Quick Geneva Show Impressions
I attended press days at Geneva. From conversations with Porsche representatives, and my own observations at Porsche and other exhibitors, here are some brief impressions:
1. Nothing new at Porsche for the show. Pretty clear that Porsche views other shows or events as more effective to announce and promote big news or changes. Porsche as you know has already dropped Detroit.
2. With the possble exception of Mercedes, Porsche does not focus on any one manufacturer (Nissan for example) to change or adjust its product line or approach.
3. There is great confidence in the Panamera, and its market. Particular attention is being paid to enginering, performance, and back seat room and comfort (in direct contrast to the Rapide, for example). There was an inference that PDK will be unveiled with the Panamera.
4. The 997 facelift will be soon, and there will be other "news" soon about the Cayenne. I didn't pursue this "news" since I assume it will be the Turbo S, or some other Exclusive items to be offered. I do think it is time for the 997 facelift, as the current model needs some refreshment. I know this is heresy, but I think the car could use some sharper lines around the front, rear, and the wheel arches.
5. The overall show was a bit subdued, probably a result of the US export market and the emphasis on ecological concerns. Each manufacturer, at its press conference, jumped to assure the reporters that 2007 was a great year, and they were well positioned for 2008.
6. The best and most exciting designs, in my view, were in the small and ultra small categories. The Toyota IQ and the Fiat Abarth were my favorites.
7. In the high end segments, I liked the Maserati GTS the best. Ferrari has had great success with the Scuderia, 599, poor success with the Scaglietti, and will be offering a new down market roadster at the Paris show in the fall.
8. I was not impressed with the design of the Nissan GTR. No doubt a well engineered and powerful car, but the design is kit car at best. I got the impression that the designers had no idea of an overall concept, but just kept adding vents and badges and scoops when they should have just put the pencil down.
1. Nothing new at Porsche for the show. Pretty clear that Porsche views other shows or events as more effective to announce and promote big news or changes. Porsche as you know has already dropped Detroit.
2. With the possble exception of Mercedes, Porsche does not focus on any one manufacturer (Nissan for example) to change or adjust its product line or approach.
3. There is great confidence in the Panamera, and its market. Particular attention is being paid to enginering, performance, and back seat room and comfort (in direct contrast to the Rapide, for example). There was an inference that PDK will be unveiled with the Panamera.
4. The 997 facelift will be soon, and there will be other "news" soon about the Cayenne. I didn't pursue this "news" since I assume it will be the Turbo S, or some other Exclusive items to be offered. I do think it is time for the 997 facelift, as the current model needs some refreshment. I know this is heresy, but I think the car could use some sharper lines around the front, rear, and the wheel arches.
5. The overall show was a bit subdued, probably a result of the US export market and the emphasis on ecological concerns. Each manufacturer, at its press conference, jumped to assure the reporters that 2007 was a great year, and they were well positioned for 2008.
6. The best and most exciting designs, in my view, were in the small and ultra small categories. The Toyota IQ and the Fiat Abarth were my favorites.
7. In the high end segments, I liked the Maserati GTS the best. Ferrari has had great success with the Scuderia, 599, poor success with the Scaglietti, and will be offering a new down market roadster at the Paris show in the fall.
8. I was not impressed with the design of the Nissan GTR. No doubt a well engineered and powerful car, but the design is kit car at best. I got the impression that the designers had no idea of an overall concept, but just kept adding vents and badges and scoops when they should have just put the pencil down.
