New Crosslane Coupe Hybrid Points to the Design Language of Future Audi SUVs

A new concept that gives us a glimpse of Audi’s design language for its future crossovers was revealed today at the German automaker’s stand at the Paris Auto Show.

The Crosslane Coupe (which may or may not preview a Q2 production model), is built around an innovative Multimaterial Space Frame made from aluminum, carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) and glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP).

The occupant cell is made of aluminum, as are the beams beneath the front lid that act as supporting members and join the single-frame grill to the passenger cell.

CFRP is used for the construction of the front and rear crash structures as well as the inner sills, the center tunnel, the bulkhead and the floor cross-members. The rest of the bodywork is made of GFRP reinforced, in part, with CFRP.

The use of lightweight materials results in a total weight of about 1,390 kg (3,064 pounds), including the large lithium-ion battery pack.

The Crosslane Coupe is a plug-in, dual-mode hybrid that combines an internal combustion engines, two electric motors, a battery pack and a single-stage transmission.

The combustion engine is a three-cylinder turbocharged 1.5-liter TSFI with an output of 130PS (128HP) and 200 Nm (147.5 lb-ft) of torque. The TFSI engine is coupled to an electric motor, labeled EM1, with 68PS (67HP) and 210 Nm (154.9 lb-ft) of torque. The EM2 functions primarily as a starter and alternator and is coupled to the internal combustion engine via a claw clutch.

A second electric motor, the EM2, which has an output of 116PS (114HP) and 250 Nm (184.4 lb-ft) of torque, provides electrical traction.

The concept's hybrid system has two different operating modes (hence the dual-mode moniker). From standstill to 55 km/h (34mph), it is driven solely by the EM2, which is powered by the 17.4 kWh lithium-ion battery. In serial mode, the three-cylinder and the EM1 produce electrical energy that charges the battery.

At speeds above 55 km/h (34 mph), the system allows the internal combustion engine and the EM1 to engage in the drivetrain, while above 128 km/h (80 mph) the internal combustion engine is the primary source of power and, if needed, can be aided by the EM1.

Total combined output is 177PS (174HP), with the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint being completed in 6.8 seconds in dual-mode and 9.8 seconds in pure electric mode. Top speed is 181 km/h (113 mph), electric driving range is around 85 km (53 miles) and fuel consumption can be as low as 1.1 lt/100 km (256.8 mpg Imperial, 213.8 mpg US) and CO2 emissions just 26 g/km.

The driver can choose between two settings: in “cruise” mode the drivetrain operates as efficiently as possible, while in “race” it produces maximum performance.

The two-door Crosslane Coupe is 4.21 m (164.2 inches) long, 1.88 m (73.3 inches) wide and 1.51 m (58.9 inches) high, has a 2.56 m (99.8-inch) wheelbase and a 2+2 seat configuration.

Its bodywork sports a single-frame grille that is divided by struts, LED trapezoidal headlamps, large air intakes in the front bumper and two narrow openings in the bonnet that let outsiders take a peek at the upper members of the aluminum Multimaterial Space Frame.

The Crosslane Coupe has an ultralight CFRP roof that weighs less than 10 kg (22 pounds) and can be released electrically and stored over the boot’s load area.

The side doors extend down thanks to the very low sills and when they open they reveal aluminum members of the chassis. At the rear, the flat C-pillar and the low glasshouse emphasize the “coupe” moniker in Audi’s concept moniker and the taillights, which are divided in two sections by the boot lid, are similar in design to the headlamps.

An aluminum diffuser is incorporated in the CFRP rear bumper and the boot, which forms a separate shell within the space frame, can be extended about 40 cm forwards by the push of a button. In this position, when the roof is removed it protects the luggage while at the same time an extra storage space under the boot becomes accessible.

The interior is mostly made out of CFRP with aluminum elements and the floor is made of GFRP. The low dashboard is driver-oriented, the instrument panel includes virtual displays and the air conditioning controls incorporate very small displays.

Both driver and front passenger seats feature integrated head restraints, part leather upholstery and are electrically adjusted, while the center console incorporates a large touchpad that controls most functions and a large selector lever that sprouts out electrically when the car is started.

You can scroll down to view the image gallery and the official Audi Crossover Coupe video right after the break.

