The Best of Qatar: 2011 Qatar Auto Show - Auto Shows

Compared to the well known auto shows in places like Detroit, Frankfurt or Geneva, the new one held in Qatar is but a fraction of their size. Nevertheless, you can’t deny the enthusiasm reverberating throughout the exhibition center in Doha. For instance, when the cover came off the Porsche 918 RSR, the place stirred, just like Cobo Hall did when that Porsche made its official in Detroit.

2011 Volkswagen XL1 Concept

Qatar owns a healthy stake of Volkswagen stock, and the German company used the auto show to present its newest vehicle aimed at the magical 1 liter/100 km (235 mpg) goal. Called the XL1, it is a plug-in hybrid with a 2-cylinder diesel engine, an electric motor, a lithium-ion battery pack and 7-speed DSG transmission. Built for low drag and maximum efficiency, the lightweight XL1 actually beats VW’s stated goal, managing to burn only 0.9 liters of fuel for every 100 kilometers it travels. That equates to 261 mpg. Rumors persist that VW will build a small production run of the XL1.

2011 Volkswagen Race Touareg: The Dakar Rally Winner

Also on VW’s stand was the highly modified Race Touareg driven to victory in this year’s Dakar Rally in South America. This marks the third win in a row for a Touareg, which is built to conquer a wide variety of conditions with its high ride height and loads of suspension travel. A rooftop cooling system is fed by a huge vent that feeds, among other things, the 296-bhp twin-turbo 2.5-liter diesel engine.

2011 Dakar Winning Driver Nasser Saleh Al Attiya

Adding to the excitement on the VW stand was a visit by home-grown hero Nasser Saleh Al Attiya, the Quatari driver who won the 2011 Dakar partnered with German Timo Gottschalk. Naturally Al Attiyah is something of a rock star here in Qatar. And, in our brief talk, seems like a nice guy.

Volkswagen Race Touareg Concept

To note its win in the 2011 Dakar Rally, VW created a concept that might see production. Called the Race Touareg, this VW has a body mimics that of the race machine, complete with huge rooftop air intake. The diesel engine is rated at just over 300 bhp, and VW says the Race Touareg Concept hits 100 km/h (62 mph) in less than 6 seconds. Riding on 18-in. BBS wheels, this very cool super SUV is painted in Magic Morning white. VW says the Race Touareg is “legally approved for use on public roadways.” Does that mean U.S. roadways? We hope so.

As you can see by the spare tire arrangement, VW didn’t stray far from the Race Touareg when it created the Race Touareg Concept (you wonder what the guy from the AAA might say when he comes to fix a flat!). And inside, the Race Touareg Concept obviously couldn’t have the bare bones interior of the pure race machine. Still, VW left the rollcage in—finished in Serpentineo Grey Metallic—but then created a race-like but very ergonomic interior. VW calls it a “stealth look,” and the term fits with the rows of very serious-looking switches and knobs. Recaro provided the leather-upholstered seats.

2011 Volkswagen Touareg Gold Edition

If the pseudo race machine Touareg isn’t to your liking, consider the Touareg Gold Edition Concept. Doesn’t take much of an imagination to see where the name comes from, with much of the car plated in 24-carat gold. This isn’t just an exterior dressing up, either; many of the buttons inside are also plated...but thankfully not the Nappa leather seats or Alcantara headliner.

2011 Porsche Panamera Exclusive Middle East Edition

Porsche unveiled a special model of the Panamera 4S called the Exclusive Middle East Edition. Only 66 will be built—they are reportedly already sold out—and finished in Carrara White Metallic paint. Note that the grille and side front intakes are also done in white. The car rides on 20-in. Porsche 911 Turbo II wheels.

Part of the Middle East Edition package is an interior finished in Carrera Red leather, which is exclusive to this car. It’s quite striking, contrasting with the carbon-fiber trim. Sewn into the floormat is the number denoting which of the 66 Panameras it is. The headliner is an attractive black Alcantara.

