Official Thread: Paris Motor Show 2008

mikeyb

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01 BMW 325xi Touring
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Alto ready for Paris unveiling

Sporty addition to Suzuki's city-car line-up set for Paris.


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Suzuki is singing the praises of its all-new Alto. The city car debuts at the Paris Motor Show this October, and its sporty looks are sure to make it a popular addition to the range.


The firm claims the Toyota Aygo rival is eco-friendly and fun to drive, and bosses have promised high fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions. Prices are expected to start from around 7,000 when it goes on sale next spring. Sharing space with the Alto on Suzukis stand will be two hydrogen studies, one of which is powered by a British-designed fuel cell.
 
MINI 4x4s Paris debut

Rugged MINI off-roader is given Paris Motor show as official public debut.

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Fans of the new MINI Cross-man SUV are getting ready to make a French connection! The eagerly awaited off-roaders public debut will be at the Paris Motor Show in October.

The rugged model will sit above the Clubman estate in the expanding line-up, and take the fight to stylish compact SUVs such as the Ford Kuga, as well as the forthcoming X1 from MINI parent company BMW.

Although the Crossman will get a strong family look, it also features a raised ride height and longer wheelbase. These changes have been necessary to accommodate not only the new four-wheel-drive running gear, but also the cars five-door layout because instead of the controversial Clubdoor from the estate model, the SUV will be fitted with two conventional rear passenger doors.

As a result of the stretched chassis, the Crossman will provide more room for all the occupants, particularly those in the back seats. The rest of the interior layout including the distinctive dashboard will be carried over virtually unchanged from the hatchback model.

Also donated from the three-door is the engine line-up, with the exception of the 1.4-litre petrol unit from the entry-level One. This will leave buyers with a choice of the 1.6-litre in 118bhp or turbocharged 173bhp guises for the Cooper and Cooper S models respectively.
 
More Kia Soul Details & Images Released Ahead of Paris Unveiling

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The Kia Soul has had a very favourable development process from concept to production with the original design making it past the cost cutters that usually try to tone it down. It will make its debut at the Paris Motor Show in October as previously announced when the first official images where released, now as the precious event draws ever closer, the Korean manufacturer has released a few new images along with a few technical details many Kia fans will be wanting to hear.

The production Kia Soul will be available with a choice of three engines: two gasoline powerplants along with a diesel option. The latter option will be a 1.6-litre turbodiesel power unit with VGT (variable geometry turbocharger), power output will stand at 126hp and 255Nm of torque. The gasoline engines start with a 1.6-liter option which generates 126hp and 156Nm of torque, as well as a 2.0-liter unit that boasts 142hp although this last option will only be available in the US and some non-European markets.

It is billed by Kia as a compact hatchback, but factors such as the long wheelbase, a tall overall height of 1610mm and a ground clearance of 45mm puts the model closer to the crossover sector.

The Kia Soul will go on sale in mainland Europe next February whilst the UK will have to wait a little longer with production of a right-hand-drive version sue to start in March.
 
Hyundai to Unveil i20, i20 i-blue Concept, ix55 SUV & Santa Fe Hybrid Concept

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With a month to go before the commencement of the Paris Motor Show, Hyundai have announced their line-up for the event. The highlight will be the all-new i20 which the Korean automaker sees as key to its continued success, it will be joined by the ix55 SUV, an i20 i-blue concept and a hybrid concept version of the Santa Fe.

The i20 replaces the Getz in the Hyundai line-up, it features a chrome topped grille and teardrop headlights which mimic many of the signature styling features seen from the Korean brand in models such as the i10 and i30.

Kun Hee Ahn. President for Hyundai Motor Europe commented, “The i20 was designed and engineered to meet European tastes and needs. It was built on an entirely new platform and much of the ride and handling development took place on European roads, which has created a firm and agile drive. At HME, we are confident the i20 will succeed in the fast paced sub compact sector, as it offers much more in terms standard equipment, fuel economy, interior space and style than many of its competitors.”

