Updated: 2019 Los Angeles motor show preview

This year’s motor show calendar is in full swing, with Frankfurt’s IAA event bringing us pivotal new models from countless mainstream manufacturers, and last month’s Tokyo motor show demonstrating that, for many firms, creativity is key in today’s challenging market environment. Now though, it’s time to look ahead to the Los Angeles Auto Show, at which we’re expecting a huge variety of important US and Europe-focussed models to appear in the metal for the first time. Last year’s edition saw the debut of Porsche’s acclaimed 992-generation 911, the striking Audi E-tron GT concept and Mazda’s reinvented 3 hatchback to mention but a few, and 2019 is already shaping up to be just as significant. Take a look at everything we’re expecting to see here: Audi E-tron sportback Shown in camouflaged prototype form at March’s Geneva motor show, the rakishly styled Sportback variant of Audi’s E-tron electric SUV has since lost its disguise in the run-up to its LA reveal. The standard E-tron’s 402bhp twin-motor powertrain is carried over unmodified, meaning the Sportback will be capable of 0-60mph in 5.5 seconds, a range of around 248 miles and 150kW rapid charging. Changes look to be limited to the reshaped roofline and a subtly restyled rear end, which includes an LED brake light bar similar to that of the A8 luxury saloon. BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé The largest model in BMW’s 2 Series line-up will make its public debut at LA, following a reveal in October. The firm’s first small four-door coupe sits atop the same front-wheel-drive platform as the smaller 1 Series, and shares that model’s range of petrol and diesel powerplants. The range-topping M235i xDrive, however, gains all-wheel drive and will take on the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35, with a 2.0-litre twin-turbo petrol unit pumping out 302bhp and 332lb ft. M8 Gran Coupe At the other end of BMW’s performance saloon range is this, the fearsome M8 Gran Coupe. Going up against the Porsche Panamera with up to 616bhp from its 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8, the five-door version of the firm’s new M8 is priced from £120,935, with deliveries due to take place at the start of next year. Bollinger B1 and B2 Newly established American firm Bollinger will showcase prototype versions of its B1 and B2 electric SUVs. The rugged-looking off-roaders sit atop a skateboard-style chassis and have been engineered to meet road-legal requirements around the world. In spite of their aerodynamically unfriendly design and imposing size, the boxy models will hit 60mph from rest in just 4.5 seconds, thanks to a pair of electric motors that combine to produce 614bhp. Ford ‘Mach E’ electric SUV Ford will kickstart its electrification strategy with a sleek SUV-shaped model inspired by the Mustang sports car, showing the model for the first time at LA. Due to go on sale in 2020 as a rival to Tesla’s new Model Y, the model has been confirmed to offer a range of 370 miles on the WLTP cycle, but the company is withholding additional details pertaining to the model’s performance, pricing and design until its unveiling. Hyundai PHEV concept Hyundai’s ‘ground-breaking’ new SUV concept takes inspiration from 2018’s Le Fil Rouge show car, and looks to preview a futuristic plug-in hybrid production model to sit below the Santa Fe seven-seater. Technical details remain scarce, but a preview image shows off a sleek, rakish roofline, squared-off wheel arches and a bespoke grille design with integrated cooling flaps. Mercedes Maybach GLS Conceived as a rival to the Range Rover SVAutobiography, Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan, the Maybach GLS is an ultra-luxurious reworking of Mercedes’ GLS flagship SUV. The standard model’s silhouette is retained, but spy shots show that the Maybach version will feature bespoke design elements inspired by 2016’s Maybach 6 coupe concept. There are suggestions that the top-of-the-line GLS could also offer improved rear legroom, courtesy of an extended wheelbase. Mini John Cooper Works GP Mini’s fastest model yet, the 300bhp JCW GP, has been teetering on the edge of an unveiling for a while, with prototypes making public appearances at high-profile events like the Nurburgring 24 Hours and Goodwood Festival of Speed, but now the wraps are finally coming off. Confirmed details include a £34,995 starting price and sub-eight minute Nordschleife laptime, but we’ll have to wait to see just how Oxford’s answer to the Mercedes-AMG A35 will differentiate itself style-wise from the standard Cooper JCW. Porsche 911 manual Not a new car, but almost as exciting, is the news that Porsche is adding a seven-speed manual option to its 911 sports car. The option is rolling out at no extra cost to buyers in the US, with a UK launch expected in the new year. It’s likely that Porsche will show the manual 911 at LA. Taycan 4S Launched as the entry point into Porsche’s new Taycan electric super-saloon range,
Origin: Updated: 2019 Los Angeles motor show preview

