Shanghai auto show preview: Crossovers, SUVs top the list of reveals: BMW X4, Mercedes-Benz GLA concepts set for Shanghai

Automakers will test China's huge appetite for crossovers and SUVs with introductions this week at the Shanghai auto show.

Acura, BMW, Citroen, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen plan world debuts for compact crossovers, while Jeep -- which arguably started the SUV craze -- will roll out its new Cherokee.

China's crossover segment is a crucial battleground for automakers at a time when the world's largest car market's growth rate has slowed to single digits.

The German automakers appear especially eager to introduce compact crossovers in a bid to expand beyond the stretched sedans that dominate China's luxury market.

Here's a summary of announced vehicle introductions.

Acura

Honda released a sketch of an Acura concept crossover that will debut. The vehicle is meant for global sales, but more details were unavailable.

Audi

The Audi A3 compact sedan will get its public debut in Shanghai after a private showing to journalists last month in New York. The sedan is aimed at China's high-earning young urban professionals.

BMW

BMW will unveil its X4 crossover concept before the production version debuts in September at the Frankfurt auto show. The X4 is a sportier version of the X3 with a lower roofline and coupe styling. It is designed to attract younger buyers looking for more stylish vehicles and willing to pay a price premium.

Buick

Buick has scheduled a world debut for a concept car. Details were unavailable.

BYD

BYD Co. will showcase the new Sirui compact, its most expensive gasoline-powered model, priced at $24,194. The Sirui is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter direct-injection engine with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

Changan

Changan Automobile Co. will unveil a production compact hatchback sedan, the Zhishang XT, which will go on sale in June. The car is powered by a 1.6-liter engine.

Citroen

Citroen will unveil the Wild Rubis concept for an upscale DS-badged crossover. The automaker is targeting well-off Chinese customers with its DS line, which it launched in China in 2012 with a dedicated sales network.

Detroit Electric

The startup maker of electric cars will unveil its SP:01 electric sports car, which is based on the Lotus Elise and has a top speed of 155 mph. The car will be produced in the Detroit area starting in August.

Ford

Ford will introduce a concept, though details are unavailable. The automaker also will display the Mondeo, EcoSport, Kuga, Focus ST and Explorer, all of which have been or will be launched this year in China.

Honda

Honda released a sketch of a Honda-badged concept multipurpose vehicle that will debut. The vehicle is intended for Chinese consumers, but further details were unavailable. Honda also will show near-production versions of the Concept C, a China-market sedan, and the Concept S wagon, both shown last year at the Beijing auto show. Both go on sale this year.

Icona

Icona, an Italian design studio in Shanghai, will roll out the Vulcano, a one-off supercar built in Italy. The two-seater is powered by a 900-hp V-12 engine. Icona claims the car has a top speed of 217 mph.

Jeep

Jeep will showcase the new Cherokee SUV, which enters production late next year at Fiat's joint-venture plant with Guangzhou Automobile Group. The Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon also will have their Asian premieres.

Maserati

Maserati will debut the Ghibli, a mid-sized sedan that will compete with the Audi A6, BMW 5 series and Mercedes E class.

Mazda

Mazda will roll out its Mazda6 sedan and CX-5 small crossover for the Chinese market.

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz will debut the GLA concept, a compact crossover based on the same front-wheel-drive platform as the A- and B-class cars. Mercedes also will introduce a face-lifted E-class sedan with a long wheelbase, a key model built only in China.

Nissan

Nissan is showcasing the Friend-Me concept, which features a center console that gives all four occupants online access. More details were unavailable. Nissan also will display its redesigned Teana flagship sedan, which debuted in February in Guangzhou.

Porsche

Porsche will debut its Panamera sedan with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, alongside a long-wheelbase Panamera for the Chinese market.

Qoros

The Chinese-Israeli automaker will roll out two concepts, a wagon and a hybrid-powered crossover version of the Qoros 3 Sedan, which debuted in Geneva.

Skoda

Skoda plans the global premieres of its newly face-lifted Superb hatchback and Superb Combi. The models will have redesigned front and rear ends, wider grilles and LED daytime running lights.

Suzuki

Suzuki will unveil the Authentics, a compact sedan concept with a long wheelbase and a low roofline. The car has a strong character line that Suzuki likens to a wind-cutting image.

Toyota

Toyota will display an electric sedan concept under the new Ranz brand, which will be built and marketed by Toyota's joint venture with China FAW Group. The car, built on the platform of the Toyota Corolla EX, was developed by the partnership's technical center in Tianjin.

