Many concept cars now showcase near-production models, but some showbiz still hang in the balance. We pick the top five that hopefully won’t head the wrong way.
AUDI E-TRON SPORTBACK
What’s so good about it? OK, SUVs are all over the place, so the e-tron Sportback may just be another variation of the same theme. But just look at its bold face and aggressive hiplines... this is a proper sports SUV. And with 500km of all-electric driving becoming the new norm, this Audi makes the Tesla Model X so boring on the catwalk.
Has it influenced anything yet? Nope, but it will probably be harked back in the future.
Any chance of it being made? Only if conventionally-bodied model, due late next year with the ‘e-tron’ badge, succeeds.
HONDA SPORTS EV
What’s so good about it? In Frankfurt last September, Honda vowed the public with small hatchback concept called Urban EV blending pure electric power and retro-looks that has been confirmed for production in 2019. A month later in Tokyo came another equally arresting variation featuring two-seat coupe package.
Has it influenced anything yet? Not really, but it might have already set many people’s hearts on fire.
Any chance of it being made? No confirmation yet, although Honda would be certainly want to see it made if the market asks for it.
MAZDA VISION COUPE
What’s so good about it? Mazda has so far been the only Japanese car brand to create a universally accepted design. It started with the Shinari concept car many years that has spoken well for today’s offerings. Now Mazda wants to take the design language to another level with the unveiling of the Vision Coupe, a sporty-looking saloon with frameless door windows.
Has it influenced anything yet? Yup, the Kai show car which is previewing the next-generation 3 due in 2019.
Any chance of it being made? Insiders are pointing to the next-gen 6 with a racier look than the trad Camry. Read: poor man’s Aston.
MG E-MOTION
What’s so good about it? At its new home ground in China, MG took the wraps off the E-motion concept melding zero tailpipe emissions and a classy coupe silhouette. This isn’t the first time the rejuvenated British car brand is trying to trace its sporty past. Before Chinese ownership, the MG TF nearly made it to production.
Has it influenced anything yet? It has already donated its face to the just-launched ZS compact SUV, plus the imminent facelifted 3 and all-new 6.
Any chance of it being made? It still looks like wishful thinking. But think about it: reigniting sporty glory with renewed propulsion...
SUBARU VIZIV PERFORMANCE
What’s so good about it? Now that Mitsubishi has killed the Evo saloon, Subaru has the floor to its own when it comes to hot all-wheel-drive family cars with fire-breathing turbo power. What the Viziv Performance concept is previewing is the next-gen WRX STI based on today’s Impreza boasting sporty bonnet scoop, four tailpipes and pronounced wheel arches. And yes, there’s no outrageous rear wing.
Has it influenced anything yet? Moles suggest that it has inspired brains at Subaru to make electrification part of high-performance cars in the future.
Any chance of it being made? Highly likely, with the usual trademark Boxer power forming as the main star under the bonnet.
