NAIAS Round-up with new WRX STI, S 600 and KIA and Nissan concepts ...

[Wouter Melissen]

Following the all-new WRX launched in Los Angeles late last year, Subaru have now introduced the even more poised WRX STI in Detroit. It is powered by the familiar 2.5 litre flat four engine, which is good for 305 bhp. The WRX STI is also equipped with the latest technology like active torque vectoring.
Mercedes-Benz meanwhile introduced the company's new flagship model; the S 600. As can be expected, it is even more refined and also slightly more powerful than its predecessor.
One of the funkier cars on display in Detroit's Cobo Hall is the Kia GT4 Stinger. The compact, two-door coupe is powered by a 315 bhp engine that drives the rear wheels. Although the styling may not appeal to everyone, it does look like an absolute blast to drive.
Nissan offered a preview of the company's future design language with the Sport Sedan Concept. The front wheel drive machine boasts a 300 bhp V6 and a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Alongside the pre-production TLX road car, Acura also showcased the TLX GT Race Car, which is due to compete in the Pirelli World Challenge. Powered by a twin-turbo V6, it will line up against the likes of the Audi R8 LMS and Ferrari 458.
Specifically for the European market, Bentley has introduced the limited edition Birkin Mulsanne. This is a tribute to the legendary 'Bentley Boy' Tim Birkin, who was responsible for the creation of the Blower Bentley and famously raced this Blower Birkin Monoposto. Limited to just 22 examples, the Birkin Mulsanne is available in three distinct colour schemes and also features a special 'sport' setting.

Enjoy the links:

2014 Acura TLX GT Race Car - Images, Specifications and Information

2014 Subaru WRX STI - Images, Specifications and Information

2014 Bentley Birkin Mulsanne - Images, Specifications and Information

2014 Kia GT4 Stinger - Images, Specifications and Information

2014 Mercedes-Benz S 600 - Images, Specifications and Information

2014 Nissan Sport Sedan Concept - Images, Specifications and Information

1929 - 1931 Bentley 4.5 Litre 'Blower' Birkin Monoposto - Images, Specifications and Information

[f6fhellcat13]

The Kia has the Saab boys crying foul; they seem to think it's just a Phoenix without the backwards engine and all the Torx fasteners.

For whatever little it's worth, I like the Stinger and hope that they make an engine worthy of it. There will inevitably be a turbo four (whether the one from the concept or otherwise)and if they play their cards correctly, the might have a latter-day Silvia on their hands.

EDIT: 2,800lb !?

[Ferrer]

EDIT: 2,800lb !?

Apparently, when the weight is quoted it is because it is more than a mere styling exercise.

The golden age of rear wheel drive is back. Probably.