The device, made by...
The device, made by specialist sound system giant Harman/Kardon, is called the Drive+Play, and it comes in three parts. There"s a "brain" that"s hidden under the dashboard which connects the car"s stereo to the iPod, a display unit and a compact control stick.
It uses a new rear-wheel-drive...
It uses a new rear-wheel-drive platform which will underpin several large vehicles from GM. While the car, called the Torana, is unlikely to come here, it"s the biggest clue yet about the range-topper, due in 2006. A Vauxhall spokesman said: "Don"t read too much into the styling, but, yes, this is the new Omega."
Obviously, the wild paintjob and white leather interior won"t reach production models, and the nose will be modified to echo the look of the Insignia concept seen at 2003"s Frankfurt Motor Show. But the futuristic cabin and instrument layout give strong hints about the Omega.
The crucial mechanical and structural elements of this car will also be carried over. Overall dimensions will be similar, as will the hatchback bodystyle. Holden design director Tony Stolfo said: "This is a first step towards gauging public reaction to a rear-wheel-drive vehicle that doesn"t exist in GM"s portfolio."
The show model uses a twin-turbo version of the new 3.6-litre Alloytec V6 petrol engine, which will appear in the Omega in naturally aspirated form.