Category: Motor Shows

Categories
Mercedes-Benz Motor Shows

Geneva 2012: Mercedes-Benz A Class

Mercedes-Benz A Class

Anything Audi can do Mercedes-Benz can do better. At least that’s what they’ll be hoping with their all-new A Class. Interestingly, the once stale Mercedes designs have made way for a more overt design execution and they should be congratulated for styling their cars to suit different target markets.

The A Class, for example, is aimed at a more youthful buyer and so a less conservative approach can work. And that’s exactly what Mercedes-Benz has done and it actually looks pretty good. The rear end is a bit fussy, perhaps, and the crease lines on the side profile won’t appeal to all. But remember, this is a Golf-sized Benz and in relative terms it looks bonkers. Bravo!

Of course, we got a preview of Mercedes’ think with the Concept A Class almost 12 months ago. We think it does look better but are surprised and pleased to see how true Mercedes-Benz has been to the exterior styling.

Most of the pics provided showcase the A Class Sport. It’s not quite an AMG special, but Mercedes do say it has been “engineered by AMG”, pointing out the performance arm was involved with the A Class from an early stage.

The A Class Sport will be available in A 220 CDI and A 250 designations, with the latter using a 155kW 2.0 litre turbocharged four cylinder engine. Golf GTI here we come and with the expectation of an even madder AMG model to follow we’re going to watch the new A Class very closely.

European sales of the new A Class will commence in the second half of 2012 and we would expect an Australian release in the first half of 2013.

Continue reading “Geneva 2012: Mercedes-Benz A Class”
Categories
Audi Motor Shows

Geneva 2012: Audi A3

2013 Audi A3

Audi has released images and details on its all-new A3 model, codenamed 8V. As is the case with most of the major German marques the new model is a clear evolution of the car it replaces. In general terms we think the new A3 looks pretty good and expect it will do well for Audi.

So far we’ve only got images of the 3-door hatchback to show you. We received unofficial word a while back that it’s unlikely Audi will offer the 3-door for sale in Australia. That includes the range-topping S3 as well. We expect to see details from Audi on the 5-door Sportback before the year is out.

It’s also worth noting that Audi has been a bit cheeky with these pics by fitting most of the cars shown with the optional S-line bodykit. Check out the studio pics of the white TDI model towards the end of the gallery below to see what a ‘plain Jane’ A3 will look like.

New technology from the larger cars in the Audi range has filtered down to the A3, which includes things like adaptive cruise control, side assist, active lane assist and traffic sign detection, among others. Full LED headlamps will also be made available as an option at a later date. For now if you want trick lights you’ll just have to make do with bi-xenons and LED tail lights.

The interior of the new A3 is a nice step from the previous 8P model and some of the ergonomic issues of that model have been addressed in the all-new A3. The now dated infotainment system is in desperate need of an upgrade too, so the features in the new A3 will be most welcome.

Although, it’s not what the new A3 has gained that is most impressive, but rather what it has lost. By following this maxim: “The right material in the right place for optimal function,” Audi has shed 80kg from the previous model. An entry level A3 now weighs 1175kg, which is quite good really. The bonnet and front wings are aluminium while a mixture of steel forming techniques has been used to make the rest of the body. Remember, this is the first model to be built on Volkswagen’s new MQB platform so we can expect many more cars from the Volkswagen Group to be lighter in the future as well.

Audi has announced three engines to begin with: a 90kW 1.4 TFSI, a 132kW 1.8 TFSI and a 105kW 2.0 TDI. A 7-speed S tronic is standard equipment in the 1.8 TFSI, while the other models come with a 6-speed manual, although the S tronic can be optioned. As the model range increases so will the engine line up.

The third-generation A3 goes on sale later this year in European markets. Our guess is you’ll be seeing the new A3 in Australian showrooms early next year, following an appearance at the Australian International Motor Show in October. If we hear anything different from Audi Australia we’ll let you know.

There’s a raft of information for you after the break, along with over 50 images. Oh, it looks like those leaked pics were the real deal too.

UPDATE 7 March: On the new A3, Audi Australia says, “Australian launch date, pricing, and specification is not yet available.”

Continue reading “Geneva 2012: Audi A3”
Categories
Kia Motor Shows

Chicago 2012: Kia Track’ster Concept

Kia Trackster Concept

If ever you wanted an example of how Kia has transformed itself from makers of awkward looking crap boxes to stylish models with genuine desirability then this new Kia Track’ster Concept is it. Really, that first-gen Rio, what were they thinking?

Clearly, today’s thinking is much better and while there’ll no doubt be a few who still raise their eyebrows at this Track’ster, unveiled at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, we reckon the emerging Korean giant deserves a round of applause.

