Uniquely combining the dynamic performance of a motorcycle with the ease of use of a scooter, Honda introduces the all-new Integra. This large capacity scooter will make its debut into the Australian market this month retailing at a $10,990 (MLP). At the heart of this new machine is a purpose-built engine and transmission package. The liquid-cooled, in-line 2-cylinder 670cc engine is a lightweight and compact unit positioned to give a low centre of gravity. Honda’s innovative Dual Clutch Transmission offers the convenience and ease of use of an automatic transmission with the optional control of a manual mode should the rider choose it. The Integra offers strong torque at low to medium engine rpm, which is where riders spend the vast majority of their riding time, together with a very usable power delivery, low exhaust gas emissions and superb fuel efficiency. The Integra features conventional motorcycle wheels and suspension, and a rigid tube steel diamond frame with geometry optimised to create a sense of excitement and complete control. Overall chassis stability is further enhanced by the Integra’s weight distribution which also ensures easy handling at all speeds, from stop-start city riding to high-speed highway cruising. The Integra’s C-ABS system is equipped with both the easy control of a Combined Brake System and the extra reassurance of an Antilock Brake System. The CBS effectively balances front and rear braking control for smooth operation. At the same time, the ABS provides extra reassurance and the confidence to build skills in unexpected or extreme situations. Despite its slim proportions, the Integra features a 15-litre under seat storage space large enough to hold a helmet or waterproof cover. The main fairing also offers a second, smaller storage compartment within easy reach of the seat, ideal for tickets, wallet or mobile phone. As well as being practical and fun to ride, the Integra is a bold and original styling statement, fusing new forms, slick surface treatments and strong lines. It offers a high level of wind protection and a relaxed, comfortable riding position. The 2012 Integra Scooter will be launched in Ion Blue Metallic and is available in Honda Dealerships nationally.

An affordable compact hybrid car that will cut fuel use and emissions in half without resorting to expensive technologies or manufacturing methods is on Toyota’s mind. Toyota’s FT-Bh Concept, which is having its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show, is about the same size as a Yaris but has shed well over 200kg to tip the scales at a miniscule 786kg. The FT-Bh, which stands for Future Toyota B-segment hybrid, targets fuel economy of just 2.1 litres/100km and CO₂ emissions of just 49 grams/km – almost twice as good as today’s hybrid flagship, Prius. The ultra-light concept features exceptional aerodynamic quality, very low driving resistance and a highly efficient petrol-electric system – as well as exploring compressed natural gas (CNG) hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains that would produce even better efficiency. Toyota Motor Europe president and CEO Didier Leroy said the FT-Bh shows what can be achieved when every aspect of the car is designed to reduce emissions. “One year ago we challenged our engineers and designers to come up with a small super-efficient car at an affordable price, reinforcing our environmental leadership in the coming years. “FT-Bh is the result: a full hybrid four-seater less than four metres long,” Mr Leroy said at the concept’s unveiling. “It combines full hybrid efficiency, advanced aerodynamics and ultra-lightness – all achieved at a cost-level appropriate for a high-volume B-segment car. “Having achieved such impressive results in a small car, we will be able to transfer the benefits to larger Toyotas.” The design team, on a mission to achieve the best possible fuel economy and emissions, focused on five key areas: reducing weight, driving resistance (including aerodynamic and tyre performance), powertrain efficiency, thermal energy management, and electricity savings. Toyota recognises that a real-world reduction of total global vehicle CO₂ emissions is possible only if an affordable, ultra-low emissions vehicle can be manufactured and sold in sufficiently high volumes. That made it important that the concept did not require exotic, expensive materials or complex manufacturing procedures, but used instead only those that are already commonly available in the motor industry. FT-Bh’s full hybrid system – a masterpiece of downsizing with substantial weight savings in every driveline component – is almost 90kg lighter than the Hybrid Synergy Drive system in today’s Prius. The lightweight two-cylinder, 1.0-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine combines high efficiency with low thermal capacity. It benefits from detailed measures to increase combustion efficiency and reduce friction. The car’s light weight makes it agile and responsive to throttle and brakes while the electric motor delivers maximum torque from standstill. FT-Bh demonstrates the adaptability of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive technology by using two alternative powertrains: a CNG hybrid with 38 grams/km CO₂ emissions and a plug-in hybrid emitting just 19 grams/km.