2019 Los Angeles motor show preview

This year’s motor show calendar is in full swing, with Frankfurt’s IAA event bringing us pivotal new models from countless mainstream manufacturers, and last week’s Tokyo motor show demonstrating that, for many firms, creativity is key in today’s challenging market environment. Now though, it’s time to look ahead to the Los Angeles Auto Show, at which we’re expecting a huge variety of important US and Europe-focussed models to appear in the metal for the first time. Last year’s edition saw the debut of Porsche’s acclaimed 992-generation 911, the striking Audi E-tron GT concept and Mazda’s reinvented 3 hatchback to mention but a few, and 2019 is already shaping up to be just as significant. Take a look at everything we’re expecting to see here: Audi E-tron sportback Shown in camouflaged prototype form at March’s Geneva motor show, the rakishly styled Sportback variant of Audi’s E-tron electric SUV has since lost its disguise in the run-up to its LA reveal. The standard E-tron’s 402bhp twin-motor powertrain is carried over unmodified, meaning the Sportback will be capable of 0-60mph in 5.5 seconds, a range of around 248 miles and 150kW rapid charging. Changes look to be limited to the reshaped roofline and a subtly restyled rear end, which includes an LED brake light bar similar to that of the A8 luxury saloon. BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé The largest model in BMW’s 2 Series line-up will make its public debut at LA, following a reveal in October. The firm’s first small four-door coupe sits atop the same front-wheel-drive platform as the smaller 1 Series, and shares that model’s range of petrol and diesel powerplants. The range-topping M235i xDrive, however, gains all-wheel drive and will take on the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 with a 2.0-litre twin-turbo petrol unit pumping out 302bhp and 332lb ft. M8 Gran Coupe At the other end of BMW’s performance saloon range is this, the fearsome M8 Gran Coupe. Going up against the Porsche Panamera with up to 616bhp from its 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8, the five-door version of the firm’s new M8 is priced from £120,935, with deliveries due to take place at the start of next year. Bollinger B1 and B2 Newly established American firm Bollinger will showcase prototype versions of its B1 and B2 electric SUVs. The rugged-looking off-roaders sit atop a skateboard-style chassis, and have been engineered to meet road-legal requirements around the world. In spite of their aerodynamically unfriendly design and imposing size, the boxy models will hit 60mph from rest in just 4.5 seconds, thanks to a pair of electric motors producing a combined 614bhp. Ford ‘Mach E’ electric SUV Ford will kickstart its electrification strategy with a sleek SUV-shaped model inspired by the Mustang sports car, showing the model for the first time at LA. Due to go on sale in 2020 as a rival to Tesla’s new Model Y, the model has been confirmed to offer a range of 370 miles on the WLTP cycle, but the company is withholding additional details pertaining to the model’s performance, pricing and design until its unveiling. Mercedes Maybach GLS Conceived as a rival to the Range Rover SVAutobiography, Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan, the Maybach GLS is an ultra-luxurious reworking of Mercedes’ GLS flagship SUV. The standard model’s silhouette is retained, but spy shots show the Maybach version will feature bespoke design elements inspired by 2016’s Maybach 6 coupe concept. There are suggestions the top-of-the-line GLS could also offer improved rear legroom courtesy of an extended wheelbase. Mini John Cooper Works GP Mini’s fastest model yet, the 300bhp JCW GP, has been teetering on the edge of an unveiling for a while, with prototypes making public appearances at high-profile events like the Nurburgring 24 Hours and Goodwood Festival of Speed, but now the wraps are finally coming off. Confirmed details include a £34,995 starting price and sub-eight minute Nordschleife laptime, but we’ll have to wait to see just how Oxford’s answer to the Mercedes-AMG A35 will differentiate itself style-wise from the standard Cooper JCW. Porsche 911 manual Not a new car, but almost as exciting, is the news that Porsche is adding a seven-speed manual option to its 911 sports car. The option is rolling out at no extra cost to buyers in the US, with a UK launch expected in the new year. It’s likely that Porsche will show the manual 911 at LA. Taycan 4S Launched as the entry point into Porsche’s new Taycan electric super-saloon range, the 4S offers considerably less power than the top-run Turbo and Turbo S models, but is also much more affordable, with prices starting at £83,000. Range is a still-respectable 252 miles in standard guise, with an optional Performance Battery Plus pack bringing that up to 287 miles. Toyota RAV4 PHEV Toyota will follow up its future-looking Tokyo motor show display with the unveiling of a new hybrid version of
Origin: 2019 Los Angeles motor show preview

