up just yet, as early word has it that this car, when it goes into production, may not come here. Why? It all comes down to exchange rates between the dollar and the euro.
In Europe this smaller-than-X3 CUV is expected to offer a 170-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and a 177-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder common-rail diesel, as well as a 265-hp 3.0-liter six-cylinder gasoline engine and the company's new 245-hp 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel.
The Mercedes-Benz and McLaren relationship may be winding down, but it will go out with a big bang. The automotive duo will show a very special version of the SLR, dubbed the 722 S at the Paris auto show..
VW will use the Paris auto show to launch their latest generation GTI. As per previous generation models, the styling is very evolutionary. There is nothing here that will upset GTI loyalists.
The new GTI is powered by VW's new EA888 four-cylinder 2.0 turbo engine. It puts out 210 horsepower, which is 10 hp over the current GTI. Torque,remains unchanged at 206 pound-feet at just 1,800 rpm. Power is delivered to the front wheels via either a standard six-speed manual or an optional six-speed double-clutch gearbox with steering-wheel-mounted paddles and a full automatic mode. New to the GTI is an electronic differential called XDS, that operates through an enhanced electronic stability program to help power get to the road cleanly and efficiently.
Volkswagen claims a zero to 60 mph in under 7.2 seconds and a top speed of 149 mph.
Well, here's yet one more show car leaked on to the Net: It's the Chevy Orlando CUV concept, which is to debut at Paris shortly. The vehicle shares the same Delta II platform as the Chevy Cruze, and power comes from a 2.0-liter turbodiesel. That's about it for details, which will be announced at the show.Full story here.
If ever there was a convertible that should not have a roof, this is it. This Saab 9-X Air looks stunning sans roof. With the roof up... well, let's just say it looks like a man with a bad toupée; think Mr. Tudball, the hilarious Tim Conway's character on the long-gone and much-missed Carol Burnett Show.
As to specifics: The car is powered by an E85-friendly hybrid turbo 1.4 engine, putting out 197 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. The FWD roadster puts the power to ground via a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.Here's Inside Line's take: 2008 Paris Auto Show Preview: Saab 9-X Air
Lots of news these days about what's going to debut at the Paris auto show, so here's a bit of a break from that: VW will debut their new pickup at IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover, Germany, which is held next week.
Rumored to be called the Robust, or Toro II, the vehicle will be built at VW's factory in Pacheco, Argentina. VW is claiming it to be a 1-ton truck, but not in the same sense that American think of 1-toners. This will be more of what we call mid-sized, but with a very healthy payload rating. Expect gas and diesel versions to be offered.That's the good news. The bad news is it won't be for sale here; at least not now, or at least until the pickup market rebounds here. So if you live south of our border, or in Europe, you can get this new VW pick-em-up starting late in 2009.
Volvo has a new turbo-diesel technology called DRIVe. Its claim to fame is that vehicles equipped with DRIVe will achieve optimal efficiency with reduced air resistance, higher gear ratios and a more efficient driveline. The cars will ride 0.4 inch lower and feature new aerodynamic panels as well as lower-friction transmission oil.
Volvo claims the 1.6L DRIVe diesel, in the C30, S40 and V50, can get 53 mpg. So far DRIVe-equipped vehicles are for Europe. There's no word yet as to whether they will make it across the pond.
The one thing that's predictable about the Paris auto show is that the vehicles that will debut will be unpredictable. Only the Tokyo auto show is wackier than the Paris show.
Among French automakers, Renault is sure to hold up this unpredictable theme, as they and others have been fine-tuning their art for decades. This year is no exception, as they will show the Ondelios, which is a luxury CUV hybrid. So they've covered all the buzz-word segments here, and have added the expected unexpectedness in terms of design.
For starters, the vehicle has gullwing doors, a feature usually reserved for Benz and Benz wannabes. It seats six, with six individual chairs. It's powered by a 2.0 dCi turbo diesel engine, with two 20kW electric motors at the front and rear that use a brake and boost system, recovering energy during braking then delivering it to the engine to boost acceleration. The crossover is also equipped with a lithium-ion battery that can deliver power of up to 4kW/h.
Renault claims a 0-62 mph in 7.8 seconds, as well as 53.2 US mpg.
Mini will debut a not-so-mini Mini Crossover concept at the Paris auto show. The vehicle is quite a bit larger than the already large (by original Mini dimensions) Mini Clubman. It's wider, higher, has more ground clearance, and has a 102.6-inch wheelbase, which is 2.4 inches more than that found on the Clubman.
