As all the official unveilings at this year’s North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) have taken place, we select the Top 10.
Audi
Audi’s Allroad Shooting Brake Concept illustrates the design language that we can expect in upcoming models. Expect features such as the headlights and parts of the nose section to debut in the upcoming TT.
Chevrolet
The tantalising prospect of right-hand-drive Corvettes arriving at our shore in the near future makes news of the this Z06 even more exciting. The 6,2-litre, supercharged V8 engine will produce 466 kW and a whopping 860 N.m!
Infiniti
It seems we can expect high-performance models from Infiniti in the near future. The Q50 Eau Rounge Concept has been influenced by Formula One trends, while carbon-fibre has been used extensively.
Kia
Finally, after making leaps and bounds with its passenger cars over the past decade, Kia is looking into producing a true sportscar. The GT4 Stinger features a 2,0-litre turbocharged engine producing 235 kW that will be sent to the rear wheels, while the car is set to tip the scales at only 1 300 kg. Come on Kia, just build it!
Lexus
Mercedes-Benz and BMW are going the turbocharged route with the upcoming C63 AMG and M3/M4. However, Lexus has decided to stick with a 5,0-litre V8 naturally-aspirated engine for its RC-F coupe. The carmaker promises this engine “generates more than 335 kW” which should put it precisely in the Germans’ territory.
Mercedes-Benz
The market for compact SUVs is growing, and the latest addition from Mercedes-Benz is the GLA45 AMG. Offering the same drivetrain as the A45 AMG, it is little more than a hot hatch on stilts. Performance is almost on par of that of the A45 AMG, too.
Porsche
Porsche has gone back to its roots. Now the Targa’s styling offers the same flashy roll-over hoop than on the very first 911 Targas. Offering an innovative automatic roof mechanism, the Targa – for the first time – features a combination of classic and retro styling. It will only be offered with Porsche’s all-wheel-drive system.
Subaru
The new WRX STI might not have made the jump in power that some of us expected, but still, on a wet road few cars will be able to catch it. Offering 227 kW/393 N.m and a new Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Centre Differential as well as torque vectoring, the new STI should be even more focused to drive than before.
Toyota
There has been a lot of interest in the FT-1, for very good reasons. Toyota has teased as with several Supra replacement concepts over the years, but this is the closest to a production car to date. We say stop teasing and start producing, especially since there are talks of a high-powered petrol engine.
Volkswagen
It doesn’t have a four-wheel-drive system, but with more ground clearance and in being taller, wider and longer, the Beetle Dune Concept might be the Beetle some customers were looking for. Under the bonnet is the well-known 155 kW 2,0-litre turbocharged engine powering the front wheels. No news yet whether it will make production.