I always approach the Frankfurt Motor Show with mixed feelings. Mixed, because on the one hand I look forward to the big unveils and showstoppers, and on the other - I dread the walking! Also known as the Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung, it is the largest motor show on the auto calendar. Largest by sheer physical size, and also scale. This means it is also one I can't afford to miss! So here's what I am looking forward to at the 2015 IAA (Internationale Auto Ausstellung):
1. Suzuki Baleno: This one is undoubtedly the most important car from the Indian context. Just so you know, the iK-2 concept from Geneva is now the Baleno production car. This B-segment premium hatchback will arrive soon (production has already begun at Maruti Suzuki), and will rival the Hyundai i20. Larger and better appointed than the Swift, the car will help Maruti consolidate an already strong hatchback portfolio with the premium offering that many say was sorely missing.
2. Jaguar F-Pace: The CX17 concept has given way to the F-Pace crossover. Yes, that name will take some getting used to. However, the gorgeous design and flowing form, coupled with what Jaguar promises to be exhilarating performance, will see this becoming a much sought after car I think. The F-Pace is Jaguar's first step out of sedans and into the SUV space.
Also Read: Jaguar F-Pace Will Come to India Soon
3. BMW X1: The second generation X1 will be a very important model for India. BMW pretty much established 'entry premium' in India with the last X1, and now needs a competent model to reclaim that segment. The X1 will be a front-wheel drive (and will also offer AWD variants), which makes this a big step in a new direction for BMW. I can't wait to see it and drive it sometime soon too!
4. Volkswagen Tiguan: The compact SUV that India has been waiting for forever! The first generation never did make it here, but the second-generation model has already been announced as a part of Volkswagen's plan for the next two years in India. This Tiguan is built on VW's MQB modular platform and is claimed to be be its most modern SUV yet. Looking forward to seeing what looks like a promising car in the flesh. VW insists it is a concept that we are going to see, but sources tell me it is as close as it gets to the real production car.
5. Audi A4: Just as important as the X1 is to its segment, the new fifth generation Audi A4 is to the very competitive midsize premium sedan space. The new A4 sports Audi's new design language and also a slew of new engines.
6. Ferrari 488 GTS & Lamborghini Huracan Spyder: Both these new supercars go topless at Frankfurt. You can bet we will be there for the unveiling!
7. Mercedes-Benz C Coupe: Not a relevant model for India, is it? I would still be curious to see the proportions and design on the new C-Class Coupe.
8. Rolls-Royce Dawn: The convertible based on the RR Wraith has been christened Dawn. A new model from Rolls-Royce is unusual and rare, which in itself demands my attention! The fact that the car looks gorgeous helps too. Also Read: Rolls-Royce Dawn Convertible Revealed
9. SsangYong Tivoli 7-Seater: As some of you know I've been advocating that Mahindra brings the Tivoli compact SUV to Inida. The 7-seater concept being shown at Frankfurt is the stretched and larger avatar. This too could prove to be interesting for us - especially if M&M finally agrees that the Tivoli will be a good business decision for India - where it could sell alongside the XUV 500.
10. Bentley Bentayga: Y,es it is finally time to see it. Bentley is ready with the Bentayga, and we are all dying to see if it truly pushes the envelope on SUV luxury and style.
There are plenty of other cars that I will also be looking out for. For instance, the Audi e-tron Quattro concept that previews the Q6, Porsche's 911 facelift, the Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo, Mercedes-Benz S-Class cabriolet, and Nissan's Zed concept - another compact crossover. Like always, I'm hoping the motor show throws us a few surprises! Watch this space!
