2008 Beijing Motor Show Highlights

With China now one of the fastest growing automotive markets, the Beijing Motor Show has become one of the most important International shows in the world, joining the ranks of Geneva, Paris, Frankfurt, Tokyo and Detroit.

More than 60 different car companies from Europe, Asia and America had vehicles on display, many of which were shown for the first time anywhere. Included in the world debuts were two vehicles coming to America—the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLK. A freshly styled Hyundai Elantra was also shown publically for the first time.

Watch Video:  Beijing Motor Show Highlights

Here are some of the highlights of the show, chosen for significance or just for catching our eye.

Geely GT Concept

Some may recognize Geely as one of the few Chinese car companies that have presented vehicles at the North American International Auto Show. But Geely never brought anything to Detroit like the Geely Tiger (GT). Still just a concept, the GT features a bold grille, long sweeping lines and a front-engine/rear-wheel-drive configuration expected in a grand touring coupe. The low roofline and muscular rear design emphasizes power to the rear wheels. While it may not make it to production, the GT provides a clear example of sexy designs that can come from China-based Geely. The GT was just one of several stylish new models on display at Geely’s Beijing Motor Show stand.

View Pictures:  Beijing Motor Show Highlights

Oulim Motors Spirra

Oulim Motors may not have the name recognition of Hyundai or Kia, but the Korea-based car company is looking to get noticed with its first production car, the Spirra S. We certainly noticed. The Spirra S is a hand-built mid-engine sports car with sleek lines and a wide stance. Clearly visible through the Plexiglas engine cover is a supercharged 2.7-liter V6 that produces an estimated 400 horsepower. Power runs to the rear wheels via a 6-speed gearbox, and the manufacturer claims 62 mph comes up in just 4.8 seconds. To match the power and styling, the Spirra is equipped with some serious brakes—6-piston Brembos in front, 4-piston binders in the rear. The Spirra’s space frame and carbon-fiber body make it light and stiff, two hallmarks of a true sports car. The Spirra is scheduled to go on sale in Korea this summer, but there’s been no word on availability stateside.

Audi Q5

Making its world debut in Beijing, the Q5 is Audi’s first entry into the growing luxury crossover market. The Q5 has a sporty appearance with a wide stance, bold fender flares and available 20-inch wheels. The clamshell cargo hatch is similar to the styling of the larger Q7, providing both a wide opening for easy loading while needing little space behind the vehicle to raise the hatch. Split taillights, like those on the Q7, leave lights visible even with the hatch open. Inside is a large cargo area that can be expanded by either sliding the rear seats forward or folding them flat. While a number of different engine options are available for the European and Asian market, the Q5 will be available exclusively with a 270-horsepower 3.2-liter V6 when it goes on sale in North America early in 2009. Audi’s legendary quattro all-wheel-drive system will be standard on all Q5s.

Read:  First Look: 2009 Audi Q5

View Pictures:  2009 Audi Q5 in Beijing

Nissan Teana

The Japanese automaker revealed the next generation of its flagship for the Chinese market, the Teana. The press release from Beijing, tailored for the Chinese audience, pegged the Teana as embodying, “deep insight into the unique cultural taste and Chinese consumer behaviors.” It goes on to say that “both the center console and leather seats create gentle and comfortable visual experience.” To fit the Chinese market, special attention was paid to making the Teana run quietly and smoothly. Its V6 engine is teamed with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Message Board: Is it only a matter of time before there are Chinese-made vehicles on American roads?