The New York Auto Show has more than a few surprises. Conor Twomey reports.
MERCEDES
Four years and one million cars later, Mercedes-Benz has facelifted its popular E-Class model by changing over 2,000 parts. There are quite a few mechanical improvements. There's a new sporty package with a sharper steering, gear change and suspension.
There are also six new or revised engines. The E200 CDI, E220 CDI and E200 Kompressor all boast more power, while the E500 gets a new 388 bhp, 5.5-litre V8 and the top E63 AMG is powered by a new 514 hp 6.3-litre V8.
JEEP
A fellow member of the DaimlerChrysler family, Jeep also unveiled two new models - the long-wheelbase Wrangler and the production version of the Patriot. The Wrangler LWB has four doors, a diesel engine, EPS, side airbags and four-wheel disc ABS brakes. The new Jeep Patriot targets the likes of the Rav4 and Honda CR-V, with AWD as standard.
LEXUS
Lexus fittingly chose the New York show to wheel out its new LS600h luxury flagship. The 430 bhp LS600h boasts the world's first hybrid V8 which combines a 5.0-litre petrol engine with two electric motors integrated into its CVT. The LS600h has standard AWD and will be "one of the quietest automobiles ever." It goes on sale in Europe in June 2007.
SCION (TOYOTA)
Over at Scion, Toyota's youth brand, an aggressive Fuse concept was unveiled indicating that a future high performance model is planned. The speed-activated spoiler is a good sign of what's in store, though the colour-programmable front lights, drive-by-wire steering and over-use of LCD screens are not likely to make production.
AUDI
The all-new Audi TT was unveiled at New York, with more aggressive looks and performance. Based on the new Golf platform, the TT is longer and wider than before and its superstructure is 69 per cent aluminium. A 200 bhp, 2.0-litre turbo and six-speed manual are standard, (0-100 km/h in 6.4 seconds; 150 mph) while a 250 bhp 3.2-litre V6 is also available, (0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds). DSG and Quattro are optional on the 2.0T.
BENTLEY
Another member of the VW stable, Bentley, unveiled its gorgeous Continental GTC ragtop. Mechanically identical to the coupé, save for a reworked rear suspension, it's got the same 550 bhp, twin-turbo 6.0-litre W12, sophisticated AWD system, six-speed auto and active air suspension. 0100 km/h takes just 5.1 seconds and top speed is 312km/h.
Impressive, considering its chassis reinforcement and extra safety kit ups its weight by 110kg to a whopping 2,495kg.
VOLKSWAGEN
VW has decided to go back to the daft Rabbit name for the US model Mk V Golf, just like they did with the Mk I. The name 'Rabbit' doesn't actually appear on the car, but there is a little illustration of one on the back.
NISSAN
Nissan's luxury brand, Infiniti, is currently enjoying great critical success and should make a big splash when the brand is launched in Europe next decade. The first Europe-bound Infiniti could well be the all-new G35 saloon - handsome, beautifully appointed inside, bristling with technology and a nicer drive than even the BMW 330i.
Nissan also unveiled the handsome replacement to its best-selling Altima model. The new Altima boasts better looks and interior room and uses an efficient CVT transmission.
CEO Carlos Ghosn quashed rumours that he was taking over from Rick Wagoner at the helm of GM, stating he had no interest in the job.
GM
GM used the NY show to highlight its Saturn brand, showing off a 260 bhp version of the Saturn Sky, the new Vectra-based Aura saloon and gawky Outlook crossover. Saturn is moving away from its budget brand origins and is being repositioned as something of a VW rival - slightly upmarket, European in flavour and sporty to drive. That explains why the Sky and Aura were developed by Opel; the Outlook is destined for Opel badges and the next generation Saturn Ion (currently a plastic-bodied oddity) is Opel Astra-based.
FORD
Although Ford had nothing new to tout, it did make a big fuss about performance. Ford revived the legendary Mustang GT350-H model, which will be available to rent at selected Hertz locations just like the original 1966 rent-a-racer. The limited edition GT-H is painted black with gold racing stripes and features a unique body kit, tuned suspension and a 325 bhp 4.6litre V-8.
AND THE REST
Elsewhere, Mazda unveiled its new CX-9 crossover - an all-new seven-seat SUV/MPV mongrel powered by a 250 bhp, 3.5-litre V6 with a six-speed auto and optional on-demand AWD.
Volvo revealed a mildly face-lifted XC90 with a new 238 bhp, 3.2-litre, straight-six engine and upgraded D5 turbo diesel.
Land Rover let slip that the all-new Freelander will go on sale in the US after all, wearing the company's US LR2 badge.