Most of the concepts have pretty regular wacky shapes and smart grid communications features the futurists are always in love with, of course they're all "green" and electric, but one in particular made us shake our heads. Whoever came up with the "GM Car Hero" needs a very stern talking to.

It still has a canvas top, it's gained clamshell portes suicides, and it's more luxurious than the original 2CV, because not even the French bring wicker seats to an auto show. However, it's currently about as powerful as the old 2CV, because this concept doesn't seem to come with an engine, just a promise that it's fit for all sorts of "lively and spirited" zero-emissions powerplants. Heck, it's the French, so we recommend the unbridled testing of nukes.

The S.X Concept features lower, wider svelte bodywork flowing over a wheelbase that is shorter than the current BMW 6-Series. With short over hangs, large wheels and dramatic styling, we've got to say that Mr. Bumbo has outdone himself and possibly even BMW as well. [via Diseno-Art]

Image © Iulian Bumbu
Image © Iulian Bumbu
Image © Iulian Bumbu
Image © Iulian Bumbu
Image © Iulian Bumbu
Image © Iulian Bumbu

The deep bass of the American V8-powered GTbyCITROËN concept certainly sounds better than the UFO-esque sounds pumping out of it in Gran Turismo 5 Prologue, but will it sound this knarly when it begins it's limited-number production run? We might just have to start forgiving the French if that's going to be the case. (Hat Tip To @asianmartin!)

The 1995 Lincoln Sentinel concept was originally first up for auction back in April, when O.C. Welch Ford Lincoln-Mercury in Hardeeville, South Carolina tried to unload it from their personal collection for $80,000. With a foul-mouthed economy the concept didn't sell the first time around which drastically lowered the buy-it-now price by $31,500.

Unfortunately the car for auction isn't a full runner, rather a non-functional rolling chassis with a waterline interior (industry speak for an exterior only model), but regardless of its inability to be driven, you can still have quite a bit of fun adding this to your collection. (Hat Tip To Josh!)

Check out the Ebay auction HERE.

[Ebay Motors]

Igor has taken visual cues from the Ferrari F430, Saleen S7, Lamborghini Reventon and mashed them all with a healthy dose of sci-fi to create this killer super car concept. The rear of the Muska is certainly the most dramatic with twin, military jet afterburner-inspired tail lights that, while a bit large, serve as a very interesting visual statement.

The likelihood of a car like this ever going into production is slim at best, but who says we can't make our 'vroom, vroom' noises while drooling over these CG images? [via CarDesign.ru]

"Yeah Billy, go play in the busy street. Daddy's gonna sit here and watch with his beer. But hey, listen, I might fall asleep so whatever you do, don't talk to strangers...unless they have candy."

Seriously, what the hell happened to parenting? The most humorous thing is that rubber padding is installed under the swing for safety—like that's going to somehow stop a Buick from slamming into your kid. Thankfully, this is only a concept. [Maandag via The Design Blog]

The CHC011 is GreatWall's first foray into the 'car' building business as they're mostly known for SUVs and trucks. Set to debut next week at the Shanghai Auto Show, the concept will feature a 3.0-liter V6 mated with a six-speed automatic transmission, 8 airbags (1 primary and 7 backups, just in case), ESP and ABS. ABS? Wow, we weren't even sure that was still a truly marketable option and makes the damn thing sound more like a used car salesman's pitch to us.

Aside from a killer options list the CHC011 will feature some truly unique styling, well, if you consider unique the 'borrowing' of design cues from the gorgeous Mercedes CLS. From a distance you may be fooled, but get up close and it's a whole and you'll discover that the CHC011 is scary enough, that if ever put in the same room, would make Chairman Mao's earthquake-proof crystal coffin crack at first site.

We'll bring you live shots from the show floor next week when we visit the 2009 Shanghai Auto Show. We'll be delicately practicing our Engrish until then. [via ChinaCarTimes]

When the sheet was pulled off of the 2010 BMW 5-Series GT we gasped a little. No lie. We questioned the abomination and immediately started to reminisce about the introductory scene in Tim Burton's Batman Returns. BMW thought you might have had the same thoughts and has now presented us with proof that the 5-Series GT was in fact designed. With loving care. By a person. Coulda fooled us.

[via carbodydesign]

We'll give credit to BMW for not actually naming the thing the Progressive Activity Sedan, because we're more fatigued with BMW's constant naming of products than we are with their constant creation of sub-categories of the automotive world (this is in the upper midrange segment according to BMW).

We noticed a little anger towards BMW at the design when the first BMW 5-Series GT Concept photos came out and we're not sure people who hated it will find these professionally shot photos any more compelling. We like the concept behind the hatch and we're glad they at least included numerous photos showing off the way it works. Self-congratulatory press release below the jump.

BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo.

• With the future still offering sufficient room for an exciting new driving
experience, BMW has once again defined a brand-new vehicle segment:
The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is the series-based adaptation
of the Progressive Activity Sedan (PAS) in the upper midrange segment,
offering an impressive outlook on the extension of the BMW 5 Series by a
new, additional concept.

• With its stylish appearance and comfortable driving experience, the BMW
Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo transfers the characteristics of a classic
Gran Turismo to a very special four-door vehicle with four seats. These
features so typical of a Gran Turismo are then enriched by the highest
standard of intelligent, versatile functionality.

• The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo combines elegance, space,
comfort and variability. In a combination never seen before on any other car,
the characteristic features of a prestigious sedan, a modern and versatile
Sports Activity Vehicle, and a classic Gran Turismo are all united in this
unique Concept Car.

• Besides the typical BMW proportions, the coupe-like roofline accentuates
the elegant yet sporty character of the car and the sheer length of the
car's body. In addition, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo has four
frameless doors and elegant aluminium highlights.

• The luxurious interior is surprisingly generous considering the coupé-like
silhouette of the car, creating a spontaneous feeling of well-being for driver
and passengers. This impression is further enhanced by a comfortable
entry to the car, the slightly elevated seating position, and the panorama
roof providing a particularly pleasant travel experience.

• The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is highly versatile: a flexible
interior comprising the rear seats, the partition wall wall, and the luggage
compartment allows the adjustment of the interior individually to personal
requirements - from a separate luggage compartment, like in a sedan, all
the way to a loading capacity of 1,650 litres or almost 58 cubic feet with the
rear seats folded down. This flexibility is rounded off by a two-piece tailgate
with separate openings for additional convenience.

• The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo addresses a demanding and
modern target group - discerning individuals who attach great importance
to genuine style, luxurious comfort and flexibility in use. This gives BMW
the opportunity to win over customers who today drive either a sedan, an
SUV or an wagon model in the respective competitive segments.

