Volvo concept - The Tiandi / Universe

Volvo recently unveiled their global concept car called the Tiandi or Universe at the Shanghai motor show. The curvy and more flashy look indicate the direction the Volvo is going to take under Geely, Volvo's new Chinese owners.

Even though the Volvo Cars chief Stefan Jacoby says that the Geely was not involved or influenced the car's design or development, they are clearly targeting the Chinese with this new concept.

The car features a unique grille shape and low-set headlights. Will post more details and pics as I get them.

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New VW Beetle

The new VW Beetle was unveiled at the Shanghai motor show recently. The new generation Beetle is longer (4,278 mm in length ), wider (1,808 mm in width) and lower (12mm less at 1,486) giving it a more masculine and sporty appearance. The Beetle is not really seen as a guy's car and I guess they are looking to change that.

The roof extends back further, the windscreen is shifted back and the boot capacity has also increased at 310 litres, up from 209 litres in the 1998 model.

The Beetle has four seats, with a split-fold rear seat for added versatility.

It will be available in 3 trim levels, namely, Beetle, Design and Sport with a wide range of innovative options, ranging from Keyless Access through satellite navigation systems and a panoramic sunroof to bi-xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights.

In the Beetle will be available in a choice of four engines: three petrol – a 1.2-litre TSI 105 PS, a 1.4-litre TSI 160 PS and a 2.0-litre TSI 200 PS; and one diesel – a 1.6-litre 105 PS with BlueMotion Technology. The latter is fitted with Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems which gives it a combined fuel consumption of 65.7 mpg and carbon dioxide emissions of 112 g/km.

Safety features include standard ESP and six airbags but also a laser-welded and galvanised body structure.

The car is expected to be available to order in the UK in the summer and arriving in showrooms early in 2012.

Tags: Volkswagen 21st Century Beetle Revealed

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