Concepts
A ferocious new look for this most iconic ride, the Volkswagen Design Vision GTI packs a 3-liter V6 engine and a couple of turbochargers with 503 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. It's all-wheel drive and will reach a top speed of 186 mph, the first 60 in less than 4 seconds. There are four gorgeous 20-inch wheels, carbon ceramic brakes and VW's legendary DSG gearbox.
A concept only really in name, we hear that they're planning on rolling these off their Chinese production lines within the next three years, but details on the specs are still sketchy. What we do know is that the 2013 Acura SUV-X Concept has been crafted to blend the utility of an SUV with the eco-friendliness of a small car, boasts high performance capabilities and possesses some impressive angles, molded flanks and a wonderfully aggressive-looking front end.
A gorgeous blend of the coupe and X3, the BMW X4 Concept retains the iconic kidney grilles, bordered with black gloss chrome. Sloping fenders add to its athletic prowess, as do the funky 21-inch light alloy wheels with a bi-color finish. It'll be powered by Beemer's XDrive all-wheel system and word is that its engine will be along the lines of the X3's with a 3-liter diesel also in the running.
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Performance wise, this maker has few peers, though they haven't always produced the most aesthetically pleasing of rides. Untill now. The Subaru WRX Concept is an angular, angry, menacing looking beast of a ride. A muscular sedan, its roof is comprized of carbon fiber to reduce weight and lower its center of gravity and it boasts a turbocharged engine, intercooler and quad tailpipes. Let's hope it doesn't remain simply a concept.
Absolutely stunning, the 2013 Acura NSX Concept packs a seven 7-speed dual clutch transmission, a direct-injected V6 3.5 liter engine and all wheel handling that rivals supercars. Three additional electric motors further enhance the four wheel drive and assist its acceleration and braking capabilities and inside, the interior design is luscious, too.
A nice name for a vehicle that carries things - you know the old story, Atlas with the weight of the world on his shoulders - the Ford Atlas Pickup Concept sure looks tough enough to take over its namesake's job. The roof and tailgate cargo carrier means that it can support a range of goods and the cargo bed houses its very own power outlet for charging your tools. Gadgets include Dynamic Hitch Assist which tell you where to position the truck over tough terrain and a 360 degree camera which means that you won't miss a thing.
A futuristic twist on the compact sedan, the gorgeously sculptured Toyota Furia Concept is, according to the manufacturer, the embodiment of "Iconic Dynamism" aimed squarely at the younger market, and we certainly like its curves. The swept windshield, space-age headlights, sloping roof and 19inch alloys bursting from each corner adds to the contemporary flair.
A luxury compact crossover, the Lincoln MKC Concept is one fine looking motoring machine. Blending the best of an SUV with the cruising comfort of a sedan, it boasts some super smart features that include a push-button transmission, programmable ride control and personalized lighting. Nearly every inner surface is lined with luxurious leather and the panoramic sunroof is comparable to a planetarium.
Designed especially for the North American market (even including Canada), the Volkswagen CrossBlue is one that is dear to our hearts. Even if it is only a concept at present. A six seater four wheel drive SUV, it houses a 2 liter turbo engine and a couple of electric motors that will hit 60 in just over 7 seconds and offer a possible fuel economy of nearly 90 miles to the gallon when driven in the hybrid mode. Let's hope they make this one a reality.
Oozing the usual German car-making class, the sleek, sculptured BMW Concept 4 Series blends the best of the its 3 and 6 Series range. The inside is adorned with premium leather throughout and the word is that it will be full to bursting with state-of-the-art gadgetry. There are no specific power details yet, but we hear that there'll likely be the option of a 2 or 3 liter turbocharged engine that will leave almost all others in a cloud of choking dust.
