Missed: Highlights of 2009 Tokyo Motor Show

We're back! However, we've missed out quite a lot. So we're starting off quick! Here goes:

Although the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show reveals have ended for some time now, we can still cover it up. Well the Japanese doors have closed, and we could happily say that this was one of the best shows to come out of Tokyo in the last several years. Previously, the show was mainly about futuristic concepts that actually have no future as retail cars. This year, there's still a handful of concepts, but with big promises to come to productions, as well as some really cool sportscars.

* 2010 Alpina BMW B7 BiTurbo: Alpina is best known for spicing-up BMWs. Well now, they got they're hands on a 2010 BMW 750iL, and look what they've done to it! Extended body-kit, 21-inch bespoke Alpina wheels, a sporty lip-spoiler, and oh; a tuned-up twin-turbocharged 4.4L V8, that now makes 507 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Alpina say that this big Bimmer can hit 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds!

* 2010 Caterham CSR 175: Although Caterham lightweight sportscars may seem very basic and traditional, they're actually somewhat expensive. To put it bluntly, a top-range CSR 260 costs well over $50,000; and that is just way too expensive for a roadster that only offers very little in terms of daily-drivability. Well, the folks at Caterham have decided to add a buttom rug, that to make owning a Caterham more affordable. So, here it is; the CSR 175. As the name suggests, this little superlight roadster develops 175 hp from a Ford-sourced 2.3L Duratec 4-cylinder engine. For a car that weighs less than 1,000 kilograms, this thing can still accelerate like a proper supercar! With that little weight and a stiff chassis like all Chaterhams, it also handles like a LeMans' racecar as well.

* 2009 Honda Skydeck Concept: Honda say that this concept could be the next-generation Honda Odyssey. Of course though, the scissor doors, the futuristic thin seats, and the screens all around the dashboard won't come in the next Odyssey. Nonetheless, Honda claims that the Odyssey will share inspiration with the Skydeck Concept in terms of styling, and the hybrid drivetrain.

* 2009 Honda CR-Z Concept: Although it shares its name with the 2007 CR-Z Concept, this CR-Z is actually a pre-production vehicle that will hit showrooms next year, and the successor to the old ricer-legend CR-X. The new CR-Z mimics some styling cues of the CR-X, but in a up-scale look. As for power, Honda said that the CR-Z will be more powerful than the CR-X, and therefore, faster. However, the new CR-Z will be more -wait for it- economical! How? The new CR-Z will be powered by a 1.5L 4-cylinder engine, mated to a battery-powered electric hybrid powertrain. What's very clever here, that it features a world first. The new CR-Z will be the world's first hybrid to have a shift-yourself 6-speed manual transmission! Unfortunately, we probably won't hear any official numbers on the drivetrain's output or its mileage until closer to lunch in 2010.

* 2010 Lexus LFA: It's been 3 years of non-stop teasing and fully-camouflaged spy shots, but nothing prepare us for this - the 2010 Lexus LFA. It's finally here, and here very strong. So why create a $375,000 supercar in this time of year? Well, Toyota say that this is to upscale the image of Lexus even more. It's also one really fast supercar! Weighing in at 3,263 pounds, the front-mounted 4.8L V10, which produces 560 hp at a screaming 9000 rpms and 354 lb-ft of torque, can sprint to 60 mph in a 'wow' 3.7 seconds, and will continue up to 202 mph. Controlling that power, is a 6-speed sequential transmission, which sends power to the rear-wheels only. Moreover, driving the LFA will excite even more with a one-off bespoke Lexus interior with screen gauges, and a two-tone leather interior with shades of carbon-fiber. So then, if you got $375,000 in your wallet, better behave fast, since Lexus will only produce 500 units. And that, makes the Lexus LFA, the only real supercar to come from Japan!

* 2009 Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV: In its main-steam products, the Outlander is probably Mitsubishi's most successful crossover. So, it makes sense in Tokyo show, that Mitsubishi hints on the next-generation Outlander, with this Concept PX-MiEV. Mitsubishi say that the PX-MiEV scores a new design direction for them, which is 'refinement'. So all shapes inside and out look somewhat edgy, and elegant at the same time. Nonetheless, Mitsubishi's real score is in the drive-train, as this PX-MiEV has a 1.6L petrol engine connected to a battery-powered electric engine, making this Mitsubishi's first hybrid crossover. If you really like what you see here, then you should get excited for the next-gen Outlander.

