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Behind the doors of the Paris Motor Show
11 September 2006 The likes of Citroen, Peugeot and Renault have been working hard to create some sensational showstoppers. But it's not just the French who have the share of the limelight, because Stuart Milne pulls back the curtains to reveal the best of show.
Citroen C-Metisse The star of the Paris Motor Show will be the sensational C-Metisse. Although just a concept, it is likely to highlight Citroen's future ambitions with environmentally-friendly, high performance engines. The C-Metisse - French for half-blood - is powered by a V6 diesel engine and two electric motors, offering huge performance. Citroen say this working prototype has a top speed of 155mph, a 0-60mph time of 4.2 seconds while still returning 45mpg.
Chevy will feature the most aggressive looking concept of the show in its WTCC Ultra. Designed to celebrate its two wins in this year's World Touring Car Championship the Ultra will form the centrepiece of its stand. Under the outrageous bodywork is a 190bhp diesel engine which is based on the 2-litre unit which will appear in the Captiva SUV and Lacetti later this year.
Daihatsu's new D-Compact X-Crossover concept has been designed by Italian styling gods, ItalDesign, and is supposed to reflect the idea of "harmony with nature". It achieves this by featuring a one-piece windscreen which also forms the roof and rear window. Other details are sketchy, but the ordinary-looking Dai will need to work hard to be noticed alongside the other showstoppers.
Unlike most of the show's other concepts, Hyundai's new Focus-sized hatchback will go into production next summer. Hyundai says the car, pronounced 'Ar-nez': "features advanced technology and contemporary design capable of competing with its mainstream rivals", but are remaining tight-lipped on further details until the wraps come off later this month.
One of the most important launches in Currently on sale in
Another car certain to pull the crowds is an even faster version of the MercLaren supercar. The 722 gets a unique bodykit, gorgeous new alloys, bigger brakes and a tarmac-melting 650bhp. Although 722 is nothing to do with its performance, it does have historical significance. It is named after the 1955 Mercedes 300 SLR which drove to victory in the Mille Miglia road race. The car, which was driven by Stirling Moss, was number 722 which was chosen for its starting time of 7.22am.
Peugeot 207 EPURE This thinly-disguised coupe-convertible will become the 207CC - successor to the highly successful 206CC. It has also given the French manufacturer the chance to showcase its fuel cell technology. Peugeot Citroen Group's new experimental fuel cell has been developed to provide extra power and operating range to the vehicle's electric motor. The EPURE can manage 218 miles on a full tank of electricity, with a top speed of 81mph.
Part luxury limo, part Insiders claim the 906 RC will be a sneak preview of Peugeot's new 608 executive saloon.
The most innovative car slated for a world debut in The four seat luxury cabriolet features gullwing doors…just to say that again - gullwing doors on a cabriolet! Renault says the Nepta harks back to the golden age of car design, but it looks like a thoroughly modern piece of kit to us. There's a 3.5-litre V6 engine mated to a seven speed automatic gearbox under the skin, providing some hair-raising performance. Stay tuned to autotrader.co.uk for the latest news on the Paris Motor Show. |
Chevrolet WTCC Ultra
Daihatsu D-Compact X-Crossover
Hyundai Arnejs
Mazda CX-7
Mercedes McLaren SLR 722
Peugeot 906 RC
Renault NeptaPage 1
