Pending double-dip recession or not, 2012 promises to be a bumper year for new car launches if the debuts at the Detroit motor show are anything to go by.
The highlight is the new Ford Mondeo, but there’s plenty of glamour and new technology too. We’re reporting live from the Detroit motor show; here's our rundown of the key launches so far.
Acura
The long-awaited spiritual successor to the Honda NSX supercar will receive its public debut, albeit in concept form. The Acura ILX Concept is based on the Honda Civic and is Acura’s first ever hybrid, and the RDX Concept will replace the current version of the crossoverAcura NSX ConceptAcura RDX and ILX
Audi
Audi’s fleet favourite, the A4 has received a mid-cycle facelift, which is much needed in light of the excellent new BMW 3 Series. Continuing the marque’s fearsome new model offensive is a SUV concept, the Q3 Vail.
Bentley
Demonstrating Bentley’s commitment to improve its performance and economy by 40 percent is the Continental GT V8, alongside its convertible companion, the GTC V8. It might give 2000cc and four cylinders to W12 engined variants, but it doesn’t lack any of the drama.
BMW
The all-new BMW 3 Series is the most polished all-rounder in any class, offering a fluidity of drive and understated elegance not previously available in the small executive segment. And a hybrid will expand the car's appeal further. BMW has also announced a manual gearbox will be available in the M5.
Buick
The Buick Encore – or Vauxhall Mokka as it is expected to be branded in the UK – is a compact SUV similar in size to the Skoda Yeti and Nissan Juke. Two- and four-wheel drive variants are expected to be offered when it goes on sale later this year.
Cadillac
Cadillac says the ATS is a serious attempt at cracking the dominance of German cars in the junior executive saloon segment. The rear-wheel drive ATS will feature two- and four-wheel drive variants, but only petrol engines will be offered from launch.
Chevrolet
The Sonic RS is Chevrolet’s late debut in the hot hatch market. Although it is still unconfirmed for the UK – where it would be badged as Aveo – it would serve as a welcome halo model for the brand. Three concepts have been debuted too.
Chevrolet Sonic RSChevrolet Tru 140S and Code 130RChevrolet EN-V
Dodge
The first fruit of the Fiat-Chrysler merger is the Dodge Dart, a compact four-door saloon based on a modified version of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta architecture. The other end of scale is represented by the Dodge Charger Redline, which is a showcase of Mopar performance kits which will be available later in the year.
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Re: Detroit motor show 2012 preview
Now that the US market is showing signs of sustained recovery this is becoming an important show again.