New virtual Jaguar concept could preview future EVs

Jaguar has revealed a new model designed for the Gran Turismo videogame, which could offer a glimpse of its future electric sports car design. The Vision Gran Turismo Coupé concept is the latest addition to the virtual motorsport title, and will be available for players to download from the end of December. Jaguar has expressed no intent to bring it to production in real life, however. The concept is said to have been “designed and developed from the ground up, taking inspiration from the brand’s incredible racing lineage,” with the brand’s historic C-Type and D-Type racers listed as styling influences. The coupé’s powertrain, while not taken from any one real model, is based on that featured in the firm’s I-Type and I-Pace electric racers. The virtual model packs a combined 1006bhp and 885lb ft from three high-output electric motors, one driving the front axle and two at the rear, which is enough to push it from 0-62mph in under two seconds, and on to a top speed of over 200mph. There has been no indication of a hypothetical range figure. In terms of its design, the concept takes clear inspiration from the current F-Type, with visual references to previous Jaguar concepts, including the 2013 C-X75 supercar. It is constructed using a range of experimental lightweight materials, with a carbonfibre monocoque tub at its core helping to achieve a 1400kg kerbweight and near-50:50 weight distribution. The concept’s roofline is low to the ground, and a swooping rear deck and domed glass cabin feature for maximum aerodynamic efficiency. An active rear wing is said to “optimise energy efficiency while generating the perfect amount of downforce”. Further retro-inspired design touches include a vintage-style grille that features Jaguar’s ‘Leaper’ mascot, and twin rear charging sockets as a reference to the first-generation XJ saloon. The retro-modern theme continues inside, where Gran Turismo players can make use of an on-board artificial intelligence system called Kitt-E, which uses hologram technology to display three-dimensional maps and telemetry. Augmented reality digital glass can alert the driver to unseen dangers, while a transparent information cluster allows for a clearer view of the road ahead. Jaguar design director Julian Thomson said: “This project has been completely led by our young designers and represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for them to create a vehicle steeped in our incredible heritage but pushing the boundaries of future design. “The team have done an incredible job in creating something which is clearly identifiable as a Jaguar, inspired – but not constrained – by our iconic
Origin: New virtual Jaguar concept could preview future EVs

2019 Tokyo Motor Show preview

Honda teases image of next generation 2020 Fit (Jazz)Honda The 2019 iteration of the Tokyo Motor Show held once every two years around the end of October or beginning of November is fast approaching, with the event opening October 23.Well have a sneak peek of all the big reveals just ahead of then, of course, but what exactly should we be looking forward to?Despite the fact the theme this year is Open Future, you can expect a pretty narrow focus on battery-driven concept cars, with a few sports coupes thrown in for good measure.This far out, its tough to say which of the cars that may be uncovered there will make it across the Pacific to our shores, but let us know in the comments if youve got your fingers crossed for something you see here.ToyotaToyota let one of the cats out of the bag early, pulling the covers off of its redesigned 2021 Mirai Concept earlier this month. The hydrogen fuel cell car looks a lot more conventional and a lot prettier, we have to admit than its predecessor, but thats really only relevant if you live in one of the select markets Toyota Canada is slowly rolling the alternative-fuel vehicle out to, like B.C.If it looks just about production-ready for a concept, thats because it is. We know a little about the new Mirai the range should be 30 per cent better than the 2020 model; its longer than a Camry but well learn a lot more in Tokyo. To be honest, though, were much excited about the rumours well see a second-generation version of the GT86 sports coupe. Word is though itll move to a new platform, basic body dimensions will remain the same, as will the six-speed manual and auto transmission options. The engine is rumoured to be the 2.4-litre from the Subaru Ascent it makes 260 horsepower, there with the turbo removed.The car to be revealed should look pretty close to the production version, and when it hits dealerships, itll look a lot more distinct from its Subaru BRZ sibling than the current Toyobaru twins to.(And, oh yeah, Toyota will also show off a new Yaris on an all-new platform but we wont get this version. North America is stuck instead with the rebadged Mazda2 one.)MazdaMazda has, perhaps surprisingly, not yet put into production a mass-market electrified vehicle not even a hybrid but we know now thats because it wanted to make sure its first effort was absolutely mind-blowing. Our own David Booth got a brief on the e-TPV and asked whether it might be the perfect electric vehicle. We know a few specs 35.5-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, rotary engine included as a range extender but have no idea what the thing will look like. Mazda should bare all in Tokyo, though.Again, with the green vehicle out of the way, we can reveal our real ambitions that Mazda will allegedly show off a production version of its Vision Coupe, slated for dealers in 2022. Odds are slim itll look like that old (but oh-so-sexy) concept, but good that itll be based on the rumoured new “Large Architecture” rear- and all-wheel-drive platform, or powered by a new maybe-Skyactiv-X inline-six engine.HondaWeve got a lock on a new fourth-generation Honda Fit debuting in Tokyo this year; what we dont know is whether well be seeing this thing in Canada, with the local arm of the company giving us a no comment. We may not be getting a new Fit at all.The car thatll be unveiled, known abroad as the Jazz, will come only as a two-motor hybrid in Europe. Weve got the above teaser image to go off of and know its supposed to retain its roomy-for-a-compact interior, but otherwise were really in the dark on this thing.SubaruSpeaking of cars were unlikely to see on our shores, dont bet on Subaru introducing the Levorg to the Canadian market any time soon. The Japanese-market wagon version of the WRX is apparently going to see a big update revealed this year, even if the styling isnt all that ground-breaking. Its been not inaccurately compared to the Viziv Tourer Concept from last years Geneva show.There is a slight chance the new BRZ will bow in Tokyo in tandem with its new GT86 sibling, but were not getting our hopes up just in case.MitsubishiWe never thought of Mitsubishi as being particularly wild, but one of the two concepts the Japanese automaker will reveal is going no-holds-barred. The Mi-Tech Concept, a small electrified two-seater convertible SUV, is driven by four motors backed up by a gas turbine engine generator(?) and features an augmented-reality windshield and carbon-fibre construction. Its also unlikely to make it anywhere close to production. But we cant fault Mitsu for trying to wow us.The other concept, the Super Height K-Wagon Concept, is a lot more likely to see pavement under its wheels, specifically in Japan where kei car micro-vans like this one are a lot more popular.NissanI know we were just saying you should discount the Mitsu K-Wagon for being a made-for-Japan kei car, but this Nissan IMk Concept a quintessential kei car if ever there was one, with its small
Origin: 2019 Tokyo Motor Show preview