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Mercedes-Benz's Striking Blue SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive Priced Close to Half a Million Euros

The pure-electric version of Mercedes-Benz's SLS AMG Gullwing supercar was revealed earlier than anticipated, no thanks to Germanpublication AMS that leaked the first photos of the production model ahead of its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show.

The new SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive is the second model in the brand's range after the B-Class concept to incorporate the “Electric Drive” designation, which will be used on all battery-powered electric passenger cars from Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-AMG and Smart.

The high-tech SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive utilizes four electric motors positioned close to the wheels, and which produce a combined output of 740Hp (552kW or 751PS) and a maximum torque of 1,000 Nm (737 lb-ft), making it the most powerful production AMG model of all time.

The battery-powered SLS AMG is said to accelerate from zero to 100km/h (62mph) in just 3.9 seconds with its top speed electronically governed at 250km/h (155mph).

First deliveries of the limited run SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive will begin in July of 2013 with prices in Germany starting at a whopping €416,500 (US$536,200 at the current exchange rates), or more than twice the cost of the petrol engine-powered SLS AMG GT (€204,680).

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2013 VW Golf GTI Study Officially Revealed in Paris, European Sales Begin Next Summer

Who are we kidding; it may be billed as a concept, but even VW doesn’t make much effort into hiding the fact that the "design study" that made its debut alongside the rest of the seventh-generation Golf models at the 2012 Paris Auto Show is actually the production version of the Mk7 Golf GTI .

The German automaker even released a launch date: the new Golf GTI in both three- and five-door body styles will go on sale in mainland Europe in early 2013 and in the UK next summer (no word yet on when it will arrive in North America).

The new GTI stands out from lesser versions of the Golf thanks to its honeycomb grille (first introduced in the Mk5) with double red-stipe accents, the smoked LED rear lights and license plate illumination, the red brake calipers behind the five-spoke alloy wheels and the 80 mm diameter tailpipes with a chrome finish.

Traditional GTI themes, such as the golf ball-shaped gear lever, the tartan cloth upholstery and the flat-bottomed sports steering wheel confirm that this is a production-ready car.

Like all Mk7 Golfs, the GTI rides on VW’s all-new MQB platform. It gets a variable-ratio steering system, which in theory at least, makes driving easier at low speeds while providing the necessary feedback when the driver is pressing on.

The big news is that the GTI’s new 2.0-liter four-cylinder, direct injection turbocharged engine, not only is more powerful that its predecessor, but it will also be offered in two outputs, with buyers having the choice of two six-speed gearboxes, a standard manual and an optional dual-clutch DSG.

In standard spec, output is 220PS (217HP) and maximum torque 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) – 70 Nm (52 lb-ft) more than the previous model and equal to the Mk6 Golf R. The 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint takes 6.6 seconds and top speed is 246 km/h (153 mph).

Thanks to VW’s technology, which includes direct injection and a standard auto stop/start system, the manual gearbox-equipped GTI has an average fuel consumption of 6.0 lt/100 km (47.1 mpg Imperial, 39.2 mpg US) and emits 140 g of CO2 per km. Thus, it fulfills not only current emission regulations but also the stricter EU-6 standards that will come into effect in 2014.

For the first time ever, VW offers a factory-prepared “performance pack”. Those expecting huge power gains will be disappointed: output is increased by just 10PS (10HP), the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time drops by a mere 0.1 seconds to 6.5" and top speed is barely higher at 250 km/h (155 mph).

In fact, the “performance pack” seems like a misnomer; calling it the “handling pack” would probably be more fitting. That's because, despite the modest increase in performance figures, it also includes a differential lock that reduces power understeer and larger diameter front discs.

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Renault Shifts Into Sport Mode with New Clio R.S. 200 EDC Powered by 197HP 1.6L Turbo

Hold on to your hats because Renault has just yanked the covers off the most dynamic version of its fourth generation Clio at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, the 2013 Clio RenaultSport (RS) 200 EDC.

While the French carmaker continues a long tradition of sport hatches, the new Clio RS differs in many ways from its predecessors. For starters, like the rest of the range, it will be offered exclusively as a five-door model.

