Following on from its World debut in Detroit, Kia’s new high-performance sports saloon – the Stinger - has been revealed in European spec. The fastest production Kia to date features a long bonnet, short overhangs and a fastback roofline. The rear-wheel-drive five-seater is powered by a choice of two petrol engines or a diesel - all turbocharged - mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Kia says it’s targeting a 0-62 mph time of 5.1 seconds and a top speed of 167 mph. The new Stinger is set to arrive in Europe later this year.
Mercedes has added hybrid technology to the C-Class range. The C350 Plug-In Hybrid, unveiled in Detroit, is powered by a four-cylinder petrol engine in conjunction with an electric motor, for a total system output of 279 bhp and 600 Nm of torque. With a 0-62 mph time of 5.9 seconds, Mercedes says the new C-Class Hybrid delivers sportscar-like performance, despite returning fuel consumption of 134mpg and CO2 emissions as low as 48 g/km. It can also cover a distance of 19 miles in emission-free, electric-only mode.
Toyota has unveiled the strikingly-styled FT-1 concept at the Detroit motor show. The new coupe is the work of Calty design, Toyota's Californian studio, which set out to create the ultimate sports car. The exterior features racecar cues with pronounced front wings, large air intakes, hefty exhaust ports and a retractable rear wing. The wraparound windscreen and set back A-pillars which increase visibility when cornering, are a nod to the 2000GT of the 1960s, while a contemporary F1-style steering wheel and head-up display, bring the concept bang up to date.