2011 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Bicolore

Will we ever tire of the many variations on Lamborghini’s Gallardo? Probably not. For Qatar, Lambo presented the Bicolore, which is Italian for a two-tone paint job. Each car will have a Nero Noctis black upper, including the roof, engine cover, rear spoiler and pillars. For the lower body color you can choose from Giallo Midas, Arancio Borealis, Grigio Telesto, Bianco Monocerus or Blu Caelum. (Isn’t there an antibiotic for that last one?) Inside, the color theme continues and the black leather gets stitching to go with your exterior color. While countries outside the U.S. will get the Bicolore as an LP 560-4, U.S. buyers will have to be satisfied with rear-wheel-drive only, a la the Balboni.

2011 Spada TS Codatronca

Several Italian design houses presented concepts from their past, with Spadaconcept bringing its unusual TS Codatronca to Qatar. Stuffed with an E85-burning 630-bhp 7.0-liter V-8, it’s said to hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in only 3.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 211 mph. Under that rather different shape is an aluminum tube frame with a fully adjustable race-layout suspension. This Spada is a very odd-looking machine...and, strangely enough, there’s also something oddly charming about it. Go figure.

2011 Toyota FT-86 G Concept

Toyota showed the FT-86 G Concept first seen at the 2010 Tokyo Auto Salon. This is the joint Toyota-Subaru coupe project that matches Subaru’s turbo 2.0-liter flat-4 with rear-wheel drive. When we first saw the initial FT-86 at the 2009 Tokyo Show as a concept, it was okay but a bit too round and dull. The G, with a crisp new nose and some carbon fiber bits, kicks up our interest level.

2011 Lexus LX570 Invader L60

For those who think the Lexus LX570 is mostly a Nordstrom cruiser, behold the ASI LX570 Invader. How’s this for nasty, take-a-bit-from-you styling? Apparently it isn’t just an exterior thing, as the 5.7-liter V-8 is pumped up to 592 bhp. So equipped, the LX570 Invader can hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in less than 5 seconds. You’re guaranteed to get home from that shopping trip in a hurry…

New 2012 Acura TL - 2011 Chicago Auto Show

Acura chose the 2011 Chicago Auto Show to take the wraps off its new 2012 TL model, which has undergone what we would describe as a classic mid-cycle freshening.

What does this entail? Well, the 2012 Acura TL still retains its aggressive character dominated by a revised grille that’s complemented by new foglight surrounds, headlights that have a different color tint and taillights with more red and less chrome. What’s more, the front and rear bumpers have been slightly reshaped, adding horizontal lines to the fascias to break up the chunkiness and give the TL a wider presence.

Mechanically, the TL will continue with its fantastic V-6s, led by the 305-bhp 3.7-liter that’s employed in the all-wheel-drive model. New, though, is a 6-speed automatic transmission that Acura says improves both performance and fuel economy—the revamped TL will achieve 2 mpg more in the city (20 mpg) and an additional 3 on the highway (29 mpg). Further enhancing overall vehicle efficiency is reduced internal friction in the 3.5-liter V-6, plus some aerodynamic improvements to the underbody.

Other significant details: Acura, the first OE to introduce HDD Navigation, upgraded the 2012 TL’s capacity to 60GB for improved functionality and greater music storage. Also, a New Advance Package includes a blind-spot information system, vented front seats and upgraded wheels. The hot rod TL SH-AWD model will also be much better behaved on snow and ice, thanks to the availability of new 19-in. all-season tires. Last, all new 2012 Acura TLs have reduced interior nose (it’s 3 dB quieter on the highway), thanks to the filling in of various cavities with acoustic materials, and some improved interior materials help make this already impressive near-luxury sedan that much more refined.

No prices were announced, but they will likely start at around $35,000.

New 2011 Chicago Auto Show

Slated to bow this fall, the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 is the most potent variant of the division’s iconic 4-door muscle car to date. In unveiling the new model at the Chicago Auto Show, Dodge president and CEO Ralph Gilles promised a car that “adds a much larger power band across the rpm range, along with intelligent performance attributes and safety and creature comforts for customers who are passionate about performance driving.”

The heart of the SRT8 package is a new 6.4-liter Hemi V-8, which is a bump up in displacement from the previous model’s 6.1 liters. The engine is rated at 465 bhp and 465 lb.-ft. of torque, the latter figure representing an 80 lb.-ft. gain over the 6.1-liter powerplant.