Volkswagen

Volkswagen will unveil a four-door crossover concept based on its new MQB architecture. VW released no details of the vehicle, saying only that the concept's design will be close to that of the production version.

2014 Mercedes S-Class Gets Heated Arm Rests, Built-in Perfume Dispenser

As unorthodox as it seems, Mercedes-Benzhas been slowly revealing its 2014 S-Class flagship sedan from the inside out.

So just what all does the 2014 S-Class pack inside? For starters, there is a pair of 12.3-inch TFT digital screens in the dash, with the left screen displaying the speedometer and tachometer while the right screen is your standard infotainment display. To give the instruments a free-standing appearance, ambient lighting is used. As for the two-spoke steering wheel, Mercedes has confirmed that it’ll be exclusive to the flagship sedan model and can be purchased as a heated unit. Another fancy option the S-Class will offer to buyers is heated armrests.

Flexing its focus on the Chinese market, a new individual climate control system has been integrated called Thermotronic. Since pollution has become a major issue in China, the new Thermotronic system features two combined filters – one for fine dust, and one made from activated charcoal filters. To help freshen the air, an ionizing system can filter out various viruses and spores.

To give the door panels a more upscale feel, the only plastic buyers will be finding is the lining of the aperture for the door release. Elsewhere on the door panel they’ll find either wood, leather, or aluminum. Now for the focus on the rear interior, long-wheelbase models will have the option of “Executive” reclining individual seats. This will allow the backrest on the nearside rear seat to tilt 43.5 degrees while the “Chauffeur” package allows the front seat to be pushed forward.

To top it all off, the German automaker has teamed up with perfume specialist Marc vom Ende to include a built-in atomizer in the S-Class. It’s a $4,600 option and can diffuse five different scents into the cabin.

Mercedes GLK 250 4MATIC announced

First GLK with a four-cylinder petrol engine

Mercedes has announced plans to offer a four-cylinder petrol engine in the GLK-Class.

Set to go on sale in June, the GLK 250 4MATIC will feature a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 211 HP (155 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. It will enable the model to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and hit a top speed of 215 km/h (133 mph). In terms of efficiency, owners can expect to average 7.5-7.7 L/100km (30.5-31.3 mpg US / 36.6-37.6 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 176-180 g/km.

The Mercedes GLK 250 4MATIC is currently available for order and German pricing starts at €44,149 (including VAT).

In related news, the company's crossover lineup can be outfitted with an improved COMAND Online infotainment system that has a "photo-realistic map display," an iPhone-friendly Bluetooth profile and live traffic information.

Top 5 Hamann Tuned Motors

German tuner Hamann has been in the business since 1986. Here are five of its best aftermarket packages in recent years.

With over 20 years of motorsport experience, owner Richard Hamann eastarted out tuning BMWs under the name Hamann Motorsport. That was back in 1986, and since then the company’s portfolio has expanded to include the likes of the McLaren 12C and Mercedes SLS AMG. Richard Hamann died two years ago, but his legacy lives on with a constant stream of aftermarket packages being released that range from the sublime to the ridiculous. The following five represent a cross-section of what the company can deliver.Hamann’s "Mirr6r" package for the BMW M6 was one of the more head-turning examples on display at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The M6's aggressive new facade is equally as eye-catching as the chrome finish, with the new carbon-fiber aero package adding wider wings that extend the width of the M6 by 40 mm, plus a rear spoiler, air intakes, side skirts and a built-in rear diffuser housing a pair of dual stainless-steel tailpipes. Rounding out the exterior mods is a set of 21-inch forged alloys. Alcantara has been used throughout the cabin, which also gets aluminum pedals, while illuminated chrome trim pieces are among a host of optional interior accessories.

If you can stand to look at the car for longer than two seconds, you’ll notice the new Range Rover-based Mystere that Hamann also brought to the Geneva Motor Show (as a bit of a laugh) comes with a special body kit made up of custom-made front fenders, bumpers and sills that widen the car by a full 80 mm. A lowered suspension has also dropped the ride by 40 mm and it comes with a choice of 23-inch alloys, so not only does it look frightening, but the ride and handling are also bound to be far worse than a stock Range Rover. That said, buyers in the ilk of Justin Bieber and Nicki Minaj will be falling all over themselves to get behind the wheel of the Mystere ASAP... fuschia chrome and all.

