One of the best ways to change a car maker’s image is not just to make its vehicles greener or safer, but to make them look sexier. Restyles of the Jaguar and Land Rover line-ups have proved this, although a high level of technological advancement has accompanied these new designs.
At Frankfurt, there has been plenty of technological advancement, most notable in the hybrid arena. But while consumers expect better fuel economy and lower emissions, it is perhaps the styling of these cars that turns them into winners with the public.
Volvo is attempting to relieve itself of its safety-centric image – an image that says, “you’ll never use your annual breakdown cover with a Volvo.” It is doing this with a concept coupe that dazzles in the looks department. Somewhere between an Aston Martin and a Jaguar F-Type, the new look is more sporty, less family.
The concept coupe is in fact minimally based on the P1800, a sports car that Volvo sold in the ‘60s and ‘70s, so the firm is in a sense returning to its roots.
But if you thought the Swedes were being audacious with their coupe, take a look at Audi’s eye-catching (to say the least) Nanuk Quattro concept car. A Quattro on steroids, this red painted beast can hit 60 from standstill in just 3.8 seconds, and has a top speed of 190mph. While fast, its styling suggests it should reach light speed without any particular effort. But its sporting credentials are complimented by the car’s impressive off-road ability.
All in all, the Nanuk is like a German Knight Rider, painted red. No mention of a Turbo Boost button yet, though.
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