However, the big differences are under the hood as Renault replaced the previous Clio RS' rev-happy 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-four that was connected to a six-speed manual gearbox with a new 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol that will available exclusively with the firm's EDC dual clutch, six-speed transmission.

This 1.6-liter unit delivers the same horsepower as before at 197hp (200PS) at 6,000 rpm, but has a higher peak torque at 240Nm (+25Nm) delivered from 1,750 rpm.

Renault has not announced acceleration figures, but it did divulge that the Clio RS 200 EDC "will use two liters/100km less fuel for an equivalent power output, plus 25Nm of extra torque compared with Clio III R.S.’s normally-aspirated 2.0 powerplant".

European buyers will have a choice of two different chassis including, the Sport version that is said to offer "an optimum balance of sportiness and comfort in everyday motoring", and the Cup chassis designed for track day enthusiasts, thanks to stiffer suspension that also rides 5mm closer to the ground.

On the styling front, the new Clio RS 200 gains an F1-style front blade, a rear diffuser and rear spoiler that are said to help generate 80 percent and 20 percent extra downforce respectively.

Also exclusive to this model are the unique grille and spoiler, front and rear bumper, LED daytime running lights, sill extensions, dual tail pipes and 17-inch wheels, with 18-inch rims available as an option.

As for the cabin, there are red accents used throughout, a sports steering wheel flanked by the two gearshift paddles, a dedicated instrument package and aluminium-capped pedals.

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Hyundai Announces Return to World Rally Championship With New i20-based Racer

If at first you don’t succeed, then try again. It took Hyundai almost nine years, but the South Korean automaker announced its return to the World Rally Championship (WRC) at the Paris Motor Show.

Hyundai’s previews attempt with the Accent WRC did not yield the results that the team expected, so it withdrew in 2003. However, it had a long-term goal of setting up an in-house racing team in Europe and competing in the world’s top rally championship.

This resulted in the WRC i20 that made its premiere today in Paris and will battle the likes of the Ford Fiesta, Citroen DS3, VW Polo and Mini Countryman in special stages around the world.

“The World Rally Championship is recognized as one of the most dramatic sporting series on Earth”, said Hyundai Motor Europe marketing director Mark Hall. “It’s a spectacle filled with excitement and dynamism − the perfect embodiment of the Hyundai brand.”

Although the company didn’t divulge any details of the i20 WRC, FIA regulations stipulate that entrants must be based on a production car and feature 1.6-liter turbocharged engines, all-wheel drive transmissions, sequential gearboxes and aerodynamic parts.

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Maserati Sports Up GranCabrio Drop Top with New MC Edition

Italian sports car manufacturer Maserati chose the 2012 Paris motor show to reveal its new GranCabrio MC. The company says it was inspired by the "considerable success of the GranTurismo MC Stradale" coupe and wanted to apply a similar – but not identical, treatment to its soft-top sports car.

The MC utilizes the same 4.7-litre V8 engine, which delivers 453hp (338kW / 460PS) and peak torque of 520Nm at 4,750 rpm, found on the GranTurismo MC Stradale as well as the recent GranTurismo Sport models.

However, instead of the Stradale's more aggressive robotized manual gearbox, the MC sticks to the milder-mannered and slower Auto Shift transmission. Maserati quotes a 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) sprint time of 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 289km/h (180mph).

The GranCabrio MC gains a stiffer suspension setup with single-rate dampers and Brembo brakes with one-piece aluminium alloy brake calipers, said to bring the car to a full stop from a speed of 100km/h (62mph) in 35 meters (114.9 feet).

The exterior styling package for the MC includes a new front bumper, air outlets on the hood, headlamps with LED daytime running lights, a large rear boot-lid spoiler (available in carbon fiber), a new rear bumper with a diffuser and twin tailpipes, plus 20-inch alloy wheels in glossy Titanio or matt Graphite.

Inside, the MC features a new set of front sport seats with a redesigned frame that frees more space for the rear passengers, a flat-bottom steering wheel with Trofeo-design paddles, aluminum pedal unit and carbon fiber trim décor.

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Refreshed Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Makes its Debut at the Paris Auto Show

It may not look like it, but when the Gallardo was first launched in 2003, its direct rival was the Ferrari 360.

