Volkswagen’s luxury brand Bentley launched the Bentayga, billed as the most exclusive and luxurious SUV in the world and the brand’s most technologically advanced car ever. The Bentayga has a massive 12-cylinder engine and a top speed of 187mph. It also has all the technology one expects in a luxury car, including a park assist to help squeeze into tight spots, infrared to see wildlife at night as well as integrated wifi, navigation and entertainment systems. But Bentley’s charm lies also in its exclusive artisanal accents. Buyers can opt for an integrated event seat for watching polo matches from the comfort of the car, and can be fitted with three hampers for champagne, tea service and nibbles. The hampers can be removed as portable seating. The handcrafted interior can include a Breitling dashboard clock in white gold, mother of pearl and diamonds that winds itself and costs as much as the car. While the concept was ballyhooed as a product for the Gulf states, the recovery in the U.S. and European markets has broadened the market considerably. Plug-in electric and diesel versions are planned. The Bentayga will sell for 175,200 euros in Europe and $221,600 in the United States. Michael Probst / AP Photo
Ferrari launched its 488 Spider hardtop convertible at Frankfurt just months after the coupe version in Geneva. Usually the car maker waits a couple years for convertible launches, but executives said Ferrari drivers have been chomping at the bit for the top-down 488. Michael Probst / AP Photo
German carmaker Porsche previewed a concept luxury electric car, the Mission E, with a 600 horsepower engine and top speeds of 250kph (155mph) With its silent, zero-emission powertrain, it can easily whizz by before you hear it coming. But while the Porsche claims the Mission E has a 500 kilometre range, the real issue remains infrastructure. German drivers taking an Italian holiday need to be sure they can get a charge to get back again. Porsche says the Mission E is expected in dealership within five years. Michael Probst / AP Photo
Opel, General Motor’s European brand, has equipped its flagship Astra vehicle with features that once belonged only to the upper classes, like lane departure warning, rearview cameras and automatic emergency braking, in a bid to attract new buyers. The 11th generation Astra has slimmed down by 200 kilograms (440 pounds), giving it a sportier handling and more fuel efficiency. It supports Android and Apple smartphone interfaces, enabling drivers to use apps like navigation, music and messaging through a dashboard display. Massage seats and a scent dispenser are optional. The Astra starts at 17,200 euros, the same as its predecessor. Opel says it has already taken 30,000 orders. Michael Probst / AP Photo
The Alfa Romeo Giulia is a sedan powered by a 3.0 litre V6 turbo that can do 0-100 kph (0-62 mph) in only 3.9 seconds. And perhaps more importantly, it can brake from 100kph to a standstill in less than 32 metres. Maximum speed is 307 kph. The high-performance Quadrifoglio version of the Giulia shown in Frankfurt will sell in Germany for 72,000 euros. Michael Probst / AP Photo
