2. Lamborghini Estoque
* Pick of the best cars * Featuring Lamborghini Estoque * Ferrari California, too...
Lamborghini stunned Paris by wheeling out the Estoque concept for a four-door, four-seater saloon - and then dropped broad hints that it will go into production.
Porsche (Panamera) and Aston Martin (Rapide) both plan to launch four-seaters within the next 12 to 18 months, and Ferrari already has the Scaglietti.
'To achieve a quantum leap in growth we have to think about adding a third model series to the two we already have,' Lamborghini officials said.
'As a pure concept car, the Estoque is a design exercise. Yet it is based on a feasible technical concept that offers a whole range of fascinating alternatives for the bodyshell and driveline.'
To create space for four people and a 450-litre boot, the engine would be moved from its position just ahead of the rear axle in the company's Murcielago and Gallardo two-seaters to behind the front axle.
That would ensure the Estoque retains at least something of a mid-engined car's weight distribution and handling. The engine would be a V10 driving all four wheels.
'This is a car for everyday use, but still extreme, uncompromising and very Italian,' Lamborghini claims.
It is named after the daggers bullfighters use. Lamborghini's emblem is a raging bull.
Best estate cars 2024 – the top choices for luggage capacity
An estate car needs to be practical, but the best models are also comfortable, well equipped and affordable to run. Here we reveal our top 10 buys – and the estates to steer clear of