Alongside the production version, Hyundai will also showcase an i20 i-blue concept that will boast a CO2 output of just 99g/km and a fuel consumption figure of 68mpg. These green credentials are attainable due to the new state-of-the-art 90hp1.4 CRDi diesel engine that is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox instead of the regular five-speed unit.

Hyundai's commitment to reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are further evident with their second concept, the Santa Fe Petrol-Electric Hybrid features a new hybrid system mated together with the existing 2.4-liter gasoline engine from the production model. It reduces the CO2 emissions down to just 148g/km with fuel consumption going as low as 44mpg.

Last but not least comes the ix55 sports utility vehicle, it is based on the Veracruz which is currently sold in the United States, but the ix55 benefits from some extensive European styling modifications to suit this particular market. No further details have been released but we do at least have a single picture of the model.
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Citron Hypnos Concept set to Grace the Paris Stage

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Citroen begins its assault on the Paris Motor Show with initial photos and details of its new Hypnos concept car, a model that the company hopes will illustrate a new take on exceptional vehicles. The model combines coupe styling with the elegance of a saloon whilst still boasting the space of an SUV. The Hypnos is billed as a crossover, however, there is more than a hint of the BMW X6 body style in these initial pictures and the description also backs up this analysis.

Following in the footsteps of 99% of concept vehicles produced these days, the power unit focuses on reduced fuel consumption and emissions. A new special hybrid technology is used under the hood where a 200bhp(147kW) engine lays, it carries more than impressive figures in an environmental sense with fuel consumption set at just 4.5 liters/100km and it emits only 120g/km of CO2.
 
Note how Hyundai and KIA are hitting hard all market segments, they have money and size now.

Still, me no likey any of them, and is likely that their models will become more blah as they target a wider audience...
 
Subaru Forester and Impreza Diesel to make Paris debut

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Subaru has announced it will reveal diesel versions of its popular Forester SUV and Impreza five-door models at the Paris Auto Show in October. The world's first boxer diesel debuted in the Legacy and Outback earlier this year and is now finding its way into more Subaru products.



Both of the new models will get the 2.0L horizontally-opposed four-cylinder diesel engine fitted with a new closed-type diesel particulate filter to make them even cleaner. Both cars will be available with new six-speed manual transmissions mated to Subaru's all-wheel-drive system. Subaru claims that the boxer diesel-equipped Forester will get a best-in-class 44.8 combined mpg and emit only 167 grams of CO2 per mile. In both the Impreza and the Forester, the Boxer Diesel will make 258 lb-ft of torque at 1,800 rpm. In the Forester, it will make 147 hp and in the Impreza it will make 150 hp, both at 3,600 rpm. The Forester 2.0D will go on sale in late September and the Impreza 2.0D will follow in January.
 
Honda Reveals Insight Concept for Paris

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<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Making it's public debut in Paris this October, Honda has revealed today the Insight concept. With design cues taken from the FCX Clarity, the Insight, which is built on a newly developed platform, is a 5-door hatchback seating five.


Although still in concept form, Honda confirms the Insight concept closely resembles the production version which will go on sale in Europe, Japan and North America during the first half of 2009.
With Honda's ongoing emphasis on cleaner powertrains, the Insight will be accompanied in Paris next to the FCX Clarity hydrogen fuel cell vehicle and CR-Z sports hybrid concept model.


As a dedicated hybrid model using Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid power plant, the Insight is described as being the most affordable hybrid vehicle to date.


Along with the Civic Hybrid, the new vehicle will be produced at Honda's Suzuka factory in Japan which recently has expanded hybrid motor production line.
 
Saab Bringing Convertible Aero X-Style Concept to Paris

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Saab has always done well with its convertible offerings, and the company hopes to build on that historic success with a new big cabrio for the Paris Motor Show in October.


Print magazine Autocar is reporting that the Swedish automaker is looking to make a big splash in Paris by bringing a drop top that is both bigger and more upmarket than any previous offerings. Were also told that the convertible will continue to spin on the design of the hot Aero X concept, though we doubt it will be as straight a copy as the one weve fudged above. Just one more reason to get fired up for the French event.
 
