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The Geneva auto show is one of the two largest European motor shows this year, and it's set to host the debuts of a large number of new cars.
It's something of an institution, having been held annually for more than 100 years. It's always notable for being the show to unveil the hottest new concept cars alongside new production cars you'll soon be able to buy. And it’s notable as the only major ‘neutral’ auto show, located in a country without its own major car industry.
Let’s take a look at what to expect at the event which kicks off on Tuesday:
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Aston Martin: Lagonda SUV concept
We're anticipating a few surprises from Aston Martin at Geneva this year, but the first to be announced comes from its newly revived luxury sister brand, Lagonda.
We're expecting an all-terrain SUV concept car, previewing a model to appear in the next few years. Only the car's frontal look has been seen so far (pictured), but we know that it will be electric-powered and be related to the Vision sedan unveiled at last year's show.
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Aston Martin: 'Son of Valkyrie' hypercar
We believe Aston Martin will also show off its upcoming mid-engined 'Project 003' hypercar at Geneva, the brand's third after the limited-run, 1000bhp Valkyrie and track-prepped Valkyrie AMR Pro. Aston's teaser image is pictured.
Co-developed with Red Bull Advanced Technologies, the new car features a turbocharged petrol-electric hybrid powertrain, with an aim to eclipse the Ferrari LaFerrari and McLaren P1.
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Audi: E-tron SUV concept
The expansion of Audi’s new E-tron electric vehicle range continues, and the brand's set to reveal a compact SUV concept. It's unclear as to whether this concept will act as a direct preview of the upcoming Q4, which has been spotted in testing already.
Details revealed in a recent design sketch show off the model's coupé-like styling and trademark Audi grille, while a drawing of the interior highlight elements taken from the existing Q3 compact SUV.
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Audi: plug-in hybrid line-up
Alongside the electric SUV concept, Audi will present a range of four new plug-in hybrid models. The Q5, A6, A7 and A8 models all receive the new TFSI e powertrain.
All offer a 25 miles electric-only range and produce 295bhp in entry-level 50 TFSI e ‘comfort’ form, apart from the A8 limousine which outputs 443bhp with the aid of a 3.0-litre V6 petrol/gasoline engine.
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Bentley: centenary model
Bentley has released a sneak preview of a historic racing-inspired special edition heading to the Geneva motor show. The image shows what looks like the front grille of a Continental GT with a painted-on number 9, suggesting it will hark back to the 1930s 'Blower' Bentley that raced at Le Mans.
Expect sporty styling additions and potentially some mechanical upgrades.
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Bentley: Bentayga Speed
Bentley will take the opportunity at Geneva to unveil the new Bentayga Speed. The new car uses a more highly tuned version of the same twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 engine as the standard Bentayga, raising power from 600bhp to 626bhp. Torque remains the same at 664lb ft. With a top speed of 190mph, the car is officially the world's fastest SUV.
It will go on sale in the summer for a starting price in the region of £185,000 in the UK and $280,000 in the USA.
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BMW: 7 Series facelift
The BMW 7 Series has been brought into line with the brand's new flagship SUV, the X7, through a facelift. As well as a 40% larger kidney grille, the updated car sports sharper exterior styling, a new front bumper and slimmer rear lights.
More significant are changes to the model’s range of hybrid and conventional powertrains, with improved economy and performance outputs expected at every level, from a four-cylinder diesel unit (in Europe) to the V12 petrol/gasoline engine in the M760Li xDrive.
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Ferrari: F8 Tributo
The new Ferrari F8 Tributo will be the most powerful mid-engined V8 Ferrari series production supercar yet. The 488 GTB replacement gets a new 710bhp version of Ferrari’s 3.9-litre V8 engine, which is a 49bhp upgrade on the 488 GTB, and the same output as the limited-run 488 Pista and also that of the car’s biggest rival, the McLaren 720S.
The 4611mm long (182in) and 1979mm wide (78in) and 1206mm (47in) high supercar is again built around an aluminium architecture; the weight has also been reduced by 40kg (88 lb) over the 488 GTB to weigh 1330kg (2926 lb) dry. That weight is 47kg (103 lb) more than the 720S, which is built around a carbonfibre architecture.