• The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo extends the BMW's model
range by an intelligent, new and indeed unparalleled vehicle concept for
modern mobility at highest standard. Through its unique combination
of elegance, space, comfort and variability, the car creates a powerful
impression of relaxed presence. Indeed, these new characteristics enrich
Sheer Driving Pleasure to an even higher standard and appeal to additional
target groups. And last but not least the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran
Turismo authentically visualises premium quality and a new standard of
sporting performance borne out by the car's dynamism and efficiency.

Interior design:
• The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo offers a spacious and
luxurious ambience with inspiring and modern interior design. As the
world's only combination of variable spaciousness and uncompromising
premium quality, this new concept car also stands out through the most
sophisticated materials and excellent quality of finish. Supreme harmony
in interior design, reflected by the trim surfaces extending from the front to
the rear doors, creates a modern symbiosis of the two seats at the front and
the seats at the rear. The panorama glass roof, in turn, further intensifies
the light and generous ambience inside the car, while the stylish cockpit
emphasises the sheer width of the vehicle through its horizontal lines,
black panel technology and a fully integrated 10.2-inch Control Display.

• Supreme seating comfort, ample headroom and elbow room in the front
provide the standard of a luxury performance automobile, the slightly
elevated seating position ensures an optimum overview and makes access
to the car particularly comfortable. Tilted slightly to the front, the instrument
panel, finally, optimises the degree of control comfort on the driver's seat.

• Convenient and ergonomically optimised access as well as significant
freedom of movement characterise the generous atmosphere on the rear
seats. Extending all the way to the rear, the centre console in the concept
car emphasises the length of the interior. Outstanding variability, in turn,
is ensured by single seats at the rear infinitely adjustable fore-and-aft,
their backrests folding forwards individually and under electric power at
the touch of a button and the adjustable backrest angle ensuring further
comfort and style.

• With the rear seats in their regular position, the BMW Concept 5 Series
Gran Turismo offers the passengers at the rear the same legroom as
in the BMW 7 Series and virtually the same headroom as in the BMW X5.
In this configuration, luggage compartment capacity is 430 litres or
15.1 cubic feet. The partition wall behind the rear seats separates the
passenger and luggage compartments from one another in terms of both
acoustics and climate conditions, like in a sedan. If necessary, the rear seats
move fore-and-aft by up to 100 millimetres or more than 3.9" - so that
with the seats moved as far forward as possible, the occupants still enjoy
the same legroom as in the BMW 5 Series Sedan, with luggage capacity
increasing to 570 litres or almost 20 cubic feet. Then, once folding down
the rear seat backrests and the partition wall, the luggage compartment
further increases in size to its maximum capacity of 1,650 litres or nearly
58 cubic feet. The firm cover on the luggage compartment may be
stowed away in the floor of the compartment, again in the interest of extra
convenience.

• The two-piece tailgate allows unique variability in loading the luggage
compartment: Opening the small, sedan-like tailgate beneath the rear
window enables the driver and passengers, in combination with the closed
partition wall, to load the luggage compartment without creating any
drafts into the passenger compartment or changing the temperature the
passengers wish to enjoy. To conveniently load bulky objects, in turn, all the
driver has to do is open up the large tailgate similar in its configuration to
that of a Sports Activity Vehicle.

Exterior design:
• The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo combines the modern, up-todate
interpretation of a Gran Turismo with four doors and all the prestige of
a Sedan and the variability of a Sports Activity Vehicle. The proportions so
typical of a BMW are borne out in particular by the long engine compartment
lid, the long wheelbase, the coupé-like roofline, and the greenhouse
moved far to the rear.

• The dynamic character of the car's front-end design is accentuated by the
large BMW kidney grille positioned low down and standing upright at the
front, as well as the large air intake. Tilted to an angle, extending far round
to the side and highlighted by a striking surround, the dual round headlights
give the front end of the car a particularly modern look. The corona rings of
the daytime driving lights, finally, come for the first time in LED technology.

• From the side, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo clearly visualises
its innovative character, the striking waistline and the coupé-like roofline
accentuate the elegant look of the car and the sheer length of the body.
Following the example of a sporting coupé, the BMW Concept 5 Series
Gran Turismo comes with four doors and frameless windows. The
aluminium surrounds on the side windows are milled out of one solid unit
and holding the elegantly designed exterior mirrors as yet another important
design feature. Yet a further striking element on the side is the exciting
re-interpretation of the famous "Hofmeister kink" so typical of BMW at the
rear end of the window graphics.

• Horizontal lines at the rear emphasise the width and sporting character of
the car, further accentuated by the waistline extending from the side
into the rear panel, a three-dimensional chrome bar and the flared wheel
arches. The outer rooflines merge into the air spoiler and encompass the
rear end in its sporting fastback design. And as yet another feature typical
of BMW, the L-shaped rear light clusters come with horizontal rows of
lights extending far round into the side of the car.

A genuine BMW offering new options and features in truly fascinating style
and diversity - this is the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo.
Introducing this trendsetting concept car, the world's most successful
manufacturer of premium automobiles is establishing a brand-new segment
in the automobile market, enriching the Sheer Driving Pleasure so typical of
BMW by a new facet and carrying over that unique BMW style to another
type of vehicle.

As in the case of the BMW X5 as the world's first Sports Activity Vehicle and
the BMW 1 Series, to this day the only rear-wheel-drive premium compact
car, BMW, through outstanding innovation, is once again developing new and
progressive market segments and giving additional target groups that unique
experience of the BMW brand.

The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is the production-based rendition
of the Progressive Activity Sedan (PAS) in the upper midrange segment,
offering an outlook at the extension of the BMW 5 Series by a new, additional
vehicle concept. For the first time in the automobile market, this concept
car combines the looks and appearance of a prestigious Sedan, a modern
Sports Activity Vehicle, and a classic Gran Turismo. Indeed, perhaps the most
outstanding feature of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is this
unprecedented combination of stylish elegance, luxurious comfort, and
impressive diversity.

As the name alone indicates, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is the
ideal car for long journeys while still offering a magnificent driving experience
also in everyday traffic on short routes. The design of the body alone also
presents all the dynamics and efficiency of a BMW dedicated to sporting performance.
Apart from the proportions so typical of the brand, the design language
again characteristic of a BMW comes out clearly from every angle.

An intelligent concept for modern mobility.
The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo conveys an up-to-date image of
modern mobility. The focus in particular is on the demands and requirements
of the discerning motorist who expects generosity, appreciates an exclusive
ambience, and enjoys all the benefi ts of a variable interior.

Precisely with this in mind, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo meets
all these demands, representing the special status and elegant style of an
upper midrange model with individual flair oriented to the driver's personal
needs and preferences.

