Autocar selects the top five cars from the LA motor show that are due to become production models
The 2013 LA motor show featured an array of new cars, with the emphasis from manufacturers clearly on models that will make production, in contrast to some of the more conceptual designs featured at this week’s Tokyo motor show.
Click below for the full stories behind our pick of the top five production cars at the show.
The Ford Edge concept shown at the LA motor show is a strong indication of the carmaker’s next large SUV for Europe, which will arrive in 2015. It’s expected the Edge will feature a number of semi-autonomous and assistance technologies, including Ford’s fully-assisted parking aid and obstacle avoidance system. It'll sit alongside the EcoSport and Kuga in Ford's European SUV range.
Porsche 911 Turbo and Turbo S cabriolets
Porsche unleashed its new range-topping 911 Turbo and Turbo S cabriolets at the LA motor show. Powered by a 3.8-litre flat-six petrol engine developing 513bhp and 552bhp in Turbo and Turbo S forms respectively, the models are capable of 0-62mph in 3.5sec and 3.2sec. Top speed is 198mph for both models, while fuel economy on a combined cycle has improved by 30 per cent over the outgoing model to a claimed 28.5mpg.
Land Rover’s long-wheelbase versions of its Range Rover will go on sale in March next year. The carmaker also revealed a new Range Rover Autobiography Black flagship version, initially only available in long-wheelbase form, but which could possibly be rolled onto other models. The LWB Range Rover Autobiography Black, measuring 5.2m-long, will be the most expensive Range Rover yet with a price tag of around £140,000.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG is mooted to go on sale in the UK in the spring. The GLA45 AMG concept is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 335bhp and 332lb ft of torque, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. It directs the power through the same all-wheel drive powertrain as the A45 AMG and CLA45 AMG.
Potential buyers of the new Subaru WRX will have the option of choosing a CVT automatic transmission over the traditional six-speed manual gearbox. Built on an all-new platform, the WRX features a bolder front-end design than its predecessor. Subaru is yet to confirm whether the new WRX will be imported to the UK.
Aaron Smith