The Track’ster started life as a Soul, but Kia has given this concept a genuine soul designing the model to be daily driver with genuine track credentials.

“The idea was to make the Track’ster tough looking, like a bulldog,” said Tom Kearns, Chief Designer for Kia Motors America. “It had to be a bold interpretation that would change people’s conceptions of what a sporty Kia could be.”

Ensuring the Track’ster has the bark to match its bite Kia has fitted a 250hp (185kW) 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to an electronically controlled all-wheel drive system. A short shift 6-speed manual and lowered suspension complete the transformation.

Still, as good as this looks, it’s best you don’t start thinking this car will become a production reality. “Concept cars are icing on the cake,” said Kearns. “They allow KMA’s design team to dream about what could be. Whether that dream becomes a reality or not is a separate question.”

Continue reading “Chicago 2012: Kia Track’ster Concept”
Categories
Motor Shows Toyota

Detroit 2012: Toyota virtual booth

With our Detroit Motor Show gallery we tried to bring you a bit closer to the action. Toyota has joined in by releasing a virtual booth of their stand. The video guide above shows you how it works and this link here takes you to the Toyota Global website where you can navigate your own way around their display.

It’s a nice use of some familiar tech. It would be very cool if all the manufacturers at the show made their stands available to view from the comfort of your lounge room like this.

[Thanks to Jake for the tip]

Categories
Green Machines Motor Shows Toyota

Detroit 2012: Toyota NS4 concept

Toyota NS4 concept, Detroit 2012

We don’t usually spend too much time covering Toyotas here at AUSmotive. But while going through the pics for our Detroit Motor Show gallery we thought, credit where credit is due, this Toyota NS4 concept actually looks half decent.

So we figured we’d take a proper look at the car, which Toyota says uses a more efficient “next-generation Hybrid Synergy Drive plug-in system”.

Jim Lentz, president and chief operating officer of Toyota Motor Sales, USA, said, “NS4 demonstrates Toyota’s take on the human connection to the car with technology that considers both emotional and rational relationships, person-to-car and car-to-society.

“The continued success of our conventional hybrid vehicles has laid strong groundwork for market acceptance of future advanced technologies.”

Taking centre stage in that human connection is the smartphone-inspired Human Machine Interface (HMI). As well as handling the expected duties of basic driver information and HVAC controls, the HMI system has the ability to learn the preferences of the driver and anticipate certain responses.

Sounds interesting, if a little scary as well. Find out more after the break.

Continue reading “Detroit 2012: Toyota NS4 concept”
Categories
Lexus Motor Shows

Lexus LF-LC named Detroit’s best

2012 Detroit Motor Show

The Lexus LF-LC concept has been given the gong for Design Excellence (Concept Category) by the EyesOn Design judges at the Detroit Motor Show.

The judging panel consists of retired and active design-related members from both automotive and academic fields. The most recent winners of the Concept Category include the Porsche 918 RSR, GMC Granite and Audi Sportback Concept.

Speaking on behalf of Lexus, US Group Vice President and General Manager, Mark Templin said, “The LF-LC is a striking design and breathtaking in its beauty. The team at Lexus quickly fell in love with this concept vehicle and it’s rewarding to see that the industry agreed. Receiving the EyesOn Design Award is a great start to what promises to be a fantastic year for Lexus.”

Designed in Calfornia at the Lexus Calty studio, President Kevin Hunter said, “The LF-LC was a dream car to design and a true collaborative effort at Calty. It is an honour to have that work recognised by our peers and to receive the award.”

In the production category, the Design Excellence award went to the Ford Fusion.

Categories
Audi Bentley Chevrolet Ford Honda Hyundai Mercedes-Benz Motor Shows Nissan Porsche smart Volkswagen

2012 Detroit Motor Show photo gallery

2012 Detroit Motor Show

Here we have a selection of images from the floor of the Detroit Motor Show, or more correctly, the North American International Auto Show.

Unlike Tokyo late last year there’s a noticeable lack of weird and wonderful concept creations, but we certainly applaud the appearance of the Honda NSX Concept. It’s easily the clear star of the show in our eyes.

Not so fortunate is the Chevrolet Code 130R concept; a BMW 1 Series Coupé that somehow turned out all wrong. So, too, the Chrysler 700C. Seriously, does anyone actually look at these things before they are put on the stand. And if they do, then we’ll have some of whatever it is they’re smoking please.

Equally, we can’t quite understand the fascination the North American audience has had with the Ford Fusion. Its poor mans Aston Martin-like grille is an embarrassment.