* 2010 Nissan GT-R: It just looks exactly identical to the 2008 GT-R; so what's the change? For 2010, Nissan has fettled the suspension setup (front shocks and springs have been tweaked for increased "accuracy", and the rear-suspension has been stiffened), fitted higher-flow cats to the exhaust system for improved low- and mid-range response, and they've also added a next-generation hard-drive based navigation system that includes iPod connectivity. What's move, the twin-turbocharged 3.8L V6 gets a 5 hp increase, making the total of 485 hp. However, the most significant difference in the revised GT-R, is the price tag; now starting at around $80,000. So it isn't the cheap supercar anymore!

* 2009 Nissan Land Glider Concept: Nissan CEO - Carlos Ghosn - surprised all Tokyo Motor Show audience with this - 2009 Land Glider Concept. Why this big fuss? Well first off, it looks kind of weird - the motorcycle-like horizontal two-seater setup in a car is still unfamiliar. Also like a motorcycle, the Land Glider leans up to 17 degrees to handle a corner. Powering the Land Glider is a clever electric engine, which features a non-contact charging system, meaning that drivers won't have to fiddle with any plugs, they can just pull into designated charging spaces. Moreover, because the Land Glider is lightweight, and the electric engine is torquey, Nissan say that this concept will be pretty quick for an electric vehicle. However, the biggest surprise of all, that Ghosn said this is not some 20-year lifetime concept, and that the Land Glider will come into production some time next year!

* 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STi Carbon: When this new-gen Impreza WRX STi came in the new hatchback styling, many criticized it that it just became a softy. So, Subaru went back to the drawing board, and came up with this new special version - the WRX STi Carbon edition. Carbon edition brings down the center of gravity, with a carbon fiber-made roof. What's more, to make it compete with its Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, the WRX STi Carbon has a 5-speed automatic with paddle-shifters. Subaru say that the 305 hp 2.5L turbocharged flat-4 will still crack 60 mph in a mere 4.8 seconds.

* 2009 Subaru Hybrid Tourer Concept: Subaru isn't really known for producing any kind of minivans. So what are they saying about this Hybrid Tourer Concept? It's Subaru's first attempt to design a sporty-look-like minivan. The Hybrid Tourer Concept also spots gullwing doors, and a hybrid drivetrain with Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive system and a Lineatronic CVT transmission.

* 2009 Suzusho Supasse-V: Never heard of Suzusho? Well we didn't hear of them either! However, Japan is full of local automakers that don't seem to oversea their vehicles. Well this Supasse-V is a Japanese race-car for the road! Looking like a race-car, it also has some race-car potentials. Powered by a Mazda-sourced 2.3L turbocharged in-line 4-cylinder, and a 6-speed manual, the Supasse-V weighs only 850 kilograms. That hints the reason why it can sprint to 60 mph in an astonishing 4 seconds.

* 2009 Toyota FT-86 Concept: The good-old days of drifting an '86 Corolla are back! With this - FT-86 Concept. They say it's a concept, but this is a pre-production mule, which will come to showrooms sometime in 2011. It's a combination of a sexy Toyota 2-door body that channels back some '80s throwbacks, and a 2.0L flat-4 engine from Subaru. Get this though; the FT-86 sends power to the rear-wheels only, through a 6-speed manual! Toyota also say that the chassis is equipped with a limited-slip differential, and designed with drifting in-mind. So Toyota, welcome back to the glory days of fun!

* 2010 Toyota Mark X: There are some Japanese cars that we really want to see them overseas, because we think they could be successful. Here's an example - the Toyota Mark X. What makes the Mark X so special that it's about the best Toyota sedan we encountered with. While it looks like a Camry or an Avalon outside and inside, it's actually a Lexus GS underneath! Yes, this Mark X is rear-wheel-drive Toyota sports-sedan! Powered by either a 203 hp 2.5L V6, or a 315 hp 3.5L V6, the 6-speed automatic transmission in both engines comes with paddle shifters on the steering wheel. So please Toyota, throw-out the cheesy Avalon, and bring us the 'real' sporty Mark X with the healthy 315hp V6.

Here's our cover of the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show.

New Reveal : 2011 Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle

Introduction:
Cops always demand rigid, capable, and yet cheap rear-wheel-drive, full-size sedans. That's exactly the reason why police departments - worldwide - have been buying Ford Crown Victorias for over a decade now. Lately though, new comers like the Dodge Charger Police car have been around, but yet couldn't offer what the Victoria does best. However, Chevrolet want to come into play, and here's their new offering - the 2011 Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle. Police department all around the U.S. will be getting Caprice PPVs in mid 2010.

