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Plans for Smart’s three-seat sports car uncovered in patent drawings

Mercedes-Benz is developing a three-seat sports car for Smart. Depicted here in a series of European patent-application sketches obtained by AutoWeek, the radical new sports car forms part of an extended range of new Smart models planned for introduction by the middle of the next decade, including a more conventional four-seater to be produced in cooperation with Renault. Mercedes-Benz is reacting to increased competition from Toyota in the form of the iQ and the impending arrival of similar urban-based offerings from premium-brand rivals Audi and BMW.

Volkswagen New Midsize Coupe debuts at China motor show

The Volkswagen NMC (New Midsize Coupe) concept makes official the German carmaker's plans for a style-led sedan to challenge the likes of the strong selling Mercedes-Benz CLA. Unveiled at the Beijing motor show, the new four-door closely previews a future Jetta-based model that will slot into the Volkswagen lineup beneath the existing Passat CC, most likely in 2016. Volkswagen design boss Klaus Bischoff describes the NMC as “avant-garde protagonist for a new compact sedan class.” Looking all but ready for production, it continues the current Volkswagen design lineage, with crisp features and lines, heavily horizontal detailing, and taut surfacing -- all aimed at providing it with a technical-inspired appearance.

Suzuki Kizashi 2, X-Head and PIXY concepts (2007): first official pictures

By Tim Pollard First Official Pictures 04 October 2007 11:52 Suzuki Kizashi 2, X-Head and PIXY: the lowdown The Japanese car industry is enjoying the run-up to the Tokyo Motor Show at the end of this month, with a steady stream of new metal - and typically madcap concept cars in particular. Suzuki is the latest manufacturer to provide us with teaser shots of its wares. The Kizashi 2 (above left) is a further derivative of its Frankfurt concept for a future Mondeo rival.