Perhaps the most interesting design innovation is that it has a minivan-like sliding door on the driver's side and a conventional rear door on the passenger's side. In addition, the Clubman's double rear door has been ditched in favor of a large refrigerator-like rear door.
It's powered by a 1.6L engine, and of course, has AWD. The car will go on sale here in 2010.
Ford will be showing a Fiesta van at the Paris Auto Show. This type of vehicle is popular with the European small businesses, and have been for some time. Think, with gas prices the way they are, we might see something like this over here soon?
As promised, Honda lifted the curtain today on their all-new Prius-fighter hybrid. In doing so Honda resurected the name Insight, which was first applied to their 70 mpg 2-seat hybrid of a few years back.
This concept, like all recent Honda concepts is almost showroom-ready. Also like all Hondas, it is far more attractive (in my eyes) than the corresponding Toyota model that it would compete with.
The Insight will go on sale next spring, and is expected to undercut the Prius by $2K or so, starting at just under $20,000.
Mazda will debut their Kiyora concept at the upcoming Paris Auto Show. The styling follows the flowing (think folded drapery) theme found on all recent Mazda concepts. Other than having a "next-generation" direct injection 4-cylinder engine, not much is known about what's under the skin.
GM has released images and some info on the all-new Chevrolet Cruze. The car will officially debut in October at the Paris auto show.
The Cruze will be a world car, and as such, will be sold in Europe, North America and Asia. Here it will replace the Cobalt and will likely be badged as a 2011 model. The Cruze will be powered by 1.6 and 1.8L that produce 112hp and 140hp. Both engines feature variable valve timing on the inlet and exhaust sides which
improve fuel economy as well as boost low-end performance. The turbodiesel is a
2.0L unit and develops 150hp. A five-speed manual will be standard and a new six-automatic will also be offered.
Images and info of the upcoming 2009 BMW 7-Series are up on the Net, ahead of the official announcement that's supposed to happen later this month. The car is scheduled to debut at the Paris Motor Show in October.
The new car is expected to offer a twin-turbo gas V8 along with an 8-speed ZF automatic and a torque-splitting rear differential. Other items include upgraded radar cruise control systems, a camera-based lane departure and blind-spot warning systems, and a new night vision system with pedestrian and speed sign detection features.
The production version of the Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback will debut at the Paris auto show this September. The pixs above show both the base Lancer and the Ralliart version. The Ralliart will go head-to-head with the WRX, as it will be turbocharged and have AWD.
No word as to whether the EVO will get the Sportback model...
Ford's next US-spec Fiesta (a model name not used here since 1981) is going to be built in Mexico. The Fiesta will be built in a plant that used to build F-Series trucks. It will be available as both a sedan and hatchback, and will arrive as a 2010 model.
This isn’t the actual 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco, but it pretty close. Based on the same prototypes shown in our latest Scirocco spy video, this illustration reveals just how close the production Scirocco will come to the Iroc concept. It looks pretty good, but don’t expect to see it in the U.S. anytime soon...
Taking centerstage at the Suzuki stand in Paris was the Project Splash, a concept car built on the subcompact Swift/SX4 platform. Other than the bright blue color scheme, there's nothing terribly remarkable about the Splash -- it merely represents another direction Suzuki might take with this platform, something more along the lines of a subcompact people mover/MPV. It also looks quite similar to Renault's Twingo concept.
Kia had the Carnival minivan, a.k.a. the Sedona, on display at its stand in Paris. If it looks small to you that's because in Europe only a short, 114-inch-wheelbase version is offered, compared to our 119-inch WB Sedona. However, Kia has told us a short-wheelbase Sedona will be coming to the U.S. late this year to provide a lower-cost alternative for smaller families. A diesel engine is available on the Carnival, but a V6 is all but assured on the U.S. version, though probably something smaller than the 3.8L in the larger van.
For those who want to drive a V8 Vantage but don't want to do their own clutchwork, Aston Martin introduced a Sportshift Vantage coupe at the Paris show. It's not a fancy dual-clutch setup like Audi's DSG. Rather, Aston Martin has taken the existing six-speed manual gearbox and fitted it with electro-hydraulic control and column-mounted magnesium paddle shifters. Eighteen months of development work went into this modification, and shifts come three time faster than with the regular manual, says the company...
