Nissan Bevel concept

By Phil McNamara Motor Shows 08 January 2007 11:59 Nissan Bevel: the lowdown This is the Bevel, a concept car that makes a Swiss Army knife look one-dimensional. This versatile vehicle is more suitable for tradesmen than a van, has the interior flexibility of an MPV and looks that blend SUV- and people carrier-cues. Nissan's designers claim to have spotted a contemporary demographic – a group of 45-60-year-old males, who allegedly go bob-a-jobbing around the neighbourhoods helping others – and created a futuristic-looking van for these 'everyday heroes'.

Hyundai steps up new model push

By Phil McNamara Motor Industry 11 September 2006 10:45 Hyundai's bid to gatecrash the world's top five car-makers will continue with two crucial new models: a seven-seat SUV and a mid-size hatch. In 2007, the aggressive Korean car maker will wade into Europe's biggest market – the C-segment – with a family hatch, and launch a big, seven-seat crossover SUV Stateside. The crossover – captured here by our spy photographers – will be named Veracruz, continuing Hyundai's habit of adopting Mexican names.

Lincoln MKZ concept

The Lincoln MKZ concept previews not only the 2012 production MKZ model, but also Lincoln's future design direction. Lincoln Design Director, Max Wolff explains: “Our movement as a brand is toward something we call elegant simplicity. It’s something warmer and more restrained, which is moving away from complex designs and traditional luxury.” This is reflected in the Cognac hue of the show car.