Five most important new models

There are more major debuts than ever at this year’s biennial Frankfurt Motor Show, ranging from high-performance supercars to estates, dropheads and thrifty runabouts which utilise the latest in fuel-saving technology.

Here is a run-down of the top five models likely to steal the show as the crowds descend.

Audi A4
The third generation A4 looks less front-heavy than its predecessor as the car is based on the modular platform used for the A5.
Front wheel drive is standard with a quattro all-wheel-drive version being offered. The new front end treatment is crisp and dynamic and incorporates the trademark Audi single frame front grille. This car is pitched firmly at BMW sporty 3 series which dominates the class. Engines will range from the new 1.8-litre TFSI unit starting at 130 horsepower up to a 4.2-litre V-8. Gas engines and a diesel with up to 240 hp will also be offered.

Jaguar XF
Jaguar’s long-awaited replacement for the S-type, the XF will make its debut at the show too. This car is crucial for a struggling marque and designer Ian Callum says it is time to move away from 1990s retro-conservatism styling.
“Jaguar has to shout louder,” said the Scotsman. According to Britain’s Autocar magazine, the new Jaguar saloon will enter the fray with a choice of 2.7-litre V6 diesel, 3.0-litre V6 petrol, 4.2-litre V8 petrol and supercharged 4.2-litre V8 power units.

Porsche 911 GT2
The fastest-ever version of the iconic Porsche 911, the GT2, promises a combination which used to be thought impossible – mind-boggling performance with acceptable fuel consumption.
The special edition is fitted with a turbocharged version of the six-cylinder boxer engine which has 50 horses more than the standard 911 yet uses 15 per cent less fuel. Average consumption is given as 12.5 litres per 100km.
Prices start at around $260,000.

Ferrari F430 Scuderia
Formula One champ Michael Schumacher was in Frankfurt to unveil Ferrari’s latest racing simulator on wheels – the 430 Scuderia. The V8 (510 hp) is designed to show how technology honed on the track can be carried across to the Italian marque’s road-going models. New software reduces gearchange time to 60 milliseconds and there is new combined stability and traction control. The Scuderia is 100kg lighter than the standard 430 but still has automatic temperature control.

Aston Martin DBS
The Aston Martin DBS is the hardest Aston ever, a swaggering, race-bred machine with a V-12 engine turning out 517 horsepower.
The DBS bears a strong, family resemblance to the DB 9 but the squat, purposeful look has been enhanced by a new nose cone, bigger front wings and wheels and redrawn rear haunches.

By Martin Bensley