FORD
We saw it at Geneva, but with its arrival in Europe now imminent, Ford
was showing off its EcoSport again in Frankfurt. Built in India, it will offer
Kuga like features in a smaller package, and will particularly showcase
wider useability of SYNC, Ford's connectivity system. Power will be 1.0
and 1.5 petrol engines and a 1.5 diesel.
The Ford S-MAX Concept previewed the next generation of the medium
MPV and showcases improved looks and a smoother style. The front end
is particularly in line with the latest style from Ford's current cars, and
there's a neater silhouette than has the existing S-MAX. The Concept
featured a 1.5 EcoBoost petrol engine, and the heart and blood glucose
monitors that Ford is experimenting with at its R&D HQ in Aachen.
Attempting to counter the encroach of premium middle and large cars
into its mass-market domain, Ford has launched a new Vignale grade
which will sell for between 10-15% more than its current top Titanium
grade whenever the new Mondeo arrives. In addition to a special grille
and other exterior detailing, owners will have a more cosseted interior and
will get such perks as valet parking at airports, fast-track through airport
security, and free wash-and-vac for life.
HONDA
Honda used the show to confirm its development of the Civic R, but there
was no car to see. However, in a whetting of the appetite for Honda speed,
they had this Castrol Honda 2013 WTCC car on the stand as well as the
RC213V Race Motorcycle ridden by Stefan Bradl that is currently running in
the Moto GP and the 2013 Honda CRF450X Dakar Rally model.
Finally the production version of the new Civic Tourer, little changed
from the concept version we saw at Geneva earlier in the year. Coming to
dealerships in the early part of next year, the Tourer was developed here in
Europe and will be built in the UK. Power is from the 1.6 i-DTEC diesel with
120hp and 99g/km CO2. The 5-door Civic gets some refreshments to its
outside and interior.
You can never pass a Honda stand without diverting to the NSX Concept,
this one the same II version shown at Geneva. An ultimate supercar whenever
(if) it finally gets built.
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