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What are French car makers bringing to Geneva?
The Renault Kadjar. – Renault pic, February 23, 2015. Less than six months after its Parisian equivalent, the 2015 Geneva Motor Show will give French manufacturers a chance to show off their latest developments, from entirely new models like the Renault Kadjar to restyled cars such as the Peugeot 208.
Renault will create a stir in Geneva with the premiere of its first C-segment crossover, the Kadjar. A precursor to the next-generation Mégane, the new model resembles a larger version of the Captur, the brand's current crossover, which is similar in size to the Clio. To be offered with two-wheel or four-wheel drive (in three driving modes), the Kadjar holds the appeal of both off-road getaways and excellent handling on urban drives. The new crossover will be equipped with the new R-Link 2 multimedia system, which offers a voice-controlled navigation system and access to certain vehicle features, as well as support for calling, apps and multimedia. Renault will begin shipping the Kadjar in Europe this summer.
Visitors to the motor show will also find the new Espace, which premièred last year in Paris and is due to arrive at European dealerships this spring. Renault is also touting a new engine for its ZOE concept, as well as a "surprise" related to its Renault Sport range.
The company will also take advantage of the event to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the launch of its Dacia brand in Western Europe. To celebrate, Dacia is launching special limited editions of each vehicle in its catalogue: the Sandero, Duster, Lody, Dokker, Logan and Logan MCV. All will be equipped with the new Dacia Media Nav Evolution multimedia and navigation system.
On the Peugeot stand, all eyes will be on the new and restyled 208. Three years after its launch, the brand's best-selling car has undergone a slight facelift, taking on LED lights with a 3D "claw" design as a standard feature. The 208 will also come in new colours and offer a range of new optional techology, including automatic city braking and parking assistance. This latest version of the supermini car is due at European dealerships in June 2015.
For its part, Citroën will show Geneva its restyled C4 compact car and the latest iteration of the Berlingo. The brand will also showcase its Berlingo Mountain Vibe concept, which is geared towards lovers of nature and outdoor sports.
Finally, the Swiss motor show will host the world premiere of the new DS 5, the first car from the DS brand to be released without the Citroën name. The sedan is expected to ship in Europe from June.
The Geneva Motor Show is open to the public March 5 to 15. Website: salon-auto.ch. – February 23, 2015.
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