Design:

Yes, the Caprice is back! Wait, GM said that this all-new Caprice is currently sold only to police departments, but they are considering a retail production edition if impressions are good. This new Caprice is actually so new, that now, it's not American at all! The 2011 Caprice Police is actually a rebadged Holden Statesman, which is actually a stretched long-wheel-base version of the Holden Commodore, which has the original Zeta-platform, that the Pontiac G8, and Chevrolet Lumina aslo have. For your information, this Caprice Police Patrol is exactly the same Chevrolet Caprice being sold in the Middle East. So it looks like a G8 - all the muscular fenders, the aggressive headlights, the quality interior, and sport-bucket seats. This police car looks way more "bad-ass" than the old-school Victoria does.

Powertrain:

Of course, the main feature behind this Caprice PPV, that it has the rear-drive Zeta-platform, which underpins the new 2010 Camaro, the Cadillac CTS, and the surely, the beloved G8. So with that platform, the Caprice PPV should drive like a sports-sedan. A police car has to have a responsive, yet an efficient V8 engine. For the Caprice, it gets the Australian-built 'L98' 6.0L V8, with 355 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, plus an Active Fuel Management, which can cut cylinders when they aren't needed. Connected to a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic, the Caprice PPV will hit 60 mph in under 6 seconds, which is certainly way faster than the Crown Vic police car. To make it more capable and reliable at high speeds, GM adds some police specific upgrades, like a high-output alternator, engine oil, transmission and power steering coolers, 18-inch steel wheels with bolt-on center caps, larger four-wheel disc brakes with heavy-duty brake pads, heavy-duty suspension components, police-calibrated stability control system.

Source : [Chevrolet]

New Reveal : 2011 Ford Super Duty

Introduction:
These are dark days in the pick-up truck segment, as automakers are ditching big engines, wide-track tires, and tough suspension; in-favor for small eco-friendly engines that don't offer enough power, road-comfort tires that lack grip, and messy suspension that can't be shakened to off-road. So trucks these days are more to go to the shops, rather than a clear-off desert or a mountainy forest. However, there's one big exception: Ford. Ford has proved with their new F-150 Raptor SVT, that there's still hope in tough truck market. Well, to complete the circle, Ford has finally dropped official pictures and info on the all-new 2011 Ford Super Duty.

Design:

With a name like Super Duty, Ford's designers weren't going to come-up with something soft. Therefore, the style of the Super Duty is very bulky and tough. Just take a look at the face; the grille and headlights are largest units on any truck, ever! At first glance, they do look a bit odd, but it's something you'd get used to by the time. At back, it's gets classic F-150 styling. After all, this is a highly durable truck, so the styling needs to be technical. Inside, it's get more tech, as it features a 4.2 inch infotainment screen located on the center of the gauge cluster. The screen provides specific truck specifications, such as Trailer Brake Control and Tow Haul. Plus, the Super Duty offers feature comforts like a somewhat luxury truck - top noch leather seats, wood-trim on the dashboard and on the door handles, a 110-volt power inverter, and some-nicely large cup-holders with an open glove-box.

Drive-train:

2011 Super Duty is arriving in days where a big-block engine, is not environmentally acceptable; but Ford engineers seem not to care. As the new Super Duty will feature a petrol-powered Boss 6.2L V8, which makes around 400 hp. The optional engine is the all-new Scorpion 6.7L turbocharged diesel V8, which power is also around 400 hp, but torque will be cracking at over 600 lb-ft of torque. Despite the big sizes, Ford claim that fuel-economy has improved over the outgoing model. These engines are connected through a 6-speed TorqShift automatic, with manual shift controls. The chassis is available with either rear-wheel-drive, and four-wheel-driver. When opt for the four-wheel-drive, the Super Duty gets an Electronic Locking Differential, and Live Drive PTO (Power Take Off) feature. Live Drive PTO allows the engine to power auxiliary equipment like snow plows, cement mixers and tow truck lifts directly through the transmission. With that considered, the 2011 Ford Super Duty truck, should offer world-class truck driving in all truck aspects.

Source : [Ford]

New Reveal : 2011 Hyundai Sonata

Introduction:
Writing about main-stream mid-size family sedans is actually easy, and that's simply because they are all nearly identical. The Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and even the new Chevrolet Malibu are all somewhat copies of each other. Hyundai was doing the same trick with their Sonata. Now though, with Hyundai aiming on luxury brands, like what they have done in their new Genesis, the all-new 2011 Sonata gets a new character, but still quite sensible underneath.

Exterior Design:
You like it, right? Yes, that is the new 2011 Hyundai Sonata, and it finally looks appealing! Whereas in the older days, a Sonata was a copy of an Accord, the new Sonata with its new "fluidic scupture" style theme, it's now more like a Volkswagen Passat CC. The 4-door coupe roof-line is straight out of the CC, and the headlights and taillights are stretched like in the CC. We have to say; trying to compete with Volkswagen in design is actually not such a bad thing.