While Maranello has since launched two new models to compete with the "raging bull", the Sant’ Agata-based supercar maker has simply responded by refreshing the Gallardo and presenting numerous special edition versions.

This practice proved quite successful, as with nearly 13,000 units sold to date, the "baby Lambo" is the brand's best-selling model ever.

At the 2012 Paris Auto Show, Lamborghini displayed the facelifted version of its Gallardo LP 560-4 and a new edition called LP 570-4 Edizione Tecnica .

All versions are powered by a V10 and besides the rear-wheel drive Gallardo LP 550-2 in Coupe and Spyder guise, feature permanent all-wheel drive.

The new Gallardo LP 560-4 features a reshaped front and rear end, with triangular and trapezoid shapes defining its more aggressive character. Customers also get matte black “Apollo polished” 19-inch alloys.

If they wish, they can opt for the new Styling Package which consists of high-gloss paintwork on the underside of the spoiler, front and rear grilles and the transverse element of the rear trim.

The more powerful Superleggera and its open-top “cousin”, the Spyder Performante, are now available in the Edizione Tecnica version that includes a fixed rear wing, standard ceramic brakes and three unique optional paint schemes with the roof arches and front air intakes in a contrasting color.

Lamborghini announced that sales of the new Gallardo will begin in November. 

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Maserati Resurrects Ghibli Name for New Mid-Size Sports Sedan, Uses Levante for SUV

On the occasion of the Mondial de l'Automobile 2012 in Paris, where Maserati is introducing thenew GranCabrio MC, the Italian sports car manufacturer announced the names for two of its upcoming models.

The first concerns Maserati's new mid-size luxury sedan that will sit under the next Quattroporteand which brings back to life the Ghibli nameplate that has been used two times in the past, for the 1963-1973 two-seater GT in coupe and convertible forms, and again from 1992 to 1997 for a four seater coupe.

The new Ghibli will offer Maserati a more direct rival to cars like the BMW M5 and 6-Series Grand Coupe, and the Mercedes-Benz CLS.

The other model that was named today is the production version of the Kubang SUV Concept, which will be called Levante, as in "Via Emilia Levante" in Bologna, where the Maserati brothers, almost a century ago, created the company that bears their name.

"Considering that Levante will be marketed in 2014, the year Maserati will celebrate its Centennial, it seems a proper name and, in many ways, a bridge to Maserati’s future," the automaker said in a statement.

Update: A previous version of this article wrongly stated that the Quattroporte will be renamed to Ghibli, which is not the case, as Maserati will continue to use the Quattroporte moniker for its next generation flagship sedan.

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All-New Mazda6 Sedan and Wagon Arrive in Paris, get Priced in the UK

Mazda’s new-generation mid-size model series in both saloon and estate (Tourer / Wagon) flavors are the focal point of the brand's exhibit at this year’s edition of the Paris Motor Show.

Redesigned from the ground up, the new Mazda6brings a sportier design language along with a lighter chassis that promises to deliver in the handling department, new and more fuel efficient engines and transmissions, plus fresh technologies such as the i-ELOOP, the Japanese company’s brake energy regeneration system.

The new Mazda6 will begin arriving in European dealerships later this year with a choice of three gasoline and two diesel units.

The four-cylinder gasoline range comprises the 2.0-liter SKYACTIVE-G available in two outputs with 143Hp (107 kW / 145PS) and 162Hp (121kW / 165PS), and the 2.5-liter SKYACTIVE-G producing 189Hp (141kW / 192PS).

Diesel options include a 2.2-litre SKYACTIV-D offered in two states of tune, with 147Hp (110kW / 150PS) and 173Hp (129kW / 175PS).

Besides the 2.5-liter unit that is coupled exclusively to a 6-speed automatic, all the other powertrains are offered with a choice of a 6-speed manual or an automatic with the same number of gears.

In the United Kingdom, the new Mazda6 will go on sale in January of 2013 priced from £19,595 to £28,045 (see the list below for details), with engine options including the SKYACTIV 2.0-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel with the choice of six-speed manual and automatic SKYACTIV transmissions.

