In pictures: 10 new cars launched at the 2015 Dubai International Motor Show

The 13^th edition of the Dubai International Motor Show held this week saw exhibits from most of the world’s top carmakers. Up to 157 new launches were announced at the event across all categories of cars – from concept cars and eco-friendly ones to luxury sedans and sleek sport versions.

Here are 10 of the new launches this year that caught our attention.

NISSAN PATROL DESERT EDITION

The Nissan Patrol Desert Edition is touted to be the company’s strongest ever off-road model. The Desert Edition has been designed specially for the region and is powered by a 5.6L V8 engine that generates an impressive 400hp and 560Nm of torque. Some of the enhanced technical specifications include special skid plates, an on-board tyre inflator, bead-lock wheels, wheel arch protectors and an advanced navigation system.

ROLLS-ROYCE DAWN

Rolls-Royce launched its first open-top, super-luxury edition named the Rolls-Royce Dawn. The midnight sapphire blue body features plush interiors made with mandarin orange leather. The hood dubbed the ‘silent ballet’ folds in complete silence in over 20 seconds at a cruising speed of up to 50kph. The Dawn will start to roll out in the second quarter of 2016.

PEUGEOT 308 GTi

The new Peugeot 308 GTi hot hatch by Peugeot Sport made its debut in Dubai at the show. The shiny black/red model is a definite eye-catcher with its sleek design and an engine that reaches top speeds of 270hp. The massive 19-inch carbon alloy wheels and super sport tyres allow for a good grip and are particularly useful for negotiating sharp road corners. The car also features a 9.7-inch multi-function colour touch screen, satellite navigation and sports style seats that are trimmed in leather.

LINCOLN CONTINENTAL CONCEPT

The Lincoln Continental Concept made its first Middle East appearance at the event. Sporting a polished chrome finish the new design presents a one-piece Lincoln signature grille that will set the tone for all its future products. Lincoln’s 3.0L V6 EcoBoost power engine is complimented by the drive control that offers three modes – normal, sport and comfort. The car also boasts 30-way adjustable seats, reclining rear seats and Venetian leather finishes.

AUDI Q7

The brand new Audi Q7 sets new standards amongst SUVs offering the largest interiors in the segment. It is also 325kg lighter than the previous model and runs on significantly less fuel. For the rear passengers there are Audi tablets installed with a 3D sound system and an Audi smartphone interface.

LAND ROVER DEFENDER

Strong and sturdy, the Land Rover Defender is aptly built to mark the company’s two millionth production milestone. The vehicle will be sold at an exclusive charity auction at Bonhams auction house next month. Inside, the leather seats feature the map of Red Wharf Bay where the design of the original Land Rover was first drawn in the sand. The number ‘2,000,000’ has also been stitched on the headrests and a bespoke aluminium plaque signed by everyone who helped to assemble the vehicle is fitted to the driver’s seat plinth.

FORD GT

The all-new Ford GT supercar is much lighter than its predecessor and comes with improved aerodynamics and efficient ecoboost systems. Launched at the motor show, the supercar is powered by a twin- turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine. It features rear-wheel drive, a mid-mounted engine, a sleek body and a two-door coupe shell.

TOYOTA PRIUS

The Toyota Prius has come a long way from its first 1997 model. Pushing boundaries in sustainable mobility, the latest edition delivers a target fuel efficiency of at least 40km/litre. The model features a chassis that is 60 per cent more rigid and enjoys increased stability and comfort afforded by the low placement of its powertrain unit.

BMW 7 SERIES

The Middle East got its first glimpse of the brand new BMW 7 Series at the motor show. The 7 series is billed as being wholly customisable depending on customer demands. For instance, customers who prefer riding in the rear passenger seats can opt for separately controlled 9.2-inch monitor screens, massage chairs, a foot-rest built into the front seat and a foldable work space.

650S SPIDER AL SAHARA 79

McLaren revealed its exclusive 650S Spider Al Sahara edition at the Dubai motor show. The special edition features bespoke specifications ‘inspired’ by the styles, culture and landscape of the Middle East. According to McLaren, customers in the region are not necessary price-conscious but are instead value-conscious and look for bespoke requirements.