Interior Design:

With the interior, Hyundai also raised the bar for their quality, and wanting to aim of those with Lexus and Infiniti. This is clearly evident in the center navigation screen, which seems taken off from the Infiniti G37. On the other hand, the whole design of the interior, does have a Lexus look to it. Again, it's great that Hyundai are raising the standards for main-stream front-wheel-drive mid-size family sedans, and we hope the interior actually feels as good as it looks.

Drivetrain:
Hyundai engineers want to be clever about the powertrain. They don't want those coupish-looks, and the luxury-state interior, to be "spoiled" off by a big gas-guzzling engine, because that's not what customers want nowadays. In its home market and Europe, the 2011 Sonata will have a 2.0L 4-cylinder base engine. The rest of us, will be the 2.4L Theta II GDI petrol engine, which will develop around 180 hp. Hyundai didn't announce the V6 version of this Sonata, but they claim they're working on it. All engine are hatched to a 6-speed automatic transmission, with Vehicle Dynamic Control, Hill-start Assist Control. and Brake Assist System come as standard.

Pricing:
As Hyundai is launching the new 2011 Sonata in Korea, prices start at 21.3 million Won to 25.95 million Won ($17,600 to $21,450 U.S.D). Hyundai said that it expected to sell 450,000 units annually in all markets.

Source : [Hyundai]

Others @ Frankfurt

After we featured the biggies from Frankfurt like Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Porsche, and Volkswagen, it's time to see what some other automakers showed at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. Here goes:

- 2010 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde 1.4 MultiAir: This is not the production MiTo GTA hot-hatch, but it's actually close. This Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde 1.4 MultiAir may look like any MiTo, but Alfa say this will set the foundation of small turbocharged compact hatchbacks. So, what this is MiTo good at? The Quadrifoglio Verde basically gives the MiTo a sporty outfit, which is a pack of 17" satin titanium-finished wheels, darkened headlights and mirrors, sporty interior with bucket seats, and Alfa's latest DNA suspension controls. On the technical side, the 1.4 MultiAir engine, which in essence, is a turbocharged 1.4L 4-cylinder engine, that makes 170 hp. Alfa Romeo showrooms will be recieving MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde editions soon.
- 2010 Aston Martin Rapide: It's finally, in its final production form - the 2010 Aston Martin Rapide. As Aston have promised, the 2010 Rapide looks like the concept we saw back in 2006. So, is still looks like a 4-door DB9, which is actually a good thing. This Rapide is not just a looker though; it's a full-on sports-sedan. Therefore, it packs a hand-built 470 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque 6.0L V12, and it has a 750 liters of luggage space when the seats are folded. While the driver has a 6-speed Touchtronic transmission tp play with, the rear-seats are offered with indiviual tv screens. In essence, this is a pure Aston supercar, that will easily handle a family roadtrip; just like that new Porsche Panamera. First deliveries of the Aston Martin Rapide will commence early in 2010 and will be available globally through Aston Martin's 125 dealership network.
- 2011 Bentley Mulsanne: It's the all-new Grand Bentley, or at least that's what we knew it. Among Bentley's exciting line-up, where does this Mulsanne fit? Well, for starters, the 2011 Bentley Mulsanne is the replacement for the beloved Arnage. What's more, Bentley say that this Mulsanne is a classic revival of the 1930 Bentley 8-Liter. Most notable design cue are the quad LED headlights that echo the classic 8-Liter, and the whole style showcases some Bentley heritage, with newly modern design. Same theory goes to the interior as well. Because, where the dashboard features the classic glossy wood, it also has a 14-speaker audio system, and other high-tech luxury equipment. Under that long hood, sits the grand-old 6¾L V8 engine, which was originally used in the 1968 Rolls Royce Phantom. However, with new modern twin-turbochargers, and a new ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, the Mulsanne gets 505 hp and 752 lb-ft of torque; and all that power is going to the rear-wheels only. The 2011 Bentley Mulsanne will hit showrooms in mid 2010, with prices start at around $300,000.
-2010 Brabus E V12: For anyone who haven't heard of Brabus, they are those crazy German tuning company, specialized for cranking-up Mercedes', and can tune-up a C-Class up to 730 hp! This time around, Brabus got their hands on the new E-Class, and look what they have done to it: full aerodynamic bodykit, with a rear-spoiler and Speed Spads rocker panel for the rear-wheels, matte-black paint on every exterior panel, lowered suspension, and oh, a twin-turbocharged 6.3L V12. Numbers don't get better than this - 800 hp and 1,047 lb-ft of torque; with an electronic torque-limiter, there's still 811 lb-ft of torque to play with. Acceleration too, is way beyond any production super sedan, and even hyper-cars! 60 mph comes in 3.7 seconds, 125 mph in just 9.9 seconds, and 186 mph comes at 23.9 seconds. Top speed? That's 230 mph! However, Brabus say that for tire safety reasons, it's better not to go any faster than 217 mph on public roads. So yes, Brabus are some crazy German auto-tuning company! It's probably you'll never see an E V12, simply because it will be limited to only 10 units, with pricing going for 498,000 Euros.
- 2009 Bugatti Galibier Concept: We saw the teasers, heard the rumors, and even got some speculation renders; but non prepare this: the highly-anticipated 4-door Bugatti Galibier Concept. Though it says that it's a concept, the production version is come very soon, with the same platform, and same engine. Key features to the design, are the chrome door and front-fender panels, and 8 exhaust pipes out back. Inside, it offers 4 seats, with total luxury, wood-inserted dashboard and center console, and a LCD navigation system. The platform features all-wheel-drive, specially developed ceramic brakes and a new suspension design enable the agile, always-sure handling of a saloon of this size. The engine originally comes from the legendary Veryon, so an 8.0L W16 engine; but, instead of turbocharging, the Galibier Concept gets a two stage supercharger. No officials numbers yet, but Bugatti said that this will be the fastest production 4-door sedan in the automotive world, with a top sped of 217 mph.
- 2011 Citroen DS3: Joining the retro compact superminis from the Mini Cooper, and Fiat 500, is this DS3. It channels some of the iconic cues of the '60s DS, and also offers a wide range of paint colors. DS3 is offered with diesel and petrol engines, but top-spec DS3 comes with a turbocharged 1.6L in-line 4-cylinder, with 150 hp. The new DS3 will go on sale in most European markets by early 2010.
- 2009 Citroen REVOLTe Concept: This is another Citroen that also aims on retro styling, and modern technology. This REVOLTe Concept is heavily inspired by the iconic 1979 Citroen 2CV, which is sort of the first real eco-friendly car. So coming to the exterior design, the whole shape is reminiscent to the 2CV, but in a very modern design (sort of like the new Dodge Challenger). Like the original 2CV, the REVOLTe Concept is being showcased as a pure enviromental compact-city car. So it's got a new plug-in hybrid drivetrain, which basically can be setup on normal hybrid-drive, or run in all-electric ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) mode. No info yet on whether the REVOLTe Concept comes to production, but we might see something close in the near future.
- 2011 Ferrari 458 Italia: This will be the replacement to thebeloved F430. It's got an all-new design, a new platform, a new engine, and a new transmission. Powered by a new direct-injection 4.5L V8, which produces 570 hp and 398 lb-ft, the 458 Italia will hit 60 mph in 3.4 seconds, and will go towards 202 mph. The new 458 is also supported with a new 7-speed dual-clutch F1 transmission. Ferrari F1 also got a new setup for the E-Diff, F1-Trac and ABS systems. Coming to your near-by Ferrari dealer in 2010, as 2011 model year.
- 2009 Fiat 695 Abarth Tributo Ferrari: This Fiat 500 may seem like a compact city car, but it's in fact a super hatchback. This Ferrari-inspired Fiat 500 Abarth gets Ferrari kit inside and out, like 4 exhaust pipes with Ferrari Scuderia strips, and a Ferrari F1-style racing seats with a paddle-shift transmission. Even power is uprated from the 500 Abarth; so now, the turbocharged 1.4L in-line 4-cylinder makes 180 hp. 60 mph should come in less than 7 seconds. For anyone who wants a cheap feel of a Ferrari, this 695 Abarth Tributo Ferrari will be in showrooms soon.
- 2011 Ford C-MAX: While this may look like somewhat near to the Ford iosis MAX Concept car unveiled at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, it is in-fact, the production version and new Ford C-Max. This 7-seater minivan is actually based on a stretched wheel-base of the new Ford Focus. Although this C-Max offers hallmarks of comfort, space, and practicality, it still looks very sporty. In fact, the sporty-looks are supported with an all-new 1.6L in-line 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine. With turbocharging and direct-injection, Ford claim that this 1.6 will offer V6 power, with 4-cylinder economy. The Ford C-MAX will be launched in the second half of 2010, and will be the first C-Max to be sold worldwide.
- 2011 Hyundai ix35: While this ix35 is actually the replacement of the old Tucson, it's an entirly new vehicle. Compared to its predecessor, the new ix35 looks much more upscale inside-and-out. Hyundai are also trying to make some sort of trademark design; therefore, the ix35 looks like the Veracruz's smaller brother. Concerning powertrains, ix35 comes in a 166 hp 2.0L engine, or a turbocharged 1.6L in-line 4 with 170 hp. Standard equipment start with a 6-speed automatic transmission, Electronic Stability Program, Downhill Brake Control, and Hill-Start Assist Control. Hyundai revealed that the 2011 ix35 will be manufactured at Kia's Zilina plant in Slovakia. 2011 Hyundai ix35 will be available in dealerships beginning of 2010, with prices start at around $22,000.