The Twingo is the smallest car Renault makes, and after several days spent driving around France, I feel confident in calling it the frumpiest of the French cars. But it's certainly economical in a country where fueling up a normal-size compact car (say, a Ford Focus rental car) costs 50-60 bucks a pop. Help could be on the way in the next redesign, though, because this concept car looks much sharper and more youthful than the current production Twingo. And with a turbocharged, 1.2-liter four-cylinder engine good for 100 hp, this Twingo would likely scoot around nicely for a car in the featherweight class...
The other car that was creating a stir in Hall 1 on Friday was the Peugeot 908 RC. On the outside, it's a really sinister yet somehow really beautiful ultra luxury sedan concept; it was evidently styled to resemble a big cat. Peugeot refers to it as a limousine and indeed it's over 16 feet long. On the inside, it's a rear-drive, rear-engine performance car.
That engine is a 5.5-liter turbodiesel V12 capable of 700 hp and 885 lb-ft of torque -- the company developed it to use in the Le Mans series and, as on a racecar, the V12 is supported by a tubular subframe...
Of all the cars on display in Hall 1 today, few got more attention from show goers than Citroen's luscious C-Metisse. It would be an interesting car if were no more than a study for future design directions, but the C-Metisse is actually an exhibit for Citroen's efforts in the area of diesel hybrid technology.
The car has a 208-hp turbodiesel V6 engine (equipped with particulate filters) that powers the front wheels with the help of a six-speed automatic transmission. It also has an electric motor mounted in each rear wheel, and on its own each motor is capable of 20 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque...
Sitting in a corner all by itself was the refreshed 2007 Kia Opirus, which you might recognize as a Kia Amanti. Despite the modest surroundings and lack of fanfare, a lot is going on with this car.
The easiest thing to notice is the grille. Gone is the ovoid fish mouth, which used to look really large until Audi came out with its new signature grille. In its place is a broader and lower shape that draws less attention to itself, allowing the eye to zoom out and see the front of the car as a whole.
BMW's freshened X3 made its first public appearance in Paris Thursday. The exterior differences are subtle indeed, consisting largely of freshly styled front and rear bumper caps. The real news is under the hood, where a revised engine can be found.
One of the lovelier cars on display in Hall 1 of the Paris Auto Show was the Renault Nepta, a four-seat cabriolet concept car. Its aluminum-finish gullwing doors run the length of its body, and when they're open, the Nepta really does look like a bird about to take flight. Plus, you can see the engine and passenger compartments in their entirety.
In Paris today, the bandages came off Hyundai's Tiburon - referred to simply as the Hyundai Coupe here in Europe - revealing the results of its second face-lift. The first occurred 3 years ago, and was meant to clean up a few sagging lines in the initial design and to present a more chiseled, aggressive face. And it worked too, as the first Tiburon face-lift resulted in the best one yet. So what happened here?
During the taxi ride from Charles De Gaulle airport to our hotel, we concluded that the best-looking cars on French highways that we never see at home are made by Italy's Alfa Romeo - by a country kilometer. A lot has apparently changed in the 10-plus years the brand has been absent from our shores, and it's all good.
A fine example is the new Alfa Romeo flagship unveiled here in Paris today, the much-anticipated 8C Competizione. After finally seeing this two-seat sports car in the flesh, we can confirm that the production model is an Italian knockout dressed in red - red-painted carbon fiber, that is. And with a 90 degree 4.7-liter V8 engine cramming 450 horsepower and 347 lb-ft of torque through a paddle shifter-controlled six-speed transaxle to the rear wheels, Alfa's claim of a 0-100 kph (0 to 62 mph) acceleration time "under 4.2 seconds" is utterly believable.
There was quite a commotion among enthusiasts in the U.S. when Audi first released information on the S3 hatch some time ago and we're not exactly sure why. For one, it's not destined for the U.S., so no matter how much you really, really want it, the dealers aren't going to have one to sell you. The other, more difficult point that's hard to miss is the fact that you can already get an A3 3.2 with nearly the same horsepower (250 vs 265). Granted, in the S3 you can couple that with a manual transmission, but given how good the A3's DSG system is to begin with, there isn't much to be gained by going for the six-speed do-it-yourself system. Please enlighten us on what makes the S3 so special and we'll gladly add a few more pictures for you to salivate over.
