Peugeot Quartz Concept

One of the most intriguing one-offs to debut at the Paris Auto Show will be the Peugeot Quartz Concept. Representing the French automaker's take on an "SUV for the future," this high-intensity hybrid crossover combines avant-garde styling with the latest in lightweight construction and a megadose of motive might. That latter is courtesy of a special version of Peugeot's HYbrid drivetrain.

Flashy, fast and ready to roll

Based on Peugeot's current EMP2 platform and built around a low-mass composite structure with bonded-on body panels, the Quartz Concept complements its aggressive exterior contours with full LED lighting, oversize air intakes, short front/rear overhangs, a decklid spoiler and boldly-flared fenders that house huge 23-inch wheels fitted with aero-enhancing active flaps. Large scissor doors and the absence of a B-pillar allow easy access to all four of its well-contoured bucket seats, with each featuring an exposed frame and tawny leather trim. The Quartz Concept's driver-centric "i-Cockpit" boasts a multifunction steering wheel with shifter paddles and drive-mode selectors and a configurable head-up instrument display.

The heart of the Quartz Concept is the aforementioned Peugeot HYbrid setup that teams a front-mounted 266-horsepower/1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engine developed by Peugeot Sport with a pair of 114-horse electric motor/generators - one at each axle - that can alternatively draw power from or recharge the car's 400V lithium-ion battery pack. Completing the drivetrain are a 6-speed automatic transmission and a pair of limited-slip differentials. 

Three-mode operation

The Peugeot Quartz Concept can operate in three distinct modes: Pure EV that offers up to 31 miles of zero-emissions driving, a Road configuration with the engine and front motor activated and a maximum-performance Race setting that also engages the rear motor. This enthusiast-oriented hauler also features a pneumatic suspension system that uses both cameras and navigation system to effectively scan the road ahead and alter the ride height by nearly two inches to optimize ride and handling.

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Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Concept-S

Presenting a design intended to add more visual pop to the most eco-friendly version of its compact SUV, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Concept-S was unveiled in Paris. Based on the plug-in Outlander now on sale in various world markets and currently set to launch here in 2015, Concept-S offer a strong hint at styling themes and upscale exterior and interior treatments that will be found across the model range of this crossover SUV.

Finished in glass-flake-infused Platinum White, the boldest departure for the Concept-S is found in its fully redrawn nose. A more aggressive grille/intake configuration is highlighted by chrome accents and flanked by new wraparound headlamps that match projector main beams with LED running lamps and fog lights. The rear quarters incorporate full-width wraparound combination lamps that are underscored by prominent brightwork that reprise the "split-X" configuration seen up front. Rounding out this tasteful remake are a more defined lower diffuser and a set of custom alloy wheels. 

Rendered in black and burgundy, the cabin of the Outlander PHEV Concept-S adds numerous premium details. Supple, hand-stitched leather on its well-contoured seats features a 3-D surface meant to provide superior comfort and support while the center console as well as the door trim feature black woodgrain elements inspired by Japanese lacquer boxes. Like the seat frames, the console is accented in silver. While there's no firm word on exactly how much of the Concept-S treatment will ultimately filter its way to the U.S.-bound Outlander, we think any and/or all of it would be welcome.

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Mercedes-AMG GT 2016

Ready to commence a new chapter in the illustrious Mercedes-Benz AMG saga, the eagerly anticipated 2016 Mercedes-AMG GT has now been revealed. Designed to be as comfortable on a race track as it is on a cross-country drive, this high-intensity newcomer matches a light, strong and rigid core structure largely crafted from aluminum with equally lightweight bodywork and competition-inspired powertrain/suspension elements - features that should ensure its status as a primo performer on every level

Claiming it will position Mercedes-AMG more aggressively than ever before as a dynamic sports car brand, Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH notes the second vehicle to be developed independently by the organization is manufactured according to the motto "Handcrafted By Racers" and directly "fulfills our high aspirations with regard to driving dynamics, agility and sportiness."

Looks that thrill

While sharing a similar overall design theme with the outgoing Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS, the bold bodywork on the new Mercedes-AMG GT brings its own distinctive character to the party. Dubbed a consummate combination of beauty and intelligence by Gorden Wagener, Daimler AG's Vice President Design, the car's powerfully sculpted lines and elegantly edgy proportions recall not only the SLS but a number of other iconic M-B sports cars. Its long hood, short deck, flowing roofline complemented by large air intakes, functional side vents, retractable rear spoiler and an aggressive 19-inch wheel/tire fitment speak openly to the power within. 