Dodge estimates that the SRT8 can hit 60 mph in less than 5 seconds, reach the quarter mile in under 13 and possess a top speed of 175 mph. In handling, the car is expected to pull 0.88g of lateral acceleration on the skidpad.

Even though the new Hemi V-8 has greater output, attention was paid to delivering the best fuel economy possible by incorporating a fuel-saving 4-cylinder mode, which was not previously available on SRT products.

Also for the first time, the 5-speed automatic transmission adds a standard paddle-shift feature to complement the sequential mode of the console-mounted shifter. Other upgrades include a new adaptive damping suspension that monitors driver inputs, vehicle speed, steering angle, steering speed, brake torque, throttle position and lateral acceleration to tune the suspension to match road conditions and driving styles. Drivers can also select between an auto or sport mode on the adaptive suspension.

Steering feel is also improved with the new heavy-duty pump for the hydraulic assist, and revised gearing gives better on-center response.

The 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 is fitted with new five-element split-spoke alloy wheels shod with a range of all-season or more aggressive three-season tires.

SRT8 Boasts a Unique Appearance

As with the previous model, there’s no mistaking an SRT8 from its standard Charger siblings. The package includes specific front and rear fascias with a new rear spoiler. The grille (and grille surround) is finished in high-gloss black, and the SRT badge is prominently displayed in the signature cross-hair grille. The hood is unique and features a 6.4L badge a black-out air vent for added engine cooling. On the sides, body-colored rocker extensions give the car a lower, more muscular appearance. At the rear, new round 4-in. dual exhaust tips and an SRT8 decklid badge also differentiate the vehicle from stock models.

The interior has also been reworked to reflect the performance-oriented mission of the SRT8. The new leather-wrapped steering wheel has a racing inspired flat-bottom surface fitted with the SRT logo. Besides the new paddle shifters flanking the steering wheel, the cabin has aluminum accents with a high-tech carbon-weave look. The front seats have perforated suede inserts and more aggressive bolstering, plus standard heating and cooling. The SRT8 also features heated rear seats as part of the package.

Also new for 2012 is a 900-watt 19-speaker surround-sound system from Harman Kardon. The entertainment, climate controls and navigation can be set using a new 8.4-inch touch-screen mounted in the center of the dash.

New 2011 Chicago Auto Show

And not green as in eco-friendly. Dodge is taking a page from history as it offers up yet another bright color, this one called “Green With Envy”, which pays homage to such hues as “Sublime” and Green Go” that were used on models back in the 1970s.

According to Dodge president and CEO Ralph Gilles, who is also Chrysler’s top design executive, the colors are not only unique to the Dodge brand, but also, they “add another fresh and exciting element to our modern American muscle coupe.”

Production of the Green With Envy Challengers begins this month at the Brampton assembly plant in Canada, with deliveries expected to begin by the end of the first quarter. Customers can order the SRT8 models now, followed by the R/T Classic models in a month or so.

2011 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic

The 2011 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic features a performance tuned suspension and a tweaked 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 with a cold air intake that produces 375 bhp in manual trim and 372 bhp with the 5-speed automatic. Stock output is 370 bhp.

The limited-edition Green With Envy models features body-side stripes in standard matte-black finish or optional white. The cars are also equipped with 5-spoke cast aluminum wheels in the spirit of Halibrand. The interior features dark slate Nappa leather seats and center console with green stitching to match the exterior.

Other features on the Challenger R/T Classic include fender badges with the word Challenger in script, an eggcrate grille with heritage R/T badging, functional hood scoops and HID headlamps. Other features include a standard Super Track Pak Group, which includes revised steering gear, high-performance brake linings, performance shocks, three-mode ESC with a full-off position and Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar Tires. The price of the Green With Envy model is $35,785.

2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392

SRT8 Green With Envy

The new color can also be ordered on the recently introduced SRT8 Challenger, which is also known as the 392, a reference to the size (in cubic inches) of the new larger 6.4-liter V-8 found under the hood of this special model. The SRT8 Challenger makes 470 bhp and 470 lb.-ft. of torque, a boost of 90 over the previous 6.1-liter V-8-owered version.