BMW group finally took the wraps off the redesigned Mini Cooper in Paris today. Die-hard fans of the old “new” Mini need not worry, however, as the newly redesigned car is hard to tell from the current edition. Yes, every panel is new, and the car is a 2.4 inches longer overall, but we’re having a hard time picking differences out - even with an old “new” Mini convertible sitting a dozen feet away.
Mini went to great pains to keep the styling deviations intentionally minute because, as BMW/Mini Director of Sales and Marketing Dr.Michael Ganal said in the reveal ceremony, "A Mini is supposed to look the way it looks." Who can argue with that?
Audi chose to unveil its new R8 supercar at a fancy dinner last night so it didn't even bother with a press conference today. Whether you want to call it supreme confidence in the product or a stupid display of German arrogance, there's no arguing over the car itself. With its big 19-inch double spoke wheels, exquisitely detailed headlights and an optional two-tone color scheme, the R8 is one of the best looking production cars we've seen in a long time. And we're guessing it will look even better on the road. And when will that be? Not sure really since that's the stuff they usually tell you at the press conference.
The "pointless exercise in paint" award goes to the Maybach 57S. Typically available in black or silver only, this 57S was requested in a special shade of Antiqua White by a particular customer. Applied in two different layers, the unique shade has a pearl effect which gives the car various shades of color depending on the light. Placed in a glass case like a piece of fine jewelry, it was hard to see what it looked like up close, but from far away it just like any other Maybach, which is tso say not that great...
Why bother making one of the world's fastest supercars more powerful? Because you can. Mercedes-Benz says the introduction of the SLR McLaren was in response to customer demands for even more performance. But let's face it, most owners are barely scratching the surface of this car's capabilities to begin with so that excuse goes down like a raw egg. This car is all about staying on top, so its power was bumped to 650 horses while the suspension was tweaked to deliver even better handling. Acceleration to 60 is down to 3.6 seconds while the top speed is up to 209mph. And what about the 722? It was the starting number of the SLR driven by Stirling Moss that won the 1955 Mille Milgia.
It didn’t look so hot sitting next to the CL 63 AMG, but the CL 550 coupe is still a pretty flawless piece. The "standard" engine has a mere 382 horsepower while the CL 600 gets a 510 horsepower V12. Add to all that power a shape that isn't as in your face as a Bentley Continental GT and there's not much to dislike about Mercedes new flagship coupe. Want to get picky? Take a look at the nose. New pedestrian crash test standards forced the designers to add some space under the hood making for a slightly chunkier snout. They compensated for it by raising the truck to maintain the profile but it's still not as sleek as it could have been.
Yes, IROC. As in Camaro. The VW "IROC" concept is supposed to remind us of the old Scirocco. For some reason VW didn't want to just rehash the same old models, so instead they unwittingly evoked a moniker popularized by Chevrolet's most famous pushrod-havin', peelout-doin', horseplay-rompin' '80s pony car...
Think way back to the early '70s. Remember the 911 2.7 RS? The new Porsche 911 GT3 RS, given its public introduction earlier today here in Paris, lifts its style and bloodline from that iconic model. If we were unaware of their storied history, we would say that the zoomy side graphics on the 997-based GT3 RS on display on the Porsche stand looked, well, pretty tacky...
Porsche is the only manufacturer that can get away with naming a model for its style of roof without coming off as cheesey.
Here in Paris, Porsche introduced the 997-based 911 Targa, announcing that for the first time, Targas will be available in AWD form only--no RWD Targas will be made.
With model designations Targa 4 and Targa 4S, these are essentially Carrera 4 and 4S models with a gigantic sliding moonroof and pop-up rear glass. This means that all Targa models also share those models' widebody sheetmetal, which is 44mm wider than a standard Carrera Coupe.
The 997-based Targa's retractable roof panel and hatch assembly are installed as a module...
Subaru has put together a modest refresh for the Subaru Legacy and Outback sedans and wagons. European buyers will enjoy the benefits starting next month, while we'll see something like it starting with the 2008 model year. On the surface, it's all about brightwork. The Legacy has a new grille with a large ribbon of chrome and on wagons, a revised set of tailights are linked horizontally across the hatch by another strip of it. On the Legacy sedan we looked at, there was even chrome trim on the side skirts -- this was a European-market Legacy, we're guessing it will turn up on our 2.5 GT as well. The Outback also gets a new, multiple-slat grille, but it isn't quite as dramatic.
