When the enormous screens power down, strobe lights are turned off and celebrities fly home, the 2011 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) will be remembered for its return to glitz, glamour and optimism. These trends not withstanding, some cars just stood out while walking amidst the 700 or so models displayed. Here are just a few of the NAIAS highlights in 2011:
Concept Cars:
Concept cars are exhibited as a means of getting feedback on new ideas and designs, but not necessarily the ones described or touted as part of the display.
Chevrolet Sonic Z-Spec
Photo © Scott Olson / Getty Images
The Sonic Z-Spec was showcased in matte black with glossy orange racing stripes and trim. It also sported a big spoiler off its rear deck and a motorcycle-like instrument panel.
Ford Vertrek
Photo © Scott Olson / Getty Images
The Ford Vertrek concept is a small and practical SUV with an aerodynamic and "athletic" body. Its Kinetic design elements give the crossover the look of being in motion even when standing still.
Honda Civic Si Coupe
Photo © Scott Olson / Getty Images News
The Honda Civic Si Coupe concept is expected to be very close to the 2012 Honda Civic production version expected this spring.
Hyundai Curb
Photo © Scott Olson / Getty Images (2011)
The Hyundai Curb crossover concept vehicle might best be described as an off-road vehicle for the rest of us. You know, us city dwellers who don't really go off road but think the whole idea is pretty cool. Hyundai bills the concept as a "compact urban activity vehicle" and brings its now signature Fluidic Sculpture design elements along for the ride.
Kia KV7
Photo © Scott Olson / Getty Images
The Kia KV7 concept van might be described as a bigger, longer Soul (read boxy) that houses a family activity center. Its most distinctive elements are gull-wing passenger doors and four rotating captain's chairs.
Mini Paceman
Photo © Bill Pugliano / Getty Images
The Paceman Concept will spawn a seventh production model for Mini: a crossover coupe.
Porsche 918 RSR
Photo © Bill Pugliano / Getty Images
Porsche teased its big reveal at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show as something Spectacular. As a race-bred version of the 918 Spyder concept, perhaps it is.
Toyota Prius C
Photo © Bill Pugliano / Getty Images
The Toyota Prius C concept gives us a glimpse of things to come in hybrids. In fact a production version of the Prius C is expected in the first half of 2012.
