Opel GTC Paris concept

The first official images of Opel/Vauxhall's new GTC Paris concept have been revealed ahead of the car's  unveiling at the forthcoming Paris motor show. The three-door Astra-based concept previews the Astra sport hatch's successor and showcases the company's design evolution.
Mark Adams, GM Europe's vice president of design, has described the GTC Paris concept as "bold, pure and iconic" in its appearance. The bodyside features the brand's now signature 'blade' first seen on the Insignia, an element repeated in the head- and taillamps. Designers maximized tension though the flanks and in the shoulder to convey a greater sense of dynamism, which is also apparent in the upwards sweeping beltline and brushed aluminum trim that accentuates the DLO.
GM Europe claims that the production version will not stray far from the rakish lines of the concept and, if the GTC moniker is adopted, it will be the first time it will feature on a Vauxhall model. We'll bring you our own exclusive photos and our opinions of the concept once we see the car in the metal in Paris.
Photo Gallery: Opel GTC Paris concept

07 Sep 10

Bentley Continental GT (w/ Gallery)

Bentley has released full details and pictures of its new Continental GT coupe ahead of its official world debut at the Paris motor show.

Whilst clearly an evolution of the 2003 model, it features an all-new body and heavily revised platform. A more upright grille and LED-encrusted headlamps brings its DRG more in line with the larger Mulsanne sedan. Familiar design themes continue around the rest the car, but with a much greater sense of surface tension and crease sharpness. The complexity of the fender and trunk lid surfaces in particular showcase Bentley's extensive use of superforming in the manufacturing process.

A 41mm wider front and 48mm wider rear track, combined with larger, 20-inch wheels add to its muscularity, while horizontal tail lights enhance its breadth both physically and visually.

The interior continues the evolution with new, upgraded materials and equipment but the same double-cowl IP theme. New seats, which liberate more rear legroom, and more storage space increase everyday usability.