2019 Tokyo motor show preview – one week to go

Every edition of the biennial Tokyo motor show explores a different facet of Japan’s unique automotive industry. Some put an unabashed focus on performance while others place technology front and centre. What never changes is that the event is dominated by Japanese carmakers, you won’t hear much from European, American and other Asian brands, and the companies that display cars in Japan’s capital are on a bold quest to show their wild side. This is their chance to shine on their home turf. The 2019 Tokyo motor show opening its doors on October 24 will, somewhat unsurprisingly, highlight electrification. Most of the production and concept cars scheduled to break cover during the event will incorporate some degree of electrification, whether it’s mild hybrid technology or a battery-powered drivetrain. Here are the cars we expect to see in the Big Sight convention centre, though keep in mind carmakers often announce new models days, hours and minutes before the start of the show. Honda 2020 Jazz The next-generation Honda Jazz (known as the Fit in some markets) will exclusively be available with petrol-electric hybrid powertrains. Honda previously explained it developed a more compact version of the twin-motor i-MMD hybrid technology that equips the CR-V to use in smaller cars. While additional details remain few and far between, spy shots show a front end that falls in line with Honda’s current design language and familiar proportions. Jazz sales will begin in early 2020. Although it has historically lagged behind its rivals, it’s a hugely important model because it’s Honda’s best-seller in the UK. Lexus Electric car concept The concept Lexus will introduce in Tokyo will take it into the electric car segment for the first time. It’s a small, city-friendly model with a tall roof that clears up a generous amount of cabin space. Screens positioned on either side of the steering wheel display the infotainment system and the model relies on innovative in-wheel electric motors for power. While it will be presented as a simple design study, Lexus strongly hinted at least some parts of it will reach production in the coming years. “We feel that our future could resemble this design,” Lexus vice-president Koji Sato told Autocar. Mazda 2020 production EV Mazda’s Wankel rotary engine will make a long-awaited comeback in Tokyo but don’t look for a follow-up to the RX-8 on the show floor. It will perform range-extending duties in the company’s first series-produced electric car. We haven’t seen it yet, the test mules are all disguised as CX-30s, but we know it will arrive as a standalone model rather than as a battery-powered variant of an existing nameplate. It will be an SUV with a 35.5kWh lithium-ion battery pack that zaps a 140bhp motor into motion. Mitsubishi MI-Tech Concept Mitsubishi’s Tokyo-bound concept will primarily serve as a preview of its next plug-in hybrid drivetrain, which swaps the traditional combustion engine for a gas turbine generator. The company pointed out it made the powertrain smaller and lighter than the one currently found in the Outlander in order to electrify more compact models like the Eclipse Cross. A selection of preview images show the technology will be showcased in a futuristic-looking SUV with externally-mounted speakers and carbonfibre inserts. Expect the powertrain, not the concept, to reach showrooms in the coming years. Nissan IMk concept As with most Japanese kei cars, Nissan’s new IMk concept is tall, boxy and geared towards urban mobility, but, in a break from convention, sits atop an all-new EV platform and showcases the firm’s plans for the future of small cars. The concept builds upon Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility programme with a lounge-style interior and lack of physical controls, and early suggestions are that it could be sold globally. Subaru 2020 Levorg The next generation of Subaru’s Levorg estate will arrive with a more streamlined design and an array of electronic driving aids. The company’s teaser video noted we’re “in an era where autonomous driving technology is widely spreading” so it’s reasonable to assume the scope of its EyeSight suite of driver assistance features will be expanded. At the other end of the spectrum, Subaru will send off the 20-year old EJ20 flat-four engine with a commemorative WRX STI limited to 555 examples. Suzuki Waku Suzuki’s big themes for Tokyo are mobility and personality, as embodied by its retro-styled show star – the Waku. An ultra compact plug-in hybrid, the Waku features a number of design elements that can be swapped out according to personal preference, and is intended for families to “share fun and excitement”. Hanare The Hanare, taking its name from the Japanese for a small dwelling attached to a house, is Suzuki’s take on the autonomous shuttle. As with the Waku, it blends futuristic technology with 1960s-style design elements, and is said to be fully
Origin: 2019 Tokyo motor show preview – one week to go

