2008 MOSCOW SHOW STARS

Mother Russia

The Russian car market is becoming an important one and that's why this year's show saw several world debuts in an instant - all with relevance for the Vodka-loving country

MAZDA KAZAMAI : What is it? A futuristic concept from Mazda supposedly with next generation direct-injection petrol engine and AWD platform shared with Ford Kuga. The Kazamai has all the cool lines used in previous concept cars and is shown as a three-door crossover.

What's cool? Its designer intends the production vehicle to sell on desirability over practicality - and SUVs are now in vogue in Russia.

Will it be made? Highly likely, as a CX-5 with five-seats due in 2011. Don't rule out a three-seat version, too.

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LADA C-CROSS

What is it? An all-wheel-drive compact crossover concept from the Russian carmaker - clear proof that the Russians are infatuated with SUVs and why Mazda wants to join the fray.

What's cool? It previews Lada's first small 4WD in 31 years since the Niva.

Will it be made? Possibly, as a budget alternative to the Renault Koleos. The French carmaker has a minority stake in Lada's parent firm.

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RENAULT SYMBOL

What is it? Second-generation Symbol budget compact saloon using old Megane platform and Clio mechanicals. There is still a large chunk of the population there that needs to do motoring on a budget.

What's cool? 23kpl with its 1.5-litre diesel engine.

Will it be made? Yes, in Turkey for the East European, North African and the Gulf markets.

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AUDI RS6 QUATTRO

What is it? Saloon version of the fire-breathing 580hp Audi RS6 Avant estate currently available in Europe. Its Quattro all-wheel-drive system should make it appealing for oil magnets needing to vie for oil fields in Siberia.

What's cool? How many other five-seater saloons has Porsche 911 performance and 4WD grip?

Will it be made? Yes, on the production line as we speak.

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LEXUS LS460 AWD

What is it? All-wheel-drive version of the Lexus LS460 luxury saloon. This Lexus would appeal to those energy cartels who wish to be driven, instead of taking the wheel on their own.

What's cool? The high-end V8 saloon now gets Torsen full-time four-wheel-drive traction from its dearer LS600h sister - particularly useful in snowy countries.

Will it be made? Of course, and European delivery just in time for the coming winter.

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