What's hot at this year's Frankfurt car show
JAGUAR XK SPORTS COUPÉ:
The new XK sports coupé made its first fully-fledged public showing at Frankfurt, using the same aluminium monocoque structure technology as the XJ saloon. On sale early next year, with prices expected to rise from the current starting point of €100,765. Convertible and supercharged versions will follow later in the year.
OPEL ANTARA GTC:
Opel introduced its replacement of the Frontera SUV. The Antara GTC concept goes into production next year for delivery here in autumn 2006. A crossover vehicle rather than a true off-roader, it will retain much of the rugged front-end looks of the concept and the sloping roof is also likely to remain.
AUDI Q7 SUV:
Audi unveiled its Q7 SUV, shown some months ago in Motors. It takes its off-road ability from Audi's renowned heritage of Quattro development. Two engines will be available at launch in July: a 3-litre Tdi diesel and a 4.2-litre FSI petrol, which manages 0-100km/h in 6.8 seconds. A hybrid version will follow in 2008. Prices have yet to be agreed for Ireland.
PEUGEOT 407 COUPÉ:
The new 407 coupé takes its design cues from the regular saloon version - the end result is a large car that fulfils those long-sought attributes of being both stylish and sporty.
MERCEDES S-CLASS:
The new S-Class is due here at the end of the year, with orders already in for the range-topping 6-litre S600. Other engines at launch include the S350 and S500. A diesel will also be available. A dozen technical innovations are entering series production for the first time on the new S-Class - from Brake Assist with radar sensors to night-view assist with the latest infra-red technology to anticipatory occupant protection and active body control suspension. Prices likely to rise by about 6 to 7 per cent on the current version.