Makes G-M at the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed
Honda
At 40 metres high, the Honda Eye ferris wheel is only the beginning of the Japanese firm’s big plans for Goodwood. The CR-Z Mugen – a tuned version of the hybrid coupé, with 200bhp – will be in action for the first time, while another one-off CR-Z, the Mugen RR concept, has been brought over from Japan. Motorcycle fans can enjoy John McGuinness on his CBR1000RR – the bike that helped him record the fastest-ever lap at the Isle of Man TT.
Jaguar
Taking centre stage this year will be Jaguar’s 28-metre-high sculpture in front of Goodwood House, in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the E-Type – seen here with model Yasmin Le Bon at Goodwood’s press day earlier this year. On display will be an array of Jaguars from the past, present and future, with the XK120, and examples of the C, D and, of course, E-Type entertaining the crowds. The XF 2.2d will be available for test drives during the Moving Motor Show, while the XKR-S, XKR and XFR will complete demonstration runs, too. Also on Jaguar’s stand will be the C-X75 concept.
Land Rover
It might be small, but the Range Rover Evoque is big news, and British buyers can get their first good look at the luxurious crossover on the move. Also present on the stand will be the rest of the latest Land Rover and Range Rover line-up.
Lexus
You won’t miss Lexus’ offering at this year’s show. Finished in bright orange paint and with a high-revving V10 engine, the LFA Nürburgring Package should attract plenty of attention. With 10bhp more than the standard car, lowered suspension and tweaked aerodynamics, it’s an engineering exercise as well as a styling statement, and we’ll take the wheel on Friday morning.
Lotus
From Evora S to Elise, Lotus’ full range will be showcased on the hill. There will be a nod to the future, too, with the Esprit concept, first seen at the Paris show, and the hybrid Evora 414E on display.
Maserati
A soft-top and a hardcore version of Maserati’s GranTurismo will be in action. And celebrity chef James Martin and Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason are to take turns behind the wheel of the GranCabrio and MC Stradale.
Mazda
The 787B is the only rotary- engined car to have won the Le Mans 24 Hours race – catch it in action on the famous hillclimb. Mazda’s road models will also
be on show, including the MX-5 roadster and 3 hatchback.
McLaren
Who better to demonstrate what the new MP4-12C supercar is capable of than McLaren’s own pair of F1 stars: Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton? Both will be present this year, driving not only the MP4-12C, but a variety of the firm’s grand prix machinery, too.
Mercedes
To celebrate 125 years of Mercedes innovation, the German firm is bringing a host of historic models. Highlights include the Patent Motor Wagen – regarded as the world’s first car – and the Blitzen Benz, which hit 142mph in 1911. The new SLK and C-Class Coupé will also be on the stand.
MG
Saloon and hatchback versions of the MG6 will be present at the Moving Motor Show, allowing the public to take a closer look at the brave new beginnings of this resurrected brand.
MINI
The Brit marque has launched an all-out assault on the World Rally Championship, and the car that’s sending shockwaves through the field will be on site. The winner of a raffle, held at the glittering ball on the Saturday night, will get to ride alongside British rally ace Kris Meeke on the 1.67-mile forest stage on Sunday morning.
Morgan
This year sees Brit firm Morgan heading back to its roots. A modern interpretation of the 3 Wheeler, first built between 1909 and 1953, will be unveiled by an as-yet-unnamed celebrity. We’ll take the wheel on Thursday.