Updated: 2019 Tokyo motor show preview – the star cars

Frankfurt motor show 2019 preview: one week to go

The Frankfurt motor show is traditionally one of the biggest events on the motoring calendar, and this year is no exception, with game-changing unveilings expected from Porsche, Volkswagen, Land Rover and more. Especially notable this year is a heightened emphasis on new electric cars. As well as the Volkswagen ID 3, we’ll also get a look at the Honda E, Porsche Taycan, Peugeot e-2008 and others as manufacturers hit the ground running with plans for universal electrification. That being said, there will no doubt be quite a crowd gathered around conventionally fuelled new cars like the Land Rover Defender, Audi RS7 and BMW X6. We’ve been getting ready for the show, and have compiled a list of all the important models we’re expecting to see when the doors open on 12 September. We’ll be updating it as we learn more, so keep an eye on our complete rundown to ensure you don’t miss a thing: Alpina B3 Biturbo We’ve still got a while to wait until BMW takes the wraps off the G20-gen M3, but tuning specialist Alpina is ready to unveil its M340i-based B3 Biturbo. Expected to make its debut in estate form, the B3 will fill the gap between the regular 3 Series and hot M3 with a 400bhp-plus 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six. Audi RS Q3 The wraps came off Audi’s new Q3 Sportback last month, and now Audi Sport’s RS-badged reworking is set to break cover at Frankfurt. The Mercedes-AMG GLB 45 rival has been driving around with minimal camouflage ahead of its arrival, and is expected to pack a 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine pumping out around 400bhp. RS6 Audi Sport’s flagship wagon retains its twin-turbo 4.0-litre petrol V8 as it moves into a fourth generation for 2020, with power upgraded to 591bhp to take on the Mercedes-AMG E63 S and BMW M5. Visual differences over the standard A6 include trademark chunkier wheel arches, larger air intakes and bigger wheels. RS7 Sportback The new RS7 Sportback will be the hero car for Audi Sport’s range of performance models, sharing a 600bhp-plus V8 with the RS6. As with the outgoing variant, power will be sent to all four wheels by way of an eight-speed automatic gearbox, while an 80kg weight loss should bring subtle performance gains. A3 Audi will introduce the fourth generation of its popular A3 in 2020 and is expected to show off the Volkswagen Golf rival at Frankfurt. Its launch has been pushed back due to Audi’s struggles with WLTP emissions testing and a heightened focus on EV development, but the company promises the new A3 will be the most advanced car in its segment and set new standards of refinement. S8, SQ8 and Q7 facelift We’ll also get our first in-the-metal look at the S8 performance saloon, one of only two models in Audi’s S range to retain a petrol powerplant, as well as the new SQ8 hot SUV and facelifted Q7 seven-seater. BMW X6 The recently revealed third-generation X6 will make its public debut in Frankfurt before it enters UK showrooms, priced from around £63,000. The coupé-style high-rider’s looks have been brought into line with the brand’s current design language, and a refreshed range of powertrain options is headed up by a 523bhp 4.4-litre petrol V8 yielding a claimed 0-62mph time of 4.3sec and a limited 155mph top speed. Vision M Next The Vision M concept is BMW’s idea of what a comeback for the M1 supercar of 1978 might look like. Previewing a production sports car tipped to arrive before 2025, the Vision M packs a 591bhp petrol-electric plug-in hybrid drivetrain that’s also destined to appear in more mainstream BMW M performance models further down the line. Cupra Tavascan Seat’s newly hived-off performance brand Cupra will show off the Tavascan as a concept version of its first EV, which takes the form of a coupé-style SUV based on the Volkswagen Group’s universal MEB architecture. Its rakish roofline, angular front end and distinctive headlight design imply the production model will be a performance-oriented reworking of the Seat el-Born electric hatchback. Honda The Honda E electric city car was first revealed in 95%-production-ready prototype guise at the Geneva motor show in March, but it’s finally ready to emerge in its final form before customer deliveries begin next year. Expect little to change in the way of styling, with more than 6000 UK buyers alone having already expressed interest in buying an E. Hyundai Electric racer Frankfurt will see the unveiling of Hyundai’s first all-electric race car, which has been developed in Germany and previewed in a series of videos posted to the firm’s Twitter feed. Details remain scarce, but the new model is likely to be based on the existing i30 N TCR customer racer. Last year, rival firm Cupra revealed early details of the 670bhp Seat Leon-based e-Racer, to enter an upcoming electric touring car race series, which Hyundai is also expected to support. Electric concept car Hyundai will also show off its new ’45’
Origin: Frankfurt motor show 2019 preview: one week to go

