New Models Coming to America

By Marty Bernstein

AIADA Contributing Editor

Almost 100 new models were introduced during the opening of the 2006 Mondial de Automobile in non-stop, 15-minute spurts of product reveals, hype and info-dumps. It was an impossible task to attend them all.

Instead, I opted to use the time prudently, save my strength in the sweltering heat in the halls (air conditioning is rare in France) and primarily visit the stands of those manufacturers whose vehicles are sold in America.

And always wait until after the international media scrum of photographers, videographers, writers and journalists at the official presentation. This allows some walk-around, look-in and sit-in time to get a quick reaction to the vehicle.

There is a lot of very interesting new product headed for U.S. shores in the next few months from European and Asian manufacturers – product that will, I believe, help to significantly increase international brand’s market share.

It’s important to note that many of the models were diesel powered, which Europeans prefer. When sold in America they will have internal combustion engines. Here are a few that really impressed me:

The Mini get mighty – Looks can deceive. The well-selling Mini looks the same inside and out, but it’s a bit longer, has larger dials and gauges on the dash and has a more powerful 50 hp engine. A new station wagon is coming soon and so is a revamped convertible.

Uber luxury for Mercedes-Benz – The new CL class has limited production – 10,000 or so worldwide, and a limited number of customers with a price tag of around $140,000 to $200,000, depending on the specific model. But it’s a beauty.

Nissan’s crossover Quashuai – An unpronounceable and odd name, but this crossover looks like a winner with styling DNA from the Murano. Despite the Asian brand name, this car was designed and will be built in England. An American version, I was told, will be introduced this January in Detroit at the NAIAS with a slightly different body design. Check out this demo of the new Quashuai!

VW’s heating up with the Iroc Scirocco concept – Yeah, yeah its just a concept, but with all the buzz and inferences concerning launch dates of early 2008, and maybe, just maybe end of 2007, this could be a big winner. Aimed at younger buyers with a wish for speed or the impression of speed, this beauty sports the new VW grill. Add some teeth and it might have a resemblance to Great White Sharks. VW – part deux – Augmenting the Jetta models, a hatchback is due to hit America very soon.

Audi’s R8 is styling, speedy and sexy – At six figures in both Euros and dollars, this mid-engine brings a new level to Audi’s expanding line-up of vehicles. Not many will be produced and the dealer requirements for space, display, etc., are said to be quite stringent. Limited to a few select dealers, but watch out …this will move fast.

Rolls-Royce’s new drop top – This will make a lasting impression. Perfect for Madame’s daily trip to Rodeo Drive and the supermarket. Yeah, sure.

Kia & Hyundai, conjoined platforms but separated by brand – Take one platform and let it do double duty. That’s what’s on the way to America with a sporty, stylish Kia called the Cee’d in Europe, and the more luxurious, upscale Hyundai known as the Amejs. These vehicles should add to both brand’s growth. Think crossover.

A few others coming to America – Volvo’s C30 hatchback was receiving a lot of viewing action from European photographers and journalists. Ditto for the refreshed Land Rover LR2. Mazda has a concept car that is low, lean and lithe – it’s a new look at the future of this zoom-zoomer.

This is a huge show and covering all of it in just two days is almost impossible. The good news is the North American International Automobile Show in Detroit is not too far away. What was covered/missed here in Paris is sure to make it to Detroit where the pace is just a little bit more leisurely.

So, goodbye from the City of Lights … and to all the brands featured here at the Paris Auto Show – bon chance!