This provides the potential to win over new target groups for BMW, with
the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo being a truly unique and attractive
offer for the dedicated motorist wishing to retain classic features such as
presence, luxury and premium quality while nevertheless living out a versatile
and spontaneous lifestyle and remaining open to innovative concepts. The
car therefore also reflects new demands made by the modern motorist
wishing to enjoy a vehicle in perfect harmony with all kinds of situations and
requirements in life - both in a prestigious professional world and in dynamic
leisure time activities.

The interior of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo combines spaciousness, personal luxury and an exquisite choice of materials to provide a genuine premium experience.
The four doors allow convenient and ergonomically ideal
access to all seats, the driver-oriented design of the cockpit again in typical
BMW style demonstrates truly sporting performance, and the slightly elevated
seating position promotes the driver's superior control of the car.
Unique design also at the rear provides a modern, exclusive and generous
ambience. With the seats being adjustable to many different positions, both
legroom and the seat angle may be set to the individual preferences of the
passengers. Headroom is virtually the same as in the BMW X5, giving both
the driver and front passenger as well as the passengers at the rear a genuine
experience of first class comfort.

Large side windows emphasise the bright and generous ambience within
the car, as does the panorama glass roof previously available only in the
BMW 5 Series Touring and the BMW X models.

Luxurious comfort and impressive variability.
Depending on the driver's and passengers' priorities, legroom at the rear may
be increased to the same level as in the BMW 7 Series or the capacity of the
luggage compartment may be upgraded to that of a BMW 5 Series Touring.
The unique variability of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo comes,
among other things, from the rear seats adjustable fore-and-aft by up to
100 millimetres or more than 3.9". A further option is to adjust the backrest
angle individually according to one's personal requirements, either in the
interest of maximum seating comfort or for additional space in the luggage
compartment.

Using all the space available at the rear, legroom is roughly the same as in
the BMW 7 Series and luggage capacity amounts to 430 litres or 15.1 cubic
feet. With the rear seats moved to the front and the partition wall opened up,
in turn, luggage capacity increases to 570 litres or almost 20 cubic feet. And
even in this position legroom in the rear still meets the substantial demands
made of an outstanding sedan in the upper midrange segment.

After completely folding the rear-seat backrests as well as the partition wall
leading to the luggage compartment, the driver and passengers are able to
load particularly large and bulky objects into the rear. With the fi rm luggage
compartment cover being stowed away in the fl oor of the luggage compartment,
maximum luggage capacity in the loading area extending all the way
through is no less than 1650 litres or nearly 58 cubic feet.

The seat backrests fold down both electrically and by means of a button on
the side panel of the luggage compartment, the partition wall, after being
released, following the respective movement of the rear-seat backrests.
This ensures absolute convenience in adjusting luggage capacity to current
requirements even during the process of loading the car.
The option to fold down the rear-seat backrests individually provides even
greater variability, especially as the rear partition wall also splits up into
two sections, likewise folding down according to current requirements.

Optimum visibility and comfortable access thanks to the elevated
seating position.
On the front seats both the driver and front passenger benefit from a slightly
elevated seating position. This semi-commanding seating position, as it
is called, offers an optimum overview all around the car, like in the BMW X
models. And the particular configuration developed for the BMW Concept
5 Series Gran Turismo serves furthermore to provide very convenient and
ergonomic access to the car.

In the design of the cockpit, the structure of horizontally arranged, cascadelike
surfaces finished in different materials and colours strongly accentuates
the width of BMW's new concept car. The displays and controls are clearly
separated from one another, grouped together according to their functions.

Through its design, the instrument panel enhances the very good visibility
already provided by the elevated seating position, giving the driver a clear view
from above of the control elements for the lights and the start/stop button
on the middle level strongly inclined to the front. As the final important feature
in this context, the horizontal orientation of the entire cockpit additionally
accentuates the generous character of the interior.

Elegant interior design accentuating the unique feeling of space.
The trim bar stretching out as an exciting arch throughout the entire width
of the instrument panel continues into the door linings, the impression
of a fully enclosed space around the occupants created in this way being
further enhanced by the harmonious design and finish of the trim surfaces
on the front and rear doors with their perfect blend of shapes and colours.
The interaction of ascending and descending lines and contours throughout
the entire length of the interior creates a homogeneous impression optically
connecting the front and rear seats. All lines and the surfaces finished with
the most sophisticated materials taper out to the rear behind the rear seats,
giving the interior its particularly comfortable and spacious character.
The dynamic flow of lines not even interrupted by the B-pillar additionally
emphasises the length of the interior crucial to the feeling of space and
generosity. And last but not least, this feeling of length is supported by the
centre console in the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo extending all the
way to the rear.

The elaborate design of individual elements on the door panels adds
further exciting effects, from the very beginning bringing out the overall design
context without any interruption between the front and rear areas.
A more precise look reveals the subtle play of surfaces in the door linings,
with individual elements changing not only in shape, but also in their function.
The middle section on the door lining around the front seats, for example, is
strongly contoured and also forms a kind of legrest. Then, moving back to the
rear, these contour lines become even stronger, the surface turning to the
inside within itself. Finally, this surface now concave in shape leads on to the
armrests on the rear seats.

Special concept of materials and colours within the interior.
The colour and materials concept for the interior further enhances the impression
of personal luxury and the interplay of surfaces and lines. All surfaces
within the interior are finished in high-quality natural leather, the surfaces on
the seats and the door armrests forming the comfort zone in Glacier White
leather. This creates the impression of a bright brand extending round the
lower section of the instrument panel, the cool and elegant colour giving
particular emphasis to the generous und luxurious feeling of space.
The bright surfaces in the comfort zone are surrounded by a dark, warm
reddish brown, this special colour referred to as Copper Brown providing
a smooth link to the exterior paintwork.

The superior impression of modern luxury is further enhanced through the
use of authentic materials such as polished metal elements milled out of one
piece and ceramic units. The superior quality of the interior finish is borne out particularly by the solid wooden trim with metal inlays extending generously across the instrument panel.

Instrument cluster with colour display in black panel technology.
The instrument cluster of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is made
up of a high-resolution colour display in black panel technology presenting
the four round instruments in traditional sports car style as well as status
and function displays, navigation data, information from the Check/Control,
feedback from various control units and service interval information in the
traditional style of a sports car.

Introduced for the first time in the new BMW 7 Series, black panel technology
ensures particularly precise and, at the same time, sophisticated presentation
of the instruments and displays. In its rest mode the entire panel forms
a homogeneous black surface, the numbers on the circular instruments then
being generated electronically when activated, together with all the symbols
on the Display.