Updated: Frankfurt motor show 2019 preview

The Frankfurt motor show is traditionally one of the biggest events on the motoring calendar, and this year is no exception, with game-changing unveilings expected from Porsche, Volkswagen, Land Rover and more. Especially notable this year is a heightened emphasis on new electric cars. As well as the Volkswagen ID 3, we’ll also get a look at the Honda E, Porsche Taycan, Peugeot e-2008 and others as manufacturers hit the ground running with plans for universal electrification. That being said, there will no doubt be quite a crowd gathered around conventionally fuelled new cars like the Land Rover Defender, Audi RS7 and BMW X6. We’ve been getting ready for the show, and have compiled a list of all the important models we’re expecting to see when the doors open on 12 September. We’ll be updating it as we learn more, so keep an eye on our complete rundown to ensure you don’t miss a thing: Audi RS6 Audi Sport’s flagship wagon will retain its twin-turbo 4.0-litre petrol V8 as it moves into a fourth generation for 2020, with power upgraded to around 605bhp to take on the Mercedes-AMG E63 S and BMW M5. Expect visual differences over the standard A6 to include trademark chunkier wheel arches, larger air intakes and bigger wheels. RS7 Sportback The new RS7 Sportback will be the hero car for Audi Sport’s range of performance models, sharing a 600bhp-plus V8 with the RS6. As with the outgoing variant, power will be sent to all four wheels by way of an eight-speed automatic gearbox, while an 80kg weight loss should bring subtle performance gains. A3 Audi will introduce the fourth generation of its popular A3 in 2020 and is expected to show off the Volkswagen Golf rival at Frankfurt. Its launch has been pushed back due to Audi’s struggles with WLTP emissions testing and a heightened focus on EV development, but the company promises the new A3 will be the most advanced car in its segment and set new standards of refinement. S8, SQ8 and Q7 facelift We’ll also get our first in-the-metal look at the S8 performance saloon, one of only two models in Audi’s S range to retain a petrol powerplant, as well as the new SQ8 hot SUV and facelifted Q7 seven-seater. BMW X6 The recently revealed third-generation X6 will make its public debut in Frankfurt before it enters UK showrooms, priced from around £63,000. The coupé-style high-rider’s looks have been brought into line with the brand’s current design language, and a refreshed range of powertrain options is headed up by a 523bhp 4.4-litre petrol V8 yielding a claimed 0-62mph time of 4.3sec and a limited 155mph top speed. Vision M Next The Vision M concept is BMW’s idea of what a comeback for the M1 supercar of 1978 might look like. Previewing a production sports car tipped to arrive before 2025, the Vision M packs a 591bhp petrol-electric plug-in hybrid drivetrain that’s also destined to appear in more mainstream BMW M performance models further down the line. Cupra Electric concept Seat’s newly hived-off performance brand Cupra will show off a concept version of its first EV, which will take the form of a coupé-style SUV based on the Volkswagen Group’s universal MEB architecture. Previews show a rakish roofline, angular front end and distinctive headlight design, implying it will be a performance-oriented reworking of the Seat el-Born electric hatchback. Honda The Honda E electric city car was first revealed in 95%-production-ready prototype guise at the Geneva motor show in March, but it’s finally ready to emerge in its final form before customer deliveries begin next year. Expect little to change in the way of styling, with more than 6000 UK buyers alone having already expressed interest in buying an E. Hyundai Electric racer Frankfurt will see the unveiling of Hyundai’s first all-electric race car, which has been developed in Germany and previewed in a series of videos posted to the firm’s Twitter feed. Details remain scarce, but the new model is likely to be based on the existing i30 N TCR customer racer. Last year, rival firm Cupra revealed early details of the 670bhp Seat Leon-based e-Racer, to enter an upcoming electric touring car race series, which Hyundai is also expected to support. i10 Heavily disguised prototypes of Hyundai’s new i10 supermini maintain the Volkswagen Up rival’s compact footprint and appear to show a subtle evolution of its design, rather than a radical overhaul. It’s not yet known whether Hyundai is bringing a production-ready model or a concept to Frankfurt, but we expect the new i10 to share a platform with the latest Kia Picanto and offer a range of small-capacity petrol engines. Lamborghini Hybrid hypercar Lamborghini is readying a replacement for its Aventador flagship for 2020, and reports suggest it will be previewed by a low-volume, £2 million hybridised hypercar being revealed at Frankfurt. Prospective buyers got a look at the new model last year,
Origin: Updated: Frankfurt motor show 2019 preview

