2012 Paris Motor Show - from September 29 to October 4...
Aston Martin will be introducing its latest model of the DB9, the upgrades for the 2013 model year include a new Virage-inspired look inside and out, more power for its V12 engine and Aston’s latest adaptive damping technology. The changes essentially mean that the best bits of the Virage — of which just over 1000 were sold in 18 months — can be had with the more desirable DB9 badge and for US$ 25,000 less. The revised DB9 coupé starts at US$ 190.000. The look of the DB9 is instantly familiar from the Virage. The biggest change over the design of the Virage is a more pronounced rear boot ‘flip’ that improves the aerodynamic performance.
McLaren is all set to launch in Paris its new super car, the P1. The company claims that it is till date the best and fastest McLaren ever built and the company’s sole target is to be considered as the best driver’s car, both on and off the race track. Top speed is not a matter of concern when it comes to McLaren but sources claim that the vehicle has been introduced to challenge the Bugatti Veyron, the fastest street legal car in today’s world. The specifications have not yet been officially launched but the car is rumored to produce 960 BHP thanks to the formula one inspired, single styled Kinetic Energy Recovery Booster. The car is focused on decreasing the lap times and the vehicle is estimated to be priced around US$1 million. The P1 however will be a limited edition car with only 500 units distributed worldwide on special request. The bookings of the car have already started and this vehicle is set to be purchased by high profile bureaucrats, car collectors and existing McLaren customer.
At the 2012 edition BMW will be presenting a more broad M Performance line. BMW has announced an optional power upgrade for its 2.0-litre four-cylinder common rail diesel engine among a series of new developments from its newly established M-Performance range – all of which are planned to be revealed for the first time at the Paris motor show. BMW isn’t revealing too much on just what performance gains the so-called BMW M Performance Power Kit brings, but early information hints it leads to a 1.0sec improvement in 0-62mph acceleration in certain models, without any increase in combined cycle fuel consumption or CO2 emissions. As a factory-offered option, the existing warranty terms and conditions also remain valid. Meanwhile, BMW plans to showcase a range of optional M Performance aerodynamic components at the Paris motor show. Pictured here fitted to a 335i, the new components are designed to complement the existing M-Sport styling package.
At this year’s edition of the Paris Motor Show, Lexus Lexus is previewing the next-generation Lexus IS line-up. The new IS will be closely linked to the just-launched GS, the two having been developed in tandem and sharing common underpinnings. The new IS line-up is due next year and will initially launch with a saloon. Coupe and convertible models are to follow in the mid-term. The concept’s hybrid drivetrain is destined for production in the IS – the first time a hybrid has appeared in the small saloon – and the GS. It features an Atkinson cycle, direct-injection 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and a compact, high-output electric motor and high-performance battery. Lexus is targeting CO2 emissions of less than 100g/km, which would make the IS the lowest emitting car in its class. No power or performance figures have been released by Lexus, but it is targeting 2bhp per gram of CO2 suggestions a power figure in excess of 200bhp.