The tuning specialist's remit for the MP4-12C was to reduce the concave surfaces, implement essential F1 features, adapt GT3 elements both aesthetically and functionally, and create a relief with exciting light shade contrasts. The result is a complete remake of the supercar, thanks to a large front splitter, upper and side wheel-arch vents, ground-effect door sills, an extended rear diffuser with large rear wing, a triple exhaust and two different wheel sets. The interior was modified without detailing to what degree. No performance upgrades to the supercar's 3.8-liter V8 was made, with its 592 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque deemed sufficient.

Hamann's Cyrano tuning kit for the Porsche Panamera begins with recalibrating the ECU of the 4.8-liter turbocharged V8, increasing output from 500 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque to 580 hp and 605 lb-ft, enabling the super sedan to sprint to 62 in four seconds flat and hit a top speed of 197 mph. Handling was improved by fitting a new 30mm lowered air suspension and 22-inch Unique Forged gunmetal alloys. A custom body kit - consisting of larger air intakes, a carbon fiber hood, 60mm wider fenders, new side skirts, a rear diffuser and a GT rear wing - is complemented by a set of daytime running lights integrated into the air intakes.

Based on the Roadster variant of the SLS AMG, Hamann’s Hawk package includes aero components made up of a front apron with new LED lights, enlarged air inlets, a checkered-flag carbon-fiber hood with air vents, side skirts, and a rear bumper fascia with diffuser and carbon-fiber wing. A high-performance stainless-steel exhaust with four massive end pipes, combined with a sports air filter and remapped ECU, help the 6.3-liter V8 engine to produce 628 hp and 502 lb-ft of torque. In race start mode, the two-seater can now accelerate from 0-62 mph in 3.6 seconds on way to a top speed of 199 mph. Handling is enhanced via 21-inch Unique Forged Anodized light alloys and a 30 mm lowered suspension.

Mercedes C-Class Edition C announced

Mercedes-Benz has now announced a new limited edition version of its flagship vehicle C-Class called the Edition C. Made available in three body style- sedan, coupe and estate, the Edition-C has mainly received cosmetic chanes both at the exterior and inside the cabin. The company is also offering its famous 4Matic four-wheel drive system as an option for the C220 CDI variant.

An exclusive radiator grille with high-gloss black louvres and chrome trim flanked by darkened headlamps clearly underlines the special status and individual character of the Edition C models. Over and above this, the Edition C Coupe features AMG bodystyling for the front apron, side sill panels and rear apron. As do the Saloon and Estate models if the AVANTGARDE design and equipment line is selected. Further stand-out features of the Edition C include chromed tailpipe trims and an “Edition C” badge on the wing. 

The Saloon and Estate are shod with 43.2 cm (17-inch) five-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in black with a high-sheen finish, paired with 225/45 R 17 front and rear tires. The Coupé model as well as Saloon and Estate models ordered with the AVANTGARDE design and equipment line have wider 245/40 R 17 tires on the rear wheels. Attractive materials, stylish details and a wealth of high-quality equipment and appointments enhance the individuality and sporty character of the interior. Eye-catching features include the sports seats in ARTICO man-made leather/ DINAMICA microfibre in black (AMG sports seats in the Coupé) with two-tone contrasting topstitching in blue/alpaca grey and a dark aluminium trim with longitudinal grain.

Facing the driver is a three-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel in nappa leather with contrasting topstitching in alpaca grey and an 11.4 cm multifunction colour display in the instrument cluster, including ATTENTION ASSIST. The shift/selector lever gaiter and the DINAMICA microfibre-trimmed door centre panels likewise feature contrasting topstitching in alpaca grey and make for a perfectly coordinated, sporty look. As do the velour floor mats, with edging and contrasting topstitching in alpaca grey, and the black headlining. Folding rear seat backrests underline the car’s impressive practicality.

The C-Class Edition C equipment and appointments add €1785 (including VAT) to the price of the Coupé, Saloon and Estate models, while Saloon and Estate models already featuring the AVANTGARDE design and equipment line carry an additional charge of €1011.50 (incl. VAT) for the Edition C package. There is a new addition to the C-Class range in the shape of the C 220 CDI 4MATIC entry-level all-wheel-drive model, which has an output of 170bhp and 400Nm of torque. It is available in either Saloon or Estate guise.

Enhanced features include the COMAND Online multimedia system with Live Traffic Information, which delivers traffic data in real time and can therefore provide advance warnings of traffic hold-ups. In addition to this, the standard-fit Audio 20 CD radio incorporates a digital bus, meaning that a Media Interface, a digital radio (DAB) and the high-end Harman Kardon® Logic 7® surround sound system are also combinable with the standard radio.