New Nissan Juke: new preview of revamped crossover

Nissan has previewed the styling of the long-awaited new Juke crossover, with a second teaser image hinting at the outline of the car. The darkened shot, shows a darkened silhouette of the front of the car, with the front headlights illuminated. While Nissan released the image without naming the model – which features the slogan ‘keep your eyes open’ and the 3 September unveiling day – it previews the long-awaited second generation Juke. The image is the second teaser that the firm has revealed. An earlier darkened show was a zoom in of the sleek LED headlight design, which echoes the dual-light layout of the outgoing car but with a more modern twist. The Mk2 Juke, designed at Nissan’s London studio, will go on sale in early 2020, a few months after the unveiling. It’s the replacement for a model that has been on sale with relatively few changes since 2010. Disguised test cars have shown that the Renault Captur rival’s design will evolve the distinctive shape of today’s car but remain recognisable. Details such as Nissan’s V-Motion grille, adapted from the Micra, will be brought in, while the rear end will have a more angular look. In an exclusive interview last year, Nissan’s global design boss, Alfonso Albaisa, claims the second-generation Juke “doesn’t look too much like the last one”, adding: “It doesn’t look like IMx (an electric crossover concept unveiled in 2017) or the new Leaf, either. It’s an urban meteor with a nasty attitude.” Albaisa quashed a rumour that the Juke replacement had been reviewed and rejected, saying: “(The Juke) is certainly coming soon. But it didn’t get ‘sent back’. I’m not sure where that story came from. It’s a very cool car, and it still has all of its attitude.” The original Juke was introduced at the 2010 Geneva motor show and helped to boost the popularity of supermini-sized SUVs. In terms of sales, that class grew tenfold across Europe between 2010 and 2016, and by 2022, it’s expected to double in size from its 2016 level of 1.13 million units. Juke sales have exceeded 100,000 per year in Europe four times to date, and the styling of the Sunderland-built car was considered an important contributor to that. “Our job was easier with the first one, because there was nothing else like it,” Albaisa told Autocar. “And that car’s success was so huge even given how polarising it looked. The second one couldn’t be derivative or evolutionary and still be a Juke. We’d almost have to change its name to Nancy otherwise.” The new Juke is likely to be built on a stretched version of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance’s CMF platform, as used by the new Renault Clio. It’s expected to shun the naturally aspirated petrol engines that have accounted for much of its sales volume so far, instead using the turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder and 1.3-litre four-cylinder units used in the Qashqai. A 1.5-litre 109bhp diesel is likely to be offered, too, while four-wheel drive will be kept for automatic models higher up the range. Albaisa wouldn’t confirm whether the new Juke would be previewed by a show car, in the same way that the Qazana concept displayed at the 2009 Geneva motor show was used to test the water for the production car that followed. Given the riskiness of the original Juke’s styling and how well established the model has become, it’s likely that Nissan will maximise the impact of the new Juke by keeping it under wraps until the last moment.
Origin: New Nissan Juke: new preview of revamped crossover

