Citroen C5 Airscape
The French manufacturer’s star concept in Frankfurt, the C5 Airscape is a drop-dead gorgeous cabriolet that looks like a very expensive offering indeed and which is quite clearly a strong taster of a future production car. The folding roof is made entirely of carbon fiber. Powered by a V6 HDi diesel engine (with particulate filter and an “Urban Hybrid” system with reversible alternator-starter for low consumption and emissions), it also has a “Snow Motion” traction control system that they say offers performance close to that of a four-wheel drive.
Ford Verve
This concept is billed as the working model for the next-generation Fiesta, so there’s no doubting its importance. Verve’s looks have divided opinion, with some thinking it’s disappointingly flat compared with the excellent new Mondeo and Kuga concept. But others saw it as a breezy and real-world practical car. Either way, a close look proves that this is almost production ready. So love it or hate it, something close to this will be on the road soon
Honda Accord Tourer
No subtle hints here — the name tells you exactly what this design study is for. We liked it a lot — sportier, sleeker and sleeker than the current Accord Tourer, as well as longer and lower, it was finished in a well-chosen rich red paint color that looked good on the Honda stand turntable. Features like flush door handles and cameras in place of mirrors won’t make the final cut, but the classy finish and handsome shape should be part of the new Accord range coming to market in mid-2008.
Nissan Mixim
Nissan’s concept explores urban transportation and is in line with the Nissan Green Program, the desire to create a more sustainable mobile society. Mixim takes the most up-to-date electric vehicle (EV) technology and clothes it in a slender and distinctive coupe shape. The driver sits centrally, with two seats either side, while the steering wheel and controls are inspired by the interfaces so familiar to computer gamers. Powered by Nissan’s “Super Motor” electric motor/generator and using compact lithium-ion batteries, Mixim promises unusually rapid performance combined with a usefully extended range.
Mercedes F700
Just when it looks like the days of the internal combustion engine are numbered, is it about to be reinvented? The F700’s “DiesOtto” engine runs on petrol but turns its spark plugs off part of the time, using diesel-style compression-ignition to burn fuel more cleanly and efficiently. That combines the advantages of petrol and diesel engines. The curvy appearance of this futuristic large limousine (think S-Class), and its innovative rear cabin with one backward-facing, one forward-facing seats (for better conversations) may or may not appeal. But if Mercedes can make the DiesOtto engine do what they claim it will, this concept marks a genuinely historic development
Opel Flextreme
This showcases “E-Flex,” the latest thinking from GM’s European subsidiary on how its gargantuan investment in fuel cells and electric drive might — eventually — lead to real cars for real people. The core principle of “E-Flex” is electric propulsion, with the clever bit being that there are many possible sources for the electricity. In the terrific-looking Flextreme, the source is a small diesel engine linked to a generator (not the wheels). It will supposedly burn just 1.5 liters per 100 km (155 mpg), and emit 40 g/km (or 40 g/.62 mi.) CO2. The Segways in the trunk may be a fantasy but the diesel-electric idea isn’t — it’s been used in diesel-powered trains for decades.
Peugeot 308 RCZ
Peugeot wouldn’t thank us for saying it, but we think this looks a bit like a French version of the Audi TT. But that’s not meant to be negative — there’s enough space on the road for both. And in some ways, the 308 RCZ — at least in concept form — is actually nicer. That long tail even makes room for two small rear seats. Innovative use of materials including aluminum and polycarbonate allow plenty of design flourishes and, with a fully worked up interior and drivetrain based on the 308, this looks like a serious proposal
Renault Laguna Coupe
With its lackluster looks and less than stellar ambitions, the latest Laguna hatchback has garnered a lukewarm reception — which makes this sleek concept a very pleasant surprise. It’s everything the hatch isn’t: fresh, clean, eye-catching and poised. Renault’s take on a large, high-end, touring coupe, with an emphasis on beauty and comfort, its flowing profile, long nose and short rear overhang are exquisitely balanced while the side windows form a strong, elegant arc echo the sweeping roofline. Power comes from a new Renault-Nissan 265-hp V6. Take away the scissor doors, and it’s a real production possibility. So now we know where all that famous French flair has gone.
Suzuki Kizashi
Best known for its small cars, Suzuki is signaling an intention to do battle with the likes of Honda Accord and Toyota Camry with this dramatic concept. Based on two themes, ‘grace and dynamism’, the four-door concept gives clear design clues for a likely replacement for the mid-sized Verona model in 2009. Kizashi is powered by a 2.0-liter turbodiesel paired with six-speed sequential transmission and all-wheel drive.
VW up!
Volkswagen is going back to its roots with this microsized people’s car. It’s a rear-wheel-drive, rear-engine, four-seat car offering impressive interior space for its 11.32 ft. length. The styling is simple and uncluttered, yet highly appealing, and the interior blends utilitarian practicality with bold design flair. All told, it’s far truer to the iconic Beetle than the poorly packaged Golf-based version that’s sold today. The best thing is that VW insiders say it’s likely to go into production within three years. But will it be called Beetle?