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Honda: Urban EV
The Honda Urban EV is something of a rarity in that prototype production models spotted in testing bear a strong resemblance to the preceding concept. That’s because the design of the small electric car was so well received at the 2017 Frankfurt motor show that Honda saw little reason to change it.
The final product will sport two more doors and one more seat than that concept but will retain its low, wide proportions, short wheelbase and friendly visage, as pictured in this preview sketch. Its officially released picture suggests a high-tech interior, and high-resolution screens abound (main picture).
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Mercedes-Benz: CLA Shooting Brake
Mercedes-Benz has already shown off the saloon version of its new, longer CLA. At Geneva, it will unveil a successor to the popular Shooting Brake estate version, already spotted testing on the road (pictured).
It will feature the new platform, technology and engines that first debuted in the A-Class hatchback last year, while an AMG 35 variant will take on the Volkswagen Golf R Estate and a range-topping 45 is set to produce well over 400bhp. Sorry America, but that’s one of the major markets that won’t get this car.
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Mercedes-Benz: GLC facelift
Mercedes-Benz's rival to the BMW X3 will get a mid-life refresh (pictured) to bring it into line with the latest C-Class, upon which it's based.
That means subtly evolved looks and a boost in interior technology and driver assist functions. Level 2 autonomy will feature, while mechanical upgrades include a new 2.0-litre diesel engine.
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Mercedes-Benz: V-Class and Concept EQV
Showcasing the diversity of Mercedes-Benz's product portfolio, the German brand will show the facelifted version of its van-based V-Class MPV. While that in itself isn't particularly exciting, there will also be a concept version of what will be one of the first electric large people carriers, the EQV.
Based heavily on the existing V-Class, it will offer a long range and little compromise on space.
PICTURE: Autocar artist impression of the Concept EQV
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Piëch Automotive: Mark Zero
Swiss company Piëch Automotive will make its motor show debut at Geneva with the reveal of its Mark Zero electric sports car. Sitting atop an unconventional modular platform, the two-seater Mark Zero's batteries are mounted along the central tunnel, rather than in the floor, meaning it is likely to feature a rear-wheel-drive powertrain.
No performance figures have been announced, but the brand is aiming for the lightweight performance EV to achieve a range of 500km (311 miles). The company was co-founded by Anton Piëch (pictured right), who is the son of Ferdinand Piëch, the famous former chairman of the Volkswagen Group, but it has no affiliation with VW.
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Pininfarina: Battista
The Pininfarina Battista is yet to be fully unveiled apart from teaser images like this one, but it's already being referred to by its creator as “the most powerful Italian performance car ever” - a title it quite rightly deserves if its claimed performance figures are to be believed.
With 1900bhp from a drivetrain that uses technology developed by Croatian EV manufacturer Rimac, the Battista is expected to top out at more than 250mph and get from 0-62mph in less than 2.0sec.
But the hand-built machine doesn’t just impress in the speed department, with a claimed range of at least 280 miles placing it in contention for the position of most environmentally efficient hypercar.
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Polestar: 2
The Polestar 2, the second model from Volvo’s newly hived-off performance brand, makes 402bhp and has a quoted "target" WLTP range of 311 miles.
It has two electric motors, mounted across both axles for four-wheel drive, and a 27-module, 78kWh battery pack integrated into the floor. Polestar claims the pack contributes to chassis rigidity and helps reduce road noise by 3.7dB compared with a traditional chassis.
Production of the 2 will begin in China in early 2020, for all markets.
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Subaru: e-Boxer models
Subaru is being coy about what shape its two Geneva debuts will be, but we now know they will be concept versions the firm's first electrified European production models.
The brand has released a darkened preview image of one - the Viziv Adrenaline concept (pictured) - and an e-Boxer logo, showing that the car will use a hybridised version of Subaru's famous flat-four engine. The two models are likely to be based on existing platforms.
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Volkswagen: ID Buggy
After 80 years of production, Volkswagen’s – and indeed the world’s – longest-produced model, the Beetle, was axed in 2018.
As one icon dies, however, another emerges in its place, and Volkswagen has previewed an electrified beach buggy concept inspired by the Meyers Manx of the 1960s. Where Bruce Meyer’s coastal cruiser used the Beetle’s floorpan, suspension and air-cooled engine, its descendant is set for inclusion in Volkswagen’s upcoming range of ID electric vehicles.