Nissan reveals details on its trio of Paris launches

Nissan go to town with plans for Paris Motor Show.

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Nissan has revealed its master plan for this years Paris Motor Show and it revolves around a key design philosophy - mobility in and around the city, today, tomorrow and in for the future.

The Japanese manufacturer has got three world premieres planned for Paris, plus the introduction of Nissan Connect, an all-new combined satellite navigation, audio and communication system.

The Nuvu concept is a compact city car that will be just 3 metres long and offer a unique 2+1 seating arrangement, where the rear seat can be easily folded away leaving plenty of boot space. It will also be electric sharing many of the technologies likely to be found in the forthcoming EV, due to be premiered at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show.

The Pixo is a production ready roomy, four-seater urban compact and is due to go on sale from spring 2009, and will offer low emissions and consumption at a very reasonable price. It has been built in collaboration with Suzuki and will use a 1.0-litre three cylinder engine, plus it will be available with a four-speed automatic gear box making it a very appealing town car.

The final Paris launch will be the revised Note. The most obvious changes have been made to the exterior, which enjoys an all-new grille, front bumper and headlights giving the micro car a more stylish appearance. Theres also the inclusion of the new Nissan Connect system inside. Under the skin improvements have been made to the suspension resulting in a better and more responsive. There is also the introduction of a 1.5-litre dCi and 1.4-litre petrol units which produce CO2 emissions of just 119g/km and 139g/km respectively.

Along with these previews Nissans show stand will also include the all-new Murano and its baby brother the Qashqai+2.
 
Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia special edition

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Cayenne S Entering the Market in Transsyberia Style

Stuttgart. Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is honouring the sporting success of the very popular Cayenne model series through the introduction of a new, special model, the Cayenne S Transsyberia entering the market in early 2009.

The term "Transsyberia" stands for the intercontinental rally from Moscow to the Mongolian Capital of Ulan Bator about 7,200 kilometres (4,460 miles) away. In 2006 a Porsche Cayenne for the first time won this highly demanding orientation and off-road rally. Then, entering the competition model for the Transsyberia Rally in 2007, Porsche again proved the outstanding competitiveness of a production-based Cayenne S in heavy terrain, finishing the rally first, second and third. And now, just a few weeks ago, the rally vehicle optimised to an even higher standard not only scored its third overall victory in the Transsyberia Rally, but even clinched all leading positions from 1 - 6.

Motivated by this outstanding series of success, Porsche is now for the first time presenting the new Cayenne S Transsyberia for road and off-road use at the Paris Motor Show (4 19 October 2008). Like the extra-robust rally model, the road-going version is also based on the Cayenne S with its 4.8-litre V8 naturally-aspirated power unit featuring highly economical and efficient Direct Fuel Injection. The big difference, however, is that the new Transsyberia comes with the high-performance power unit carried over from the Cayenne GTS, developing 405 bhp (298 kW) at 6,500 rpm and maximum torque of 500 Newton-metres (369 lb-ft) at 3,500 rpm.

In conjunction with the final drive likewise carried over from the GTS but shortened by 15 per cent to 4.1:1, the Cayenne S Transsyberia offers an even higher level of performance. With the six-speed manual gearbox featured as standard, acceleration to 100 km/h comes in just 6.1 seconds, another 0.5 seconds faster than the Cayenne S.

The modifications of the drivetrain have an even greater effect on the vehicle's acceleration in gears of particular significance under everyday driving conditions and in racing: The Cayenne S Transsyberia with manual gearbox completes the interim sprint from 80 120 km/h in fifth gear in 6.6 seconds, a substantial two seconds faster than the Cayenne S. In its top speed, in turn, the Cayenne S Transsyberia is just as fast as the GTS, reaching a maximum of 253 km/h or 158 mph. And it almost goes without saying that six-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission is available as an option.

The sporting qualities of the Cayenne S Transsyberia come out clearly through both the looks and the sound of this outstanding vehicle, the sports exhaust with two dual tailpipes featured as standard ensuring a truly muscular and dynamic impression.

