We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue without changing your settings, we will assume that you are happy to receive all cookies on the Business Car website. However, if you would like to, you can change your cookies at any time
The start point for the best source of fleet information |
1. Ford S-max Concept
What is it? All-new seven-seat MPV based on the forthcoming Mondeo underpinnings. It even includes the next Mondeo's front-end look. Although a concept, this is almost exactly what will arrive as the second-generation S-max in 18 months' time.
Why is it interesting? Ford is hoping to offer the next S-max with a new 1.5-litre Ecoboost petrol engine that will also be rolled out across other Fords to replace the existing 1.6-litre engine. Expect the new 1.5 to give class-leading official figures for conventional petrol engines.
When is it on sale? Early 2015.
Any other info? Ford will stick with the current S-max's philosophy of offering sleek looks and the best driving MPV in the sector.
2. Infiniti Q30 Concept
What is it? The concept version of Infiniti's small-family car. The firm hopes the car will rival the BMW 1-series, Lexus CT and Audi A3, and has styled the Q30 to straddle both hatchback and crossover markets.
Why is it interesting? The Q30 should give Infiniti the breakthrough model it needs to finally become an established brand in the UK. Efficiency should be ensured through a tie-up with Mercedes that could see the German brand's engines in the Q30.
When is it on sale? 2015.
Any other info? The Q30 will be built at parent brand Nissan's plant in Sunderland alongside the Leaf, Qashqai, Note and Juke.
3. Volkswagen Golf Sportsvan Concept
What is it? The successor to the Golf Plus compact MPV. It's a concept but it's so close to production form that the finished product is unlikely to be much different at all.
Why is it interesting? It has all the attributes of the standard Golf but is 83mm longer, 126mm higher and has a 48mm longer wheelbase, creating more room inside. Boot space is up to 498 litres and can be extended to 585 with the rear seats still upright by sliding the back bench forwards.
When is it on sale? Mid-2014.
Any other info? Neither the Sportsvan nor the Plus names will remain for the UK market. It will be called Golf something, but Volkswagen in yet to confirm what the final moniker will be.
4. Jaguar C-X17
What is it? Jaguar's design for a mid-size off-roader to rival the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and (whisper it) the Range Rover Evoque. The C-X17 uses lightweight materials to ensure both efficiency and good performance. Power comes from a new range of petrol and diesel engines including units capable of emitting less than 100g/km.
Why is it interesting? The C-X17 also showcases the platform for Jaguar's overdue X-type replacement and rival to the BMW 3-series.
When is it on sale? There's no confirmation on when the C-X17 will go on sale, but it could enter showrooms in 2016. However, the large-family class saloon based on the underpinnings will go into production in 2015.
Any other info? While Jaguar maintains the C-X17 will rival mid-size 4x4s, it is more than 4.7m long, which is mid-way between the BMW X3 and X5.
5. Lexus LF-NX
What is it? The Lexus LF-NX is a lower medium crossover concept showcasing a hybrid powertrain "tuned for SUV performance".
Why is it interesting? While nothing is confirmed, a production version of the LF-NX, otherwise known as the Lexus Future - Nimble Crossover, is likely to arrive in 2014. With the small crossover market dramatically growing, the car will be more accessible to fleets than its current big brother, the RX450h. The Toyota-owned brand also expects it to appeal to a slightly younger audience than the RX.
When is it on sale? In toned-down form likely late next year.
Any other info? Lexus describes the dashboard as "human-oriented" with touch-sensitive switches and touchpad Remote Touch Interface design.
BusinessCar magazine ©2019
Business Car Magazine © 2020 | Business Car is part of NS Media Group.