A new control logic for the optionally available Dynamic Handling package offers separate setting options for the suspension (SPORT button) and powertrain (E/S button), allowing the driver more scope for influencing the comfort-oriented or sporty settings.

Mercedes-Benz E400L Hybrid spied in China

Debuting at Auto Shanghai later this month

Spy photos with the Mercedes-Benz E400L Hybrid have surfaced the web ahead of the car's unveiling later this month at 2013 Auto Shanghai.

It will represent the most powerful China-made Mercedes-Benz model and at the same time the first hybrid produced in China by the brand. Under the hood it will get a V6 3.0-liter twin-turbo engine rated at 333 bhp (248 kW) and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque, linked to an electric motor.

Even though rivals like BMW and Audi have announced plans of producing hybrids in China, Mercedes-Benz will be the first German marque to launch such a model. However, the company is taking a big risk as the market for hybrids in China is quite small since customers there consider hybrids too expensive.

While China will get the hybridized version based on the long wheelbase E-Class, in United States the E400 Hybrid is based on the standard body E-Class and costs from 55,800 USD.

2013 Mercedes-Benz ML350 Bluetec 4Matic First Test

1600 rpm. That's when you really feel it. The smooth, quiet wave of torque is akin to that of a TGV train pulling from its platform. With gusto like this, you'd think the 3.0-liter turbodiesel V-6 and seven-speed gearbox in this 2013 Mercedes-Benz ML350 Bluetec were meticulously assembled by Michael Kubler (Google him) in Affalterbach. The pull is immediate and addicting, and in a 5000-plus-pound all-wheel-drive SUV, it's downright bitchin'. I swiftly adapt to all 455 lb-ft at my command. When passing 87 octane-drinkers on the highway, for example, the 240-horsepower ML sails past nonchalantly as if it gained a miraculous 20 mph tailwind. The intuitive automatic transmission knocks off one, two, even three downshifts to properly exploit the all-aluminum mill's muscle. In a few seconds, I'm doing speeds that could get me points on my permanent record. And there's hardly any audible indication that I'm piloting something that requires AdBlue solution -- proof of Mercedes' mastership of diesel vehicle refinement. On our closed test track, the ML needed only 6.9 seconds to get to 60 mph, and it reached the quarter mile in 15.3 seconds at 87.8 mph. A panic stomp on the 13-inch front rotors from 60 mph brought the ML to a standstill in 121 feet. Such figures aren't that bad for the Vance, Alabama-made sport-ute. But above-average straight-line sprinting is only one arrow in this five-passenger's quiver. In Sport mode -- a calibration that quickens the throttle's responsiveness, adds weight to the steering wheel's normally light rotation, and stiffens the Agility Control variable rate shocks -- the ML carries its heft with the adeptness of an NFL offensive lineman. Its build feels sturdy, its feet agile, and its reactions confident -- in a word, solid.

Bowler EXR S

Rally cars for the modified for the road are some of the most exciting cars ever made, like theLancia Stratos, Audi Quattro and the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution all of which have followed that sideways gravel path to glory on the road.

The Bowler EXR S is one of these very special vehicles. A road-biased handling package, safety features, and a finished interior are the key additions that separate it from the pure Motorsport EXR.

The spec sheet for the road-going EXR S variant is to die for. Researching the details of its construction, it’s as though the Derbyshire-based Bowler team simply doesn’t compromise. Every bolt and brace is simply the best and strongest possible, period. Better ingredients. Better pizza. Or something to that effect.

Click past the jump for the full review, details on ordering a Bowler, and high-resolution images of the exquisite interior and rolling roll-cage chassis.

Exterior

The exterior of the EXR S is all racecar, sans the sponsor stickers. Bowler leverages the extensive Range Rover parts bin for the car’s key exterior features. The result is a slinky, Range Stormer-stomping animal.

The nose and tail share the Range Rover Sport’s blocky graphics, including the bi-xenon self-leveling lights, grille shape and overall square-jaw looks.

The off-the-shelf components bookend a mad body profile with giant man-eating fenders and extensive cooling ductwork. The swage line stays horizontal through the A-pillar, before arcing upward around the rear wheel arch. The Bilstein and Eibach double wishbone suspension is visible front and rear and leaves no doubt about the promised 11.2-inches of wheel travel.

Interior

The interior of the EXR S makes big progress over the inhospitable rally trucks. The Bowler seats two passengers in body-hugging racing seats and provides three-point seat belts for ease of use. Six-point harnesses and rally intercoms are optional.