Motorsport design based on the rally vehicles provides additional rally flair, with no less than four attractive colour concepts for the enthusiast: Apart from the rally combinations Black/Orange and Crystal Silver Metallic/Orange, the customer also has the choice of the more discreet colour combinations Black/Meteor Grey Metallic and Meteor Grey Metallic/Crystal Silver Metallic.

With the exception of the Meteor Grey Metallic/Crystal Silver Metallic colour combination, the 18-inch Cayenne S II wheels come in each case in a contrasting colour, as do the side plates on the air intake grid, the "Cayenne S Transsyberia" model designation applied as a no-cost option at the side, the exterior mirror housings and the upper part of the extended roof spoiler with its double wing profile fixed in position. The offroad roof headlights so characteristic of the competition model are likewise available as a no-cost option and are placed in the vehicle upon delivery, since in Germany, at least, such headlights on the roof are not homologated for use on public roads.

The Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia comes as standard with air suspension including PASM Porsche Active Suspension Management for electronic adjustment of the damper system: As a function of driving conditions and the driver's personal style of motoring, PASM actively and continuously adjusts damper forces, also reducing body dive in the process.

Self-levelling ensures consistent ride height at all times, while at the same time enabling the driver to vary ground clearance as a function of current requirements. PTM Porsche Traction Management distributes engine torque actively, depending on driving conditions, between the front and rear axle. In the basic mode 62 per cent of the engine's power goes to the rear wheels, 38 per cent to the front.

A fully controlled longitudinal lock varies the distribution of drive power as a function of driving conditions and may be locked 100 per cent if necessary. As soon as the driver activates the low-gear ratio likewise featured as standard, the vehicle automatically switches to the offroad mode on ABS and the automatic brake differential, and sets the air suspension to offroad ground clearance.

The optional Offroad Technology Package enhances the superior offroad qualities of the Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia featured as standard from the start to an even higher level by means of a differential lock on the rear axle activated by the driver when required and controlled electronically. Other special features are side-sill protection with integrated skid plates, reinforced engine protection at the bottom, and additional protection of the fuel tank and rear axle as well as a second towing hook/opening.

The occupants riding in the Cayenne S Transsyberia enjoy a truly sporting and exclusive interior. Ornamental trim on the dashboard support and the doors, on the instruments and dials, the belts and foot mat surrounds comes in each case in the contrasting colour chosen for the exterior. The steering wheel rim, in turn, is padded and finished in alcantara. And as an homage to motorsport, the steering wheel additionally features a 12 o'clock mark in one of the contrasting colours.

Last but certainly not least, alcantara is also used on further surfaces and components within the interior of the Cayenne S Transsyberia.

The new Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia retails in the German market at Euro 77,558.- including 19 per cent value-added tax. Prices in other markets vary, also according to national specifications. Deliveries to dealers will start in January 2009.
 
Chevrolet Orlando Concept Unveiled for Paris Premiere

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Set for debut in Paris next month, GM Europe has unveiled first images for its Orlando Concept, a seven-seat family MPV which reminds of the Chevrolet Sequel SUV/crossover concept from 2005, although much smaller in size. The Orlando is based on the all-new Cruze compact sedan and aims at being a sport utility, family van and wagon.

With a wheelbase of 2760 mm, GM is placing emphasis on the vehicle's functionality with adaptable, theater-style seating in three rows comfortably accommodating up to seven occupants, while the spacious cabin can be quickly transformed into a large cargo area.

Powered by Chevrolets latest-generation 2.0-liter turbo diesel, developing 150 hp and 320 Nm of torque, GM hints of their intention to bring the Orlando to production, as it nicely fills an empty slot for their global product portfolio.
 
Volvo Introduces 1.6D DRIVe Efficiency Range in Paris

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Based on the Volvo C30 Efficiency model first shown in Frankfurt last September, Volvo has finalized the package for presentation in Paris early next month. Under the 1.6D DRIVe designation, the efficiency-enhancing features, which include increased aerodynamics for reduced air resistance, low rolling resistance tires, taller gear ratios and optimized driveline, will be in production before the end of the year in the C30, S40 and the V50.

