Paris auto show was a showcase for wagons, hatchbacks

October 15, 2018 01:00 AM

Mercedes-Benz B class

Europeans still are showing some love to wagons and hatchbacks even as sales of crossovers and SUVs boom, just as in the U.S. While these models won't be arriving stateside, they attracted attention (and some wishful thinking from U.S. enthusiasts) during the Paris auto show this month.

■ Mercedes-Benz B classVehicle type: Compact minivanSeats: FiveBase engine: 1.3-liter engine with 136 hpWhat's cool: The seat moves ever so slightly to prevent drivers from sitting in one position for too long, reducing the risk of back problems.

■ Skoda Vision RS conceptVehicle type: Compact hatchbackSeats: FourBase engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor for a total of 245 hpWhat's cool: It wouldn't be an auto show photo page without a concept, right? A plug-in hybrid sounds like an ideal way to keep the hot hatch segment fresh.

■ Toyota Corolla Touring SportsVehicle type: Compact wagonSeats: FiveBase engine: 1.2-liter turbo engine with 116 hp. There is also a choice of two hybrid powertrains, one with 122 hp, the other with 180 hp.What's cool: All the practicality — and looks — of the redesigned Corolla hatch, but with even more space

■ Peugeot 508 SWVehicle type: Midsize wagonSeats: FiveBase engine: 1.6-liter engine with 180 hpWhat's cool: Frameless doors add to the wagon's sleek side profile.

■ Hyundai i30 Fastback NVehicle type: Compact hatchbackSeats: FiveBase engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 247 hpWhat's cool: Drivers can select five drive modes through dedicated buttons on the steering wheel, which Hyundai calls the N Grin Control system.

■ Kia ProCeedVehicle type: Compact wagonSeats: FiveBase engine: 1.0-liter turbocharged engine with 118 hpWhat's cool: While not as striking as the Proceed Concept that bowed in Frankfurt in 2017, the ProCeed production model still is a sharp shooting brake.