Those visuals get amped up further in the hotter GT S with subtle touches that include gloss black accenting on the front splitter as well staggered-size (19-inch/20-inch) alloys that can be wrapped in optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. Although conventional front-hinged doors replace the "gullwing" units on the SLS, either version of this new Mercedes-AMG effort will have no problem turning heads and grabbing eyes wherever it goes. 

AMG power in two strengths

As detailed in an earlier engine-tech story, the newest member of the Mercedes-AMG family will be fitted with a new AMG-designed, front-mid-mounted 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 that makes 456 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque in standard form and 503 horses/479 lb-ft of twist in GT S configuration. Backing both versions in this rear-drive coupe is a balance-enhancing 7-speed AMG SpeedShift DCT dual-clutch automatic transaxle that includes steering-wheel-mounted paddles and multi-mapping modes that can be punched up using AMG Dynamic Select controls on the center console. The GT S version also comes with a Race program setting as well as an electronic locking rear differential that functions even more efficiently than the conventional mechanical unit found in the GT. 

Drawing on the "technological DNA of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG," the aluminum-intensive double wishbone suspension setup in the new GT has been tuned to provide an ideal mix of precision feel and consummate control. Stepping up to GT S spec adds electronically controlled (Comfort/Sport/Sport plus) damping as well as speed-sensitive variable- ratio power steering. The top-line model also offers an AMG Dynamic Plus Package with continuously adjustable engine and transmission mounts that work with the AMG Chassis Controller to enhance overall precision and lateral grip as real-time driving conditions demand. Finally, GT S kit includes larger conventional disc brakes that those found on the GT. However both models can be upfitted with fade-banishing carbon ceramic super stoppers. 

Competition-flavor cabin

The high-performance character of the new Mercedes-AMG GT is found in its hand-crafted passenger compartment, as well, which matches fine Nappa leather with various chrome, carbon fiber and fiberglass accent elements. Deeply bolstered, low-mounted bucket seats flank a prominent center console that houses the AMG Drive Unit with the car's primary function controls. This driver-centric realm also features an AMG flat-bottom multifunction sport steering wheel and bespoke AMG instrument cluster as well as the latest generation of M-B's Comand telematics system with an 8.4-inch screen and touchpad controller. 

On the safety front, the new Mercedes-AMG GT comes with numerous standards found on the new S-Class including Collision Prevention Assist Plus, Adaptive Brake, Attention Assist, Pre-Safe, Parktronic and a rearview camera, while Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist will be optional. The 2016 Mercedes-AMG GT S will arrive here next spring with the GT model to follow in 2016. Mercedes-Benz has not yet released pricing for either model. 

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Land Rover Discovery Sport 2015

Previewed at the New York Auto Show last April as the Discovery Vision Concept, the production version of the 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport has been revealed in conjunction with a literally out-of-this-world promotion that involves the company's global partner, Virgin Galactic. While lacking several of the show car's more avant-garde touches, the newest Land Rover boasts visual cues and technology that will be found in future models across the range. The Discovery supplants the current LR2 -- which ceases production at the end of the 2015 model year and features 5+2 seating, a first for the compact premium SUV segment. 

Designed for tomorrow 

Expanding on styling themes found on the Vision Concept, the new Discovery Sport adds distinctive flourishes of its own to create a bold presence complemented by a host of wind-cheating/noise-abating aero bits. A laid-back acoustic windshield, wraparound lighting units - including optional Xenon headlamps and LED running lamps - along with a two-bar mesh grille, new blade-like front fender vents, flared wheel arches and a rakish C-pillar treatment help create a tailored but tough look. 

The core structure of the new Discovery Sport consists of high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel complemented by weight-saving aluminum alloy in various body panels and suspension elements. The combination yields excellent platform rigidity and passenger protection while improving dynamic balance and lowering the vehicle's center of gravity. Built on a 107.9-inch wheelbase that splits the LR2/LR4 models, the front chassis design of this new Land Rover SUV shares much with the popular Evoque but its rear underpinnings are an all-new multilink setup that improves interior packaging as well as enhances ride and handling. 

Inside, the new Discovery Sport melds existing Land Rover design elements with unique accents. All versions feature a bevy of power assists, dual-zone climate control, multi-function steering wheel, navigation system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen and premium audio systems as well as leather upholstery that ranges from seating-only surfaces on the base SE to a full Windsor hide treatment on the range-topping Discovery Sport HSE Luxury. The Discovery Sport's elevated 60/40 split-folding second row bench has 6.3-inches of fore/aft travel, a feature which makes the optional third-row split-folding bench seat a far more viable perch whenever it is called into what LR describes as "occasional use." 

