LEXUS unveiled its RX300 4x4 concept car, giving an insight into a production four-wheel-drive model which will be on the road by autumn next year. It has 19in alloy wheels and leather interior, and is powered by a 220bhp V6 3.0-litre VVT-i engine.

BMW also chose Frankfurt for the European debut of its XS 4x4 sports utility vehicle and Renault had its Scenic RX4 four-wheel-drive model on show.