Friday, August 11, 2006

Paris motor show

As the Paris motor show lurks on the horizon, the rumour mill is working overtime in the TG office.

Peugeot has promised us something big for Friday August 11 - it's very tight-lipped at the moment but log on at 3pm to find out more.

Then on Monday afternoon we're expecting more details on the hotly anticipated new Mini. Again, set yourself a reminder to pop back to TopGear.com.

And it doesn't stop there. We've heard noises about so many potential new motors we don't know what to believe - so with an ear to the ground and a finger in the air, here's a list of some of the biggest worst-kept secrets we expect to uncover in the run up to Paris.

Ford Mondeo

Ford Mondeo The dramatic Iosis concept last year gave us an inkling of Ford's new family favourite, but we should see the real thing at the Paris show. Based on the lengthened version of the Focus floorpan, it'll likely be a bit less adventurous than the Iosis and arrive in showrooms early next year.

Alfa 8C Competizione

Alfa 8C CompetizioneAlfa has decided to do the decent thing and build a production version of the gorgeous 8C Competizione show car. It ought to be as fast as it looks, too, with a modified Maserati-based V8 pumping out around 380bhp. It's rear-drive with a bespoke cabin and should be on sale by summer 2007.

Peugeot 207 GTI and CC

Peugeot 207 GTI and CC

A couple of big new models are rumoured to be joining Peugeot's supermini line-up - a 180bhp 2.0-litre GTi version to appear next year and, no doubt, a 207CC. Both models are hot on the heels of the new GT - with its lukewarm 150bhp turbocharged 1.6-litre motor.

New Mini

New MiniWho hasn't heard about this one? We've seen countless versions of the Traveller concept first wheeled out in Frankfurt last year and we'll almost certainly see the finished article at the Paris show. In fact, we're expecting to see more details on the Mini Mk2 next week - pop back on Monday for more.

Audi R8

Audi R8We should see Audi's new R8 supercar make an appearance in Paris, too. It'll be a further refined version of the Le Mans Quattro concept first seen last year, sharing more than a few parts with the Lamborghini Gallardo and some of the technology from the Le Mans-winning R8 racer.

Renault Twingo
It's been a long time coming, this one. Sent back to the drawing board more times than we can remember, we expect to finally see the Twingo make an appearance in Paris. Think cute styling in an Aygo-sized package and you won't be far wrong. Production won't start until well into next year.

Toyota Corolla
The biggest-selling car in the world gets a makeover ready for next year. Except we don't think it'll be called Corolla...

Apart from a couple of wicked whispers about various new VW concepts, that's it. We'll keep you posted as the news arrives - and will bring you all the action from the Paris motor show in September.

© Source: original article on topgear