The iDrive Control Display arranged in typical BMW style on the same level
as the instrument cluster is integrated in the dashboard in a central position as
a free-standing element. The Control Display forms one common design
unit with the black panel in the central section of the dashboard housing the
controls for the audio system and air conditioning. For optical purposes this
unit is separated by the horizontal trim bar with its central ventilation grid and a
storage box. A further point is that in the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo
the special look of black panel technology continues into a homogeneous
surface in the centre console.

Proportions: dynamism in typical BMW style combined with the
elegance of a Gran Turismo.
The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo re-interprets the experience of driving a BMW,
the luxury and variability of the interior coming together to form a modern rendition of superior generosity. This offers both the driver and his passengers unique opportunities in enjoying the driving experience, the new flair of the car forming an ideal match with fascinating features typical of BMW, in particular uncompromising premium quality and interior design ensuring Sheer Driving Pleasure of the highest standard.

The body design of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo likewise
ensures an exciting balance of innovation and tradition. The concept
car stands out at first sight as a genuine BMW, just as the overall look of
the exterior clearly alludes to the extension of BMW's model portfolio made
possible by this unique automobile. Indeed, the BMW Concept 5 Series
Gran Turismo enters new terrain in the history of the BMW brand and has no
competitors throughout the entire world of motoring.

In its exterior dimensions the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo fits in
perfectly between the BMW 7 Series and BMW's various SAV models. In
its length of 499.8 centimetres or 196.8", it is second only within the BMW
model range to BMW's Luxury Performance Sedan, while the car's height of
155.5 centimetres or 61.2" is exceeded significantly only by BMW's X models.
The characteristic look of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo so typical
of the brand results in particular from the car's proportions, the long engine
compartment lid, the long wheelbase and the greenhouse moved far to the
rear bearing out the dynamic performance characteristics of a BMW also
through the car's design.

These features are combined with innovative elements highlighting the unique
qualities of the new concept, the extra-large passenger cell clearly bearing
testimony to the luxurious variability of the interior. The coupé-like roofline
extending into the air spoiler at the rear, in turn, represents the sporting
elegance of a genuine Gran Turismo.Paintwork in Fluid Cuprite, a new colour developed specifically for this concept car, again highlights the unique design and look of the
BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo. The extremely fine surface flair
reminiscent of liquid metal most impressively models the various surfaces
on the body under all kinds of light conditions through its powerful contours.
And to provide an appropriate supplementary touch, the brake callipers and
the inner surfaces on the exhaust gas tailpipes are finished in a new colour
called Copper.

Front view with that forward-pushing motion.
The front view of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is characterised
in particular by the strong presence of the low-slung BMW kidney grille, the
large air intake, and the characteristic dual round headlights. The BMW kidney
grille is slanted slightly to the front, its upper edge marking the foremost point
on the body. In its presence, the kidney grille is further accentuated by the
surrounding surfaces intentionally moved further back.

All contour lines flowing along the engine compartment out of the side panels
aim at the kidney grille at the front of the car. The air intake, in turn, is lower in
the middle where it extends beneath the kidney grille. And last but not least
the contours on the headlight units taper out smoothly towards the middle of
the car.

Just as the size of the BMW kidney grille clearly demonstrates the engine's
significant demand for cooling air, the power dome in the middle of the engine
compartment lid emphasises the sheer power and muscle of the engine
itself. The outer flanks of the engine compartment lid facing downward form
a cascade-like contour together with the widely flared wheel arches, giving the
front view of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo a particularly wide and
powerful look. This impression is further enhanced by the foglamps positioned at the
outer edges of the air intake, while the all-aluminium bars separating the
two outer elements on the air intake and extending beyond the foglamps
further enhance the sheer look of width at the front through their horizontal
orientation.

Dual round headlights typical of BMW, unique LED corona rings.
The dual round headlights typical of a BMW come with new contour
lines and a new technology for the daytime driving lights on the
BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo. lanted to a distinctive angle and extending far into the side panels, the headlight units are highlighted by surrounding bars, the headlights themselves
cylindrical in shape bordering at the top on a matt headlight cover. This
particularly emphasises the unique look of the front end again in typical
BMW style with its clear, almost penetrating focus.

Apart from the direction indicators, the corona rings for the daytime driving
lights come for the first time as LED units generating a particularly homogeneous
and bright light adding new and attractive features to that particular
look so typical of BMW.

Side-view: coupé-like roofline and waistline emphasising the sleek
elegance of the car.
Appropriate lines along the side create the harmonious symbiosis of the front
end, the side view and the rear section so typical of BMW design also on the
BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo. The dominating feature from the side
is the waistline characteristic of a BMW extending from the outer edge of
the headlights and moving back at the same level as the door openers along
the entire length of the car, rising up slightly in the process and continuing into
the contours of the rear light clusters.

The equally striking sill-line continues into the upper edge around the air
intake at the front and the contour in the rear air dam, this interplay of the
waistline and the sill-line making the car look lower and more crouched down
on the ground and emphasising the dynamic wedge of the body.
The roofline consistently tapering out and ending in the rear air spoiler
conveys a feature typical of a modern coupé to a four-door automobile in the
guise of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo. The innovative character
of the car's design is indeed a visual expression of the many features and
qualities the car has to offer. With its sporting flair, the BMW Concept 5 Series
Gran Turismo leaves an even greater and more positive impression through
its spacious and generous interior.

Both front and rear the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo comes with
frameless doors, a feature of particularly sporting cars now to be admired for
the first time on a four-door BMW. The door cutout bars are another special feature, forming one unit across both entry areas and thus corresponding with the overall harmonious flair
conveyed by the door panels inside the car.Large, significantly flared wheel arches symbolise the sporting potential of the car: The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo comes on 21-inch
light-alloy rims offering a particular touch of elegance through their multi-spoke design.

Yet another feature of particularly sporting cars is the small mass of the body
above the front wheels, keeping the side panels particularly low and long.
This effect is further intensified by the horizontal lines of the car borne out by
the waistline as well as the joint and contour line on the engine compartment.

The "Hofmeister kink" re-interpreted in modern style .
The design of the side window graphics also presents a re-interpretation of
a characteristic BMW feature: On the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo
both the shaft covers and the window surrounds are made of one piece, this
three-dimensional shape giving the frame made of aluminium a particularly
sophisticated and dynamic look around that famous "Hofmeister kink".
The exterior mirrors also represent a new design element, with the mirror base
forming part of the shaft cover starting on the foot of the A-pillars and thus
blending particularly smoothly and harmoniously with the side panel of the car.
The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo offers a brand-new rendition of
the counter-swing in the bottom corner of the rear side window frame so
well-known as the "Hofmeister kink". In this case the inner radius of the "kink"
is particularly large, the outer radius strikingly small. This creates an exciting
contrast to the roofline moving down smoothly and gently to the rear specifically
at this point.

