New Cars 8

Ford C-MAX

Ford of Europe has released the first official images of the all-new Ford C-MAX, which will make its global debut at the 2009 IAA in Frankfurt.

Taking its design cues from the Iosis Max concept car unveiled at this year's Geneva motor show, the production C-MAX is claimed to bring new levels of style and desirability to the compact multi-activity vehicle (MAV) market. Departing from usual MAV thinking by using Ford's 'kinetic' design language, which adopts a more dynamic passenger-car look, the new model features a sweeping roofline while still retaining the defining C-MAX space and practicality features.

The new car will be launched in the second half of 2010 and is the first in a new generation of global vehicles developed from Ford's new C-segment platform, scheduled for introduction over the next several years. The global range will also include the all-new Ford Focus coming in late 2010.

04 Sep 09

Hyundai ix-Metro

Hyundai has just released a series of renderings of the ix-Metro concept, a vehicle the Korean automaker plans to reveal at the IAA in Frankfurt.

The fifth in a series of concept cars to be created by the Global Design Team in Namyang Korea, the ix-Metro is a showcase for Hyundai's 'Blue Drive' eco-initiative and it will take center stage in a special Blue Drive Zone among an array eco-friendly technologies and products. The sub-B segment hybrid-electric CUV promises CO2 emissions of just 80g/km and is powered by an inline three-cylinder petrol engine displacing just one-liter.

Hyundai will also unveil the ix35, the European version of the all-new Tucson SUV which made its debut in the Korean market earlier this month. Designed in Europe and to be built in Europe, the ix35 is the first production vehicle expressing Hyundai's new 'fluidic sculpture' design language. We'll bring you more details on both vehicles from the Frankfurt show.

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New Car: Hyundai ix35

03 Sep 09
New Volvo C70

Volvo has significantly revised its C70, replacing the model that made its debut in 2006. The new coupe/convertible features a redesigned exterior and interior, yet retains the three-piece retractable roof and four seat accommodations of its predecessor. "We have carefully redesigned the front and rear of the car so they harmonise more with the larger Volvo models," said Fedde Talsma, Exterior Chief Designer of Volvo Cars. "We have also increased the exclusiveness of the interior materials and trim details to enhance the feeling of luxury."

Taking inspiration from the S60 concept, the C70 is now more closely aligned with the design language of the larger cars in the Volvo range. Revisions have been made to the grille, hood, headlamps, fenders and fog lamps to give the vehicle a more modern and subtly aggressive DRG, while the rear features LED lamps, as found on the XC60. Inside, the instrument panel has been redesigned to give it a wider look and a new surface texture is also said to enhance the quality feel.

The C70 is set to be revealed at the 2009 IAA in Frankfurt later this month.

02 Sep 09
Lexus LF-Ch preview

Following on from a front three-quarter sketch released to the press last week, Lexus has given us a good view of its Premium Compact Concept from the rear - along with its proper name: LF-Ch. Equipped with Lexus's Hybrid Drive system, this BMW 1 Series rival will be able to run on both electric and gasoline when it goes on sale in 2010.

The car's full volumes, raked-back windscreen and aggressive new variation on Lexus's corporate nose are visible from the sketch, while the new rear image confirms that the newcomer will combine the looks of a coupe with the practicality of four doors. We'll report more fully once we've seen the car in the metal at Frankfurt in a few weeks' time.

01 Sep 09
BMW Vision EfficientDynamics

BMW has revealed a radical new concept set to be unveiled at the forthcoming Frankfurt motor show. Dubbed Vision EfficientDynamics, the vehicle is a showcase for the German automaker's new lightweight technologies and material adaptations.

The prototype features a series of layered, flowing design elements which come together to create a lightweight vision for the future: a performance-oriented model created to not only conjure up emotion but to also epitomize BMW's 'EfficientDynamics' technologies. Devoid of A-, B- and C-pillars, the concept includes a supporting structure over which is draped polycarbonate glass, a material that also comprises its weight-optimized gullwing doors. The 2+2-seat concept's composite body has been designed as a clear expression of aerodynamic quality, while retaining a design language that is typical of the BMW brand.

The interior was created out of very few surfaces to establish a "visual lightness", according to interior designer Jochen Paesen. The cabin intentionally demonstrates the very latest in modern technology, while simultaneously employing the use of natural materials. Depending on the amount of incoming light, the polycarbonate roof and door inserts automatically become darker.

Photo Gallery: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics

27 Aug 09
Ferrari 458 Italia - New images

In the run-up to the official unveiling of the 458 Italia at the Frankfurt motor show, Ferrari has revealed the first photographs of the new berlinetta's interior as well as driving and additional studio shots.

From our first detailed view of the interior we can deduce that the steering wheel and instrument binnacle designs enhance the ergonomic interface between driver and car. The main commands are grouped on the steering wheel, with the secondary commands handily set in two satellite pods either side of the dash.

Working closely with the Styling Centre, Ferrari engineers have positioned the major commands to provide a driver-oriented cockpit. All steering-column mounted stalks have been eliminated, with the indicators, full beam and windscreen wiper functions now being activated by buttons on the steering wheel boss.

Controls for the infotainment, Bluetooth connection, sat-nav, digital speedo and rear parking camera are situated in the right-hand satellite pod, while the optional cruise control, video setting buttons for the dash-mounted TFT screen and the on-board computer interface are clustered on the left.

Ferrari has also included an exclusive video interview with Paolo Pininfarina, Chairman of Pininfarina S.p.A., who provides in depth insight into the 458 Italia's design philosophy and exterior styling. Follow the link to see it: Paolo Pininfarina on the Ferrari 458 Italia

Photo Gallery: Ferrari 458 Italia

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New Car: Ferrari 458 Italia

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