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Star cars of the 2011 New York International Auto Show

When the 2011 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) debuts later this month, New Englanders will have the opportunity to see some of the most stylish and innovative vehicles ever. From the most powerful car in the world to the very first crossover convertible and the incredible debut of a hybrid Porsche, these are the cars turning heads and making headlines.
Posted: April 11, 2011 - 9:37PM
Author: Don Bain

The Bugati Veyron (shown above) is one of the world's fastest, most expensive and best powered vehicles. The $1.4 million, drop-dead gorgeous street legal exotic features over 1000 horsepower, developed by a 7,993 cc engine and four bi-turbochargers. The Bugati Veyron has a top speed over 250 mph and a 0-62 mph time of (don’t forget the Dramamine) just 2.5 seconds – that’s choke on your own heart speed.

Nissan’s Murano CrossCabriolet is the very first all-wheel drive crossover convertible ever, delivering the exhilaration of open-air motoring with the versatility and drivability of this remarkable crossover.

The Kia Optima Hybrid is Kia's first hybrid for the U.S. market and will offer an estimated 40 mpg highway. This stylish new model is a well-equipped sedan, using a full parallel hybrid system that can be driven in a zero emission, full-electric drive mode at speeds up to 62 miles per hour or in gas-electric mode like any other hybrid.

The Lotus Evora S with Intelligent Precision Shift (IPS) allows the driver to easily switch between manual paddle shift and automatic driving modes. The driver may also select the sport option which gives the reins to the true Lotus driving experience –allowing the feel of each gear shift and complete control. The Evora S is powered by a 3.5 liter V6 mid-engine and does 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds.

The newly redesigned Chrysler 300 combines head-turning design with exceptional refinement. Having incorporated over 4,100 functional objective into the all-new 300 and 300 Limited, the models either feature the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine (rated18/27-mpg) while the 300C comes with the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine.

The all-new five-seat Toyota Prius v – v for versatility – uses the same platform and full hybrid powertrain as the current generation Prius hatchback while offering 50 percent more interior cargo space.
With tongue firmly in cheek, it might be called the “stretch” Prius.

Range Rover Evoque is the first 5-door crossover from the premier SUV builder. The Evoque combines concept car looks and a premium interior design with improved versatility and the luggage space of a compact station wagon.

Don’t miss Audi’s new A7 Sportback and A5 Cabriolet, The A7 is a large five-door model that combines the finesse of a coupe with the comfort of a sedan and the functional utility of a wagon. The A5 is a modern classic of convertible design, bringing the original essence of motoring stylishly into the 21st century.

The Mercedes Benz C-Class Coupe features compact proportions, a low silhouette and narrow C-pillar in a classic three-box design. The new C-Class Coupe provides a choice of two new direct-injection engines equipped coupled to a 7-speed automatic transmission.

Aston Martin Virage is the James Bond car for a sophisticated, stylish man of the world. The beautiful, dynamic and prestigious new Virage and Virage Volante are powered by a front mid-mounted 6.0 liter 490 bhp V12 engine. Fabulous, beautiful and seductive passengers are not a free option, but one not too hard to find.

Who would have ever expected the Porsche Panamera S Hybrid? Nevertheless, here is – powered by a supercharged 330 hp 3.0-liter V6 engine tied to a 47 horsepower electric motor combining to generate 380 horsepower and bestowing an estimated 34.5 mpg upon the new Porsche.

Other cars of interest
Also try to get a look at the Acura TL, Chrysler 200C convertible, Toyota SwaggerWagon, and Infiniti M Hybrid.

The 2011 NYIAS will run April 22 to May 1 at the Javits Center North exhibit hall.