Leveraging the Land Rover pedigree

The new Discovery Sport shares the Evoque's powertrain, matching a 240-horse/2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with a ZF close-ratio 9-speed automatic transmission. Operated by a central rotary controller supplemented by steering-wheel-mounted shifter paddles, the transmission features adaptive logic and fully integrates with the Haldex intelligent full-time all-wheel drive and Land Rover's multi-mode Terrain Response system. To further optimize the Discovery Sport's go-anywhere capabilities, its full complement of conventional stability/traction technology is bolstered by features like Hill Descent Control, Roll Stability Control, Trailer Stability Assist and Engine Drag Torque Control as well as a new available Autonomous Emergency Braking option that can help prevent or mitigate collisions.

Available in SE, HSE and HSE Luxury trims, pricing for the 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport will start at $40,920. It will offer plenty of personalization potential starting with the descriptively named Black Pack trim package that adds noir accents set off with 19-inch or 20-inch alloy wheels. Other key factory options include a contrast roof panel finished in Santorini Black, full glass panoramic roof, custom luggage, tubular stainless-steel side step and front/rear undershields while dealers will offer items like quick-release headrest-mounted iPad holders and a leather-covered cooler/warmer box for the center stow bin.

3-2-1 Blastoff

To help launch the new Discovery Sport, Land Rover and Virgin Galactic have created the Galactic Discovery Competition. Aspiring astronauts from 29 countries are being invited to produce a photo or a 30-second video that best demonstrates their personal spirit of adventure. Top prize for the winner and three of his/her friends is a sub-orbital flight in Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo. For complete details, visit http://landrover.us/space.

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Lamborghini Asterion Concept

The first plug-in hybrid vehicle ever from this legendary Italian supercar maker, the Lamborghini Asterion LPI 910-4 Concept made its much-anticipated debut in Paris. Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, called the car a technology showcase that the company could realistically build today using existing technologies and the automaker's own expertise

Engineered to deliver outstanding overall performance worthy of its Lamborghini pedigree, Winkelmann noted that the Asterion was intended "more for comfortable luxury daily cruising than for ultimate track performance." Although continued weight reduction will remain a corporate priority, he believes plug-in hybrid powertrains are the most realistic solution to create vehicles with significantly lower CO2 emissions levels that still can meet customer expectations for a Lamborghini driving experience. The Asterion Concept, he says, delivers on both counts.

Mid-engine 2-seater

Based on a full carbon fiber monocoque like the Aventador and Huracán, this 2-passenger mid-engine coupe matches a 602-horsepower version of Lamborghini's naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 that can operate independently or with three electric motors. One is located in the rear-mounted 7-speed dual-clutch transaxle to help drive the rear wheels while the other pair is up front. These forward motors can further supplement the V10's formidable muscle or torque-vector the front wheels to enhance handling when the Asterion is in hybrid mode. The motors also provide all drive power when it the vehicle operates as a pure EV. Fed by a lithium-ion battery pack fitted in the center tunnel, the three motor/generator units add another 296 horses to the output total - which brings the collective figure to 910 of the slightly weaker Euro-spec metric "PS" ponies or 898 of SAE horsepower. Although the plug-in hybrid kit adds 250 pounds to the Asterion's curb weight, it still can streak from 0-62 mph in 3.0 seconds and reach 199 mph when fully unleashed or travel 31 miles on electricity alone and hit a speed of 78 mph. Equally important, the setup reduces CO2 emissions to just 98g/km. 

Aggressively elegant style

Exhibiting a retro flair, the car's styling recalls the classic Miura. The Asterion LPI 910-4 Concept was penned at Lamborghini's styling center and reportedly may hint at a direction the automaker may pursue in the years to come. Finished in a bright Blue Elektra metallic, this distinctive "hyper cruiser" matches an aggressive front end that features an active air cooling system with an equally bold tail punctuated by dramatic LED lamps and dual paired chrome hexagonal exhaust tips. Other details include large swan-style doors, prominent radiators ahead of the rear wheels, staggered-size 21-/22-inch forged composite wheels and a transparent engine cover composed of three hexagonal glass elements. The Asterion's cabin is done in ivory and brown leather set off with aluminum, titanium and forged-carbon accents. A Miura-look steering wheel contains drive-selector buttons while a console-mounted portable tablet lets those on board operate the infotainment, climate control and navigation systems.   

The Asterion gets its given name from the Greek word for the mythical Minotaur, itself a half man/half bull hybrid and Lambo expanded its traditional LP - "longitudinale posterior" - designation with the letter I which is short for "ibrido," the Italian word for hybrid. The 910-4 refers to its aforementioned Euro power stat and number of drive wheels. So far, there's no official decision about whether the Asterion will transition from concept to production. But don't be surprised to see its hybrid powertrain make an appearance in a future Lamborghini model. 

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