Visible structural metal is painted the same color as the body and includes substantial thick-plate reinforcements across the entire floor, firewall and transmission tunnel area. The standard roll cage is FIA-approved and constructed from hydroformed steel about twice the normal roll-bar thickness. The twin A-pillar tubes are evidence of the EXR S’s rigidity and strength. For those that like to push the envelope a little more, an even more extreme cage is optional. After all, not all jumps have smooth landings – airbags are not included for exactly this reason.

A dashboard from Land Rover’s Defender blends nicely with bespoke aluminum plates and carbon-fiber elements to create a polished appearance. The EXR S includes a number of comfort and safety features as standard:

• Six-speed automatic with paddle shifters, low-range gear and electronic parking brake
• Keyless ignition with remote central locking
• Dual climate control, heated mirrors and heated front/rear screens
• Twin 12V sockets, map and courtesy lamps
• Lightweight Pioneer head unit (Bluetooth, iPhone-compatible) with six-speaker Pioneer stereo

The carbon door cards reinforce the sense of racing authenticity, as do the polycarbonate side windows with sliding hatches. The rear cargo area is huge (est. 30-cubic-feet) but not flat.

Drivetrain

The Bowler EXR S is powered by a supercharged and remapped 5.0-liter V-8 from the RRS that produces 550 horsepower and an estimated 700 pound-feet of torque. The twin air intake system is finished in chrome and adds real purpose to the near-OEM-quality engine compartment. A Bowler-branded induction cover fills some of the void between the deeply mounted engine and the front end.

The snorting V-8 is shoved well back from the front axle for a low, front mid-mounted position and ideal weight distribution. The EXR S keeps the racecar’s locking center and rear differentials but tweaks the torque split from 60:40 to 50:50.

All of this power and technology delivers a 0-to-60 mph sprint of 4.2-seconds and a top speed electronically limited to 155 mph.

The EXR S is very light compared with its Range rover cousin, as its curb weight is 3,815 pounds, compared to the 2012 Range Rover Sport’s 5,800-pound curb weight.

2013 Bowler EXR S - Manufacturer’s Performance Claims

Peak Power	550 Horsepower
Peak Torque	700 Pound-Feet Est
0-To-60-Mph	4.2 Seconds
Top Speed	155-Mph, Limited

Suspension and Brakes

Giant six-piston Brembo brakes clamp the 14.2-inch front discs, while four-piston Brembos bring up the rear. The standard suspension features progressive Eibach springs over Bowler-specific Bilstein dampers, but the optional Donerre competition dampers with remote reservoirs are visible in the rolling chassis images.

Driving Impressions

Darling of Top Gear and Fifth Gear, the Bowler promises all drivers a giant childlike grin and some lifetime memories. The smile is not instant, as the Bowler is a true exotic and as such is pretty frightening at first. The idea of driving something so fast across open terrain only amplifies the fear.

Once acclimated to the giant power and relatively squishy suspension, the nerves fade. The EXR S is described by Bowler as having a more “reactive” type of handling to fit its intended purpose. This means the car is always in a semi-defensive position and tries to be ready for unexpected blows, which helps inspire confidence. Drivers rapidly learn that car’s progressive suspension is soft at the top of its travel but firm underneath.

Pricing

The Bowler fairy tale gets more complicated at this part. The Bowler EXR S is priced at $236,000 in its home UK market, where it is also road-legal and emissions compliant. The EXR S is available for custom orders across the globe, where Bowler sells the car on a recreational vehicle basis.

“I’d be delighted to sell a Bowler in the U.S. - either an EXR for competition use, or an EXR S for off highway recreational use.” - Jon Chester, Bowler Brand Director

This means the car is legal to drive on any private land or roads, like off-road parks and the thousands of OHV (off highway vehicle) trails across the U.S.

The lack of U.S. federal highways blessing shouldn’t put off potential customers. Many collectors know that former racecars or non-imported exotics are totally street-able, with a little help. Generally, license-plate issuers (State DMVs) have far fewer requirements once you already own the vehicle.

All Bowlers have exceptional resale value due to limited supply.

Competition

The primary competition for this car is the Local Motors Rally Fighter, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG, and the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor.

Local Motors Rally Fighter

The Rally Fighter shares the spirit of the Bowler and is also special-order-only. A skilled expert mechanic will be able to handle routine maintenance for both vehicles, although spare parts will be an eye-watering experience. The Rally Fighter also seats two and is powered by a racing small-block V-8. It is less proven mechanically as well as at high speed.

