We're a little leery of the Corolla underpinnings on what looks to aim for the grown-up hot hatch market, but it sounds like Lexus might finally be putting forward an offering for a slightly younger market. The as-yet unnamed five door hatch concept will debut at Frankfurt with the production version coming along at the Geneva Motor Show in 2010. The car will get a four cylinder in base trim and the 187 HP 2.4-liter hybrid powertrain out of the Lexus HS250h for the top-of-the-line model. If the performance is in any way backed by the looks, Lexus might finally have an entry that'll sell to the under-40 crowd. [Edmunds Straightline]

We've got all the coverage you could ever want for the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show, so keep your eyes paperclipped wide open from now until the last car reveal on Wednesday as we'll be bringing you the hot German action live from Frankfurt. You can either hit refresh every few minutes on our Frankfurt Auto Show tag page we've set up — or feel free to drop the RSS link into your fave feed reader. Either way, stay up to date — because you won't want to miss a single Teutonic second of the coverage. UPDATE: Third way is to use the cheat sheet!

Press Release:

The New Porsche 911 GT2

Highlights
The 911 GT2 is the fastest and most powerful Porsche 911 homologated for the road to ever see the light of day. Its 3.6-litre horizontally-opposed six-cylinder power unit with biturbo technology develops maximum output of 530 bhp (390 kW) at a speed of 6,500 rpm. Maxi¬mum torque of 680 Newton-metres or 501 lb-ft, in turn, is maintained consistently over a speed range from 2,200 - 4,500 rpm. Acceleration to 100 km/h comes in just 3.7 seconds and the new top sports model within the 911 Series reaches a staggering top speed of 329 km/h or 204 mph.

Full of character, full of efficiency
The low-slung spoiler lip at the front and the rear wing so characteristic of this very special model give the 911 GT2 remarkable down force both front and rear, while at the same time maintaining the silhouette so characteristic of this top model. Low weight of 1,440 kg or 3,175 lb, rear-wheel drive and a superior drag coefficient of Cd = 0.32 ensure not only exceptional sportiness and performance, but also a supreme standard of all-round efficiency. As a result, the 911 GT2 consumes just 12.5 litres/100 km of premium plus fuel in the composite EU test (equal to 22.6 mpg imp), thus offering a standard of fuel economy exceptionally good for a car of this kind.

A world-first achievement: the expansion intake manifold
Using the oscillating air during the cooler expansion phase is a genuine revolution in turbo¬charged engine technology. So benefiting from a brand-new, innovative expansion-type intake system with its own special geometry and an exhaust gas turbocharger with variable turbine geometry operating at a maximum pressure of 1.4 bar, new 911 GT2 offers an extra 50 bhp over the already very powerful 911 Turbo.

Chassis with PASM and ceramic brake system
Compared with the 911 Carrera, the new 911 GT2 has been lowered by approx 25 mm or 1.00", with the chassis and suspension geared specifically to the needs of this very dynamic car. And as one would rightly expect of a Porsche sports car, the GT2 comes with unusually powerful and effective brakes, PCCB Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes featuring brake discs measuring 380 millimetres or 14.96" in diameter at the front and 350-millimetre (13.78") brake discs at the rear fitted as standard on this top-of-the-range sports model.

Three-stage PSM and Launch Assistant
Featured for the first time in the 911 GT2, PSM Porsche Stability Management can be deac¬tivated in two stages, with the ABS anti-lock brake system always remaining active: The driver is able to deactivate lateral and longitudinal dynamic control in a successive process, thus gearing the car's driving behaviour to his individual demands and requirements. The new Launch Assistant, in turn, enables the driver, via the engine control unit, to accelerate with optimum power and performance from a standstill, TC Traction Control ensuring opti¬mum longitudinal dynamics in the acceleration process.
Titanium exhaust gas system and folding sports bucket seats

The new 911 GT2 is the first Porsche homologated for road use to be fitted as standard with an exhaust system featuring a titanium rear-end silencer and titanium tailpipes. Compared with a comparable silencer made of stainless steel, titanium reduces the weight of the entire system by approximately 50 per cent.

Another new feature in the 911 GT2 is the sports bucket seats likewise fitted as standard. And a further advantage in this case is that the backrests fold individually to any desired position, maintaining optimum lateral stability at all times.

The New Porsche 911 GT2
Top Performance in the 911
The 911 GT2 is the new top performer in the 911 model series. Through its striking design with extra-large air intake scoops at the front and the characteristic rear wing, this fastest of all models in the 911 series clearly demonstrates its supreme performance right from the start, before even setting off. Indeed, these design and streamlining features so characte¬ristic of the 911 GT2 give the car an exemplary drag coefficient of Cd = 0.32, together with down¬force on both the front and rear axle.
Available only with a manual six-speed gearbox, the 911 GT2 supersports accelerates to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 329 km/h or 204 mph.

