2014 Geneva Motor Show Offers Tons of News by Henny Hemmes Part 2 +VIDEO

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Lexus took its RC 300h, and the sporty variant 300 h F Sport line to Geneva. Also the RC F GT3 made its world debut. It is a specially prepared 550 hp strong race car that Lexus will enter in the FIA GT3 European Championship.

Watch video clips of unveilings from Lamborghini, Lexus and Maserati

Maserati unveiled the Alfieri Concept. This is an example of excellent Italian design and is my ‘best in show’ car. It is based on the shortened platform of the Gran Turismo. The production model can be expected in two years and then has to compete with models like the Jaguar F -Type. The upcoming Maserati will get a new V6, but will also be available with the 4.7-liter V8 of the de Quattroporte and Ferrari California T.

Watch the introduction of the Maserati Alfieri

Mazda showed the Hazumi, the predecessor of the next generation Mazda2, which will be equipped with among others the new SkyActive 1.5D diesel engine. McLaren showed its 650S, the latest super car that is positioned between the 12C and P1.

Mercedes launched the S-Klasse Coupé with two new features: ‘magic curve tilting function’, a addition to Magic Body Control, that debuted on the new ‘S’ Last year. The systeem tilts the car in curves in a way that we are used to see from motor bikes. The other new feature is really shiny: the optional LED-lamped van be delivered with 47 Swarovski chyrstals.

Watch Henny Hemmes' exclusive interview with Mercedes-Benz

Mini brought their Clubman Concept to the exposition. We already publicized the details of the new five- seater. It is the first Mini with aerodynamic Airbreathers in the fenders and AirCurtains in the front apron. I especially like the four door body works.
    • Read Henny's coverage report of the new MINI Clubman introduction

Mitsubishi showed three concept cars: two plug-in hybrides and the AR, a concept for the next generation SUV. The PHEV Concept GC shows the design direction for the next generation family car and the Concept XR is the predecessor of the next gen compact coupe PHEV.

The Nissan BladeGlider made its European debut. It is a striking new design with a very narrow front track. Insiders at Nissan say that it drives extremely well. No word though about a future for the model that has been inspired by the Deltawing racing car.

Racing is in the blood of Nissan’s new GT-R Nismo, that is equipped with a 600 hp strong 3.8-liter V6 with bi-turbos. It is the fastest car the Japanese have ever built, using technology based on the experiences in GT 1 racing.

The day before the show, Peugeot received the award for the 2014 Car of the Year. This time, the European award is for the 308, the new Peugeot that beat the BMW i3, Tesla S, Citroën Picasso and Mazda 3 on the second, third, fourth and fifth places respectively.

Watch the Car Of The Year event

Porsche unveiled the 919 Hybrid and the 911 RSR. The 919 Hybrid will be entered in the WEC, World Endurance Championship, including the 24-hours of Le Mans. The car has to be regarded as the racing test bed for innovative drive lines in production models.

Watch video clips of unveilings from Porsche, Renault and Skoda

Rolls-Royce unveiled the Ghost Series II, which has been subtly redesigned. The Ghost is the most popular car in the class over 200 thousand Euro and according to CEO Tosten Müller-Otvös also the ‘ultimate business tool for entrepreneurs.’

Volkswagen presented its T-Roc, a concept car for a unique new model that we can expect by the end of next year. The sporty looking SUV has all-wheel drive and a completely removable convertible roof. It is sitting just between the Tiguan and the upcoming Taigun SUV.

Watch the introduction of the VW T-Roc

Volvo Concept Estate and Concept XC Coupe

Volvo came from the north with the last of three concepts. After the Concept Coupe and the Concept XC Coup, the Swedes presented the Concept Estate.

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