Porsche Cayenne Turbo

The Porsche Cayenne Turbo gets close to the 0-to-60-mph time of the EXR S and trumps it with a 160-plus top speed. As a volume production car, it can be purchased from a dealer lot, seats five and offers passive safety features like airbags and a warranty.

Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG

The G63 and Bowler have similar pricing and rip-snorting V-8 engines. The AMG quad side-exhaust wins for show quality over the twin side exhausts from the Bowler. The G63 provides more comfort and five big seats but is much more vulnerable off-road.

Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

The Raptor can do something the G63 and Cayenne wouldn’t dare: follow the EXR S through some challenging terrain. The Raptor includes a similarly giant wheel-and-tire package, long-travel Fox Racing suspension and a 6.2-liter V-8 engine with 411 horsepower. It also seats five and is easier and much cheaper to buy than the EXR S. The Raptor’s sluggish 0-to-60-mph time means that he might be able to follow the EXR S – but only as a support vehicle.

If you’re feeling really squirrely, you can pay an extra $17,995 for the Shelby Raptor package and push the Raptor to 575 horsepower.

Conclusion

The EXR S never gets bogged down in the mud, and potential buyers shouldn’t either.

For those demanding the best in every aspect of their pampered lives, the Bowler will fit right in. Despite the cushy ride, few passengers and no drivers will forget this is an extreme and highly specialized machine.

The buyers for this SUV could simply make a track out of the back forty acres of their rural ranch. Soon they might need another to keep the EXR S humble when doing laps.

 Huge power and acceleration
 Robust racing mechanicals
 Unbeatable off-road

 Only two seats
 Special-order status
 Polycarbonate windows don’t roll down

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series priced from 639,000 AUD

Goes on sale in July

Mercedes-Benz has announced pricing details for the SLS AMG Black Series sold in Australia.

It is scheduled to go on sale this July from a starting price of 639,000 AUD. This represents the Manufacturer's Recommended List Price (MRLP) which excludes delivery taxes, stamp duty, registration fee and other similar additional costs. For more precise pricing it is advisable to contact a Mercedes-Benz dealer. Germany will get the car a month earlier and will cost 249,900 EUR.

As a reminder, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series has a revamped V8 6.2-liter unleashing 622 bhp (464 kW) and 634 Nm (468 lb-ft) of torque. Linked to a 7-speed, dual-clutch AMG SPEEDSHIFT gearbox, the setup enables the supercar to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in 3.5 seconds before reaching a top speed of 196 mph (315 km/h).

Specs Check: 2014 Cadillac CTS Against the Competition

How Does the New Guy Rank Statistically Against the Segment's Best?

When the dust from the 2013 New York International Auto Show settles, a few new vehicle debuts will stand out as stars — and the 2014 Cadillac CTS will definitely be one of those cars.

We’ll contribute to the time-honored tradition of bench racing by laying out some specs for the newly enlarged 2014 CTS and its competitors. With the new CTS currently on our list of must-drive cars, we’re looking forward to comparing the Caddy against its midsize luxury sedan competitive set. Driving the CTS is still a ways out, but how do the numbers stack up so far?

Cadillac CTS

Fresh off the NYIAS floor, the new CTS no longer needs to straddle the compact and midsize luxury segments. The exterior and interior designs have been pulled closer to what we’ve been seeing in Caddy’s modern stable, and there’s a bevy of new technology at play, including a hot twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V-6.

Cadillac CTS
Engines	Horse power	Torque (lb-ft)	Transmission	Fuel economy (mpg, city/highway)
Turbocharged 2.0L I-4	272	295	6A	RWD – 19/30*, AWD – 18/28*
3.6L V-6	321	275	6A, 8A	RWD – 19/28 (8A)*, AWD – 18/27 (6A)*
Twin-turbocharged 3.6L V-6	420	430	8A	RWD – 17/25*
Interior dimensions	Front (inches)		Rear (inches)
Headroom	39.2		37.5
Legroom	42.6		35.4
Shoulder room	56.9		54.8
Cargo volume (cubic feet)	13.7
*estimated

The Competition

Audi A6/S6

New for 2012, you know the drill for the A6. Quattro all-wheel drive is a rewarding feature, unless you’re behind the wheel of the front-drive A6 2.0T with the CVT.

