North American Intl Auto Show opens

The annual North American International Auto Show, one of the five largest international auto shows, has opened on Jan 14 in Detroit, xinhuanet.com reported Monday.

There will be more than 50 new vehicles exhibited at the Detroit show, most of which are being debuted across the world, according to CNR.cn.

BMW is displaying its concept hatchback X4 at the show. Based on the X3 architecture, X4 will use the same underpinnings as that of X3. The compact crossover is expected to go into mass production within the year.

The Mercedes-Benz CLA mass production model made its debut at the opening. The design of the four-door coupe is inspired by the previous Concept Style Coupe and includes many features of the Mercedes CLS hatchback.

The new Lexus IS has also officially debuted across the world. Inspired by the acclaimed LF-CC concept and with design cues from the LFA, the new IS has been completely redesigned, inside and out. In terms of powertrains, the company may introduce a hybrid Lexus IS in the future.

Audi introduced a high performance Sport Utility Vehicle – the gasoline-powered SQ5. Compared with the ordinary Q5, SQ5 is more dynamic. The biggest highlight of the Audi SQ5 is that it has a stronger horsepower with 3.0L V6.

Volkswagen unveiled its medium-sized SUV concept vehicle based on the MQB platform. The new vehicle will fill the gap between the Tiguan and Touareg. In terms of design, the seven seated SUV concept vehicle is in line with Volkswagen’s traditional style.