Paris Motor Show: the highlights
The Paris Motor Show opens on Wednesday. DW takes a look at the hottest new models this autumn.
French chic
Looking to gain a foothold in the premium segment, French carmaker Citroen has introduced its DS series. Aptly named Divine, this model comes with Swarovski crystals in the headlights and switches made of marble.
High-tech materials
Peugeot took over Citroen in 1976, creating PSA Holding. When the new company ran into trouble, the Chinese carmaker Dongfeng came to the rescue along with the French government. Peugeot is pinning its hopes on the new Exalt model with its hybrid engine and a chassis made of recycled materials and untreated steel.
Open-top Bavarian
The season for open-top driving in Europe may be on its way out, but BMW's new 2-series convertible will still make its debut in Paris. The roof can be closed at 50 km/h (31 m/h). BMW will also present its new X6 SUV.
Zippy Merc
Mercedes' new AMG GT comes in two models: One with 462 hp (for wimps) and one with 510 hp (for show-offs). The latter can reach speeds of 300 km/h and will set you back 130,000 euros ($165,000). Mercedes also has a new convertible in the pipeline.
Sporty Brit
No strangers to driving in style, the Brits have staked their claim at the auto show with the Aston Martin V12 Vantage S. It boasts 573 hp and a top speed of 323 km/h, making it even faster than the AMG GT. The only downsides are that it can guzzle up to 14 liters per 100 kilometers - five more than the Mercedes model. It also costs 50,000 euros more.
Big brother
To gain an edge over its rivals, American car giant Ford has come up with its biggest SUV yet. Some models include the Kuga and the Ecosport. Recently, Ford has made headlines for less favorable reasons - the carmaker reduced working hours and slashed pay for workers at its European headquarters in Cologne, where its Fiesta model is produced.
Swedish surprise
Volvo will unveil its second-generation XC90 - the Swedish company's first new model in four years. Special features include a tablet-sized touchscreen, but the engine only has four cylinders. But don't be fooled – the XC90 still packs 320 hp under the hood.
Multi-talented VW
Never change a winning horse, they say - unless, of course, you're Volkswagen and your horse is the Golf 7. By now, Germany's leading auto maker is on its 12th version of the beloved classic, this time with the Golf Alltrack. Designed for all terrains, the Alltrack's permanent four-wheel system is equally suitable for on-road or off-road driving, whether the car is packed to the brim or empty.
The little one
Only 2.7 meters long, the third-generation Smart is staying true to its diminutive roots. The car's compact size still make it ideal for squeezing into tight spots on busy city streets, and at 11,000 euros, buying one won't break the bank. Smart will also show off its limousine, the Forfour.
Clever Czech
Skoda's Fabia also ranks high on the price-performance scale. The third-generation model has had a complete makeover and now sports a built-in touchscreen that allows you to display smartphone apps via WiFi - still uncommon in this price segment. It will be available from November.
An old friend
GM's German Opel division will be showing off its fifth-generation Corsa, which also got a full makeover. The carmaker is hoping to reclaim market share and elevate itself back to the number-two spot in Europe.