Los Angeles motor show 2015 - our star cars

Mazda CX-9 - Mark Tisshaw

Mazda is on a roll. Its Kodo design theme has helped produce a string of fine-looking vehicles and has now allowed it to strike gold on even the dowdiest of models: a seven-seat family SUV. Simply put, the CX-9 looks great. Shame we’re not getting it in Europe, although admittedly it’s a little big for our roads.

Lamborghini Huracán LP580-2 - Tom Webster

Normally I'd struggle to get excited about a car at a show that is just the two-wheel-drive version of an existing model, but when the car in question is a Lamborghini Huracán sending 571bhp through its rear wheels, then it's a little different. Purists will be disappointed there are no plans for a manual gearbox, but the fact that Lamborghini says it is “tuned to provide oversteering characteristics" should keep plenty happy.

Cadillac XT5 - Jimi Beckwith

The Cadillac XT5 will be pitched against the likes of Audi's Q5 and the BMW X3 when it goes on sale in the US next year, and brings distinctive interior and exterior style to this crowded segment. With Cadillac’s 'will they won’t they' approach to conquering the UK market, the XT5 could prove to be a welcome competitor to the class favourites - if the brand finally gets serious about selling in this country.

Volkswagen Beetle Dune - Darren Moss

I love it when manufacturers listen to their fans and bring production versions of their concept cars to market. The reaction to the original Dune concept at last year’s Detroit show was astounding, and the production version looks every bit as exciting. VW can’t afford to bring outlandish vehicles to market in the midst of its current scandal, but I think the Dune will quickly find a home on the streets of LA.

Fiat 124 Spider - Doug Revolta

The Fiat 124 Spider is a pretty divisive soft-top. Some have welcomed the return of the icon while others have questioned its looks, but whatever your take on it is, it’s stolen many of the LA show's column inches. Pricing is yet to be announced, but if it is pitched above the superb Mazda MX-5 then it may struggle to make an impact, although an Abarth version could be a game-changer.

Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport - Matt Burt

A complete indulgence it may be, but this race-fettled Cayman looks sensational - and I imagine it will be magnificent to drive on a circuit. Tantalisingly, its positioning as a ‘Clubsport’ model leaves potential room for a hotter road-focused variant to slot in between the GT4 and this car. Where do I sign?