Does this signal a revival of the battle between the Italian design houses that kept us captivated through the second half of last century? We certainly hope so, because that rivalry produced some of the most beautiful cars we’ve ever seen.
Pininfarina’s contender – named after the Turinese municipality in which the design house is headquartered – is a diesel-hybrid saloon. In each wheel sits a 79bhp electric motor, while a diesel turbine resides under the bonnet. Pininfarina claims a top speed of 170mph, with an impressive sprint to 62mph from rest in 4.2 seconds.
The Cambiano concept looks like a normal saloon at first glance, but closer inspection of the images reveals an unusual 1+2 door layout. On the passenger side, the B-pillar has been deleted and the rear door is rear-hinged, making for easier access to the back seats. Meanwhile, a normal coupé door is present on the driver’s side. Inside, contemporary touches include wooden flooring and a glass centre console, which are bathed in light thanks to a full-length sunroof.
Photos: Pininfarina