Two turbochargers for extra power
The power unit of the new 911 GT2 is based on the flat-six already featured in the 911 Turbo, with two exhaust gas turbochargers using variable turbine geometry (VTG) providing the requisite supply of air. Maximum output of 530 bhp (390 kW) from this 3.6-litre boxer engine comes at 6,500 rpm, peak torque is 680 Newton-metres (501 lb-ft) maintained consistently over a wide speed range between 2,200 and 4,500 rpm. And with the car's unladen weight being just 1,440 kg or 3,175 lb, the power-to-weight ratio is 2.72 kg or 6.00 lb per horsepower.

Innovative air supply
The extra power of the engine in the new 911 GT2 versus the 911 Turbo is provided by two exhaust gas turbochargers with an enlarged compressor wheel and the flow-optimised tur¬bine housing, both of which are laid out for even higher charge pressure.

A further point is that Porsche's engineers have for the first time combined the turbocharged power unit in the 911 GT2 with a so-called expansion-type intake manifold - a genuine revo¬lution in the concept of turbocharged power units. The principle applied in this case is to use the oscillating intake air during the cooler expansion phase to prepare the fuel/air mix¬ture, keeping the temperature of the fuel/air mixture lower than in the engine of the 911 Turbo. This ensures a significant increase in all-round efficiency - more power on less fuel, with fuel consumption dropping by up to 15 per cent under full load. As a result, average composite fuel consumption in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) of 12.5 litres/100 km or 22.6 mpg imp is exceptionally good for a car of this class - and thanks to its new exhaust system, the new 911 GT2 also outperforms the EU4 emission standard.

Extra-light exhaust system
The 911 GT2 offers new developments and highlights not only on the intake manifold, but also on the exhaust side: This is the first Porsche homologated for the road to feature a rear-¬end silencer and tailpipes made as standard of titanium, an extra-light but stable material. Weighing approximately 9 kilos, the silencer is roughly 50 per cent lighter than a comparable component made of stainless steel.

Setting off with the Launch Assistant
The new 911 GT2 is likewise the first production sports car from Porsche to feature a Launch Assistant enabling the driver to set off with optimum performance and ensuring simple hand¬ling at all times.
To activate the Launch Assistant, all the driver has to do is press down the throttle in full with the car at a standstill, the appropriate gear in mesh, and the clutch pedal pressed to the floor. Then the system will automatically set engine speed to exactly the right level, the driver's only task then being to take his foot off the clutch as quickly as possible in order to accelerate the car with maximum speed and power.
In this process PSM Porsche Stability Management prevents the car from "twitching", with the full power of the engine being transmitted smoothly to the road.

Rear-wheel drive on the 911 GT2 comes with an asymmetrical limited-slip differential main¬taining a locking factor of 28 per cent under power and 40 per cent in overrun.

Porsche's new supersports runs on 19-inch wheels combined with specially developed tyres measuring 235/35 at the front and 325/30 at the rear. Tyre pressure, finally, is supervised and maintained by sensors in the tyre pressure control system also featured as standard.
Specially set-up PASM damper system and upgraded PSM

The chassis and suspension of the new 911 GT2 is based on the chassis of the 911 GT3, while at the same time the entire set-up is approximately 25 millimetres or 1.00" lower and firmer than on the 911 Carrera.

PASM Porsche Active Suspension Management featured as standard on the new 911 GT2 has also been modified accordingly, with somewhat firmer and tauter damper action in the Normal mode, as opposed to an extra-firm and taut suspension in the Sports mode suited ideally for use on the race track.
The new 911 GT2 comes as standard with PCCB brakes featuring ceramic brake discs. The exceptional features of this brake system include in particular a very fast response, enormous stability against fading, superior safety reserves, and low weight.

Compared with grey-cast-iron brakes of the same size, PCCB reduces unsprung masses in the car by approximately 20 kg or 44 lb.

Yet another innovative feature developed by Porsche's engineers for the new 911 GT2 is PSM Porsche Stability Management specifically tailored to the new model: Giving the driver the option to deactivate various components, this special driving stability system meets the de¬mands of even the most sporting and dynamic motorist. To set up the system to his spe¬cific requirements, all the driver has to do is press two buttons in the front centre con¬sole: Pressing the SC OFF (SC: Stability Control) button, the driver deactivates lateral dynamic control. By additionally pressing the SC+TC OFF (TC: Traction Control) button, the driver also switches off longitudinal dynamic control, while the ABS brake system remains active at all times.