Even with 525 horsepower, the Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG got no love in Paris. Unlike the CL63 AMG which shares the same engine, the S63 didn't get a big intro from Dr. Z or even a spot on the main stage. Instead, it sat there in the corner like just another S-Class. It could have been the fact there's already the S65 AMG with a twin turbo V12 in the lineup, or maybe it's those turbine style wheels that leave it looking a little plain, but either way it was overlooked by most of the journalists in attendance. If you're looking for a real street sleeper in the six digit range, the S63 might be a good choice.
Honda's Civic Type R, shown as a concept in Geneva, made its world debut as a production model here in Paris today. "I am confident the Type R will deliver an emotional driving experience," said Takeo Fukui, President and CEO of Honda, in the understatement of the afternoon.
There are no plans to bring the Type R to the States. With that out of the way, let's jump right to the good stuff...
As it has with pretty much every auto show introduction this year, DaimlerChrysler turned to slightly stale dramatics when it came time for the Dodge Avenger concept, a little disguised version of the production Avenger sedan (successor to Stratus), to leave its protective tent. After a soundtrack of thunderclaps and torrential rains, a wind machine flattened photographers' hair as they attempted to record the heady moment.
Although mechanically identical to the '07 Chrysler Sebring, the Avenger shirks its twin's somewhat ungainly, tenative stance for a deliberate, haunchy squat. It may be front-wheel-drive, but it borrows many of its lines from the rear-drive Charger and, provided you like the idea of an over-the-top aggressive family sedan, manages to pull it off. However, the sharp rise of the beltline as it meets up with the C-pillar is jarring. Chief Designer Ryan Nagodi makes no apologies: "In a sea of other sedans, we really wanted some cues where you really get this strong gesture."
When it came time to introduce the Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG, DaimlerChrysler didn't bother with any big theatrics -- and it didn't need to. The car is a stunner all by itself, with 525 horsepower, unique exterior trim and a set of 20-inch wheels no aftermarket outfit could touch. If there was any disappointment with the CL63 AMG it would be the sound -- or lack thereof. Maybe it was just the already loud hall, but when the CL63 cruised onto the stage it was a little too quiet for our tastes. Wind it up on the highway and it's guaranteed to roar, but with competition like the Aston Martin V8 Vantage the CL63 is going to need all the help it can get.
Audi will debut the stunning new R8 super car at the Paris auto show. Inspired by the Audi Le Mans racer, the cars will sport a mid-mounted 420 bhp V8 FSI (gas, not diesel) engine, quattro permanent four-wheel drive and Audi Space Frame aluminium body. The Audi R8 can be ordered from 28 September 2006, with first deliveries in the first half of 2007.
Want to know what the 2008 Saturn Vue is going to look like? Then take a look at the Opel Antara. Saturn is beginning to adopt designs pulled directly from Opel's studios and this Antara will be one of them. It was introduced for the first time this morning and although it doesn't look quite as striking as the Antara GTC concept shown last year it's not bad for an SUV.
GM kept the shtick level low with nothing more than a short intro video and some words by Euro design chief Bryan Nesbitt of PT Cruiser fame. The most riveting aspect of the press conference came when Nesbitt lost place among his huge handful of index cards and stood in silence with little to say. He was no doubt hugely embarrassed, but we couldn't help but think he would have done much better if GM simply told him to go up and talk about the design of the Antara. Instead, they hand him a full deck of cards chock full of corporate jargon and tell him to make it sizzle. Kind of makes you wonder if that's how the cars get designed at GM too.
Volvo unveiled the production version of the C30 three-door hatchback here in Paris, and confirmed that it will be sold in the U.S., possibly as a 2008 but late in the model year. The annual global sales target is 60,000, and 75% of those cars will go to European buyers. Although the company will offer a varied engine lineup in Europe, including a pair of diesels, in the U.S...
The facelifted 2007 VW Touareg will debut at the Paris auto show. As can be seen here, it picks up the styling cues found on VW's latest cars, with a heavy emphasis on the grille area. The headlights have also been tweaked, as have the taillights. In Europe a new 3.6L V6 is already in use...
Hyundai will debut the Arnez C-segment concept at the upcoming Paris show. Like a number of recent Hyundai vehicles this one too is extremely easy on the eyes.
