Almost 100 new models were introduced during the opening of the 2006 Mondial de Automobile in non-stop, 15-minute spurts of product reveals, hype and info-dumps. It was an impossible task to attend them all.
Instead, I opted to use the time prudently, save my strength in the sweltering heat in the halls (air conditioning is rare in France) and primarily visit the stands of those manufacturers whose vehicles are sold in America.
And always wait until after the international media scrum of photographers, videographers, writers and journalists at the official presentation. This allows some walk-around, look-in and sit-in time to get a quick reaction to the vehicle.
There is a lot of very interesting new product headed for U.S. shores in the next few months from European and Asian manufacturers – product that will, I believe, help to significantly increase international brand’s market share.
It’s important to note that many of the models were diesel powered, which Europeans prefer. When sold in America they will have internal combustion engines. Here are a few that really impressed me:
The Mini get mighty – Looks can deceive. The well-selling Mini looks the same inside and out, but it’s a bit longer, has larger dials and gauges on the dash and has a more powerful 50 hp engine. A new station wagon is coming soon and so is a revamped convertible.

 The New, Longer Mini

Uber luxury for Mercedes-Benz – The new CL class has limited production – 10,000 or so worldwide, and a limited number of customers with a price tag of around $140,000 to $200,000, depending on the specific model. But it’s a beauty.
Nissan’s crossover Quashuai – An unpronounceable and odd name, but this crossover looks like a winner with styling DNA from the Murano. Despite the Asian brand name, this car was designed and will be built in England. An American version, I was told, will be introduced this January in Detroit at the NAIAS with a slightly different body design. Check out this demo of the new Quashuai!
VW’s heating up with the Iroc Scirocco concept – Yeah, yeah its just a concept, but with all the buzz and inferences concerning launch dates of early 2008, and maybe, just maybe end of 2007, this could be a big winner. Aimed at younger buyers with a wish for speed or the impression of speed, this beauty sports the new VW grill. Add some teeth and it might have a resemblance to Great White Sharks. VW – part deux – Augmenting the Jetta models, a hatchback is due to hit America very soon.