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FIAT - Compact Models and Unique MPVs

The Fiat Auto booth has three compact models on display. Of particular interest is the "Multipla," with a unique design that allows seating for six with only two rows of seats. The new "Punto" is also making its first appearance in Japan. The new Fiat designs feature a more subdued front mask, while the compact hatchback bodies have become slightly larger too. The bright, "Italian yellow" "Punto HGT" comes in a 1.7 liter, 5MT sports version and a 1.2 liter AT "Punto Emotion Speedgear" standard model. Both are reference exhibits but are likely to be launched in the market. The new front mask of the "Punto HGT."

AUDI - A Philosophy of Innovation and Sportiness

Audi has a total of eight vehicles in its booth, seven of which come with its "quattro" permanent 4WD system. The company's philosophy of "Advancement through Technology" can clearly be seen in the sporty, progressive, sophisticated cars on display. Visitors tend to congregate around the "A8 4.2 quattro" and the other two reference models. The "Le Mans quattro" concept car, first exhibited at the Frankfurt Motor Show, is particularly popular. Based on the "R8" that swept Le Mans three years running, this high-performance sports car comes with a V10, direct injection, 5.0 liter bi-turbo engine that outputs 610 horsepower. Like the "A8," the body is seated on an Audi Space Frame that emphasizes its strength, low lines, and volume while creating a compact feel. Only 4,370 mm long, this sports car seats two. The silhouette of the "Le Mans quattro" is reminiscent of the "R8."

LAMBORGHINI - Two Models, Strong Impact

Lamborghini is known for its sharp, distinctive silhouette. On display at the Tokyo Motor Show are the "Murcielago" and the "Gallardo," both cars that leave an impact on the senses. The "Gallardo" is making its first appearance in Japan, and it comes with a V10 5 liter engine. Though more compact than the V-12 6.2 liter "Murcielago," it uses the same midship 4WD mechanism. The compact-sized "Gallardo."

HYUNDAI - Always There for the Japanese Market

Hyundai, with its slogan of "Always there for you," is making rapid inroads on markets around the world. Its ambitious exhibit at the Tokyo Motor Show focuses on the "NEOS-II" reference model and the "CCS." The "NEOS-II" is making its world debut. Hyundai calls it a "Crossover Utility Vehicle" (CUV)" that represents a new genre for the future. The original design and bold styling is inspired by "powerful horse." Indeed, the front and rear fenders look like sleek equestrian legs. With a total length of 3,850 mm and a total width of 1,775 mm, this compact car offers both elegance and front seat-priority 2+2 space. The "NEOS-II" CUV could be launched in 2005.

FERRARI - The Joy of the Pure Sports Car

The Ferrari booth has four pure sports cars, including the much talked-about "575M Maranello F1" and "360 F1 Spider," as well as two reference exhibits that have wowed the crowds in Tokyo, the "Ferrari Challenge Stradale" and "Enzo Ferrari." The "Challenge Stradale" stands out with its bright red body and Italian flag-motif stripe. An extremely lightweight version of the "360," this is an on-road sports car that allows drivers to experience the full potential of racing machines. The "Challenge Stradale" brings race car potential to the road.

MASERATI - Impressive New Models

The Maserati booth features the new "Quattroporte," an unusual luxury sports saloon. The "Pininfarina" design gives it an extremely modern image that will establish the car as the flagship for Maserati, already one of the most respected race car companies in the world. The "Quattroporte" it is capable of speeds up to 275 km/h.

KIA - Marketing to Japan

Visitors are crowded around in a circle at the Kia booth, and at the center of attention is the "KCV-3" concept car. This small, convertible coupe charts the future for Kia design, bringing new functionality and safety to the company's "young, sporty and friendly" brand image. The "KCV-3" is an original Kia design that is manufactured by Heuliez in Paris and targeting people in their twenties and thirties who want something with a European flavor. Kia emphasizes its affiliation with the Hyundai Group, and many visitors are encouraging the company to launch the car as soon as possible on the Japanese market. The "KCV-3" gives Japan a taste of the Kia brand.

GENERAL MOTORS - Innovative Technology, Futuristic Design

General Motors is the largest car companies in the world, and its booth displays five of its brands: Cadillac, Chevrolet, Opel, Saab and Hummer. The exhibit is designed to emphasize the distinctiveness of each brand while also underscoring the breadth of the GM group as a whole. In the center is the "GM Time Zone," where the company shows its environment technologies and future-oriented vehicles, including the "Hy-Wire" concept car and the "Hydrogen 3" fuel cell vehicle. The "Hy-Wire" uses "By-wire technology" to provide electronic control over operations. It is powered by a fuel cell that, together with the drive train, is stored on a skateboard-like chassis. This combination lets designers create a number of different body forms while still maintaining roomy interiors. Topping the brand exhibits is the "Cadillac Sixteen," an awe-inspiring car that, as its name suggests, comes with a V16, a 13.6 liter engine that puts out 1,000 horsepower. The cylinder system is able to switch between 4, 8 and 16 cylinders depending on driving conditions. Also in the Cadillac corner are commercial vehicles such as the dynamically designed "XLR" roadster and the new "SRX" SUV. Chevrolet features the "Epica," which was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro and the famed Ital design team in Italy. The brand also displays the "Optra," a Pininfarina design that is scheduled to be launched on the Japanese market. Hummer gives visitors the chance to see its "Hummer H2" off-road vehicle up close, proudly displaying its full impact. "Hy-Wire" uses fuel cell and "By-wire" technology. "Sixteen" has a gullwing bonnet.

OPEL - German Handling in a New Design

Opel's yellow image color stands out brightly against the GM blue background. The "Insignia" makes a particularly strong impression, as does the concept car, based on the new "Astra." This is more than just another luxury sedan. With a V8, 344 horsepower engine, this dynamo can reach speeds of up to 250 km/h. It even offers drivers multifunctionality by including a rear gate and a rear seat with Opel's unique pantograph-structure doors and tailgate. The dynamic design and proportions give it a striking styling that goes right to the core of the Opel brand. Also in the Opel corner is the third generation of "Astra." While looking backwards towards traditional hatchbacks, the new version has Opel's trademark "V-shaped radiator grill," and has an interactive driving system on board to give it a sportier flavor. "Insignia" is a new style of luxury sedan.

SAAB - Flagship Models for All Grades

"Contemporary Scandinavian" is the concept underlying the three sedately elegant Saab models on display. The "9-3 Sports-Hatch Concept" heads the list, followed by the "9-3 Convertible Aero" and the "9-5 Estate Aero." While keeping the traditional five-door Saab design, the "9-3 Sports-Hatch Concept" is an ambitious midsized wagon that clearly has market launch in mind. The 2.0 liter turbocharged engine has a maximum 250 horsepower, enough to satisfy the most active drivers. It also uses Saab's proprietary multilink rear suspension that comes with a "ReAxs" passive rear-wheel steering system to increase cornering performance. The "9-3 Sports-Hatch Concept" is a multifunction wagon.