Audi A6/S6
Engines	Horsepower	Torque (lb-ft)	Transmission	Fuel economy (mpg, city/highway)
Turbocharged 2.0L I-4	211	258	CVT, 8A	FWD – 25/33 (CVT), AWD – 20/30 (8A)
Supercharged 3.0L V-6	310	325	8A	AWD – 18/27
Twin-turbocharged 4.0L V-8	420	406	7DCT	AWD – 17/27
Interior dimensions	Front (inches)		Rear (inches)
Headroom	37.2		37.8
Legroom	41.3		37.4
Shoulder room	57.5		56.3
Cargo volume (cubic feet)	14.1

BMW 5 Series

Looking for a manual transmission? You’ll need to turn to BMW, which offers six-speed sticks on the I-6 and V-8. Now if only there were a way to hide the Gran Turismo models.

BMW 5 Series
Engines	Horsepower	Torque (lb-ft)	Transmission	Fuel economy (mpg, city/highway)
Turbocharged 2.0L I-4	240	255	8A	RWD – 24/34, AWD – 22/33
Turbocharged 3.0L I-6	300	300	6M, 8A	RWD – 20/30 (6M, 8A), AWD – 21/30 (8A)
Twin-turbocharged 4.4L V-8	400-560	450-500	6M, 7DCT, 8A	RWD – 15/22 (6M), RWD – 14/20 (7DCT), RWD – 17/25 (8A), AWD – 16/24 (8A)
Interior dimensions	Front (inches)		Rear (inches)
Headroom	40.5		38.3
Legroom	41.4		36.1
Shoulder room	58.3		56.2
Cargo volume (cubic feet)	14

Infiniti M/Q70

The Q70, as it’s now known, will surely be on the receiving end of some sprucing up soon, if Sebastian Vettel has any say in the matter. For now, we use the M37/M56/M35h specs.

Infiniti M
Engines	Horsepower	Torque (lb-ft)	Transmission	Fuel economy (mpg, city/highway)
3.7L V-6	330	270	7A	RWD – 18/26, AWD – 17/24
5.6L V-8	420	417	7A	RWD – 16/24, AWD – 16/23
3.5L V-6 + electric motor	360	N/A	7A	RWD – 27/32
Interior dimensions	Front (inches)		Rear (inches)
Headroom	39.1		37.7
Legroom	44.4		36.2
Shoulder room	58.4		56.7
Cargo volume (cubic feet)	14.9 (M37, M56), 11.3 (M35h)

Jaguar XF

The group’s elder statesman was given a face-lift for 2012. Like the CTS of yore, the XF doesn’t have a dedicated compact sibling. But it’s coming.

Jaguar XF
Engines	Horsepower	Torque (lb-ft)	Transmission	Fuel economy (mpg, city/highway)
Turbocharged 2.0L I-4	240	251	8A	RWD – 19/30
Supercharged 3.0L V-6	340	332	8A	RWD – 17/28, AWD – 16/26
Supercharged 5.0L V-8	470-550	424-502	8A	RWD – 15/23
Interior dimensions	Front (inches)		Rear (inches)
Headroom	37.1		37.6
Legroom	41.5		36.6
Shoulder room	56.8		56.3
Cargo volume (cubic feet)	17.7

Lexus GS

After winning the last six-cylinder midsize luxury sedan comparison, the Lexus GS is the bogey to beat. Can the 2014 CTS topple the tantalizingly fun GS 350 from its throne?

Lexus GS
Engines	Horsepower	Torque (lb-ft)	Transmission	Fuel economy (mpg, city/highway)
3.5L V-6	306	274	6A	RWD – 19/28, AWD – 19/26
3.5L V-6 + electric motor	338	N/A	CVT	RWD – 29/34
Interior dimensions	Front (inches)		Rear (inches)
Headroom	38		37.8
Legroom	42.3		36.3
Shoulder room	57.3		55.7
Cargo volume (cubic feet)	14.3 (GS 350), 13.2 (GS 450h)

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Updated for 2014, the auto industry perennially expects only the best from the E-Class, and there are plenty of engines here.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Engines	Horsepower	Torque (lb-ft)	Transmission	Fuel economy (mpg, city/highway)
3.5L V-6	302	273	7A	RWD – 20/30*, AWD – 19/28*
Twin-turbocharged 3.0L V-6	329	354	7A	TBD – 2015MY launch
Twin-turbocharged 4.7L V-8	402	443	7A	AWD – 16/26* (one year only)
Twin-turbocharged 5.5L V-8	550-577	531-590	7A	AWD – TBD
3.5L V-6 + electric motor	329	N/A	7A	RWD – 24/30*
Turbodiesel 2.1L I-4	195	369	7A	AWD – TBD
Interior dimensions	Front (inches)		Rear (inches)
Headroom	37.9		38.2
Legroom	41.3		35.8
Shoulder room	57.8		56.9
Cargo volume (cubic feet)	16.4
*estimated