The ID Buggy emulates the basic silhouette of the original, in much the same way as the ID Buzz Cargo van takes heavy inspiration from the classic Type 2.
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Lamborghini: Huracán Evo Spyder
At Geneva we'll get our first chance to see this updated convertible supercar in the flesh. The new car follows the launch of the Huracán Evo, an updated and more powerful Huracán coupé, late last year. It features the same 631bhp 5.2-litre naturally-aspirated V10, resulting in a 0-62mph time in 3.1 seconds. That's 0.2 sec slower than the hard-top model.
The 201mph top speed is identical to the coupé, however, despite the Spyder's 120kg (264 lb) weight penalty.
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Bugatti: Chiron 110 ans Bugatti
At Geneva Bugatti will display a special, ultra-exclusive version of the Chiron Sport as part of its 110th anniversary as a brand. Described as a “tribute to France” and the brand’s Molsheim base, the Chiron Sport '110 ans Bugatti' features unique design and colour changes inside and out and is limited to just 20 examples.
Much of the 1479bhp hypercar’s bodywork revisions are themed around France's blue, white and red tricolour flag. The most prominent use of that is on the underside of the Chiron’s movable rear wing, while stripes also feature on the door mirrors and aluminium filler caps on both sides.
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Volkswagen: Touareg V8 TDi
Diesel may not be the flavour of the month these days, but that's not stopping VW from unveiling a new 4.0-litre V8 diesel powered version of its Touareg SUV at Geneva. With 410bhp, it'll become the most powerful VW you can buy.
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Peugeot: 208
Peugeot will unveil a stylish new supermini at Geneva. It will offer gasoline/petrol, diesel and electric power options. Around 30kg (66 lb) lighter than the car it replaces, the 208 inside gets an update of Peugeot’s still-controversial i-Cockpit, which features a small steering wheel that tends to sit beneath or in the line of sight of the instrument pack.
Despite Peugeot's announced return to America, we doubt this car will be on the menu due to its size and relative unprofitability.
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Ginetta: new supercar
British sports and race car maker Ginetta will unveil a new 200mph, Ferrari-priced supercar at Geneva. The new Ginetta supercar, whose name and price will be revealed at the show is a low, aggressively styled but essentially practical front mid-engined coupé.
It has a bespoke, all-carbonfibre tub chassis built alongside the company’s race cars and clad with carbonfibre body panels. It is shaped for aerodynamic performance, and is powered by an extremely light and compact Ginetta-designed V8 engine of just over 6.0-litres capacity, producing around 600bhp and 520lb ft of torque.
The gearbox is a unique Ginetta-developed creation, a six-speed sequential paddle-shift unit with the diff connected to the engine (and multi-plate clutch) by a short carbonfibre tailshaft.
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Morgan: Wide Body
The fabled British sports car maker Morgan will reveal an all-new sports car at Geneva. The new model was recently seen testing (pictured), revealing a design that's a familiar adaptation of the 1930s-inspired look Morgans have carried for decades.
This is set to evolve further with a new range-topping model in 2020. But there are substantial developments under the skin.
The new model, known internally as the Wide Body, will make use of an all-new, lighter bonded aluminium platform. The company also tantalisingly says the car will feature "a powertrain never before installed in a Morgan".
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Mazda: new SUV
Mazda will launch a new compact SUV, which will slot in above the CX-3 in its range, at Geneva.
The Japanese firm has released a single darkened teaser image of the new car’s rear, showing a relatively compact and sculpted design and round brake lights, in keeping with the latest version of Mazda’s ‘Kodo’ design language.
Mazda says the new machine will be a “brand-new” addition to its range, and forms the second model in its new-generation line-up, following the recently launched Mazda 3.
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Cupra: Formentor
Seat sister brand Cupra has revealed its first standalone model, a 242bhp plug-in hybrid coupé crossover called the Formentor. The concept machine, which will make its public debut at Geneva, is the second to be badged a Cupra following the Cupra Ateca, and the first not to be based on a model from parent firm Seat.
Cupra says the Formentor offers “the benefits of a performance car with the qualities of an SUV”.
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Renault: new Clio
Renault design boss Laurens van den Acker is confident about the fifth-generation Clio’s success, calling it “the best Clio we’ve ever done”.
