Frankfurt Motor Show 2015: Our Stars
Last week marked the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show which with huge new car launches, world record attempts, sneak previews of the latest technology and exciting announcements, captivated car lovers and the automotive industry alike. Here at Vantage, we couldn't contain our excitement as nearly all of our franchises treated us to brand new car launches, incredible photos and plenty of gossip! Find a recap of all the excitement below.
Toyota
Toyota treated us to the world debut of the all-new Prius at the Frankfurt Motor Show ahead of going on sale in 2016. With CO2 emissions set to improve by 18%, the new fourth-generation Prius is set to deliver the largest advance so far in efficiency and establish new benchmarks for fuel economy. True to its established role as the "technology ambassador" for Toyota, the Prius is due to be the first model to adopt a New Global Architecture platform, key to delivering better handling, a more rewarding drive and a more stylish and appealing design. We don't know about you, but we can't wait for 2016!
It was the year of the hybrid for Toyota at Frankfurt, with the reveal of the new RAV4 Hybrid which is due for release in 2016. It will be the first time that Toyota have taken their full hybrid technology into the compact SUV market, making it all the more exciting! The new model will be available in both two-wheel and all-wheel drive, and will undergo styling revisions both inside and out whilst adopting new technologies including Toyota Safety Sense. Looks like 2016 will be an exciting year for Toyota.
The CH-R Concept, revealed ahead of a production model at next year's Geneva Motor Show, builds on the design study which received incredible feedback in Paris last year. The latest CH-R Concept, five-door model and inspired by the cuts of a diamond, benefits from a Toyota New Global Architecture platform, and a lighter, more compact hybrid powertrain. The countdown to Geneva 2016 starts now!
Hyundai
Hyundai showcased their new high performance, sub-division at the Frankfurt Motor Show with the N 2025 Vision Gran Turismo Concept. A clever move by Hyundai, set to entice the younger audience with its appearance on Playstation's Gran Turismo video game, the 872bhp hydrogen powered concept car will drum up a huge amount of interest amongst future car buyers. Will you be buying the video game to see it in action?
After being named 'Best City Car 2015' by What Car? Hyundai have seemingly decided to toughen-up their i20 with the reveal of the i20 Active at Frankfurt. With a beefier grille and bumper, a raised ride height and chunky side skirts, Hyundai have gone for a completely new look for the rugged i20 Active.
Lexus
The fourth-generation RX made its European debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, ahead of its market launch in January 2016. With a striking design, inspired by the NX crossover, it leads a display that captures the brand's commitment to striking new design and the application of innovative, advanced technologies. It will be available in the UK with 2 versions, the full hybrid RX 450h and the turbo petrol-powered RX 200t. Hands up who's excited?
Citroen
Bringing the beach to Frankfurt, the Cactus M Concept beach buggy convertible made its debut, re-imagining the iconic Mehari. With a completely waterproof interior, inflatable roof and tough plastic panels, this Concept car is perfect for a day on the beach! Unfortunately, Citroen insist that it is just a concept for now, with no release date penned as yet but we sure hope they change their mind!
Honda
Are you a bike fan? Then this Frankfurt release from Honda is perfect for you! Based on the spacious Civic Tourer estate, Honda revealed the Civic Tourer Active Life Concept aiming to add style and lots of new features, particularly aimed at cyclists. Interested? The Active Life Concept features: a smart bike loading rack, an aerodynamic roof box, a toolbox, water holder and front wheel holder. Not only this, the Active Life Concept has been given a sporty makeover with lots of extra detail, like the blue stitching on the steering wheel, dashboard and gearshift! Although this is simply a concept, how fantastic would this be for those weekends away with the family? Well, we can dream.....
Fancy yourself a single-seater, bike-car cross? Check out the Project 2&4 Concept, which Honda finally lifted the lid on at Frankfurt Motor Show. A collaboration between the brand's motorcycle and automobile design studios, the concept is intended to combine the open-riding sensations of a motorbike with the manoeuvrability of a car. Snazzy!
Kia
With a design inspired by the KX-3 Concept first shown in China last year, the Kia Sportage is back with a bold and progressive design with all the latest Kia design cues, like the distinctive front grille, sharp lines and LED lights. Although from a distance, it doesn't look much different from the current Kia Sportage, a redesigned front end and broader shoulder-line keep the new edition looking fresh. We're so excited to have this in our showroom!
Mazda
This reveal was certainly one we found extremely exciting. The Koeru SUV Concept hints that Mazda may be getting in on the Coupe SUV craze! Taking inspiration from the CX-3 and CX-5, it combines power, vitality and refinement whilst combining Mazda's core engineering beliefs with distinguished design. We can't wait to see if this concept becomes a reality! Can you?
For more information on any of these exciting reveals: