5.30am start. Quick breakfast. Train to the Messe Halle. BMW i3 and i8 less production ready in the details, but uber desirable. 1 Series less offensive at the front than some photos suggest. Not to sat that it is growing on me though. The new cabin is a massive improvement, definitely the best aspect.

IMAGES FORM FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW HERE

Over to Chevrolet where the MiRay concept impresses with its clean detailing and concise proportions. Hard to see its relevance beyond inspiring a baby Corvette. Colorado one-toner concept shows much Isuzu KB promise, though subjectively not quite as progressive as new Ranger or Amarok. Next door, Honda is showing its new Civic. Subtle evolution describes the exterior with a very Nissan Leaf-like wavy character line down the side. Bulging rear lamps and neat blacked-out front grille treatment and a vastly improved interior are the standouts. The steering wheel looks and feels brilliant. Great new ergonomics on the satellite controls and Accord-type soft touch dashboard elevate the Civic to new heights of perceived quality.

Just got shuttled in Citroën's new DS5 monovolume. Fantastic detailing and creative design throughout, even if the front end is radically over-designed.

Gerry McGovern was his usual rock star self explaining that the DC100 Defender design proposal was one of several in process. That's LR covering its bases for you. They needn't worry, the DC100 is far more appealing in reality than the early internet release images suggested. I'm sure die-hards will take longer to come round, but the new Defender looks to be on the right path. Gerry says it has all the 'correct DNA simple upright sections, drop on roof and, and... and... and of course it's got a winch.' Nuff said. Can't get close to the baby Jag sports car, which is being mobbed in a media fenzy, but will return later.