Powerful rear end.
The design of the rear end offers a particularly striking impression of this
unique concept with its exceptional strengths and features. The two outer
rooflines as well as the shoulder lines merge into the air spoiler on the tailgate,
giving the rear end in its fastback style a kind of surrounding line and at the
same time adding a compact touch to the overall design of the car.
The entire rear view of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is split by
horizontal lines highlighting the width and powerful stance of the car. At the
same time this creates an attractive interplay of convex and concave surfaces,
the negatively slanted surface above the chrome bar between the rear light
clusters bearing the BMW logo offering an additional sporting effect.
The rear end reaches its full width around the wheel arches, the exhaust
tailpipes positioned far to the outside also directing the eyes of the beholder
to the wheels. The distinctive light edge in the lower part of the bumper adds
a further touch, while a diffuser finished in black marks the gap between the
rear panel and the road.

Impressive function: two tailgates in one.
With the rear panel of the car appearing to start directly beneath the rear
light clusters in order to convey a sporting impression, the low loading sill on
the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is not visible at first sight.
Another innovation crucial to the superior function of the car is likewise only
recognisable when opening the tailgate: To stow away luggage, the tailgate
may be opened either in full or only around the rear window. If only the lower
section is swivelled upward, the driver and passengers will load the luggage
compartment in the same way as in a sedan, naturally benefitting in the
process from the far lower loading sill. Since in this case they only open the
luggage compartment as such, the passenger compartment will not suffer in
the process from drafts or any other effects of bad weather.
The need to open the complete tailgate pivoting above the rear window arises
only when stowing away particularly large and bulky objects.
The L-shape of the rear light clusters typical of a BMW is re-interpreted on
the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo, with the two rows of light following
a dynamic sweeping motion. The rear lights extend far into the side panel,
emphasising the full width of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo also in
the car's night design.´

The lights fed by LED illumination units provide a homogeneous light effect
with the brake lights and direction indicators positioned behind the rows of
lights and being illuminated even more brilliantly when activated.
The rear light clusters are connected to one another by a chrome bar
continuing from the waistline at the side into the line extending into the rear
lights and thus accentuating the width of the rear end. Yet a further innovation
is the integration of the third brake light in the rear fin again so typical of BMW.

BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo:
new momentum in a demanding market.
Presenting the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo, BMW is once again
proving its outstanding competence in the development of innovative vehicle
concepts. The world's most successful manufacturer of premium cars follows
the challenges created by the need for up-to-date mobility.
This new car concept addresses a demanding target group seeking to
combine stylish elegance, luxurious wellness and impressive variability in
individual style with the demands and requirements of their active lifestyle.

The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo offers precisely these qualities,
enhancing the Sheer Driving Pleasure so typical of the brand by a new dimension
thrilling the true connoisseur also beyond BMW's existing target groups.
The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo clearly reveals the full bandwidth of
its qualities when compared with the demands made of an up-to-date grand
tourer. With its elegant look, the sophisticated ambience of its comfortable
and spacious interior, as well as its generous and variable transport capacities,
the BMW Concept 5 Series is simply perfect for a wonderful travel experience.
And since BMW's innovative power is also borne out by an extremely
efficient drivetrain, this new concept car will also ensure appropriate economy
in today's world.

The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo thus stands out as a modern
interpretation of the Gran Turismo segment so rich in tradition, cars which at
all times have combined particularly superior long-distance driving qualities
with a truly comfortable interior.

Stylish elegance, luxurious spaciousness, and impressive versatility all
come together in the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo in unique style.
Features never before combined in one car in this way make the new concept
a truly progressive innovation serving ideally to set new standards in the
most demanding upper midrange segment. Establishing a new vehicle segment in this process, BMW is consistently continuing its successful development strategy. Qualities typical of the brand once are again carried over into a new market with an innovative concept
unique to world over. Hence, BMW is using all the innovative power of the
brand to give new customers that unique thrill of Sheer Driving Pleasure and
to continue the ongoing growth of the BMW brand in a lasting, long-term process.

[Source: BMW]

What we've been referring to as the Progressive Activity Sedan has now been revealed as the BMW 5-Series GT Concept prior to the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. It blends the styling characteristics of the 2009 7-series and the CS Concept that made its debut in Shanghai two years ago.

The wheelbase is close to the 2009 7-series sedan's 120.9 inches allowing for an extremely roomy interior space with a large capacity rear cargo area. The kidney grille up front shares the proportions of the 7 series along with the shape of the tail lamps. The headlights take more than just a little influence from the now canceled CS Concept. The coupe-like roof line finishes off in a hatchback-style trunk area with a pretty neat closure. The full hatch opens to reveal a large cargo area, but a secondary smaller tailgate opens to reveal a convenient pass through for smaller items.

We'll bring you more information as it becomes available. Stay tuned for the latest in the 2009 5-Series GT Concept saga a.k.a. the biggest elephant in the room.
(Hat Tip to Jaime!)

[via bmwblog]

The Gold Coast Concept doesn't get much in the way of go fast parts, with 280 HP mated to a six speed DSG. It does get some serious whoa parts though, sporting giant ceramic brakes under those gorgeous wheels. Volkswagen, make this car so.

The small crossover is set to do battle with the Kia Soul and Scion XB once it hits production later in the year as a 2010 model. The production model will be positioned below the Euro-market Qashqai and is scheduled to be built at Nissan's Sunderland factory in the UK. It will replace the current Micra line that is currently built there.

[via carscoop]

Rafael set out to recreate the contemporary Viper Coupe and did so by reinterpreting many of its features as they would have been designed back in the 60's (we'll ignore the actual Cobra from the 1960s it was based on). He started out with research boards depicting classic muscle and sports cars of the late '60s and started sketching around the current Viper chassis, integrating classic design trends with the primitive (yet durable) construction techniques of the era.

Rafael says of his design:

"The design of the Viper Concept 1967 came from the idea of how the car would had been if it had appeared in the 60's to compete with the Corvette of the time."

We see a lot of Corvette in his design, but also a lot of the current Viper styling cues such as the modest double bubble roof, angular headlamps, engine compartment heat vents, and curvaceous rear haunches. It could have been full of win, but Rafael decided to leave out the large displacement V10 that is synonymous with the Viper and instead replaced it with the 440-Magnum that was used in the Challenger R/T. His decision was based on what would have been practical for the time, we say he wimped out.

Rafael estimates his 1967 Dodge Viper would sell for around $4,110, making it a worthy competitor to the Chevrolet Corvette. Although we'll never see this thing on the road, we can image what it would have been like and this makes us happy. Somebody who makes video games should by this design off of Raveal.