In an effort to tempt buyers away from Ford and Volkswagen's rival superminis, as well as compact SUVs such as the Volkswagen T-Roc, the new Clio sports a larger infotainment screen, more mature styling and autonomous driver assistance functions.
No electric version has been confirmed, but a plug-in hybrid is set to hit the road in 2020.
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Seat: Minimó concept
Set to arrive in production form in 2021, Seat's Minimó concept occupies less than half the footprint of the average A-segment city car.
With a central driving position and single headlight, it takes inspiration from motorcyles, while its asymmetrical doors are designed to open in tight spaces to enhance ease of use in urban environments.
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Skoda: Kamiq
Skoda will reveal two new models at Geneva, and the first will be a new compact SUV called the Kamiq.
Intended as a rival to the upcoming next-generation Renault Captur and Nissan Juke, the Kamiq has styling adapted from the larger Karoq, a fresh interior design and a range of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines.
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Skoda: Vision iV concept
Skoda will provide "a specific outlook of the brand's electric future" with the Vision iV four-door crossover-coupé concept at Geneva.
The concept looks almost identical to 2017's Vision E concept, but is said by the brand to be more production ready than that model. Set to go on sale in 2021, the iV will be sold in coupé and SUV form, although it is not clear which will arrive first.
New Skoda Vision iV electric SUV: interior image released
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Smart Forease+
Smart's Forease+ concept is an evolution of the EQ Fortwo-based Forease concept shown at Paris last year.
Previewed in a recent design sketch, the Forease+ sports a roof, flared wheel arches, a redesigned rear bumper and a lower, wider stance. The company says the evolved two-seater is "as reduced and dynamic as its predecessor" but more practical in the real world.
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Ssangyong: Korando
Korean manufacturer Ssangyong will unveil a new Korando SUV, inspired by the e-SIV concept shown at last year’s Geneva show. Initially powered by a range of petrol and diesel engines, the cut-price Nissan Qashqai rival will later receive Ssangyong’s first electric powertrain.
The firm is also reported to be exploring diesel-electric technology, as opposed to more conventional petrol-fuelled systems, as a basis for a hybrid variant.
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Citroën: Ami One
Geneva will be the venue for the unveiling of the first of two concepts that Citroën has created as part of its centenary celebrations. The Ami One represents the French company's vision for the future of urban mobility.
At less than 1.5m (59in) wide and with a top speed of less than 28mph, it's built more for sharing than private use, and could even be driven without a licence in some countries like France.
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Hyundai: Tucson N-Line
Hyundai is adding its performance-inspired N-Line trim to its flaghip Tucson SUV.
As with the i30 N-Line hatchback, the Tucson is unlikely to receive a notable power increase, but 'motorsport-inspired' details such as bigger wheels, red stitching and N-Line badges mark it out from the rest of the range.
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Kia: electric sports car concept
Kia will preview its plans to move forward into electrification with a performance-oriented concept car.
It's likely to make use of a tuned variant of the 64kWh motor in the e-Niro SUV, the design study aims to answer "consumer concerns around range, performance, recharging networks and driving dynamism" with 'goosebump'-inducing styling.
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Mitsubishi: Engelberg Tourer Concept
Mitsubishi will unveil a new SUV concept offering "enhanced EV performance". The Engelberg Tourer Concept has been teased in a single image and is named after a Swiss ski resort, as both a nod to the country it will be revealed in and to Mitsubishi's focus on machines with true off-road capability.
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The no-shows
Geneva is a favourite show of car journalists as it’s relatively small and thus easy to get around, and it’s dead easy to visit on a day-trip from elsewhere in Europe – it’s held right next to Geneva’s airport.
It’s a bit less popular with car companies as Switzerland is an expensive place to do business, and hotel rooms are scarce and very expensive. All of which may partially explain the notable manufacturers not present at Geneva this year – they include Ford, Jaguar Land Rover, Volvo, Hyundai, Vauxhall/Opel, Infiniti, Mini, and Tesla.
Nonetheless, as you can see they’ll be plenty to see at this year’s event – we’ll have full coverage of the event as the first press day starts on Tuesday March 5th, so please pay us a visit then at Autocar.co.uk.
If you’d like to go in person, it opens to the public on Thursday 7th March and runs until Sunday 17th March. For more information visit the official show website.
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