- 2009 Hyundai ix-Metro Concept: Hyundai's new Global Design Team have created a concept study, which like all new concepts, is a showcase to enviromently-friendly compacts. Hyundai say that the ix-Metro offers all the practicality, robustness and versatility of a CUV in a stylishly sophisticated package. However, with a 1.0L 3-cylinder engine, this gets outstanding fuel-mileage, and yet the whole cars weighs 950 kilograms, so it can be nippy as well. To benefit most space out of this small comapct, the GDT have adopted a conventional 'suicide door' configuration. ix-Metro is just a concept study, and it's to be kept as a study; so, no production here.
- 2010 Kia Sorento: This is how Kia is tackling with modern 7-seater SUVs, the new 2010 Sorento. In the looks department, Kia has went for a simple conservative look for the Sorento. So there aren't any fens or bulges sticking out of the body, which is a good thing. Kia has also went great lengths into making this new Sorento into a much better cross-over than the out-going Sorento. So now, the new Sorento is actually based on the highly-priased Hyundai Veracruz. Getting to the powertrain, engines vary from 194 hp 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, to a high-output 3.5L V6 with 277 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque. The Sorento is already on sale in its home market, and Kia plans to sell 140,000 units from 2010.
- 2010 Lamborghini Reventon Roadster: It's a convertible Lamborghini Reventon. The Reventon coupe is considered as one of the most expensive and exclusive supercars. Well, the Reventon Roadster is even more expensive, and more exclusive. The Reventon Roadster keeps the same looks as the coupe variant, and which also keeps the same structural rigidity and all-wheel-drive system. Reventon Roadster is actually powered by a 670 hp 6.5L V12 out of the 2010 Lamborghini Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce. 60 mph comes up after 3.4 seconds, and top speed is 205 mph. Each Lamborghini Reventón Roadster will be sold for 1.1 Million Euro (without taxes), which less than 20 units will be made, and sold for "Lamborghini friends and collectors." Deliveries will begin October 2009.
- 2009 Lexus LF-Ch Concept: Lexus is trying to aim their new products to younger-aged buyers, to improve badge-image. So while this may be a concept for now, it will come to production plant in a few years. This Lexus LF-Ch Concept hatchback is a showcase, to what Lexus is planning to make a rival to the BMW 1-Series and Audi A3. The Lexus LF-Ch Concept features a full-on hybrid system, so that it can run on fully EV mode for some time. Despite being a hybrid, Lexus claim that the LF-Ch Concept has a sporty driving characteristics. To determine on whether the LF-Ch would go into production, Lexus is running online serveys, to see if people are having a good impression on this the new Lexus hatch.
- 2011 Maserati GranCabrio: The GranCabrio is the convertible GranTurismo. So it means that it shares the same looks as the GranTurismo, and also the same drive-train. The tractable roof is cloth, and will operate within few seconds. GranCabrio is a little heavier than GranTurismo, because Maserati had to had strengthen beams. However, GranCabrio is only offered with a 440 hp 4.7L V8, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. GranCabrio will hit 60 mph in 4.9 seconds, and crack 184 mph. All that, plus, the beautiful Italian V8 exhaust note is directly channeled through the cabin. Maserati also claims that this is the largest 4-seater production convertible.
- 2009 Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept: This is a concept study, that Mazda say will consider in the future if fans and customers are interested. This MX-5 Superlight Concept is a speedster MX-5 Miata. So no roof, no windshield, no driver aids; plus, a total curb weight of only 940 kilograms. The MX-5 Superlight Concept tries to import those old days of the '40s - '50s Formula-One cars, but with hints of newly modern MX-5 cues. Power comes from a 1.8L in-line 4-cylinder, with 126 hp. While that might not sound as much, this is just a pure racing automobile. So it may not be super fast, but it's certainly a fun job.
2011 McLaren MP4-12C: This is a moment we have all been waiting for; an all-new McLaren. However, even McLaren say, that this MP4-12C won't be as legandary as their 240 mph F1, and won't be even a successor. The MP4-12C is in fact, a daily-driver McLaren supercar. So McLaren are getting in the mix, with a modest-looking British supercar. The interior too, is very tpical with quite supercar material, like carbon-fiber on the door instruments, center console, and dashboard, with a navigation system. Power comes with a McLaren-built twin-turbocharged 3.8L V8, packing 600 hp and driven through the rear-wheels via a McLaren 7-speed Seamless Shift dual clutch transmission (SSG). The brakes and chassis on the MP4-12C have been designed with the McLaren Formula-One team, and even shares some parts with the Formula-One car. Nonetheless, to make this McLaren a drivable supercar, the new engine is consided the most fuel-efficient engine ever. As it produces 600 hp, and actually has the lowest CO2 emission among competitors. Competition comes from Ferrari 458 Italia and Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4.
- 2009 Mini Coupe Concept: While Mini say that this a concept, this Mini Coupe Concept is actually a production-capable car, and will see production next year. The Mini Coupe Concept is loosly based on a Mini Cooper hatchback, but in a new roof style, and the emulation of the rear-seats, to make this Coupe Concept a 2-seater. Power comes from a turbocharged 1.6L engine, making 211 hp, through a 6-speed manual and a front-wheel-drive chassis. The Mini Coupe is set to be a rival to the base Audi TT.
- 2011 Peugeot RCZ: When Peugeot showcased the 308 RC Z Concept back in 2007, it wasn't taken so seriously. However now, it's here, in-full production, and it doesn't seem altered from that concept we all liked. The new RCZ coupe lives-up strong as a coupe, as it features aggressive face, wide wheel-arches, and the famous bubble roof. Peugeot mostly used the word "passion" when designing this car from inside-and-out. Even the interior looks so supercar-like, as the feeling inside is tight and only has 2-seats. However, all these impressions are not so with the drivetrain. Peugeot say that while this looks wonderful, it shouldn't be spoiled with a dangerous engine or a hard-edge driving characteristics. So, the RCZ is actually powered by a turbocharged 1.6L engine, making 200 hp, and transferring power to an all-wheel-drive chassis. Therefore, it can be easily be driven like any car on the road, and yet look one of the most exclusive. RCZ should be in European markets in mid 2010.
- 2009 Renault Fluence ZE Concept: This is not is just any Renault Fluence. This Fluence may have the concept name for now, but it is expected that the new ZE Concept will follow the Fluence's range of petrol and diesel engines soon. So what is the ZE really? You guessed it; an all-electric drive version! Renault chose the Fluence platform, as it's their benchmark mid-size sedan. Therefore, it gets all the family business done, and yet features the electric moveability. For the electric-drive, Renault have used the commonly-used Lithium-ion battery-pack, which produces 95 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque. Driving-range is allowed for 100 miles, and recharging takes roughly 4 hours, but 80% of the battery is recharged within 20 minutes only. If Renault can really transfer this technology onto the real Fluennce, and with a resnoable price, we think it can be a hit.
- 2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost: The production version of the Rolls-Royce 200EX, here it is, in a new Ghost name. This "baby-Rolls" is set to be more afforable than a Phantom, but yet offer pure Rolls-Royce elegance. While it's still looks like a Rolls, the Ghost is in fact, based on the new BMW 7-Series. So the Ghost might be even sporty! Nevertheless, it's powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.6L V12, developing 563 hp and 575 lb-ft of torque. 0 to 60 mph comes in just 4.7 seconds with a top-speed electronically governed at 155 mph. The engine is mated to a 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. For those of you wondering, the Rolls-Royce Ghost manages an estimated fuel-economy of 17 mpg. Orders have already been taken, with prices range between 200,000 and 300,000 euros. Buyers will have a choice of 12 exterior colors, each of which can be contrasted by an available Silver Satin hood.

