Spotlight on Paris Motor Show Concepts: Infiniti Q80, Audi Sportback, Peugeot Quartz

Oct 01, 2014 06:30 PM EDT | Jordan Ecarma

Every other year, the Paris Motor Show welcomes exciting new concepts, debuts and showcases, and 2014 will be no different. To get ready for this week's event, here are three concepts that automakers plan to feature at the show.

Infiniti Q80 Inspiration

Hinting at a new future for the premium brand, Infiniti's Q80 Inspiration concept runs on a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine and hybrid-electric powertrain, generating 550-horsepower, Edmunds.com reported.

Infiniti describes the hybrid powertrain as "highly intuitive," responding to the driver to offer the right balance between traditional gasoline power and an electric boost.

"If the car detects pressure on the gas pedal then it will add to the fun. There isn't just one setting; it's constantly adjusting for the most satisfying drive," Francois Bancon, Infiniti vice president of product strategy, said in a statement. "It can also instantly back off the hybrid power boost if the vehicle detects too much speed is being carried into a corner."

The new engine is a precursor to upcoming models in the Infiniti lineup that will be both eco-friendly and thrilling to drive, the automaker said.

"Our performance hybrid is socially responsible, but when you need it you have all the thrill and sensation you require," Bancon said. "It's the perfect blend of science and sustainability."

Infiniti hasn't yet announced a timeline as to when the four-door fastback will come in a production version.

Audi TT Sportback

The Audi TT Sportback concept combines "sporty elongated structure" and 400 horsepower for a show car of both strength and elegance, according to the automaker. The five-door four-seater jumps from zero to 60 mph in only 3.9 seconds.

"The sophisticated suspension and the low center of gravity ensure dynamic handling, and the body integrates a number of lightweight aluminum components," Audi said in a statement.

The new concept combines Audi's five‑door A5 Sportback and A7 Sportback models to represent a potential TT lineup in the future, according to Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Audi board member for technical development.

The Sportback is longer and wider than Audi's new TT coupe and has an extra set of doors, and the model looks quite close to being production-ready, Jalopnik reported. It also features the Audi virtual cockpit, which puts an interface in the driver's dashboard.

The concept runs on a boosted version of the 2-liter TFSI engine used to equip many cars from Volkswagen group, producing 400 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque.

Peugeot Quartz

The French automaker has confirmed three new concepts for the Paris Motor Show, the latest being the 500-horsepower Quartz concept, according to Motor Authority.  

Riding on 23-inch alloy wheels, the Quartz runs on a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine mated with a six-speed automatic transmission. The luxurious interior features bucket seats with leather-trimmed backrests.

"As it flows towards the rear wings, the glass roof molds into two spoilers that further enhance the aerodynamic design," the automaker described. "These are aligned with the separator between the two Quartz finishes: mineral grey at the front-inspired by rock crystal-and matte black for the rear wings, offset by occasional splashes of red."

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