Innovative sports bucket seats
The high-performance concept of the 911 GT2 also includes sports bucket seats made of a very light combination of glass- and carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (GFP/CFP) with a visible carbon surface, featured as standard on the new model. Incorporating a new type of manual adjustment, the sports bucket seats combine unusually good side stability with enhanced access to the area behind the front seats, thanks to the backrests tilting forward whenever required.

Step One: Add three hot European women in tight white pants.

THE NEW JAGUAR XF

Challenging convention and setting its own rules, the new Jaguar XF fuses the style and performance of a sports car with the refinement, space and sophistication of a luxury saloon. This is the beginning of a new era for Jaguar.

The new XF: a dramatic expression of a bold new Jaguar design language, with a driving experience that exceeds expectations created by the striking appearance: relaxed and confident, with outstanding ability and control.

Resolutely true to the Jaguar philosophy of creating Beautiful, Fast cars, the XF goes further, adding a new dimension to the marque. The four-door XF has the visual excitement of a coupe, but room inside for five adults to enjoy an interior wholly contemporary in style yet uniquely Jaguar.

As well as space, the new XF's interior ambiance is enriched by crafted, luxurious materials, sophisticated instruments and calm interior mood lighting. Engineering excellence and attention to detail mean the XF's interior matches the best-in-class for refinement, while Jaguar's intelligent use of technology and driver-friendly Touch-screen controls add new layers of comfort and ease of use.

Every XF model has shift-by-wire transmission control, with Jaguar's class-leading sequential shift system - its popularity already confirmed by feedback from XK sports car customers - used for the first time in a saloon. Shift-by-wire replaces manual shift linkages with electronic commands and gives every XF rapid and very smooth gearshifts - faster, even, than the acclaimed XK's transmission.

The Jaguar Sequential ShiftTM System gives the driver the option of one-touch manual gearchange control via steering-wheel mounted paddles. There are also multiple JaguarDrive ControlTM transmission modes, including Dynamic and Winter settings, which interact with throttle progression, Dynamic Stability Control thresholds and shift strategy to match mood and conditions.

But the most exciting feature of the XF's transmission control is the all-new JaguarDrive SelectorTM - an industry-first rotary shift interface that combines precise, intuitive control with space-saving packaging, to allow maximisation of interior storage options.

Other innovative functional features add more 'surprise and delight'. Air-conditioning vents present a flush dashboard surface until the ignition is switched on, at which point they elegantly rotate to the open position. Another new technology - JaguarSenseTM - introduces touch or proximity-sensing control for overhead console lights and the glovebox release.

Every level of audio system features at least eight speakers, with a premium system designed in association with highly respected audio specialist Bowers & Wilkins available on range-topping models. Radio options now include a Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) system and Sirius Satellite Radio for the North American market, while the XF technology count includes Bluetooth® communications technology, plus optional iPod® and MP3 player connectivity with full-function control through the Touch-screen - and an auxiliary port on every car for other portable audio devices.

Other available features include JaguarVoiceTM control to operate navigation and telephone functions, Blind Spot Monitor, Front and Rear Parking Aids and Rear Camera Parking Aid, Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Speed Limiter, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and Electronic Parking Brake.

Mick Mohan, XF Chief Programme Engineer comments:

"The interior of the XF is a combination of style and substance. It bristles with innovative, industry-leading features. From the smart technical solution of the JaguarDrive SelectorTM, through the seamless efficiency of rotating vents, to the simplicity of Touch-screen control, the XF proves aesthetics and function can work together in perfect harmony."

Engineering excellence and class-leading structural rigidity are at the heart of the new XF's construction. The advanced body structure, which comprises high-tech materials and new-generation design techniques, maximises strength and minimises weight to give the XF superb performance, refinement and efficiency across its range of V6 and V8 engines. These engines include the quietest diesel engine in its class and a supercharged V8 that delivers outstanding levels of performance.

The new XF is best in class for torsional stiffness, and with a wide rear track displays excellent handling characteristics. These elements underpin a dynamic ethos that is driver-focussed yet supremely comfortable and refined. Just as its looks promise, the new XF excels across the board, in every role from a sports car to a luxurious long-distance cruiser.

From the original post from the reveal of the new dual-powertrain GM concept car:

"The Flextreme takes the new design language debuted in the GTC Coupé at the Geneva Motor Show several steps further. With the forward-opening rear doors (FlexDoor®), a large transparent roof and two tailgate doors that open from the side and swing upwards, the concept car continues Opel's tradition of particularly flexible and practical body concepts with attractive designs. This also includes the innovative FlexLoad® additional underfloor luggage compartment.