Which brings us to this hypothetical comparison story:

Six-Cylinder Midsize Luxury Sedan Dream Matchup

Audi A6 3.0T vs. Cadillac CTS V-6 vs. BMW 535i vs. Infiniti M37/Q70 vs. Jaguar XF 3.0 vs. Lexus GS 350 vs. Mercedes-Benz E350

Horsepower ranking

1)      Jaguar XF 3.0 – 340

2)      Infiniti M37/Q70 – 330

3)      Cadillac CTS V-6 – 321

4)      Audi A6 3.0T – 310

5)      Lexus GS 350 – 306

6)      Mercedes-Benz E350 – 302

7)      BMW 535i – 300

Torque ranking

1)      Jaguar XF 3.0 – 332

2)      Audi A6 3.0T – 325

3)      BMW 535i – 300

4)      Cadillac CTS V-6 – 275

5)      Lexus GS 350 – 274

6)      Mercedes-Benz E350 – 273

7)      Infiniti M37/Q70 – 270

Sounds fun, but here’s the potential story that’ll really get the blood boiling:

Performance Midsize Luxury Sedan Dream Matchup

Audi S6 vs. Cadillac CTS Vsport vs. BMW 550i vs. Infiniti M56/Q70 vs. Jaguar XF Supercharged vs. Mercedes-Benz E550 4Matic

Combined hp: 2532, combined torque: 2570

Horsepower ranking

1)      Jaguar XF Supercharged – 470

2)      Audi S6 – 420

2)      Cadillac CTS Vsport – 420

2)      Infiniti M56/Q70 – 420

5)      Mercedes-Benz E550 4Matic – 402

6)      BMW 550i – 400

Torque ranking

1)      BMW 550i – 450

2)      Mercedes-Benz E550 4Matic – 443

3)      Cadillac CTS Vsport – 430

4)      Jaguar XF Supercharged – 424

5)      Infiniti M56/Q70 – 417

6)      Audi S6 – 406

Headroom ranking

Front

1)      BMW 550i – 40.5

2)      Cadillac CTS Vsport – 39.2

3)      Infiniti M56/Q70 – 39.1

4)      Mercedes-Benz E550 4Matic – 37.9

5)      Audi S6 – 37.2

6)      Jaguar XF Supercharged – 37.1

Rear

1)      BMW 550i – 38.3

2)      Mercedes-Benz E550 4Matic – 38.2

3)      Audi S6 – 37.8

4)      Infiniti M56/Q70 – 37.7

5)      Jaguar XF Supercharged – 37.6

6)      Cadillac CTS Vsport – 37.5

Legroom ranking

Front

1)      Infiniti M56/Q70 – 44.4

2)      Cadillac CTS Vsport – 42.6

3)      Jaguar XF Supercharged – 41.5

4)      BMW 550i – 41.4

5)      Audi S6 – 41.3

5)      Mercedes-Benz E550 4Matic – 41.3

Rear

1)      Audi S6 – 37.4

2)      Jaguar XF Supercharged – 36.6

3)      Infiniti M56/Q70 – 36.2

4)      BMW 550i – 36.1

5)      Mercedes-Benz E550 4Matic – 35.8

6)      Cadillac CTS Vsport – 35.4

Shoulder room ranking

Front

1)      Infiniti M56/Q70 – 58.4

2)      BMW 550i – 58.3

3)      Mercedes-Benz E550 4Matic – 57.8

4)      Audi S6 – 57.5

5)      Cadillac CTS Vsport – 56.9

6)      Jaguar XF Supercharged – 56.8

Rear

1)      Mercedes-Benz E550 4Matic – 56.9

2)      Infiniti M56/Q70 – 56.7

3)      Audi S6 – 56.3

3)      Jaguar XF Supercharged – 56.3

5)      BMW 550i – 56.2

6)      Cadillac CTS Vsport – 54.8

Cargo volume ranking

1)      Jaguar XF Supercharged – 17.7

2)      Mercedes-Benz E550 4Matic – 16.4

3)      Infiniti M56/Q70 – 14.9

4)      Audi S6 – 14.1

5)      BMW 550i – 14.0

6)      Cadillac CTS Vsport – 13.7

Which comparison including the 2014 Cadillac CTS would you like to see?