The new editions to the Lexus lineup will be revealed at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The new RX and RX F Sport models will be the highlight of the Lexus stand this year but won’t be the only models on show. The other attractions of the show will be the European premiere of the LF-LC concept car, and the all new Lexus GS 450h and GS 450h F Sport. Lexus are set to stun the crowds with these new models with more information on each coming after launch.

Hyundai has released images of their new i-oniq concept car showcasing new technology and design which present an impression of the company’s future thinking. The i-oniq is an electric sports hatchback with a range-extending petrol engine. Intended to convey the latest thinking from Hyundai’s designers and engineers, the i-oniq evolves the company’s fluidic sculpture form language and represents bold ‘New Possibilities’ with its futuristic powertrain. Hyundai stylists chose dynamic proportions to create i-oniq’s aesthetic and functional body shape. Its design combines gentle feature lines and muscular surface treatment, conveying both premium and sporty qualities evident in both the exterior and interior of the car. Further design elements, such as the ‘penthouse roof’ and LED headlights, emphasise the efficiency and advanced technology encased within i-oniq. At 4.4 metres long, i-oniq has space for four occupants in its driver-oriented cabin. High-tech equipment in the driver interface and controls reflects contemporary and future premium consumer electronics technology. Passengers benefit from a lounge-style space designed to optimise comfort, featuring sculpted surfaces inspired by musical instruments to create a positive contrast with the sports-focused driver area. The i-oniq concept has an innovative powertrain that demonstrates Hyundai’s commitment to clean technology. A 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine is mated, via a generator, to a lithium ion electric motor which produces 80kW. In electric-only mode, i-oniq has a range of 120 km, while with assistance from the petrol engine it can travel up to 700 km, producing just 45 g/km of CO2 in the process. The Hyundai i-oniq concept car will be unveiled during the 2012 Geneva Motor Show on 6th March.  

Six new models and three new takes on familiar themes will all be on display at the International Geneva Motor Show 2012 with a spread of models unprecedented in the brand’s history. The show, taking place from 8 – 18 March, will therefore see the one-off among premium small car makers confidently extending its growth curve into 2012. The latest developments in the model range, which now comprises a total of 41 variants, create even greater scope for customers to experience the hallmark MINI style and unsurpassed driving fun of the brand’s cars in their own individual way. Celebrating its world premiere in Geneva will be the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman, the first performance athlete in the brand’s line-up to combine John Cooper Works racing thrills with ALL4 all-wheel drive. The MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is powered by a newly developed four-cylinder engine boasting a twin-scroll turbocharger, petrol direct injection and variable valve control, and producing 160 kW/218 hp. And it comes as standard with an aerodynamic kit, lowered sports suspension, 18-inch light-alloy wheels and exclusive design features. This is the first John Cooper Works model to also offer a six-speed automatic gearbox as an option. Another world premiere from MINI shifts attention to an all-new concept designed to win over new target groups. The MINI Clubvan Concept embodies the vision of a premium small car with increased transportation capacity for business and leisure use. It differs most prominently from the MINI Clubman, on which it is based, with its two-seat layout, large and flat load compartment, and opaque rear side windows. Visitors to the International Geneva Motor Show 2012 will also be treated to a first look at three new interpretations of established models. The MINI Baker Street embodies the youthful, fresh and innovative trendsetting style of the brand, while the MINI Bayswater focuses primarily on the sporting verve and agile handling for which MINI is renowned. The third member of the trio, the MINI Highgate Convertible, exudes an exclusive aura and displays a modern interpretation of British style.