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Renault Premieres Stylish and Roomy New Clio Estate in Paris

Who said that station wagon models have to look boring and forgettable? Well, we can think of a few manufacturers, but Renault isn't one of them, at least not with the new Clio Estate that was unwrapped today at the 2012 Paris Motor Show.

The station wagon version of its chic Clio Mk4 series will appear in European showrooms from the first quarter of 2013, depending on market, though the UK will miss out on this model.

"Thanks to its athletic proportions, New Clio Estate is not only practical, but also extremely elegant," says Yohann Ory, designer of New Clio Estate, and we will probably agree with him.

While the Estate’s wheelbase is identical to that of the new Clio hatchback, the rear overhang has been extended by 201 mm to 823 mm, increasing the overall length of the car to 4,262 mm.

This helps boost the Estate's loading capacity to 430 litres with the rear seats up, or 130 litres more than that of the five-door hatchback.

Renault has also lowered the loading sill with the Estate offering the ability to fold down not only the rear seats, but also the front passenger seat to create what the company describes as a "record maximum load length".

The styling of the Estate follows that of the hatchback up to the B-pillar and keeps the hidden rear door handles adding blacked out C- and D-pillars to create the illusion of a continuous glasshouse.

The Estate will be offered with the same engines found in the hatchback and which include the 89Hp (90PS) 0.9-liter three-cylinder and 118Hp (120PS) 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline units, the latter available with Renault's new EDC twin-clutch transmission.

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Skoda Rapid Makes…Sensual Debut in Paris, Pricing Starts From £12,900 in the UK

An affordable compact-sized sedan with ample passenger and luggage room is just what the doctor ordered for many new car buyers in Europe. The new Skoda Rapid, which made its first public appearance at the Paris Auto Showthis week, fits that description to a tee.

Loosely based on the VW Polo, the Rapid is 4.48 m (176.4 in.) long, 1.71 m (67.3 in.) wide and 1.46 m (57.5 in.) tall. It comes with a capacious 550-liter boot space and according to Skoda, ample room for “up to five persons”.

The Rapid will be available with four petrol and two diesel engines mated to either five- or six-speed manual transmissions, and optionally, a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG gearbox.

The base version is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.2-liter three-cylinder petrol with 74HP (75PS), a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder in 85 and 103 HP (86 and 105 PS) outputs and a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 121HP (122PS).

Diesel-powered versions are very popular in European markets due to their low consumption. The Rapid, which has already entered production at Skoda's Mlada Boleslav plant, will be available initially with a 104HP (105PS) 1.6-liter TDI CR that will be joined in the second half of 2013 by another 1.6-liter unit delivering 89HP (90PS).

Skoda also announced today that the Rapid will go on sale in the UK on November 12. Pricing starts at £12,900 for the base 1.2-liter version and tops out at £17,850 for the 1.6-liter TDI CR.

All models get front and curtain airbags, rake- and reach-adjustable steering wheel, height-adjustable driver’s seat, electric front windows and remote central locking.

The SE trim adds air conditioning, a trip computer, a leather steering wheel, Bluetooth connectivity, 15-inch alloy wheels, plus body-colored mirrors and door handles.

Opting for the top-of-the-line Elegance trim gets you 16-inch alloy wheels, cornering fog lights, cruise control, rear electric windows, a four-spoke multi-functional steering wheel and chrome interior detailing.

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Kia Returns to the Compact MPV Segment with All-New Carens that Can Fit up to 7 Passengers

"One of the most competitive market segments in Europe" - that’s how Kia describes the compact MPV class, which it re-enters with the all-new Carens.

Making its world premiere today at the 2012 Paris Auto Show, the new Carens is much more stylish than its predecessor as it adopts the company’s new design philosophy that has been introduced by design director Peter Schreyer.

Kia says that “the cab-forward design ensures generous interior space”, adding that the newCarens will be available with a choice of five or seven seats.

“The new Carens will have great appeal for families with an active lifestyle who seek both style and practicality”, commented Kia vice president and CEO Hyoung-Keun Lee.

The automaker has not released many technical details about its new model, which is believed to be based on the platform of the new Cee'd, other than the basic engine range.

In Europe, Kia said the Carens will offered with a choice of four powertrains, ranging in output from 113 to 174HP (115-177PS) with CO2 emissions from 118 g/km.