- 2010 Saab 9-5 Sedan: While this is an all-new Saab, it's in fact, the last Saab that will ever to come-out of General Motors, as Koenigsegg now has full control and ownership of Saab. The 9-5's exterior styling has been inspired by the Aero X concept car while the windshield and roof are reminiscent of the classic 900 model. Inside, Saab owners will feel right at home with the traditional, driver-focused cockpit that features an aircraft-inspired head-up information display. Beneath that body, lives GM's Epsilon II platform, that is shared with the Opel Insignia, and Buick LaCrosse, though the 9-5 actually has a longer wheel-base. Engines vary from diesel and petrol, though the 2010 9-5 is best with the new twin-turbocharged 2.8L V6 making 300 hp, mated to a 6-speed automatic and Haldex all-wheel drive system.

- 2010 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado: For all who live in the Middle East, know that there are two versions of the Toyota Land Cruiser; there's the original Land Cruiser, and the slightly-smaller Land Cruiser Prado. The Prado has remained since 2002 unchanged, so this 2010 is getting Toyota's latest make-up in design, and drive-trains. As usual, Toyota has gone for a massaging routine as opposed to brute force for the exterior. A reshaped front fascia and new tail-lights, make the Prado look very close to the Land Cruiser. This third-generation Toyota Prado will get Toyota's new engines. Base model should get a 2.7L 4-cylinder engine, and up-scale model will get a more powerful 4.0L V6. In the Middle East, the Pardo is already on sale, with prices going around 130,000 Saudi Riyals ($34,930 U.S.D).