Anyway, there’s 50-odd pictures for you after the break. Why don’t you be the judge and tell us what you like and don’t like.

Continue reading “2012 Detroit Motor Show photo gallery”
Categories
Audi Motor Shows

Detroit 2012: Audi Q3 Vail

Audi Q3 Vail

You know how we’ve been telling you Audi could be making an RS version of its Q3 SUV? Well, this Q3 Vail, revealed at the Detroit motor show and powered by a 231kW/400Nm 2.5 litre five cylinder engine, could be it.

The show car features a special “Energy Red” paint and 20″ alloys wearing 255/45 rubber. Thanks to flared guards the front and rear track has increased by 40mm. Ride height has also been upped by 30mm.

The red theme is carried through to the interior, which we reckon is sneak preview of the look we will see in the next-gen A3. Although the high-spec finishes of the show car, such as the milled aluminium S tronic gear selector, metal instrument dials and heated thermos, plus LED torches, are unlikely to make it to series production.

You see, those touches have been added to appeal to the Vail’s winter sports fan audience. We’re also sure they’ll appreciate the boot liner which can be placed over the rear deck where the heated seat cushions can be better appreciated.

All this in a package that can reach 100km/h in 5.5 seconds. It will be interesting to see when and in what form this model takes when it starts to roll down production lines.

Continue reading “Detroit 2012: Audi Q3 Vail”
Categories
Honda Motor Shows

VIDEO: Honda NSX Concept

Already there’s a number of videos on YouTube featuring the stunning new Honda NSX Concept. Here’s three of the best we’ve found so far.

Continue reading “VIDEO: Honda NSX Concept”
Categories
Honda Motor Shows

Detroit 2012: Honda NSX Concept

2015 Acura / Honda NSX concept

“Like the first NSX, we will again express high performance through engineering efficiency.”

Speaking at the Detroit motor show, Takanobu Ito, President and CEO of Honda Motor Co, ushered in a new era for the iconic NSX nameplate.

Wearing Acura badging for the North American audience the concept on display looks quite handy. We’re sure the newly developed V6 engine, mid-mounted of course, 7-speed dual clutch transmission and funky sounding Sport Hybrid Super Handling All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system will follow suit.

To further explain the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system Honda says the unique twin electric motor drive mechanism uses a bilateral torque adjustable control system. Huh?

That means the new hybrid AWD system can instantly generate negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering. Honda reckons this will provide a handling experience unmatched by other AWD systems.

It’s said the new 3.5 litre V6 will offer 230kW of VTEC goodness, with 20kW of electric power available to each of the front wheels and an additional 30kW for the rear axle.

We will probably have to wait until 2015 before this concept becomes a production reality. We may also have to close our eyes and hope for the best when we learn the car will be developed and built in the US; can the Yanks really deliver an NSX worthy of the badge that will appeal to motoring enthusiasts across the globe?

Let’s hope so.

UPDATE 12 January: New pics added below.

Continue reading “Detroit 2012: Honda NSX Concept”
Categories
Motor Shows Porsche

Detroit 2012: Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet

2012 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet

Porsche revealed details of its new 911 Carrera Cabriolet late last year, but the car’s first public showing is taking place right now in Detroit.

Matthias Müller, President and Chief Executive Officer of Porsche AG, was on hand for the official duties and says it’s the best 911 cabrio ever, “Our engineers have built the best 911 in 48 years. That applies every bit as much to the Coupé as it does to the Cabriolet.”

Müller hopes the 991 will continue the company’s sales growth. Last year Porsche set a new record when it sent 118,867 out its showroom doors.

Continue reading “Detroit 2012: Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet”
Categories
Green Machines Motor Shows Volkswagen

Detroit 2012: Volkswagen E-Bugster

Volkswagen E-Bugster

Volkswagen extends The Beetle model line by presenting the E-Bugster at the Detroit motor show. Featuring retro-cool speedster styling—the roofline is 90mm lower than a regular Bug—and seating for two, the E-Bugster has 85kW of zero-emission power on tap which can propel the car to 60mph in 10.9 seconds.

The “central electric module” weighs 80kg and VW say it provides a range of “at least” 180km in real-world conditions. A quick-charge function offers a relatively short recharge time of 35 minutes with a suitable charging station.

The E-Bugster uses a “Combined Charging System”, developed by a German–US team consisting of Audi, BMW, Daimler, Porsche and Volkswagen as well as Ford and General Motors. This means the E-Bugster can be easily recharged using single-phase AC current or ultra-fast DC charging at dedicated stations.

There’s more pics and detail from Volkswagen after the break.

UPDATE: Official promo video added below.

Continue reading “Detroit 2012: Volkswagen E-Bugster”