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Lexus LF-CC Concept: This is What an IS Coupe May Look Like

If you have not noticed, Lexus doesn't have a coupe model for the masses. The LFA is a technical tour-de-force, but it comes with a ridiculous price tag and a production run of only 500 units, making it essentially a halo car that displays the brand’s capabilities. The only other two-door model is the IS CC, which is a hardtop convertible.

Now this space will be filled with the production version of the LF-CC concept that premiered at the Paris Auto Show.

Building on the very positive reaction that the LF-LC received at January’s Detroit Motor Show, the LF-CC is a more down-to-earth, almost production-ready model, that will inspire a coupe version of the next IS series to compete against the BMW 3/4 Series Coupe.

The front-engined, rear-wheel drive concept also features a hybridpowertrain, which according to the company, will eventually power other models, too.

It consists of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with direct injection that operates on the more efficient Atkinson cycle, a compact electric motor, a generator, a battery, a power split device and a central control unit that manages the internal combustion engine-electric motor-battery operation modes.

Although Lexus says that the LF-CC’s CO2 emissions are less than 100 g/km, it keeps mum about its output and performance figures. It only says that it will produce “more than 2HP for every gram of CO2”, which is a little vague but points at 200HP or even more.

The LF-CC is 4,660 mm (183.5 inches) long, 1,840 mm (72.4 inches) wide, 1,375 mm (54.1 inches) tall and sits on a 2,730 mm (107.5-inch) wheelbase.

Therefore, even though the overall shape and proportions have caused speculation of the new Lexus coupe being based on the Toyota 86/Scion FR-S, it is actually considerably larger in all dimensions.

The suspension sports double wishbones up front and a multi-link rear arrangement at the rear, with the car rolling on 20-inch wheels wrapped in 245/35 on the front axle and 285/30 at the rear.

Lexus designers have a winner in their hands, as the Detroit concept has proved. Even though it’s less futuristic, the LF-CC doesn’t stray away from this car featuring taut, muscular lines which, along with the most aggressive interpretation yet of the brand’s “spindle” grille, create an impressive shape.

The interior has clearly been inspired by the LFA, with the steering wheel, instrument panel and layout of the dashboard borrowing several elements from the Lexus supercar.

An image gallery as well as a new video of the LF-CC follow right after the break.

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New Nissan Juke NISMO Packs Tuned Turbo Engine with 197-Horses and Sport Chassis

Nissan is launching its re-born NISMO sub-division in Europe with a new sportier version of its successful Juke small crossover.

Following the Juke NISMO edition's first public appearance supporting Nissan's Le Mans 24hr race campaign in June, the production-ready model made its motor show debut today in Paris.

While there are plenty of cosmetic changes over the regular model, the Juke NISMO is much more than a styling package as it adds some zing to the crossover model via an engine and chassis tune.

Powering the Juke NISMO is an uprated version of the DiG-T model's 1.6-litre, direct injection turbocharged petrol engine delivering 197Hp (200PS) at 6,000 rpm and 250Nm between 2,400-4,800 rpm, an increase of 9Hp and 10Nm respectively.

Nissan will offer the Juke NISMO in both 2WD and 4WD variants, the latter equipped with a CVT gearbox as standard.

The 2WD model accelerates from zero to 100km/h (62mph) in 7.8 seconds and has a maximum speed of 215 km/h (134 mph), while the 4WD model sprints from 0-100km/h in 8.2 seconds and tops out at 200 km/h (124 mph).

Nissan says that, even though the NISMO model offers improved performance over the standard 1.6-litre DiG-T model, fuel economy and CO2 emissions "are expected to be unaffected".

The car's chassis has been re-tuned to deliver improved cornering performance, grip and direct steering feel. According to the automaker, spring rates have been increased by 10 per cent, while the dampers and steering system have been modified.

The exterior package comprises an aerodynamic kit with new lower front and rear bumpers, wider wings and sill side skirts, along with a modified grille and tailgate spoiler. The Juke NISMO rolls on 18-inch alloy wheels shod in 225/45 R18 performance tires.

Inside the cabin, which is revealed here for the first time, the NISMO treatment brings redesigned sport seats, steering wheel, pedals, gauges, gear knob and door trims. Seating, steering and door surfaces are trimmed in Alcantara with accent red stitching.

