International motor shows are a template not only for the country that’s hosting them but also for the state of the world economy.
In the past few years, SUVs, compact crossovers and even utes have been the focus of shows rather lacking in bling, but that has begun to change with the Geneva motor show this week.
The second major car show for the year, Geneva is seen as the compass of what is happening in Europe, and it seems most manufacturers are touting that the affects of the GFC are over and it’s time to think sports cars.
Geneva is a great show to attend, as I’m fortunate to do this year, as it teases to future product while allowing you insight to the major European brands such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audis, VW and co.
And this year has been time to shine for brands. Bugatti has used the show to reveal the Chiron. Porsche has had two world premieres. Lamborghini flashed the Centenario. Aston Martin’s DB11 was unveiled. Ferrari had crowds standing on neighbouring brands’ cars to see the GTC4 Lusso.
While there have been plenty of exotic cars on display, there have also been enough products to keep a fleet buyer happy – with not only EVs but SUVs, utes and economic station wagons, or as they call them in Europe, sports wagons.
And on the streets of Geneva the traditional opulence is on show — middle-aged men in dark expensive suits, older women in fur coats, and La Ferraris and Bugattis.
■For coverage of Geneva motor show, click here.