Nissan revealed their new 370Z at the 2008 LA Auto Show.
The 2008 LA Auto Show is here and I went to check out what is new in the automotive world. Mega photo gallery and impressions from the show after the jump...
My quick impressions from the LA Auto Show…
It was interesting to see automakers pushing alternative fuel/energy sources for their future or even current vehicles. They seemed to understand that the world needs these cars sooner rather than later, and many are making a strong push in order to make this a reality. For example, Nissan is working with the city of Portland, Oregon, to turn it into a haven for electric vehicles; BMW is bringing some of their diesel options to the United States; Lexus revealed their next generation RX450h hybrid crossover; Mini brought their new electric Cooper, the Mini-E; Dodge showed off their electric Dodge EV roadster; and Ford showed off their new hybrid Fusion and Mercury Milan which will get at least 39 mpg in the city. The automakers who will survive are the ones that understand what the world needs and are delivering it in a manner which is still appealing to the average car shopper and at a price they can afford. The Honda Insight, which is poised to show up in dealer showrooms by this coming spring, will sell for under $20,000.
Here are some quick personal favorites from the show…
The Nissan 370Z - The design evokes memories of the 1984-1989 Z31 Nissan 300ZXs which can be seen in front 1/3 of the car as well as the early Datsun 240Zs which is noticeable in the rear 2/3 of the car. It is lighter by almost 100 lbs and more powerful as well. This is a great sports car and a great job by Nissan.
The Infiniti G37 convertible – The popular Infiniti G now has a new body style with the addition of a hard-top convertible. Infiniti did a wonderful job incorporating the appeal of the G37 coupe with the freedom of open-air motoring, thanks to the retractable hard-top. The top folds away quickly and the lines of the G37 are still strong and appealing.
The Audi Q7 3.0 turbodiesel – Audi showcased their Q7 which now offers a turbodiesel 3.0L motor. This engine produces over 400 lb-ft of torque yet gets great gas mileage, has reduced emissions and is very quiet. I got a chance to jump behind the wheel of a Q7 at the show and I was very impressed. The car has Audi's typically high-level of fit and finish on the inside, the power was great and the ride was extremely smooth and comfortable.
The Volkswagen Jetta TDI – The cover was removed and the 2009 Green Car of the Year was revealed… The Volkswagen Jetta TDI is capable of over 40 mpg on the highway, thanks to its 2.0L turbocharged diesel engine. Starting at a price just above $20,000 the Jetta TDI is a smart buy.
2008 LA Auto Show Mega Gallery