[via carbodydesign via Autoblog]

We have no clue what the Qazan will look like at this point, but with its market targets being the Kia Soul and Scion Xb, we can assume that it'll carry some of that same boxy, utilitarian flavor. But we all know what happens when you assume.

The above image is a teaser sketch for the upcoming Nissan A-segment vehicle which the Qazan Concept is likely derived from. The production model will jimmy it's way into the lineup below the Euro-market Qashqai and is scheduled to be built at Nissan's Sunderland factory in the UK. It will replace the current Micra line that resides there.

We expect Nissan to go on sale some time in 2010 with a production reveal happening sometime late in 2009. Until then, stay tuned for the Qazan Concept's reveal at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show.

[zamparuedas via AB]

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV Sport Air Concept is designed to make the idea of EV's, and particularly affordable EV's, a bit more palatable. It takes a styling page from the Mitsubishi i MiEV Electric Concept but brings things a bit closer to reality and works to communicate Mitsubishi's rather stealthy but substantial battery development program. It also pushes the idea of, get this, fun, given the inherent torquiness of electric motors. This might be the first time a normal EV gets pitched to normal people with stuff like performance instead of getting wrapped in a leafy green PR pitch of environmental responsibility, which bores us to death.

TOKYO, Japan - January 26, 2009: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is to give the i MiEV SPORT AIR concept model its global debut at the 79th Geneva International Motor Show which runs from March 3 through March 15 at the Geneva Palexpo exhibition and conference complex (opening to the general public on March 5).

The i MiEV SPORT AIR explores the future possibilities for zero-emission vehicles, placing a greater bias on exhilarating driving pleasure. The concept model exemplifies the balance between environmental and dynamic performance implied in the tagline Drive@earth, and highlights the benefits of the Mitsubishi electric vehicle drivetrain:

• Powerful, instant torque from a beefed-up electric motor
• Stable driving and handling and a low center of gravity, due to the in-floor lithium-ion battery
• Zero on-road CO2 emissions

Together, these features along with the car's "clear cutaway" top allow the driver to enjoy the exhilaration of fresh-air motoring while also highlighting its eco-friendly qualities.

The Audi Sportback Concept is also relevant for its design language. Check out the sexy LED strip headlamps — expect to see something similar on future production models — and the new interior, that's warmer and more luxurious then attractive but severe Audis of old.

The press release follows:

DETROIT, Mich., Jan 11, 2009 - Debut in Detroit: Audi is unveiling the Sportback concept show car at the 2009 North American International Automobile Show. With systematic refinements to the brand’s characteristic design elements, the five-door model offers a glimpse at the Audi's future design vocabulary. With its pronounced coupé-like silhouette and large rear hatch, the 4.95 m long (16.24 ft), 1.93 m wide (6.33 ft) and only 1.40 m high (4.59 ft) vehicle is boldly progressive for the luxury class.

The technology of the Audi Sportback concept is markedly futuristic. Power is provided by the world’s cleanest diesel technology: the 3.0-liter V6 TDI clean diesel almost completely eliminates nitrogen oxides. This engine already meets the emissions limits of all 50 U.S. states and the EU6 standard scheduled to take effect in 2014. And numerous measures to ensure top efficiency mean that the Audi Sportback concept is expected to achieve impressive fuel consumption figures of 5.9 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (39.87 US mpg).

Driving dynamics in a new guise – the idea

Since its introduction in 2004, the concept of the Sportback has established itself in the compact class. The success of the A3 Sportback has exceeded even the expectations of its makers – far more customers choose the four-door model with the large rear hatch than its three-door sibling.

But it is far more than two additional doors that sets the A3 Sportback apart from the base model. It is characterized by the sporting elegance of a coupe, the versatility of a five-door model, sophisticated technology and pronounced sportiness – driving dynamics in a new guise.

It also offers even more space and variability thanks to a tail end that is a total of 54 millimeters (2.13 in) longer that of the three-door model.

The launch of the first production Sportback marked the second time that Audi started a new trend in the automobile market. The development of the first Avant models in the seventies laid the foundation for a new class of automobiles far beyond the matter-of-fact utility of the classic station wagon. The marked accentuation of a futuristic and dynamic design, high-quality equipment and extreme variability have been the distinguishing features of every Audi Avant from the very beginning.

The Audi Sportback concept show car is now rolling up to the starting line with a dual mission: As suggested by the name, it symbolizes the Sportback principle in its purest form in the combination of elegance, sportiness and variability.

And the show car also signals the company's determination not to limit Sportback versions to the compact segment. As previously indicated by the Audi A1 Sportback concept – the star of the 2008 Paris Motor Show – the brand with the four rings is going to dramatically expand the number of Sportback models on the market.

Design

The design of the Audi Sportback concept is characterized by an almost monolithic clarity and a vast reduction of the number of lines. The roof, shoulder and sill lines appear to have been drawn with a single stroke. The window strip of the coupé with its four frameless doors was kept pronouncedly flat. Viewed from the side, the softly contoured wheel wells over the 10-spoke, 21-inch wheels reinforce the impression of the precisely defined surfaces of the body.

One feature familiar from the two-door Audi A5 coupé is even more boldly accentuated here: The markedly horizontal shoulder area emphasizes the orientation of the vehicle body to the road. This effect is further reinforced at the front and rear by the broad, flat LED light units. The shape of the almost fragile-looking side mirrors is inspired by the upturned tips – the “winglets” – of modern jet wings.

The show car also offers a new interpretation of the single-frame grille. The decision not to use vertical struts and the low overall height emphasize the sporty basic proportions of the vehicle front. Also particularly striking is the modified outer contour of the single-frame grille as also featured on the A1 Sportback show car. The flattened top edges lower the visual center of gravity and provide a striking look for the front end.

The aerodynamically designed air intakes under the headlights function as air deflectors which guide the required cooling air precisely into an intake duct. They have the stylistic effect of accentuating the impression of width.

The tail of the show car is also evidently related to the A5 coupé. The high top edge of the rear hatch gives rise to a strikingly clear surface below the rear lights.

The low separating edge and the horizontal lines – another characteristic feature – underscore the width and therefore the sporty nature of the Audi Sportback concept. The four tailpipes integrated into the body and an air deflector in the diffuser insert are cues borrowed from the sportscar sector.

The interior design is tidy and downright purist yet elegant at the same time. The large glass roof underscores the width and feeling of spaciousness. In the driver-oriented cockpit, the air vents, instrument cluster and retracting MMI monitor are outlined by a filigree aluminum border.

As with the exterior, the interior is characterized by the emphasis on horizontal lines and large surfaces. Especially the wide center console – stretching from the dashboard to the back – seems to be a pure expression of function.

