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The 2018 Geneva Motor Show is widely regarded as the most glamorous show on the motoring calendar, and marques from around the globe are gearing up to unleash their latest beauties and beasts.
The event will once again be held inside the huge Palexpo Arena in Switzerland, from March 8-18.
Industry trends suggest that the focus of the show will likely be on electric vehicles and autonomous technology, although Geneva’s reputation for welcoming performance cars should ensure that more exotic makers will present their latest speed machines as well.
Set to generate the biggest headlines are the new McLaren Senna, Audi A6, Kia’s next-generation Ceed, the latest Mercedes A-Class, Toyota’s Supra and the Ferrari 488 Pista.
The 488 Pista is the successor to Ferrari’s V8-engined special series - the 360 Challenge Stradale, 430 Scuderia and 458 Speciale – which have received critical acclaim for their performance and undiluted handling.
This model marks a significant step forward from the previous special series in terms of both sporty dynamics and for the level of technological carry-over from racing. Its engine is the most powerful V8 in Ferrari history, capable of 0-100kmph in 2.85 seconds with a top speed of 340kmph.
It looks like Toyota might be making the most noise, however. For a number of years, speculation has been rife as to whether petrolheads would ever see the ‘Supra’ name reborn again. It looks like Toyota will finally put the speculation and eagerness to bed by unveiling the hugely anticipated rebirth of the Supra, which is expected to be a hybrid.
As for Mercedes, not only will there be the A-Class on display, but also the facelifted version of the C-Class. The exterior styling is subtle as opposed to revolutionary, but updates include new infotainment and connectivity options as well as a new engine range. The production version of the four-door Mercedes-AMG GT Concept will also make its bow at the show, as will the updated version of the luxury Mercedes-Maybach S-Class.
Finally, McLaren will be unveiling its latest supercar, the McLaren Senna. Named after the iconic Formula One champion, it is understood to hold McLaren’s most powerful-ever internal combustion engine in a road car.
