Rolls Royce 100EX concept makes production

Based on the 100EX Concept shown by Rolls Royce in 2006, the latest 2-door convertible by the world's most prestigious car-maker is launched at the 2007 NAIAS in Detroit. The new convertible, is to be named the Drophead Coupe (funny last name if you ask me). Little is changed from the 100EX concept, with a more aerodynamic and pleasant-looking front grille burnished in brushed steel that wraps up the front bonnet and the A-pillars of the front windscreen. Slim LED front lights accompanies the new design scheme of the radiator grille to show a modern face for Rolls Royce.


One unique feature of the new Drophead Coupe is its coach doors, which will ease entry of 4 person into the luxuriously appointed cabin. The Drophead Coupe's rear deck which covers the soft-top is fitted with precise 3.5mm thick teak strips which have been carefully machined and finished in a similar manner to the teak assembly for yacht building.


The Phantom Drophead Coupe will be powered by a V12 engine, not the V16 type which was used to showcase the 100EX Experimental Concept. With an array of electronic damping systems and air suspension, passengers could be guaranteed a comfortable ride. Multi-link rear suspension developed by BMW will also provide the handling pleasure suitable for drivers of this new and ultra-expensive convertible.

Takeaway: Extravagance fit for royalty and the car to be seen driving during the summer.

Jaguar C-XF previews the S-Type replacement

Jaguar chose the recent North American International Auto Show at Detroit to showcase the C-XF concept, which is expected to be one of the design leads for the ageing Jaguar S-Type replacement. As expected, the C-XF has styling cues from Jaguar's entrenched roots, featuring the rectangular front chrome grille which is reminiscent of the British Leyland-era XJs. The front headlights, however is less traditional as it forgoes the double round headlamps, replacing them with a sleeker design. On first glance, the car looks much sportier and should appeal to the younger generatio of buyers.


Upon closer look, Jaguar's parent company - Ford, seems to have inputted many design cues from its other stable of concept cars. The side profile of the saloon for example is strikingly similar to the Ford Iosis and Aston Rapide concept shown not too long ago.


At the rear of the C-XF, Jaguar chose a futuristic approach with a horizontal LED strip cutting across the boot lid. A chrome strip with the marque's name completes the look of an executive saloon.


Similar to recent concepts shown by Jaguar, the C-XF's dashboard features a matt aluminium finish as opposed to the traditional wood panelling. The absence of a gear lever and handbrake in the center console also provides a sleek clean look to the interior. Meanwhile with all the rage of ambient lighting for automobile interior design, the C-XF also features a cool blue strip of neon lights across thedashboard to match that of the instrument panel.

Takeaway: Jaguar tries too hard with a mish mash of design cues to shed its traditional design cues.