The Avista Concept.
DETROIT: The North American International Auto Show is meant to be all about crossovers, SUVs and pickups but the standout cars at this year’s event, from US, Japanese and European automakers present, were all of the sleek and sporting variety.
The most impressive of which was a Buick. The Avista concept was a perfectly executed contemporary take on the classic GT with compact but aggressive proportions, focus on driver involvement and a cabin comfortable enough for crossing the continent. Unsurprisingly, it scooped the show’s EyesOn Design Award for Design Excellence.
“The Avista concept has been a labour of love by the team of designers, sculptors, engineers and talented craftspeople, including our UAW partners, who created this beautiful statement of Buick design. Avista represents the future essence of Buick design,” said Bryan Nesbitt, executive director, Buick Global Design.
Acura Precision Concept.
Acura managed to turn heads too with its Precision Concept. Also a coupé, the Precision’s job is to explore where the brand’s design language should be going and, if the concept is anything like its real-life counterparts, it’s to a brave new world of sharp intersections and bold detailing.
“The Acura Precision Concept is more than simply a concept vehicle, it is a design study model that literally will shape the direction of all future Acura products around our Precision Crafted Performance DNA,” said Dave Marek, Acura global creative director. “The Acura Precision Concept is the leading edge of a renewed commitment to delivering Precision Crafted Performance in every facet of the product experience.”
Away from concepts, production coupés were also on show en masse.
Like the Buick concept, the production Lexus LC500 was an award winner.
The Lexus LC500 also scooped an EyesOn Award and is its most exciting car since its limited edition LFC supercar. The car can go from 0-100kph in under five seconds and has 467hp on tap running through a 10-speed transmission.
“This flagship luxury coupe’s proportions, stunning design and performance make a strong statement about our brand’s emotional direction,” said Akio Toyoda, Chief Branding Officer.
Infiniti’s Q60 offered the right blend of style and handling to offer true competition for the BMW 4 Series and Audi A5.
Porsche 911 Turbo.
However, German car companies were also on the offensive with BMW debuting the M2 high-performance coupé and Porsche bringing its 911 Turbo and 911 Turbo S models.
But the fastest car on show was from American firm VLF Automotive. The Force 1 is a Henrik Fisker design and powered by a Dodge Viper V10. The result? The 0-100kph in three seconds, a top speed of 350kph and a US$268,500 price tag.
The Force 1. – AFP
Keyword: 2016 Detroit auto show: Coupes wow the crowd