The big surprise for the IAA are two high-tech electric personal transporters, ingeniously packaged below the cargo floor. They can be used in areas that cars cannot enter, thereby adding an extra mobility option. The electric scooters provide up to 38 km (23 miles) of clean mobility."

Saab Turbo X: Saab Unleashes 21st Century Black Turbo

Performance car to celebrate 30th Anniversary of Saab turbocharging
Launch of Saab XWD, innovative all-wheel-drive system
Unique design evokes look for classic black Saab 900 Turbo
Sport-tuned chassis: suspension, brakes, wheels
400 Nm / 280 hp (206 kW), 2.8 V6 Turbo: 0-100 kph in 5.7 seconds

Saab celebrates three decades of leadership in turbocharging at this year's Frankfurt International Motor Show by launching the Saab Turbo X, a driver-focused performance car that sets new standards for the brand.

This black limited edition model takes Saab 'back to the future' by evoking the iconic appeal of its first black 900 Turbo and introducing innovative Saab XWD technology.

It is unveiled today (11 Sept), exactly 30 years after Saab surprised the automotive world at Frankfurt when it revealed its first turbocharged model. That set a trend other manufacturers were to follow. Now Saab unleashes turbo power for the first time through Saab XWD, a cutting edge all-wheel-drive system that sets performance standards competitors will also seek to emulate.

With 400 Nm of torque from its 280 hp/ 206 kW 2.8V6 turbo engine, the Turbo X is the ultimate performance expression of the new Saab 9-3 range. Saab XWD features active management that not only splits torque delivery between both axles, but also between the rear wheels. This responsive system delivers a level of driver involvement and dynamic chassis control never seen before from Saab.

In addition to tuning of the suspension and its electronic chassis, throttle and powertrain settings, the Turbo X features distinctive styling additions that enhance aerodynamic performance.

Available in Sport Sedan or SportCombi bodystyles, the Saab Turbo X limited edition showcases the launch of Saab XWD. The order book is now open and the first customer deliveries are expected during the second quarter of next year. Each example can carry a personalized message in the main instrument display.

Driver in Focus with Saab XWD
Intelligent Saab XWD for superb handling and roadholding
Rear eLSD gives torque transfer up to 40% between wheels
2.8 V6 Turbo with twin-scroll turbocharger, variable valve timing
Sports tuned chassis optimizes all-wheel-drive benefits

The Saab Turbo X adds a new dimension in chassis control to Saab's unrivalled experience in turbocharging. It is the result of a development program that leverages the full potential of Saab's innovative XWD system, with the car's sports tuned suspension, brakes and electronic control systems all aligned to meet a single need: driving satisfaction.

Saab XWD is an active all-wheel-drive system designed to optimize vehicle handling and stability. (Refer to New Saab 9-3 release for full technical description). Its sophisticated electronic control allows fine balancing of drive torque, not only between the two axles but also between the rear wheels. In effect, this stretches the performance envelope of the chassis, for example, raising the threshold at which ESP throttle and braking interventions are triggered. The result is closer driver involvement through 'positive force' chassis control.

The driving benefits of the XWD system are best appreciated out on the open road. Data from the ABS/ESP sensors - measuring wheel speed, yaw rate and steering angle - is utilized by the Saab XWD control module. Rear drive is instantly applied to balance oversteer and understeer characteristics, improving stability and roadholding.

Driver control is taken a step further on the Turbo X by the eLSD, the first application of an electronically-controlled, rear limited slip differential in this segment of the market. It uses inputs from the rear wheel speed sensors and can transfer up to 40% of torque between the drive shafts, to whichever wheel has more grip. When cornering hard, this yaw damping effect helps the rear of the car more closely follow the direction of the front wheels.

To exploit the full benefits of Saab XWD, the chassis of the Turbo X has been lowered by 10 mm and the springs and dampers stiffened to minimize body movement. To maintain a constant ride height irrespective of load, self-leveling dampers are fitted at the rear.

Stopping power is also increased with larger brake discs fitted: internally ventilated (345 mm diameter x 30 mm) at the front and externally ventilated (292 mm diameter x 20 mm) at the rear. Standard 235/45 R-18 tires ensure excellent mechanical grip for the 18-inch alloy wheels.