That's all what Frankfurt has showed us. The Motor Show was great! We would like to appologize lastly for our somewhat late coverage; we had a lot of technical issues. Lastly, down below, is a full-on picture gallery of the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, provided by NetCarShow.com

Volkswagen @ Frankfurt: 2009 E-Up Concept, 2009 L1 Concept, 2010 Golf R

- 2009 Volkswagen E-Up Concept: This compact city car concept from VW could actually be a production platform for the next-generation VW Beetle, and also, a some future compacts as well. So, what does it pack? VW say that the E-Up Concept follows VW's new "design DNA", which basically claim that VW could make an ultra-compact look appeling, and somewhat desirable. However, the E-Up Concept's main mission, is to deliver that "zero-emissions" technical showcase. E-Up Concept is powered by a continuously-variable electric motor, which drives the front-wheels, and packs 80 hp and 154 lb-ft of torque. Because E-Up is so small, and only weighs 1,085 kilograms, 60 mph comes up in 11.2 seconds, and will top-out at 83 mph. Nonetheless, as this is only a city compact with 154 lb-ft of torque, VW say that it can launch to 30 mph in a quick 3.5 seconds. Driving range is allowed for 75 mph. Recharging takes 5 hours in a 240-volt power-outlet, but 80% will be done recharging the battery within an hour. A production will up soon, but for now, this is what the Volkswagen Design Center have showcased in Frankfurt.




- 2009 Volkswagen L1 Concept: Hang on; yes, this is a real car, on a real platform. It's the L1 Concept, and while it may look very very weird, it's under that body what defines it. First off, that 'squeezy' body, which hides the rear-wheels and has somewhat in-line seat design, is actually fully-made of carbon-fiber, and therefore, it's ultra-light, weighing just 380 kilograms. Then there's the world-wonder drive-train; it's a full-on hybrid. Volkswagen say that when the L1 Concept comes out as a showroom car, it will crack as the world's most efficient hybrid! How? Well, the basic recipe for this is a 0.8L TDI turbo-diesel, and a battery-powered electric-motor, making a total power of 53 hp and roughly 100 lb-ft of torque. However, because both the diesel engine and electric motor are placed at the rear, and the electric-motor specially is located between the engine and the transmission, VW were able to fit their 7-speed DSG transmission, allowing for excessive fuel-economy numbers. Add that, plus a start-stop technology, the L1 Concept can crack a combined fuel-economy rating of 157 mpg! That easily makes it the most fuel-efficient hybrid, but it surely doesn't make it the fastest. When it comes in a production form in 2013, a 1.6L TDI engine will be offered as an option.



- 2010 Volkswagen Golf R: Bad news Golf GTI owners, the awaited R-Line edition of Golf is here. However, unlike the last generation Golf R, which had a bullet V6 engine, the new 2010 Golf R is actually based on the new Scirocco R; so, it comes with a 2.0L turbocharged engine, with 265 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. With VW's 7-Speed DSG transmission, the Golf R will sprint to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds, and also, can achieve 21 mpg fuel-economy rating. All 2010 Golf R models are driven by VW's 4-Matic all-wheel drive system. Beneath the sheetmetall, Volkswagen's engineers upgraded the Golf's chassis with a lower suspension that features new dampers and springs, improved disc brakes all around measuring 345mm up front and 310mm at the back, plus a new electronic XDS differential. The cosmetic department gives out an extended body-kit, updated LED taillights, sporty 19-inch wheels, and dual center exhaust pipes. Inside, the hot Golf sports a set of front bucket seats, a three-spoke steering wheel with a flattened bottom featuring the 'R' logo, aluminum decorative trim around the center console, plus subtly restyled instrument dials special for the Golf R. . The Volkswagen Golf R can be ordered in Germany starting at the end of 2009, in 3-door and 5-door variants. So in essence, this is the closest rival to the Scirocco R, since they're basically the same thing.

Source: [Volkswagen]