The flat display of the MMI system is realized as a retractable system in the show car. When the ignition is activated, it extends horizontally from a slot above the central air register before moving in an elegant arc into a vertical, easy-to-read position.

The high quality of the materials and manufacturing-level fit and finish are obvious when looking around the interior of the Audi Sportback concept and when touching the surfaces. The interior trim is almost completely in leather: from the headlining, dashboard, doors and the entire seat upholstery all the way through to the trunk, with the leather stitching underscoring the vehicle’s design language. The large wood trim strips on the instrument panel, center console and doors are machined from oak blockboard and sport a delicate horizontal pattern of light and dark lines.

With its surfaces of piano lacquer and brushed aluminum, the MMI control unit also adds to the exceptional exclusivity of the interior. The attention to detail even extends to the door opener: Its shape is a nearly perfect reflection of the distinctive lines of the small rear side window – giving the interior and exterior formal unity.

Four sporty seats await the driver and passengers. The diamond-shaped stitching of the leather surface is reminiscent of a classic GT tradition. Shoulder, head and leg room are reminiscent of a premium-class touring car. With a volume of 500 liters (17.66 cubic feet), the trunk is generously sized and is also appointed with high-quality materials.

Drivetrain

The developers at Audi chose the world’s cleanest diesel technology as the unit best befitting the Audi Sportback concept show car. The six-cylinder 3.0 TDI clean diesel is equipped with a system for the effective reduction of nitrogen oxides. The diesel engine development engineers at Audi have combined an entire package of innovative measures for this latest TDI generation: The piezo common rail system with an injection pressure of 2,000 bar, highly efficient exhaust gas recirculation and optimized turbocharging result in significantly reduced raw engine emissions. One of the highlights are the combustion chamber sensors that enable even more precise regulation of the combustion processes in the engine – this is the first time that such sensors have been installed on any engine in the world, marking yet another Audi innovation.

The status of the new-generation TDI as the definitive clean-running, high-tech diesel is sealed by the downstream exhaust emission control system, which reduces emissions by up to 90 percent. The system uses AdBlue, a biologically degradable, waterborne additive that is injected in small amounts upstream of the DeNOx catalytic converter. In addition to the catalytic converter, the exhaust emission control system comprises the metering module, the AdBlue tank and heated lines, as well as an extensive system of sensors. The additional oxidizing catalytic converter and the highly efficient, regulated diesel particulate filter round off the comprehensive emission control system.

Thanks to their extremely low emission levels, these modern direct-injection diesel engines can be put into service anywhere in the world, even in the U.S. state of California, which has the world’s most stringent emissions limits. Compared with the fleet average of the gasoline engines typically found in the U.S., the TDI boasts a fuel-efficiency advantage of up to 40 percent. The diesel technology thus makes a greater contribution than any other type of engine to reducing the consumption of fossil fuels. Audi will offer this engine in the U.S. and Europe beginning in 2009.

As in the U.S. version of the Audi Q7 3.0 TDI, the V6 also produces 165 kW (225 hp) and 550 Nm (405.66 lb-ft) of torque in the Audi Sportback concept. Power is transferred to the wheels via Audi’s most modern transmission: the new 7-speed tiptronic. The quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system ensures that the torque generated by the powerful TDI is also converted effectively into propulsion and dynamism under any conditions.

Weighing just 1,800 kilograms (3,968.32 lb) and with a drag coefficient of 0.30, the coupe will accelerate from 0 – 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in less than seven seconds and reach a top speed of 245 km/h (152.24 mph).

The Audi Sportback concept’s average fuel economy according to the European ECE standard is only 5.9 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (39.87 US mpg), and its CO2 emissions no more than 156 g/km (251.06 g/mile). These sensationally low figures for a large model have been achieved by extensive efficiency-optimizing measures.

For example, this model’s electromechanical power steering only consumes energy when the steering is turned, not when driving in a straight line.

The TDI engine features an innovative temperature management system. When the engine is warming up, part of the coolant flow is diverted – another way to improve efficiency, since it helps the engine to warm up quicker. This means significant practical savings, because many journeys are fairly short. The fuel pump also runs only when there is a demand for fuel, and therefore uses less energy.

The 7-speed S tronic transmission is a very efficient unit with a wide spread of gear ratios. For the first time, it has been equipped with transmission oil heating, so that it reaches its intended operating temperature much earlier and therefore has a lower level of internal friction.

When coasting, the Audi Sportback concept – like the Audi A4 and Audi Q5 production models – recuperates energy. This boosts the output of the alternator and is used to charge the battery. This energy, which in effect costs nothing to recover, is fed back into the vehicle’s electrical system when needed. An automatic start-stop system shuts the TDI engine down to save energy, for instance when waiting at a traffic signal.

And when it is on the move, tires optimized for low roll resistance cut fuel consumption significantly without incurring any disadvantages in the performance area.

Driving dynamics

The Audi Sportback concept show car took the basic architecture and many components of its suspension from the brand’s latest and most successful model family: the very dynamic A4/A5 model series. The dynamic suspension sets standards here, as well, combining precision and dynamism with high stability and superior poise. The suspension mountings, steering, wheels and brakes have been developed for top performance and numerous aluminum components are used to keep unsprung masses to a minimum.

The new five-link front suspension makes a major contribution to the car’s dynamic character. By moving the differential further forward and the clutch further back, the design engineers were able to reposition the front axle 154 millimeters (6.06 inches) further forward. The result is an optimal distribution of weight between the front and rear axles.

The front suspension is made up of five links per wheel – a support link and a control arm at the bottom and two control arms at the top. The fifth link – the track rod – connects the steering box and the pivot bearing. All these links are made of forged aluminum, ensuring low unsprung masses, ultra-precise wheel control and a high level of crash safety. The anti-roll bar fabricated from a high-strength tube saves additional weight. The backbone of the rear axle is a subframe with high flexural and torsional rigidity.

If sporty handling is to be combined with a high standard of ride comfort, the unsprung masses must be kept as low as possible. Audi has pursued this approach for all the rear-axle components. The upper control arms and the track rods are of forged aluminum. Their high rigidity ensures that toe and camber angles change very little when dynamic forces act on the wheels.

The CDC (continuous damping control) shock absorbers, similar to those that Audi already uses on the luxury Q7 SUV with air suspension, are twin-tube, gas-filled hydraulic units with an additional external valve and connecting pipe. Their operation can be continuously varied.

An electromagnetically energized, proportional-action valve regulates the flow of hydraulic fluid between the inner and outer damper tubes. A smaller flow cross-section makes the damping characteristic firmer, a larger one makes it softer.