Equipped with the new 1.6-liter diesel variants, fuel consumption drops by approximately 0.5 l/100 km to 4.4 litres/100 km (C30) or 4.5 litres/100 km (S40 and V50) and CO2 figures are 115 and 118 g/km, respectively. At highway speeds fuel consumption can go as low as 3.7 l/100 km.

Volvo expects to sell over 20,000 1.6D DRIVe cars next year in Europe with France, Sweden and Spain accounting for most sales due to favorable incentives in these countries.

The DRIVe package is estimate to cost between 150 EUR and 450 EUR depending on model and market.
 
I'd hit it.

Isn't an E-class coupe a lot like a CL?

Uhhh...this is supposed to be VVV down there. (dunno)
 
Mercedes ConceptFASCINATION set to Grace the Paris Stage: Previews Next-Gen E-Class

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Mercedes Benz-Benz will enter the Paris arena next month with the ConceptFASCINATION, it previews the design for the next generation E-Class, the first model variant of which will be launched in 2010.

The German automaker is looking to extend the body range of its mid-size luxury car by re branding the next generation CLK as an E-Class coupe, it will join the sedan and estate model variants already offered. It is an attempt by Mercedes to return the E class to the legendary status once achieved by the W124 E-Class, however the new E-Class Coupe will still boast the underpinnings of the current generation C-Class.

A shooting brake body style has been used in the ConceptFASCINATION, but don't let that fool you, a more conventional coupe style will return come production time of the E-Class Coupe. The V shape front end adds to the sportiness of the model and continues the design evolution of the Mercedes brand which has already been seen on the SL facelift. The twin headlight design which has graced the previous two generations of the E-Class remains but the rounded design has been replaced with rhomboid shaped headlamps.

Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, commented: "This design study continues the long tradition of exciting coups from Mercedes-Benz in impressive style. With its emotionally ap-pealing lines, ConceptFASCINATION offers a completely new interpretation of the coup. Its aesthetic, dynamic looks and painstakingly crafted details ensure that this study meets the highest design standards."
Mercedes previews a new 2.2-liter four-cylinder Bluetec diesel engine in the engine bay of the ConceptFASCINATION, a production version will make its way to the E-Class range come 2010 possibly carrying the label 250 CDI. It generates the kind of power currently achieved by the 3.0-liter CDI with an output of 204 horsepower (150kW) and its lower displacement means we can expect some pretty impressive fuel economy and CO2 emission figures.

The Mercedes ConceptFASCINATION will be unveiled to the public at the Paris Motor Show at the beginning of next month when we will present further details and images of the model.

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I'd hit it.

Isn't an E-class coupe a lot like a CL?

The current Mercedes-Benz CLK (pictured) is something of an enigma - built around the C-Class platform, styled like the E-Class, and priced in between the two, the car sits in its own unique segment and has no direct competition from its German rivals. Its sales history has been a strong success, especially in the U.S., but reports are surfacing that the German carmaker is planning to end the CLK name and instead brand its successor as an E-Class Coupe and Convertible.

In the press release for the new ConceptFASCINATION Mercedes-Benz states that its designers are working on a future E-Class Coupe. This goes towards explaining why Mercedes would drop such an important nameplate - the main reason is that the cars successor, seen here testing in prototype form, will be based on the same platform that will underpin the next-generation E-Class due next year.

The decision to move the CLK to the E-Class platform will allow Mercedes to introduce a new entry-level coupe and convertible based on the C-Class, finally providing the carmaker with a direct competitor to BMWs popular 3-series two-door models. You can see a preview of such a car in our previous story by clicking here.

The story doesnt end there, however, as Mercedes is also expected to launch a new shooting brake model based on the ConceptFASCINATION. The car will be the first production model based on the new E-Class platform - in the same way that the A5 Coupe was the first iteration of Audis new modular platform used in the A4 and future A6 and is first expected to appear in showrooms early next year.

[Motor Authority]
 

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