Andy Palmer, Executive Vice President Global Product Planning, commented: "The introduction of Juke NISMO further cements our dedication to provide innovation and excitement for everyone. The Juke, with its radical design and pioneering attitude, is the natural choice to be one of the first Nissan models to receive the mythical performance and distinctive design treatment from our NISMO specialists."

The Juke NISMO will be built at Nissan's manufacturing plant in Sunderland, UK, alongside the other models of the series, with European sales to begin early next year. Nissan said pricing will be announced closer to launch.

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New Toyota Auris Touring Sports Targets Europe's Popular Compact Wagon Market

You may be surprised to learn that in Europe, station wagons are quite popular and currently represent about a fourth of the mainstream C-segment (compact models) sales mix.

Toyota was absent from the category with the first generation of the Auris, but is now ready to enter the market with an estate version of its brand-new Auris hatchback.

Making its world premiere at the 2012 Paris motor show, the new Auris Touring Sports will be the first in the segment to be available with a full hybrid powertrain.

While it retains the same 2,600mm wheelbase as the hatchback, the estate model is 285mm longer overall, all of which is accounted for in the extended load space – though Toyota does not provide any specific numbers.

The Touring Sports also has the same front-end design as the five-door modelm but gains a different glass area with an extended roofline featuring anodised aluminium rails and an integrated rear spoiler. Furthermore, the redesigned rear end of the car features an 80mm lower sill.

Besides a hybrid powerplant borrowed from the Prius, the Auris Touring Sports will also be available from launch with the same 1.33 Dual VVT-i and 1.6 Valvematic petrol and 1.4 D-4D diesel units offered in the hatchback.

Standard features on all models include seven airbags, a new follow-me-home lighting system, Hill-start Assist Control, Vehicle Stability Control and LED daytime running lights.

The Auris Touring Sports will reach European showrooms in early 2013.

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Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse Special has the Baby Blues

Bugatti's contribution to this year's Paris Motor Show is a new special edition model of the Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse, which is the most powerful version of the open-top model of the series.

Whenever Bugatti mentions the words "special edition", most of the times what it means to say is a unique color scheme for the exterior and interior of one of its cars, which holds true in the case of the Paris motor show model.

Then again, as the company itself stated today, "each one of the 300 Veyrons and 40 Grand Sport built so far are unique", so it's not really a special edition, is it…

In any case, the color theme of the car featured on Bugatti's stand is inspired by the classic Type 37A, with the upper area of the body finished in “Bianco” white and the lower body panels, along with the inner surfaces of the alloy wheels and the underside of the automatically extending rear spoiler, in “New Light Blue.”

The interior of Bugatti's hyper car sports a Cognac leather treatment.

According to Bugatti, the 410 km/h (255 mph) and 1,184Hp (1,200PS) model on display in Paris has already found a buyer in the U.S. who acquired the vehicle for $2.5 million or €1.9 million at the current exchange rates.

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Hyundai ix35 is the First Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle to Enter Series Production

At the Paris Auto Show, Hyundai announced that it will begin production of the ix35 Fuel Cellcrossover (also know as the Tucson) at its Ulsan plant in South Korea. The initial projection is 1,000 units by 2015 and a limited mass production of 10,000 units after that.

The ix35 Fuel Cell features a fuel cell stack that converts hydrogen into electricity, which charges the lithium polymer battery that powers the electric motor. It is a zero-emissions vehicle since the only thing that it emits is water vapor.

“The ix35 Fuel Cell is the pinnacle of Hyundai’s advanced engineering and our most powerful commitment to be the industry leader in eco-friendly mobility”, said Hyundai vice chairman and head of R&D Woong Chul Yang. “Zero-emissions cars are no longer a dream. Our ix35 Fuel Cell vehicle is here today, and ready for commercial use.”

Unlike other zero-emissions vehicles, like EVs that require a long period of charging and have a limited range, topping up the ix35’s hydrogen tank can be achieved in a few minutes and its maximum range is 588 km (365 miles).

The compact crossover was chosen because it is the second best-selling Hyundai model in Europe behind the i30. Its performance figures are similar to petrol-engined versions: it accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 12.5 seconds and tops out at 160 km/h (100 mph).

