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Celebrating the birth of exciting new models

(China Daily)
Updated: 2009-04-20 07:50

Editor's note: About 1,000 foreign and domestic vehicles are on display at the auto show with many making their global, Asian or China debuts. China Daily introduces 13 new models to our readers:

1. BMW X5 M

Making its world debut at the Shanghai Motor show, the model carries the high-performance character of a BMW M to the sports activity vehicle segment for the first time. A new experience in driving, it is empowered by a package including a V8 power unit with twin-scroll, twin-turbo technology, high-precision injection, xDrive all-wheel technology specifically geared to the requirements of BMW's M cars and high-performance suspension with adaptive drive. Its new M turbo engine developing 408 kW is the world's first with an exhaust manifold spanning the two rows of cylinders.

2. BYD M6

The MPV makes its global debut at the Shanghai motor show. It is 4.8 m long, 1.8 m wide and 1.756 m high with a 2.95-meter wheelbase. The model has two engine options: 2.0 and 2.4 liter. The 2.0-liter version comes with a five-speed manual gearbox while the 2.4-liter version has a four-speed automatic gearbox. BYD plans to put the model on sale in September this year.

3. Ford Focus

The compact hatchback model is one of the best sellers of Ford Motor Co's joint venture with Chang'an Motor Corp. The vehicle's length, width and height stand at 4.342 m, 1.84 m and 1.5 m respectively. It has a 2.64-m wheelbase. The Focus has two engine options: 1.8 and 2-liter four-cylinder Duratec-HE DOHC, which meet European III emission standards. The 2.0-liter version produces a maximum power of 104kW/6000rpm.

4. Geely Emgrand EC718

The model is the first mid-sized sedan developed by Geely. It is produced under the privately owned carmaker's all-new brand - the Emgrand. Equipped with a 1.8-liter D-CVVT engine that produces 57.2kW/liter, the model will be launched in the second half of this year. Geely says the Emgrand EC718 also meets standards in overseas markets, such as Europe and North America. Geely is displaying a total of 22 all-new models at the Shanghai auto show, nine of which will be put on the market in next year and a half.

5. Toyota RAV4

The compact SUV, made at Toyota Motor Corp's joint venture with FAW Corp, was just put on sale earlier this month. Retailing between 189,800 and 263,400 yuan, the RAV4 has two engine options: 2 and 2.4 liter four-cylinder VVT-i. The 2-liter version is 4.630 m long, 1.815 m wide and 1.685 m high. The 2.4-liter model is 4.63 m long, 1.855 m wide and 1.72 m high. The joint venture aims to sell 50,000 units of RAV4 this year.

6. Roewe N1

The concept model from SAIC Motor Corp makes its global debut at the Shanghai auto show. It's a subcompact, the first own-brand model of its kind from the automaker. It will be put into commercial production next year. SAIC has not revealed other details for the model. The company's another model, MG6, is also making its world premiere.

7. Volvo S60

The concept model, with unprecedented design and top safety technology, makes its maiden Asian appearance at the Shanghai motor exhibition. Its interior design, with an impressive touch of fantasy and passion, is unique in the history of Volvo, mainly owing to the floating center stack of hand-made Orrefors crystal. The S60 has the latest generation of adaptive cruise control that offers auto braking with a pedestrian detection function and when collision is unavoidable at high speed. The S60 is equipped with a 1.6L four-cylinder GTDi engine that reduces emissions and improves mileage. It only consumes 5 liters of gas per 100 km.

8. Red Flag SUV

The concept model from FAW Corp is the Chinese automaker's first SUV. The vehicle is 4.8 m long, 2 m wide and 1.8 m high. It has a 2.85-m wheelbase. The high-end SUV highlights its excitement, nobility and luxury. The model is equipped with a powerful 12-cylinder engine. FAW is bullish on China's SUV market, but it has not revealed when the Red Flag SUV will be put into commercial production.

9. Mercedes S400 Hybrid

The petrol-electric hybrid model makes its world premiere at the Shanghai auto show. It twins a 3.5-liter V6 petrol engine with a lithium-ion battery. With fuel consumption of 8 liters per 100 km, the model produces CO2 emissions of just 186 grams per km. Its petrol engine generates 205kW/279hp, while the electric motor produces 15kW/20hp and starting torque 160 Nm. The model is equipped with a 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission specially configured for the hybrid module. The S400 Hybrid is expected to launch in the Chinese market as imports before the end of this year.

10. Linian

The concept convertible sports car is created by Honda Motor Co's joint venture with Guangzhou Automobile. Highlighting its style, fashion, and innovation, the Linian offers customers a unique driving experience. The joint venture plans to launch the first vehicle under the Linian badge next year.

11. Riich M1

The Chery-owned Riich M1 subcompact model will be launched today. It is equipped with a 1.3-liter ACTECO engine that boasts power of 63Kw/6000rpm. The Riich M1 is 3.601 m long, 1.587 m wide and 1.527 m high. Chery says the vehicle will go head-to-head with Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit and Suzuki Swift, which are all made in China.

12. Audi Q5

A performance SUV combining the dynamics of a sports sedan with a highly variable interior and wide-ranging equipment for leisure activities and family life, the Q5 is 4.63 m long and 1.88 m wide, but only 1.65 m high, giving it the sportiest profile in its market category. It has two engine options: 2.0 TFSI and 2.0 TDI. The model will be manufactured at Volkswagen Group's joint venture with China's FAW Group before the end of this year.

13. Kia Forte

The model, originating from Kia's latest concept car Koup, makes its China premiere at the Shanghai auto show. It has two engine options: 1.6 and 2.0 CVVT. The Forte is 4.53 m long, 1.775 m wide and 1.46 m high. It has a 2.65-m wheelbase. It will be a new strategic model for Kia's joint venture with Dongfeng Motor Corp and Yueda Group in China. The venture will launch the model later this year.

(China Daily 04/20/2009 page20)