The control unit applies adaptive operating characteristics within the mode the driver has chosen via Audi drive select. It adapts to match the driver’s driving style and the road conditions. Even from the comfort mode, the shock absorbers can be switched in an instant to a firm setting if desired, though not to the absolute limit. They are fitted in conjunction with sports suspension springs, which still provide a good level of ride comfort, even off-road.

The control unit selects the optimum damping force for the current driving situation, for instance firmer damping to prevent body roll and pitch when cornering fast or braking, or lower damping force where the surface under the wheels is hard and uneven.

The show car marks the first time that Audi has used electromechanical steering in a car with a longitudinal engine. Its primary advantage is that, unlike conventional power steering systems, it only consumes energy when actually steering. On average, this means a fuel saving of 0.2 liters per 100 kilometers, depending on driving conditions.

The electromechanical steering of the Audi Sportback concept also enables the coupling with the parking steering assistant for fully automatic steering when parallel parking.

The Audi Sportback concept is equipped with ceramic brakes on all four wheels for effective deceleration even under the most demanding conditions. Compared with conventional steel disks, ceramic brakes not only last four times longer, up to 300,000 kilometers (186,411 miles), but also offer high resistance to fading. The significant reduction in weight also leads to advantages in terms of comfort and handling, thanks to reduced unsprung masses.

On the front axle, 380-millimeter (14.96-inch) ceramic disks are fitted in combination with 21-inch wheels. The rear disks have a diameter of 356 millimeters (14.02 inches). The elaborate cooling duct geometry of the ventilated brake disks ensures optimal cooling of the brake disks. Firm grip on the brake disk is guaranteed at the front by 6-piston monobloc aluminum brake calipers, and at the rear by floating-caliper brakes.

The Kia Soul'Ster is a nice looking, but ultimately useless concept car based on the well designed and totally functional four-door, segment-bending Kia Soul. Think of it as a smaller, front wheel drive, urban version of the Jeep Wrangler. The Soul'Ster gets the camino-treatment as the rear doors and roof are chopped off and a slanted roll top fabric roof with extremely limited head room. The styling is very common with the Soul, but the characteristics have been stretched or pinched for a more aggressive look with the concept.

It does get a set of rear seats which are cantilevered from the center console and a funky-fresh interior treatment the interior kids will like. It comes complete with all of todays expected in-car distractions like A set of beefier tires mounted on fancy one-off wheels finishes things off and squarely puts it into the California scenester target demo. They served us fish tacos and Corona after the press event was over, if that's any indication of where this concept is aimed at. Despite all that, what we have here is essentially a shrunken version of your friends old Ford Bronco with less space and none of the capabilities.

KIA MOTORS AMERICA SHOWCASES THE SOUL’STER CONCEPT AT
2009 NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
Open-Air Concept Heats Up the Show

Distinctive design portrays style, practicality and efficiency
Kia Motors America design team delivers another high-style concept

DETROIT, Jan. 11, 2009 – Bringing a sunny beach feeling into Cobo Center on a cold day in January, Kia Motors America (KMA) arrives at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit with the Soul’ster open-air concept, a variation of the highly anticipated Soul, arriving at Kia Motors retailers this spring. With young buyers’ budgets in mind, the Soul’ster is an efficient front-drive car based on the production model Soul, recently introduced at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show.
“Soul’ster delivers something new, intriguing and relevant to today’s buyers – a fun, affordable convertible for active people who like to share good times with friends,” said Tom Kearns, chief designer, KMA. “Defying categorization and providing utility and practicality, the Soul’ster exhibits distinctive design cues and satisfies multiple consumer needs.”

Stylin’ Soul’r Yellow Design
A two-door concept with roadster roots, the brightly colored Soul’r yellow Soul’ster projects a hip industrial look with screw borders, reminiscent of a rivet design found on a fighter jet. The windshield is shortened for a sportier and hunkered down appearance. A two-piece top enables passengers to expose the front and back seating areas independently, using elbow-grease technology. The roll bar serves a dual purpose and includes a place for the slider tracks, while providing protection not found in traditional convertibles.

With a unique face, Soul’ster has a tough but refined character. The toughness is expressed through details like the anodized skid-pad insert, which matches the fender vents, roll bar header and wheels.

-more-

Soul’ster’s attitude incorporates lighting that shines through with an amber glow under the headlamps. The side vents, side-mirror turn signals, unique LED headlamps, fog and tail lamps incorporate blue shades.

The energetic, distinctive look carries from front to rear with dual chrome exhaust and polished aluminum exhaust tips featuring carbon-fiber interior sleeves. The large 19-inch, five-spoke aluminum alloy wheels perfect the Soul’ster’s appearance. Regardless of Soul’ster being viewed from front, back or side, it offers innovative perspectives derived from the original Soul.

Inside Out
Once inside, Soul’ster takes even more progressive variations from Soul beginning with the new four-passenger seating design, a diversion from Soul’s five-passenger arrangement, lending spacious versatility for long summer weekends. The surprisingly flexible Soul’ster provides real seating for two in the front with comfortable seating for two more adults in the back. Fold-flat passenger and rear seats combined with ample headroom make this the perfect car for social outings outdoors and on the beach with friends. Making basic features hot, its crank-up windows are a purposefully key interior design element as are the dashboard-integrated audio speakers.

Adding to the edgy design scheme, the non-floor-mounted cantilevered seats project the illusion of being suspended in space when viewed from the side allowing for increased rear legroom. Storage compartments below each of the fold-flat rear seats, offer room for myriad cargo needs. In addition to the spacious cargo area, dual storage compartments also can be found in the rear and underneath the cargo hold area.

All Revved Up
With young buyers in mind, Soul’ster offers an agile, smooth and spirited ride. As with its Soul cousin, Soul’ster’s can be made available with a myriad of engine choices depending upon each market’s needs. A 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission, which produces approximately 120 horsepower. For those looking for a little more power, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is available with either the five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission, producing approximately 140 horsepower. Fuel economy for both engines is estimated at 30 or more miles per gallon. Other markets might choose the 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 124 horsepower or a 1.6-liter turbodiesel.
-more-

2009 Product Line
Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 11 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The 2009 vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full size sedan, purposeful Optima mid size sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the all-new and affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The Soul will further complement the lineup when it arrives in dealerships this spring.

About Kia Motors America
Kia Motors America (KMA) is the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 640 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. marketshare. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline “The Power to Surprise.”

Kia Motors America is the “Official Automotive Partner of the NBA.” Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its Web site – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.

Utterly irrelevant segment aside, check out the new, warmer interior look from Audi. Gone is harsh Teutonic functionality, replaced with a more inviting feel from curved metals, medium-tone woods and white leather. The press conference for this thing is coming up in less than an hour, so stay tuned for more details and live shots.

Embargo break via: Fourtitude