The 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show took the City of Angeles for a visually stimulating ride. This year’s lineup included new model debuts and several concept cars from some of your favorite automotive manufactures. From new vehicles being introduced for the first time to updated technology and customization on familiar cars, the Los Angeles Auto Show included a diverse lineup and proved to have something for everyone. We perused hundreds of cars on display, but there were a few that made us turn our heads for a second look.
Chevy Colorado ZR2
The diesel-powered, off-road pickup truck has had consumers buzzing since 2014, and now it’s finally here. The biggest feature of this model is the Multimatic DSSV shocks, which allow for softening up over big, fast bumps while keeping the ride tight at lower speeds on smoother surfaces. Other impressive features include 308 horsepower, a choice between a 3.6-liter V6 or a 2.8-literDuramax diesel, and 369lb-ft of torque. This Hercules-like vehicle also has a 1000-lb bed capacity and can pull 5000-lbs worth of trailer.
READ: 50 Photos: Sights From The LA Auto Show
2017 Mazda CX-5
This crossover SUV further refines every element of Mazda’s typical design and technology. Taking the KODO Soul of Motion design concept to new dimensions, the company has truly perfected this car’s beauty. The all-new CX-5 showcases a powerful combination of sophistication and strength. Mazda’s newest technology, SKYACTIV-VEHICLE DYNAMICS with G-Vectoring Control is designed for driver’s instinct and their ACTIVSENSE® safety system inspires confidence making your driving experience better. With a driver-centric cabin to maximize hashiru yorokobi, or “joy of driving,” one of Mazda’s most important principles, the 2017 CX-5 will uphold the brands goal to focus on the driver.
Mercedes-Maybach S650 Cabriolet
The new Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet is truly the ultimate in open-air exclusivity. This exclusive vehicle is limited to 300 units worldwide, with just 75 of those in the U.S.. Features for this highly-coveted model include 20-inch wheels, a convertible top, a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12, 621 horsepower, and 738lb-ft of torque. Based on Mercedes’ open-top S-Class, the dynamic silhouette with coupé-like soft top of the Mercedes-Maybach S650 Cabriolet is a visionary of ideas that inspire a special aspirations of luxury. This luxury cabriolet is set to hit markets in the spring of 2017 with a net price tag of 300,000 euros (that’s about $318,000 USD).
2018 Ford EcoSport
Go small. Live big. Ford’s smallest SUV, this vehicle offers space-saving convenience while delivering beyond powerful SUV capability. Highlighted features include: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, that allow you to integrate your smart phone and stay connected; and SYNC 3, technology with a high-resolution 8-inch floating touch screen. Consumers can expect this model to come equipped with either Ford’s award-winning 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost or 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Whether you are looking for comfort with plenty of leg space or technology that helps keep you connected to your world, the EcoSport is sleek, aerodynamic, and engineered with plenty of power.
2017 MINI Countryman
Our first thought when we saw the all-new MINI Countryman and Countryman Plug-in Hybrid at the LA Auto Show was simple; there is nothing mini about the Countryman other than the name. The all-new 2017 MINI Countryman has been completely reimagined with adventurer in mind. The Countryman is the most spacious and well-equipped MINI ever made. It features generous cargo space, comfortably seats five, has the latest MINI TwinPower Turbo engines, available in ALL4 all-wheel drive with a Plug-In Hybrid, and comes equipped with premium perks that are standard. Top-tier technology and top-notch interior finishes include: an expansive panoramic sunroof, sliding rear seats with reclining and split-folding backrests, a MINI Connected Infotainment System with a 6.5” high resolution display, rear-view camera with guidelines, Bluetooth support, and much more. The all-new 2017 MINI Countryman is equipped with just enough to keep any adventurer intrigued.
Alfa Romeo Stelvio
Alfa Romeo brought its unique breed of Italian style to the LA Auto show with the global reveal of the all-new 2018 Stelvio. The premium mid-size SUV is a testament to Alfa Romeo’s perfect balance of engineering and craftsmanship. Stelvio state-of-the-art engines embody Alfa Romeo’s devotion to next-level technology and race-inspired performance. Every Stelvio, Stelvio Ti and Stelvio Quadrifoglio are powered by class-leading engines and engineered to ensure unrestrained driving pleasure backed by best-in-class. Engine options include a direct injected V6 2.9L bi-turbo V6 engine with 505 horsepower or a 2.0L turbocharged I4 engine with 280 horsepower and 306 lb-ft of torque. The first SUV of its kind, Stelvio delivers the perfect mix of performance, capability and design. Sporty, seductive, and crafted in the heart of Italy, the Stelvio delivers premium interior and exterior design that reflect the pride of its origins.
Nissan Sentra NISMO
The Sentra NISMO is officially the first mainstream Nissan model to offer motorsports-inspired NISMO factory tuned performance. This means aggressive exterior treatment, performance-oriented interior, and unique suspension tuning. The aerodynamic design features a revised bumper design that gives it a 30% reduction in lift force. The 1.6-liter direct injection gasoline turbocharged engine is rated at 188 horsepower and 177lb-ft of torque, which all translates to superior power.
