he 64th Frankfurt Motor Show comes as the global automotive industry is in an overall state of recovery. With the storm that was the first half of 2011 over, the show provides the perfect chance for us to take a look at the flowers coming ahead. And with China now one of the world's most important markets, the country will play an important role in helping the industry recuperate. Let's take a look together at some of the models which are destined for China (materials compiled from auto.sohu.com).

BMW 1 Series



Planned market introduction: 2012

Method of manufacture: Domestically manufactured

The new BMW 1 Series keeps the models' classic front-engine, rear-wheel layout to maintain a degree of control superior for small cars. The 1 Series' price will reportedly drop following Chinese manufacture.



The 1 Series takes its styling cues from the new 7 Series and 5 Series, with a more aggressive front-end design than before. The car's front and rear headlights have grown in size, making the 1 Series look more modern than before.

The 1 Series also takes a departure from BMW's tradition of using naturally-aspirated engines, coming equipped with a turbocharged 1.6 L I4 motor mated to a one-of-a-kind eight-speed automatic transmission.

The new ConnectDrive interface system is also of special interest, offering Internet and cell-phone connectivity functions.



Mercedes B-Class



Planned market introduction: 2012-13

Method of manufacture: Possibly domestically manufactured

The new Mercedes B-Class is the prime definition of a small minivan, with a compact exterior hiding an especially ample interior.



The new B-Class will replace the previous generation first exported to China in 2009. The B-Class is built on the brand new Mercedes Frontwheel Architecture platform, and is 4.36 m long, 1.79 m wide and 1.56 m high.

The minivan inherits styling cues from the BlueZERO concept introduced at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show. The LED driving lights, fog lamps, turn signals and rearlights helps increase the B-Class' technological appeal. The B-Class makes use of its spacious interior to deck itself with state-of-the-art accessories.

The B-Class use of brand new direct injection motor technology, with two different 1.6 L engine options available, the B180 making 122 hp and 200 Nm of torque, and the B200 making 156 hp and 250 Nm torque. The minivan will be driven by a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission system or a traditionally six-speed manual system.



Honda Civic hatchback
 



Planned market introduction: 2012

Method of manufacture: Domestically manufactured

The new Civic hatchback will use superior drivability to help build on the Civic sedan's success in China. The Civic hatchback will probably be brought over the Guangqi Honda joint venture.

Now in its ninth incarnation, the hatchback was originally made due to American demands, where it has been selling for a long time. The Civic hatchback on display at Frankfurt, on the other hand, was redesigned for the European market.



Mazda CX-5



Planned market introduction: 2013

Method of manufacture: Domestically manufactured

Mazda's new compact SUV, the CX-5, is the production version of the Minagi concept and is set to challenge the Toyota RAV4, Nissan Qashqai, Mitsubishi ASX and other urban SUVs. The SUV will be produced in the country via Changan Mazda.

The Chinese-made CX-5 will come in both 2.0 L and 2.5 L engine configurations with either automatic or manual transmissions, and in either FWD or AWD. In total seven different models are available.

The CX-5's interior is practicality designed and is built on Mazda's SKYACTIV platform. The CX-5 measures 4.5 m long, 1.8m wide and 1.7 m high, far exceeding earlier anticipated dimensions.