Snippet: Designed at Hyundai’s European Research and Design centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany, the Arnejs builds on design elements first seen in the Genus concept at Geneva Motor Show earlier this year. And it marks a further significant milestone in Hyundai’s development of a stronger brand identity
The upcoming Paris auto show looks to be a good one, as several very interesting new concepts have been announced. This new Renault Nepta is just one more to add to the list. I especially find this new take on gull-wing doors to be of particular interest.
Snippet: Nepta is a combination of the dream car and the love of fine mechanical engineering...
A new Mitsubishi Pajero (Montero) will debut at the Paris car show. At first glance it appears to be all new, but under closer inspection one can see that it shares some items with the outgoing model.
No word yet as to whether we will see it here in the USA. Even with the precarious situation Mitsubishi is in here, and with the ever increasingly hostile SUV environment, I would still like to see it sold here...
The Citroen's C-Metisse Concept to be shown at Paris, screams out the fact that Citroen's core creative DNA is still alive and kickin.'
The AWD vehicle is only 48" high, and uses a V6 diesel hooked up to two electric wheels to power the rear wheels. With a drag coefficient of 0.30, the vehicle can achieve 45 mpg.
Will it ever see the light of day? Not likely, but you can expect to see some of its features on future Citroens...
Nissan is to debut the Qashqai (I have no idea what that means!) at the upcoming Paris show. I think this is another very handsome vehicle to come out of the Nissan design studios. Think of it as a smaller Murano-type vehicle. It will come in 1.6 or 2.0 gas engines, as well as 1.5 and 2.0 diesel engines...
We're only about a month away from the debut of the 2008 Audi R8 in Paris so the engineers are starting to let their guard down. We caught a prototype awhile back making some serious time on the Nurburgring, and now Streetfire.net has some new footage of a similar prototype getting the hot weather treatment. In both instances, the prototype wears minimal camouflage so Audi must like the way the R8 looks. Production is expected to begin later this year with cars headed our way next spring at the earliest.
Peugeot will debut the 908 RC concept at the upcoming Paris Motor Show next month. It is powered by a 5.5L V12 HDi engine, from their LeMans contender, producing 700 hp and 885 lbs.-ft of torque.
It looks like 4-door coupes and hyper-powerful diesels really do have a future.
Citroen, long a vehicle maker known for being creative, will introduce the very creative C4 Picasso at the upcoming Paris Motor Show. I think the name is perfect for this 7-seat people mover, as the vehicle is just as creative as its namesake. Check out the following details:
• 2 mirrors on the windshield. • A huge windshield that wraps up into the roof...
Either Toyota has one seriously fast transport ship, or there are more than a few of these V8-powered IS sedans being put through their paces on the international test circuit. After catching a similar prototype on the Nurburgring recently, these shots come to us from the California desert.
Here are the first shots of the upcoming Volkswagen Tiguan SUV and it doesn't look half bad. There's a little Subaru Forester in the front end while the rear is basically a scaled down version of the Touareg. Built on a same platform as the Rabbit, this new compact SUV will probably use the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder found in the GTI as its base engine. Hopefully an upgrade to VW's 3.2-liter V6 will be an option since the company isn't exactly known for building the lightest cars and trucks around. Plus, with a name like Tiguan this SUV is going to need all the help it can get.
After numerous spy photos of the 2008 Mercedes Benz CL coupe, we can finally give you a good look at the final product. Other than some minor enhancement to clean off some strategically placed pieces of tape, these latest spy shots are the closest thing yet to the production CL. Although the public intro of this high-dollar coupe isn't expected until the Paris auto show in September, expect to see official photos released later this month.
These are the latest spy photos of the 2008 Audi R8 hot off the Nurburgring. With only minimal disguise, this prototype doesn't leave much to the imagination. The wheels look suspiciously like those used on the Lamborghini Gallardo which shouldn't come as much of a surprise as most of the R8's underpinnings are said to be pulled straight from its "Italian" cousin. If we're lucky we could see this car make its official debut as early as the Paris show in September.
Is it possible to turn out a bad Mini concept? I don't think so, or at least I haven't seen one. The Mini Traveller concept is yet another retro show car. This time based upon the original Mini Traveller of some 40-odd years ago...
Despite all their problems, GM is going all out at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, to show that they are far from being dead and buried. They plan to make a big splash with the introduction of new production and concept vehicles.
"They are showcasing their turnaround," said Erich Merkle, director of forecasting for IRN Inc., a Grand Rapids-based automotive consulting firm. "They're saying, 'We're serious about it...
