What's New: November 2005

Volkswagen CrossPolo

At the recent Motor Show in Essen, Germany, Volkswagen showed their new CrossPolo. It is an adaptation of the existing car that seeks to extend the range's popularity in Europe, adding extra cladding around the car's ankles. Like the Audi A6 Allroad, it also features (matt) brightwork for the roof rack and door-mirrors, while the central parts of the front and rear graphics are also lightened for contrast against the grey bumpers. The Volkswagen CrossPolo is 154mm taller than the standard Polo, the extra height offset by 17? alloy wheels. It is available with two petrol and two diesel engines, outputs ranging from 64 to 100PS, with prices starting from around $20,000.

Audi R8

Audi has given the green light to the R8, the production version of the Le Mans concept shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2003. It will be based on a modified Lamborghini Gallardo platform, and scheduled launched on the market in Spring 2007. The R8 will be produced in Neckarsulm, where Audi has a plant specifically for aluminium-bodied cars. It was also the site of production of the Wankel-engined NSU Ro80. $30million will be invested in the production line, while testing headed by Quattro GmbH has already begun.

Cadillac Escalade

Cadillac has unveiled the 2007 Escalade, based on the General Motors full-size SUV platform. Under the hood, there is a new 6.2-liter aluminium V8 with variable valve timing that produces 403PS and 565Nm of torque. The Escalade will be launched early next year, with an even more gargantuan long-wheelbase version due later. Outside, the car remains suitably imposing, the DRG extending themes promoted by the Cadillac Sixteen. Inside, there is higher contrast trim and greater symmetry in the IP. The Escalade features a Road Sensing System, which continually scans the road, adjusting the damping to suit.

 

Ford GTX1

The SEMA (Special Equipment Marketing Association) show in Las Vegas is a popular venue for manufacturers to display tuned versions of current production cars. Among the plethora of low skirts and wide rims this year was the Ford GTX 1, an open version of the Ford GT.

Reflecting the 1966 GTX 1, it has been conceived by the Ford Special Vehicle Team in conjunction with Gennadi Design, who built it. Having removed the roof, two wide-spaced humps remain behind the headrests with pill-shaped graphics, and a central window to view the engine. The conversion costs $38,000.

Lincoln Aviator

Lincoln have exposed the new Aviator, due out next year to replace its prehistoric forebear. Stylistically derived from the Aviator concept shown at the 2004 Detroit show, the production version will be based on the Mazda 6 platform rather than the Ford Explorer. It will be powered by a 3.5-liter 250PS V6, with 6-speed automatic, to take on the Lexus RX330 ? though there is no word yet on a hybrid option. The rear carries the concept's horizontal theme, though loses its chrome decoration and thick D-pillar. The design appears better integrated, and supports Lincoln's intentions to update their current 'older person's luxury car' image. On the heels of athletic Japanese and German rivals, the SUV is fast becoming more sports than utility.
 

Ssangyong Actyon

Ssangyong have released photos of the Actyon, a small/medium sized SUV to replace the outdated yet still-hugely popular Korando. Its name derives from the words 'Action' and 'Young', a clear indication to target the younger generation who are seeking a unique vehicle to match their active life style.

Designed at the Ssangyong Design Center under the leadership of Creative Director Ken Greenley, Actyon will compete against the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage in an ultra-competitive small SUV segment in Korea.

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