The powerhouse at the heart of the Turbo X is a 24-valve, 2.8-liter V6 turbo engine generating 400 Nm of torque between 2,150 and 4,500 rpm and maximum power of 280 hp (206 kW) at 5,500 rpm. The advanced specification includes a lightweight, all-aluminum construction with a 60-degree angle between the cylinder banks for perfect balance, variable inlet valve timing and twin-scroll turbocharging. It is offered with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
This responsive, high torque powerplant is the perfect partner for Saab XWD. Together, they give the Saab Turbo X sporty, all-wheel-drive performance and handling characteristics that will appeal to all enthusiastic drivers who seek a rewarding experience behind the wheel.

Saab Black Turbo Reborn
Distinctive Jet Black color in homage to first Saab 900 Turbo
Functional sports bodystyling raises aerodynamic efficiency
'Turbo heritage' boost gauge and personalized driver display

The Saab Turbo X visually communicates its focus on driving performance by extending the bold, progressive design themes of the new 9-3 range. Offered only in metallic jet black, with the front grille and all exterior detailing accented in a matte grey titanium-like finish, it represents a contemporary expression of its illustrious black 900 Turbo forebear.

Distinctive styling additions are designed to improve aerodynamic efficiency, as well as emphasize the Turbo X's performance focus. At the front, a deeper lip spoiler and integrated air intake contribute to reduced drag while also increasing air flow to the engine and intercooler.

At the rear, the re-profiled bumper and insert panel lowers the point of air flow separation, further reducing drag and assisting high speed stability. The Sport Sedan features a rear spoiler that extends the line of the trunk deck, reducing high speed lift forces at the rear axle. The standard SportCombi already has a similar spoiler that extends the rear roof line.

The Turbo X is further distinguished by unique, 18-inch alloy wheels (19-inch available as an option outside US/Canada markets) with a grey titanium-like finish that evokes the look of Saab's classic three-spoke design. Twin, rhomboid-shaped tailpipes complete the exterior additions.

Inside, the 'black turbo' theme is continued throughout the cabin. The sports seating, with additional bolstering, is upholstered entirely in black leather. The sporty ambience is further emphasized by a carbon-fiber finish to the main fascia, door inserts, glove box and gear shift console which is unique to the Turbo X.

The driver benefits from improved 'feel' through the addition of a thick-rimmed, soft grip leather steering wheel. Seating comfort can be taken a step further with an optional premium, natural leather interior, which includes perforated bolsters for the front seat squabs and backs.

In recognition of Saab's turbo heritage, the Turbo X boost gauge is a replica of the original 900 Turbo display. Owners will also enjoy a personalized greeting when they get behind the wheel and switch on the ignition. A unique 'Ready For Take-off' message ('All Systems Go' in US/Canada) flashes in the main instrument display. The owner's name, with the edition number of the car, can also be programmed for display by the supplying dealer.

Saab Turbo X

Technical Specifications
Engine:
2792cc. V6. Aluminum cylinder heads and block. Twin-scroll turbocharger, intercooled. DOHC, 24-valve. Variable valve timing (inlet). Dual-mass flywheel. Bosch Motronic ECM
Max power: 280 hp (206 kW) @ 5,500 rpm. Max. torque: 400 Nm @ 2,150 - 4,500 rpm
Bore/stroke: 89.0/74.8 mm. Compression Ratio: 9.5: 1. Max. Boost Pressure: 0.8 bar.
Transmission:
Saab XWD, all-wheel-drive. Electronic rear limited-slip differential (eLSD)
6-speed manual or automatic gearbox
Suspension:
Front: MacPherson struts and gas shock absorbers. Anti-roll bar. Hydroformed sub-frame.
Rear: Indep, four link, incl. toe-link. Coil springs and self-levelling shock absorbers. Anti-roll bar. Sub-frame.

Steering:
Rack and pinion, hydraulic power assistance. Turning circle (curb to curb): 11.7m.Lock to lock: 2.75 turns
Wheels, Tires:
18 x 7.5" , 235/45R18,
19 x 7.5" , 235/40R19,
Brakes:
Hydraulic, dual circuit, vacuum booster. Discs: 345 mm / 292 mm (all ventilated)

Performance Data
(preliminary figures)

0 - 100 kph: Sport Sedan: 5.7 secs (manual)
SportCombi: 5.9 secs (manual)
80 - 120 kph (5th gear): Sport Sedan: 7.9 secs
SportCombi: 8.3 secs
Top Speed: Sport Sedan: 250 kph (manual)
SportCombi: 250 kph (manual)

Fuel consumption/CO2 (combined cycle, L/100km):
Sport Sedan: 10.9 / 259 gm/km (manual)
SportCombi: 11.0 / 263 gm/km (manual)

# # #
HYPERLINK "http://media.saab.com/" http://media.saab.com/