Error parsing XSLT file: \xslt\FacebookOpenGraph.xslt FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW 2013: Strike a pose with Frankfurt's finest business car models
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FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW 2013: Strike a pose with Frankfurt's finest business car models

Date: 07 October 2013

 

Top 5 updates

1. Seat Leon Ecomotive

What is it? The Ecomotive is the cleanest and most economical version of Seat's lower medium Leon to date. 

Why is it interesting? This is about as appropriate as the Leon gets for business car operators. The 1.6-litre TDI model drops to 87g/km in this guise and promises an official 85.6mpg. This version also has 110hp, as opposed to its predecessor's 105hp, which makes it good for 0-62mph in 10.4 seconds rather than the old Ecomotive's figure of 11.1 seconds.

When is it on sale? Late 2013.

Any other info? The Ecomotive model can be had with any Leon - the five-door hatch, three-door SC and new ST estate (pictured) - and the emissions level remains the same regardless of body style.

2. Lexus GS300h

What is it? A 2.5-litre hybrid powertrain version of Lexus's GS.

Why is it interesting? The manufacturer already offers the speedy GS450h, which achieves 62mph in 5.9secs. Now it claims it is the first premium brand to offer two full-hybrid vehicles in the same model range. The 141hp GS300h is a more mainstream hybrid intended to seriously compete with the BMW 520d, which is the heartland of the executive sector in volume terms. Compared with its more powerful sibling, which offers 141g/km of CO2, the new GS version emits a class-leading 109g/km and 60.1mpg.

When is it on sale? December 2013.

Any other info? The launch of the new addition is introducing a series of safety features across the Lexus GS range, including a rear cross-traffic alert, which uses radar technology to alert drivers to vehicles approaching from either side when reversing out of a parking space.

3. Skoda Yeti

What is it? A facelifted version of the Czech manufacturer's successful crossover.

Why is it interesting? It's more of a styling exercise than anything else - engines and transmissions are essentially the same and there's still the option of four-wheel drive. The Yeti remains one of only three current crossovers to drop below the 120g/km mark though, as the Greenline model emits 119g/km.

When is it on sale? Early 2014.

Any other info? The facelifted model will be available in standard and Outdoor guises. The latter is a more rugged design with black plastic exterior mouldings.

4. Renault Megane

What is it? A mid-life facelift for Renault's lower medium contender.

Why is it interesting? Although Renault has struggled in the UK in recent times, the Megane is still very competitive on emissions, and the refreshed appearance helps modernise the hatchback, three-door and estate models. The looks are designed to bring the car in line with the Clio supermini launched earlier this year.

When is it on sale? Q1 of 2014.

Any other info? The changes, which also include the addition of an automatic on the 130hp petrol model, will have to see the Megane through to its 2016 replacement.

5. Kia Optima

What is it? Kia has revised, inside and out, its upper medium car Optima, while improvements have also been made to equipment levels. A Sport Pack will also be introduced for the first time, offering a black mesh grille, lower front bumper and larger alloy wheels.

Why is it interesting? While emissions remain unchanged (starting from 128g/km of CO2), safety equipment has been upgraded and now includes a blind-spot detection system that also incorporates a lane-change alert.

When is it on sale? Early 2014.

Any other info? Refinement has been improved. And the revised Optima will come with a new, larger dashboard screen for satellite navigation and other controls.

 



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