The Paris Motor Show 2018 was plagued with issues before the doors even opened. Several key manufacturers – Volkswagen, Nissan, Infininti and more – announced prior to the event that they wouldn’t be attending, which left many thinking that it would be somewhat of a ghost show.
However, despite the drop-outs, this year’s Paris show threw up several key new cars and reveals – along with a number of celebrity appearances. Here, we look at some of the key aspects of the 2018 Paris Motor Show.
BMW 3 Series
We’d been teased several close-up images of the car prior to its full reveal at this year’s show, but this is the first time that we’d seen the car in full. The new 3 Series is wider, longer and slightly taller than the car it replaces, and this means it’s able to offer better interior and luggage space.
Initially offered with 320d diesel and 330i petrol powertrains, the 3 Series is due to arrive early next year. Prices are set to start at £33,610.
Porsche confirms 911 Speedster will enter production
The 911 Speedster Concept had been showcased to the public back in July, but it was at the Paris show that it was finally confirmed for production. Featuring the same chassis as that on the current 911 GT3, as well as a powerful flat-six engine, the Speedster will be limited to just 1,948 units – a reference to the year that the original Porsche 356 ‘Number 1’ gained its operating licence.
It’s also the first Porsche vehicle available with a new Heritage Designs Package, which gives customers better personalisation and customisation options.
Mercedes B-Class
Small MPV vehicles may not be a hot topic at the moment given the momentous rise of the crossover, but Mercedes-Benz has decided to stick with the segment with its new B-Class. Based on the A-Class platform, it’s been designed to take on the 2 Series Active Tourer.
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Alongside plenty of interior space and a decent range of economical engines, the B-Class also features Mercedes-Benz’s latest MBUX infotainment operating system, as well as a host of safety assistance systems.
David Beckham pledges allegiance to new Vietnamese car maker
It was one of the surprises of the show. Little-known Vietnamese manufacturer Vinfast revealed its new saloon and SUV models with the help of a famous footballer – one David Beckham, no less.
Though ‘Golden Balls’ had few words to say when on stage – “It’s incredible. It’s beautiful. It’s sleek. It’s modern. It’s high tech. It’s premium. It’s incredible. Congratulations.” – the former England captain was more than happy to receive a Vietnamese flag from co-host Tran Tieu Vy, winner of Miss Vietnam 2018.
Robert De Niro reveals new all-electric vehicle
Beckham wasn’t the only celebrity to put his name against a new vehicle at Paris this year. Actor Robert De Niro was announced as an ambassador for the new – and similarly named – Kia e-Niro. Capable of offering a 301-mile all-electric range (the crossover, not the ‘Taxi Driver’ star), the e-Niro will slot in alongside the Niro hybrid and plug-in hybrid models in the range.
The Kia family has a new member. Introducing our new star: the Niro.
Click to find out more➡️https://t.co/yj4yCua2x9 pic.twitter.com/qQPP8noaoR
— Kia UK PR (@KiaUKPR) October 2, 2018
The new e-Niro has already entered production and is due to go on sale towards the end of the year.
Peugeot 508 SW First Edition
Peugeot chose its home turf to reveal its new 508 First Edition, kicking off sales of its new estate car across Europe with this introductory specification. As is the way with range-topping trims, the First Edition packs a wealth of standard equipment and comes with the choice of two engines – one petrol and one diesel.
Peugeot has yet to announce prices for the 508 SW First Edition, but expect it to come in above the £37,014 asking price for the equivalent hatchback model.
Hyundai N Option Accessories range
Hyundai’s N offering – currently just the i30N hatchback – has enjoyed a decent amount of success in the UK, but Hyundai today announced a series of upgrades for those who the standard car isn’t quite out-there enough.
Called N Option, the selection of upgrades includes quad exhaust pipes and new 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in performance tyres. It allows drivers to add to the look and performance of their i30N car. Hyundai has, as yet, not announced when this new accessories range will be introduced.
Renault EZ-Ultimo
Ever wanted a luxurious, autonomous limousine? Then here’s the car for you – Renault’s EZ-Ultimo. Dubbed by the French manufacturer as a ‘premium travel experience, the EZ-Ultimo is capable of travelling 310 miles on all-electric power and packs Level 4 autonomy – meaning it can travel without any input from the driver.
It’s the third autonomous concept car to be released by Renault, and gives an insight into the brand’s plans for the future.