2013’s Standout Concept Cars: From Virtual Racers to Hybrid Powerhouses
Designers and engineers pushed boundaries in 2013, unveiling concept cars ranging from the Mercedes AMG Vision Gran Turismo to the Opel Monza and Volvo Coupe Concept.
Concept cars in 2013 offered a clear view of where mainstream and luxury manufacturers saw the future, with a mix of digital fantasy, electrified powertrains and bold design language emerging from the year’s motor shows and design studios.
Digital to Reality: Mercedes AMG Vision Gran Turismo
Mercedes-Benz took a digital-first approach with the AMG Vision Gran Turismo, designed for the Gran Turismo 6 video game. The concept, powered by a 577hp AMG V8, was more than a styling exercise: it previewed future AMG design cues and generated enough interest that a full-scale show car was built. The Vision Gran Turismo remains a rare example of a virtual concept translated into physical form, blurring the line between gaming and automotive design.
Performance and Heritage: Audi and BMW
Audi’s Frankfurt stand in 2013 featured two concepts. The Nanuk Quattro Crossover, developed with Italdesign Giugiaro, combined a twin-turbo V10 TDI producing over 500hp with quattro all-wheel drive and a seven-speed S tronic gearbox. Audi claimed 0-60mph in 3.8 seconds, placing supercar performance in a crossover body. Alongside it, the Sport quattro concept revived a legendary nameplate with a plug-in hybrid setup: a 4.0-litre V8 and 110kW electric motor for a combined 700bhp. Despite the 1850kg weight, Audi quoted 0-100km/h in 3.7 seconds, showing the potential of hybrid performance.
BMW collaborated with Pininfarina for the Gran Lusso Coupe, revealed at Villa d’Este. Based on the 7 Series, it was a showcase for Italian craftsmanship and German engineering, with a V12 engine and an interior finished in ancient kauri wood. The Gran Lusso Coupe hinted at BMW’s future luxury direction and the potential for more bespoke collaborations.
Hybrid and Electric: Opel, Volvo and Lexus
Opel’s Monza concept, unveiled in Frankfurt, previewed the brand’s future design and technology. The Monza used a range-extender setup derived from the Ampera, pairing electric drive with a three-cylinder 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine as a generator. Opel’s CEO suggested the Monza could inspire a future Manta, signalling intent to revive classic nameplates with modern tech.
Volvo’s Coupe Concept marked the debut of its Scalable Product Architecture, setting the template for the next generation of Volvos. The plug-in hybrid system produced around 400hp, paired with an eight-speed automatic. Volvo confirmed that the design language would influence production models, starting with the next XC90.
British Design and Motorsport Heritage: Jaguar Project 7
Jaguar’s Project 7, shown at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, paid tribute to the marque’s seven Le Mans victories. Based on the F-Type, the one-off roadster featured a 550hp supercharged V8 and bespoke styling. Project 7’s reception led Jaguar to build a limited run for customers, demonstrating the impact a concept can have on production plans.
