The 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show-Part Two
A first time visitor to the Frankfurt Motor Show is sure to be overwhelmed by the sheer size and scope of the event. Spread out over nine exhibit halls, it is considered by many to be the benchmark for European auto shows.
Having spent the better part of day one running between media events, day two was a time to put on a pair of comfortable shoes and jeans and get up-close and personal with many of the finest vehicles in the world. Here are some of the highlights.
Audi A4
The outgoing Audi A4 offered more than enough contemporary good looks and performance to be considered a serious player in the luxury sedan market. Canadian singer-songwriter, Bryan Adams, introduced the new Audi A4 by entertaining us with an acoustic version of his hit song “Run To You”. Judging by the positive feedback provided by the journalists in attendance, there is every reason to expect the successful storyline for both the singer and sedan will continue well into the next decade.
Several models were on display at the show. This included a unique cutaway version of the Audi A4 3.0 TDI quattro. As you would expect, most of the media attention was focused on the bright red A4 1.8 T displayed on center stage. Sitting inside the new A4 once the crowd had diminished to a reasonable level, I was impressed anew that Audi continues to get it right with each subsequent model.
An evolutionary step in the overall design of a European classic, expect a 3.2 FSI and 2.0 T version of the new A4 to reach North American showrooms in model year 2009.
Bentley
As if we needed another reason to buy a lottery ticket, the Bentley Continental GT Speed enters the line-up possessing solid performance credentials. With 600 hp underfoot, it becomes the most powerful Bentley ever and the first to exceed 200 mph.
Styling cues are subtle, but play a major role in delivering the additional power to the ground. A wider, lower intake and upright grille improve airflow while the chassis is tuned to deliver superior handling on wider 20” wheels shod with Pirelli P-Zero tires. Inside, the Speed is awash in leather and bright metal, providing a look and feel that only a handful of luxury automobiles can match.
