2014 saw a series of impressive and unique concept cars unveiled at some of the biggest auto shows across the globe. Many of the vehicles had a great emphasis on hybrid models and fuel efficiency while others brought back to life the classics of the previous century.
The vehicles shown are in random order and what’s considered “awesome” to me may differ from what you may consider to be worthy of mentioning. With that out of the way, let’s start off with the Volvo Concept Coupe.
The Volvo Concept Coupe was actually first seen in 2013 at the Frankfurt Car Show. This vehicle brings a new design language for Volvo and is sending the company in the right direction after several decades of just hanging around and blending in. Although most concept vehicles never make it into production, this particular Volvo did receive an overwhelmingly positive response from Volvo fans and the media. This concept version offers a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing an impressive 400 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque.
Buick Riviera Concept
Let’s be honest, Buick is an “old man vehicle” but they are slowly changing their image and even their own commercials make fun of themselves as no one in their videos believe the vehicle being driven is actually a Buick. This Buick Riviera Concept was unveiled in China at the Shanghai Motor Show where Buicks are popular. It was designed by Buick’s Asia-based design team and got their inspiration for the vehicle from a traditional Chinese saying “the greatest good is like water”.
This concept would allow drivers to choose between an all-electric mode and electric/gasoline hybrid.
Nissan IDx Nismo
I’ve been a Nissan fan for too many years now so I was quite excited to learn about the Nissan IDx Nismo. My brother owned a 1970 Datsun 510 and the IDx appears to be a modern take on the classic 510. Initially, Nissan said that it would be producing the IDx but now they say the plans have been scrapped and working on something that may use the IDx underpinnings.
The IDx is supposed to feature an eco-friendly 1.6-liter direct-injection turbocharged gasoline engine and power is to be delivered via a six-speed CVT manual shift mode. It was also supposed to a synchronized rev control. I curse Nissan for canceling this project!
Honda Civic Type-R Concept
While most concept cars never make it to the marketplace, this Honda Civic Type-R Concept will certainly see the roads and freeways of Europe. Not sure what Honda’s plans are for the US and Canada but chances are it would sell better in North America than it would in Europe. Are you listening Honda?
The car looks awesome and everything seen appears to be functional and intended to have a purpose. This Civic Type-R is essentially a legal street racing car in a nice and compact package featuring a 2.0-liter gasoline engine rated at 276 horsepower. I’ve never been a Honda Civic fan but this one is pretty awesome.
Infiniti Q80 Inspiration
Being a Nissan fan also means I’m automatically enrolled in the Infiniti program even if they are out of my price range. The Q80 Inspiration made its debut at the 2014 Paris Motor Show and hinting at the future of their full-size luxury segment should it want to go toe-to-toe against the Mercedes-Benz S Class, BMWs 7-Series, and Audi’s A8.
It’s a beautiful concept featuring suicide doors, beautiful curves, and a gull shaped lights. Under the hood, we will find a 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine and it also features an electric motor. Total output is rated at 550 horsepower while achieving 43 MPG US.
This is just a small sampling of my favorite concept cars of 2014. Any of my choices on your list? If not, let us know which ones you really liked over the course of the past year.
