The Little and Large Show; Stunning Range of New Models Takes Europe's Top Motoring Extravaganza by Storm

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Byline: RUSSELL BRAY

GENEVA has claimed the crown as Europe's most important motor show.

While the biennial British show struggles to attract any world debuts of new cars, manufacturers are falling over themselves to take the wraps off new models at Geneva's annual extravaganza.

This year's show, which opened last week and continues until March 13, boasts almost 20 world debuts, with some manufacturers, including Citroen and Alfa Romeo, revealing TWO new models.

Here we take a tour of the stars of Europe's greatest motoring show.

There's something new from pretty much every arm of the motoring galaxy at Geneva this year, from cheap and cheerful minnows such as the Citroen C1 to fire-breathing monsters like the 4.8-litre Aston Martin Vantage.

Citroen had both ends of the spectrum covered all by itself, debuting both the titchy C1 and the big new C6 executive express.

The C1 city car is powered by either a 1-litre petrol or 1.4-litre diesel engine and is surprisingly spacious, though the boot is small unless you flip down the back seat. It feels clean, modern and easy to live with, as well as being quite cute. On five-door versions the rear side windows pivot rather than going up, to allow large door pockets.

While small cars are a big market for Citroen, the company also has a proud history of producing distinctive large cars …