global vehicles Technical highlights from Geneva

The high-profile event combined new technology, fresh design, debuts of major production models, and styling concepts in a compact venue.

The Geneva Motor Show manages to combine all the elements of a high-profile international event-new technology, fresh design, the debuts of major production models, and sometimes quirky styling concepts-with the ability to remain physically small to be cohesive, manageable, and enjoyable. Because of its compact dimensions, it is also one at which chief executives, engineering vice-presidents, and design directors of just about every leading auto company have the time to circulate during the media days and can be seen making shrewd assessments of the opposition's latest wares and the direction they appear to be taking for the future.

One of those directions is the crossover concept, a veritable potpourri of designs and applications. Alfa Romeo joined the trend at Geneva with its new Crosswagon based on the 156. Designed by Alfa's Arese Style Center, it incorporates the shape of the regular Sportwagon (station wagon) but with an SUV look, having its suspension raised by 6 cm (2.4 in) to give greater ground clearance and 225/55 R17 tires with a special compound and tread. It has underdoor aluminum protection strips, special front and rear bumpers with aluminum inserts, and, naturally, a compass.