Updated: Goodwood Festival of Speed 2019 preview

Next week, the gates will open to one of the UK’s most hotly anticipated motoring events, as the 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed gets under way. This year’s edition will bring some changes to the festival layout, but, as ever, is an opportunity for us to get a first look at some of the industry’s most important and exciting new cars. For those familiar with the setting, the Supercar Paddock will be relocated to where the Moving Motor Show was previously held, near the start of the famous hillclimb course. In its place will be a new area called ‘The arena’, which will showcase the extreme end of motorsport – stunt driving, drift cars and daring motorcycle displays with some of the biggest stars of each discipline set to appear. Goodwood has also now announced the first batch of star names driving up the hillclimb. They include Tom Kristensen, the Le Mans driver who’s won the 24 Hours a record nine times. WRC and World Rallycross champion Petter Solberg will also be there, while Ken Block will put on a typically epic display. A number of Moto GP and Isle of Man TT legends will also attend. The Goodwood Central Feature, an always impressive monument, will be dedicated this year to Aston Martin, in honour of the 70th anniversary of the brand winning its first race at Goodwood. Expect some of the world’s rarest, most valuable and most exciting Astons to be on display, too. The event will also celebrate the career of Michael Schumacher, with team-mates, former rivals and a collection of his most iconic Formula 1 cars all set to come together. It’s likely there will also be a memorable tribute to Niki Lauda, who died in May, though what that will be remains a mystery. A homage to the Monaco Grand Prix will be another theme. Goodwood isn’t just about the past, however: A number of brands use the show to give debuts to new models in front of enthusiastic crowds. Here’s a list of the new models that we know will be there, either on static display or being driven flat-out up the hillclimb. Plenty more will be added as we find out about them: Alfa Romeo is celebrating its return to Formula 1 with two special edition variants of the Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio. The limited-run ‘Alfa Romeo Racing’ versions of the performance saloon and SUV gain a red and white livery and unique interior trim upgrades, such as Sparco carbonfibre-shell bucket seats. The 503bhp 2.9-litre V6 remains the same, however. Aston’s presence at Goodwood 2019 will be bigger than ever, as the brand celebrates the 50th anniversary of its fabled 1959 Le Mans victory with an extensive display of its most revered models. The new DBS Superleggera Volante will head up Aston’s collection, and is likely to make its dynamic debut on the hillclimb. Revealed in May, the £250,000 model features a 715bhp 5.2-litre V12, with Aston claiming a “sensory overload” thanks to the electric folding soft-top. It’s been eight years since Cheshire-based Briggs Automotive Company (BAC) first launched the Mono single-seater. Now, at long last, the company is turning up the wick with a new version heading to Goodwood. Set to be unveiled on the Thursday, preview images show it doesn’t look dramatically different but sports a newly modified engine to make it faster. We’ll learn more about it at the show. Bentley revealed the new Flying Spur late last month, and it’ll be shown in static and dynamic form at Goodwood. The luxury four-door is taking aim at the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class and Rolls-Royce Ghost. Based on the platform of the Continental GT, it is the first Bentley to feature all-wheel steering – while it promises to offer the firm’s most tech-laden cabin yet. Citroen is celebrating its centenary at the 2019 Festival of Speed. Alongside what’s expected to be a huge variety of iconic classics spanning its history, we will be seeing the UK debut of two concepts. The first is the Ami One, a quirky, budget two-seater that meets Europe’s quadricycle regulations and could be driven without a licence in some countries. The second (above) is even more radical: the 19_19 is a comfort-focused electric car designed to envision autonomous long-distance travel. De Tomaso, the Italian performance brand that’s been dormant since its founder died in 2003, is making a dramatic return. Backed by a Hong Kong-based venture, It will celebrate the brand’s 60th anniversary with an all-new, V8-powered mid-engined sports car at the Festival of Speed. A preview image suggests it will bear a striking resemblance to the iconic Pantera, too. Ferrari One-off Ferraris always attract a lot of attention, so the first public appearance of Maranello’s bespoke P80/C track car should assemble quite a crowd. Based on the firm’s 488 GT3 racer, the P80/C was built over four years for an unnamed collector. Powertrain details are, as yet, unconfirmed, but a run up the hill should be enough to show us the fruits of Ferrari’s mechanical
Origin: Updated: Goodwood Festival of Speed 2019 preview