Hyundai said that it targets both public and private fleets and announced that it has already signed contracts with cities in Sweden and Denmark to lease the ix35 Fuel Cell in their municipal fleets.

By Andrew Tsaousis

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New Peugeot RCZ R Study with 260HP

Displayed alongside the regular versions of the mildly refreshed RCZ at the French firm's Paris Auto Salon booth is a thinly disguised prototype of a model that will soon gain the title of the most powerful production model in Peugeot's automobile range.

The study is the RCZ R and it is showcased in Paris in matt black and copper livery that echoes another Peugeot concept unveiled at the show,the ‘Onyx’ supercar.

Peugeot said the car is currently being developed in partnership with its motorsports division with the intention of launching it onto the market before the end of 2013.

The highlight of the RCZ R is a heavily modified version of the standard model's 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine tuned to deliver 260Hp, which equals a specific power of more than 160bhp/litre, among the highest in the world for a production model.

Despite the high output, Peugeot says the new unit will return CO2 emissions of approximately 155g/km.

Besides the newly found power, the RCZ gets a revamped suspension and new wheels combined with a Torsen limited slip differential on the front axle.

The package is completed with aero enchantments, wider front and rear fenders and a re-trimmed interior.

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BMW’s Hybrid Active Tourer Concept is a 1-Series GT in Disguise

If things stayed the same, we would probably still be living in caves – or even worse. Change is inevitable and this stands for car manufacturers, too.

BMW apparently thinks the same way; that’s why the Active Tourer Concept that premiered at theParis Auto Show toady breaks with the Bavarian carmaker’s tradition by offering front-wheel drive.

The automaker claims that its latest study “offers an initial insight into innovations for the premium compact segment… in terms of both the interior and the drive concept.”

In plain English, this means that the Active Tourer Concept previews most elements of the company’s compact MPV model named Gran Turismo, which will become part of the 1-Series range to compete against the the Mercedes-Benz B-Class.

The Active Tourer Concept is powered by a version of BMW’s eDrive hybrid system that comprises a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine that drives the front wheels, an electric motor that powers the rear axle and a lithium-ion battery that can be charged in any conventional socket.

The concept can operate solely on electric power, with a range of more than 30 km (18 miles). Despite total combine output reaching 187HP (190bhp) that allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint in under 8 seconds, the Active Hybrid has an average fuel consumption of less than 2.5 lt/100 km (94 mpg US) and emits under 60g of CO2 per km.

The production model will be front-wheel drive and powered by the German carmaker’s new TwinPower family of engines, while a hybrid may complete the line-up.

By Andrew Tsaousis

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Chevrolet Jumps on the Small CUV Bandwagon with New Trax

The main attraction at Chevrolet's Paris Motor Show stand is the brand-new Trax that made its world premiere today in the City of Light.

If the Trax looks familiar, that's because it is essentially a re-bodied version of the Buick Encore and Opel Mokka twins. It will be sold in some 140 countries worldwide, excluding the United States and Canada where General Motors is already represented in the category by the Encore.

The Trax measures 4,248 mm in length, 1,776 mm in width and 1,674 mm in height, and can accommodate a maximum of 1,370 litres when the seats are folded down.

The European specification model offers an engine lineup that includes a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated petrol (to be released in 2013), a 138hp (140PS) 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol linked to a 6-speed manual, and a 1.7-liter turbocharged diesel with an output of 129hp (130PS) and 300Nm (221 lb-ft).

Both the 1.7L diesel and the 1.4L turbo gasoline engine will be optionally offered with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

According to Chevrolet, the 1.7L diesel engine will require 4.5lt/100 km (52.3mpg US or 62.8mpg UK) when mated to a manual transmission, while the 1.4L turbo, 6.5 liters per 100km (36.2mpg US or 43.5mpg UK) with a manual gearbox. CO2 emissions are 120 and 149 g/km, respectively.

Among other highlights worth mentioning is a front passenger seat that can be folded flat and the availability of the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with a seven-inch full color touch-screen display.

Together with the regular versions of the Trax, GM also displayed a Manchester United-themed model to celebrate its partnership with the famous UK football team.

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