Whether it’s a hot hatch or a sporty coupe, car debuts are probably the biggest attractions at a motor show. Here are some of the new models that are set to wow the crowd at the 2010 Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto
BMW ActiveHybrid7
BMW creates a “greener” limousine that still performs brilliantly with the new ActiveHybrid7. With 455-hp and more than 500 lb-ft of torque, this monster still delivers the athleticism the company’s customers demand.
BMW Z4 sDrive35is
While the sDrive35is is not a replacement for the much-loved Z4 M Roadster, it’s close enough. Power is up by 30 hp and comes exclusively with the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
2011 Ford Focus
The next-generation Focus finally gives North Americans the same vehicle as the rest of the world. The new Focus will also be the basis for Ford’s first Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) partnership with Magna International later in 2011.
2011 Lincoln MKX
The Oakville-built MKX receives a mid-cycle facelift to better reflect Lincoln’s more dramatic design, along with a third-generation version of Ford’s SYNC system called MyLincoln Touch. The 3.7-litre V6 now produces more than 300 hp, which is a significant upgrade over the 2010 version.
2011 Buick Regal
This is not your grandfather’s Buick: the 2011 Regal will take the fight straight to the Acura TSX in terms of power, athletic ability and luxury with a pair of new four-cylinder engines. Based heavily on popular European Opel models, the stylish Regal will be assembled in Oshawa, Ont., starting in 2012.
2011 Honda CR-Z
Using bits from the current Fit subcompact and Insight hybrid, the Honda CR-Z mates an attractive coupe body onto the ‘green’ hybrid drivetrain. Honda is trying hard to renew the love of the old ’80s CRX.
2011 Hyundai Sonata
This is the car Toyota is worried about. While the current Sonata affirmed Hyundai’s abilities in creating a spacious, reliable and frugal mid-sized sedan, the new 2011 version adds style and substance to the mix. Very bravely, Hyundai is abandoning V6 engines for the Sonata, predicting that their own smaller direct-injection four-cylinder engines will fill that gap for most consumers.
2011 Infiniti M
The latest version of Infiniti’s 5-Series fighter is gorgeous, powerful and poised to steal plenty of sales. Expect both V6-powered M37 and V8-powered M56 models to be on hand.
2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
The SLS AMG is a deliberate throwback to the old Mercedes-Benz ‘Gullwing’ SL coupes from the ’50s. Has to be seen in the metal to be appreciated.
2010 Toyota Prius plug-in
Toyota quietly rolled out the plug-in version of its Prius during the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show, and it makes its Canadian debut with a little more fanfare. Adding lithium-ion batteries allows it to travel nearly 20 kilometres on electricity alone. The gauntlet is thrown towards the upcoming Chevrolet Volt.
