2005 Tokyo Auto Show

Every year, auto manufacturers try and top one another with technologically advanced and designed concepts, and this year is no different. These concepts are typical windows to the future of upcoming production models, giving us insight as to the new trends in design and technology. Of course, the 2005 Tokyo Auto Show is no exception: from Audi to Toyota, manufacturers revealed new external designs as well as hybrid power train concepts at the show, which should be no surprise to anyone paying attention to new cars over the past few months. Thanks to rising fuel costs, it is no wonder that the Tokyo Auto Show was full of eco-green concepts. Below are a few of the vehicles that have brought something new to the table either in design, drive train ideas or both. Audi’s Shooting Brake Concept vehicle touts the latest technology offerings from the overall design to the LED lighting and Magnetic Ride Adaptive Damping system. The Shooting Brake is powered by a 3.2 liter, 250 horsepower V-6 and is equipped with a permanent Quattro Drive system. All this is linked to a six-speed transmission, which enables the Shooting Brake to accelerate from 0-62 in just 6.0 seconds. The shape of the design enables passenger more headroom and allows for more cargo storage according to Audi. The Shooting Brake rolls on 19-inch wheels.

Audi S8

Audi has added a V-10 powered S8 to its lineup. The V-10 borrowed from the Gallardo pushes 450 horsepower and 398 lb.-ft. of torque through a six-speed transmission with paddle shift capability. The V-10 incorporates FSI direct injection technology borrowed from the R8 racecar. The new S8 rides lower than the other models and subtle badges distinguish it along with 20-inch tires and seven spoke wheels.

Bugatti Veyron EB

The Bugatti Veyron has been around for quite some time, but it appears this monster supercar is set to become a reality. The goal for the 8.0 liter 16 cylinder, quad turbo engine was 1001 horsepower but rumors have the number just under the 1000 mark and torque in the low 900’s. Bugatti claims a 0-60 time of under 3.0 seconds which is reasonable if all the power can be transferred to the ground without smoking all four tires thanks to it’s continuous four wheel drive system. Shifting of the seven-speed transmission is done with toggles located just behind the steering wheel and with a price tag in the 1.2 million dollar range, few lucky people will get to experience this amazing car.

Chrysler Akino

With an overall length of 146.6 inches and a wheelbase of just 95-inches, the Chrysler Akino is designed to transport five passengers in comfort. The Akino sports a single door on the drivers side and two opposing doors that open on the passenger side to aid ingress and egress. Named after the designer that envisioned it, the Akino uses both natural and recycled fabrics in addition to the use of bamboo flooring.

Ford Equator

The Ford Equator is said to be a glimpse of the next generational design of future Ford SUVs. The Equator is equipped with a 3.0 liter V-6, 11.9 inch disc brakes front and back along with anti-lock brakes and 19-inch, ten spoke wheels. The Equator is also fitted with an Intelligent 4WD system that has a computer controlled system that engages the rear wheels when needed.

Honda FCX

Actually one of the best-looking fuel cell cars we have seen, the FCX, is the latest in Honda’s alternative fuel arsenal. The hydrogen powered cab forward design based on an overall length of 186 inches is a car of somewhat normal proportions. The four wheel drive system utilizes one 80-kw motor at the front and two in-wheel 25-kw motors at each rear.

Honda Sports 4

The Honda Sports 4 is likely a sneak peek at the future of design for Honda. The Sport 4 uses a design theory Honda pens as “Keen Edge Dynamics”. Whatever that means, we like what we see. The Sport 4 encompasses four-wheel drive, has seating for four and incorporates information screens in the back of the front headrests for rear passengers. The Sports 4 also utilizes individual screens that can be lowered by individual passengers as needed.

Honda W.O.W.

Designed around man’s best friend, the W.O.W. vehicle debuted by Honda is definitely a must-have for the serious dog owner. The W.O.W. is capable of seating six individuals with all of the three rows in the up position with the ability of the second row to convert to a soft kennel for midsize pooches. There is also a small dog bin up front so your best friend can be near while you drive. The W.O.W. features opposing side sliding doors with two large hinged doors at the rear for greater access to the back.

Hyundai NEOS-III

The NEOS-III is one of three contenders for a luxury crossover being studied by Hyundai to add to the 2009 lineup. Designed in Japan, the NEOS-III is powered by a 4.6liter dual overhead cam V-8 and touts an AWD system. Another contender is the Portico designed at the California Design Center and shown in Detroit last year.

Lexus LF-SH

Lexus unveiled what is likely to be their new flagship model at the Tokyo show. The concept was a shell only, void of an interior. The LF-SH was shown with all wheel drive and a hybrid power train. The LF-SH is expected to have a 4.6liter V-8 linked to an eight-speed transmission when it goes into production. Expectations are that Lexus will debut a more production ready version at the Detroit show in January.

Mazda MPV

The new Mazda MPV design is smaller and more refined than the existing version. The MPV features rear sliding doors, LED cabin lighting and is powered by a 2.3 liter turbo engine. Seems everyone including Mazda is trying to combine the design of an SUV and minivan. It is a clear attempt to create a vehicle with the comfort and convenience of a minivan and the utility of an SUV without the stigma of driving a minivan.