Mazda picks up on advanced technology

Making its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show was the Mazda MX Sport Tourer concept, which can be transformed into a pickup. It is said to demonstrate Mazda's "exploration into innovative design and technology beyond the next generation of production models." It has hybrid power (a 2.0-L gasoline engine plus electric motor) and four-wheel drive. Battery recharging is via the gasoline engine and regenerative braking. The concept uses the "freestyle" door system of the Mazda RX-8 design-engineering model, obviating the need for B-pillars and easing access to the rear seats. The Sport Tourer has a "vario-lamella" structure for its roof to give a large open area that also facilitates the carriage of large loads: sliding the roof forward, lowering the rear windows, and folding the rear seat transforms the car into a pickup.

- Stuart Birch

Opening up the Astra

Opel/Vauxhall's Cabriolet version of the Astra shown at the Geneva Motor Show has a three-layer power top that fully folds. The car has four full-size seats. Engine choice includes the 108-kW (145-hp) unit fitted to the VX220 two-seat sports car. Opel worked with Bertone to create the new Cabriolet. The car is built by Bertone in Italy alongside the Astra Coupe. Extensive use is made of color-coding finish, and the taillights are darkened. Top speed of the most powerful version is quoted as 201 km/h (125 mph).

- Stuart Birch