The unique body color on the SRT8 Challenger is offset by dual, full-body black stripes from the hood to rear decklid. The car is also equipped with 20-in. 5-spoke SRT-exclusive wheels with polished facets and satin-black pockets. As in the Classic Challenger, the interior features Nappa slate leather with accent bands front and rear that match the exterior green color.

In addition to being offered in the new green color, the SRT8 also features a fuel saving 4-cylinder engine mode for the first time, which is good for a 15-percent increase in highway fuel mileage for automatic-equipped models.

The price for the 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 featuring Green With Envy paint is $44,875. Other SRT8 colors include blue, black, red and orange.

Monsters of the Midway -new 2011 Chicago Auto Show

There is a 21st century muscle-car war going on, and the 2011 Chicago Auto Show is playing host to the meanest new machines to hit the street in a long time. Cars like the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca offer up so much horsepower, even the Windy City could lose its breath when you punch the gas pedal. And to prove that tire-melting performance isn’t the sole domain of 2-door sports cars, fearsome 4-door sedans like the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 and 2011 Cadillac CTS-V (also available as a coupe or stealthy wagon) are on display.

After all, this town has a big appetite—just knock back a couple of “Chicago style” hot dogs and you’ll know what we mean. So while hybrids and electric vehicles dominated the headlines at other auto shows, it makes sense that American muscle is playing a starring role in Chicago. These are five of our favorite “Monsters of the Midway” here at the Chicago Auto Show.

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is possibly the fastest Camaro to ever hit the streets. Named after its famous forebear, the wickedly fast 1969 Camaro ZL1 (of which only 69 were built), the modern version features a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine. With approximately 550 bhp and 550 lb.-ft. of torque delivered to the rear wheels, the Camaro ZL1 might not be your first choice for cruising Lake Shore Drive during a snowstorm. Get clear of wintry roads, and you’ll have no trouble melting the tires while slamming through the gears of the 6-speed manual transmission. To alert others to this car’s potential—or perhaps simply to scare children and small animals—the dual-mode exhaust adjusts its sound depending on engine revs. Magnetic Ride Control (featuring Tour and Sport modes), electric-assist power steering and massive Brembo brakes (14.6 in. front/14.4 in. rear) round out some of the other performance mods of the ZL1. Externally, the biggest clue to the ZL1 being something extra special is the aluminum hood that features a power bulge and slotted air intakes. Quad exhausts that could double as chrome-tipped bazookas are another not-so-subtle hint.

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8

The new Charger has all the stuff we liked about the previous version—tough-guy looks and potent Hemi engines—minus the things that always held this Dodge sedan back: namely, a cheap-looking interior, with hard plastics more befitting of a Matchbox model than a sports sedan. The 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 is now better in every way, both inside and out. A more luxurious cabin is the most welcome change. We especially like the leather-wrapped steering wheel with a race-car-inspired flat bottom. Heated rear seats are another nice touch, although the revamp given to the dashboard is what really transforms the cabin. Of course, you’re not buying a Charger SRT8 for all its fancy soft-touch surfaces. Under the car’s more curvaceous exterior beats a new 465-bhp 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 engine. Coupled with a 5-speed automatic—which now comes with shift-paddles—the SRT8 will accelerate to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds, says Dodge. And when you don’t require the full Hemi arsenal, the engine will even shift into fuel-saving 4-cylinder mode.

2011 Chrysler 300C

First seen during the 2011 Detroit Auto Show, the 2011 Chrysler 300C has been remade into a sleeker and perhaps even sexier American sedan. Less of a caricature than the boxy and brutish-looking 300 that arrived back in 2005, the new 300C has leaner lines and much less chunky detailing. Like the previous Dodge Charger, the drab cabin of the previous 300 was also in need of a serious upgrade. While some people might miss the previous model’s retro design cues, the latest 300C is undoubtedly a much better car. True, cars like the Camaro ZL1 and Mustang Boss 302 are in a totally different league when it comes to performance. However, the optional 363-bhp 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 in the 300C provides plenty of oomph. The base engine, a 292-bhp 3.6-liter V-6, is also no slouch. And if you live someplace where it snows—which this winter seems to include all 50 states—there is optional all-wheel drive. We drove a 300C AWD and noted that the car “is quieter, better put together and features a technology package called Uconnect that puts Chrysler in the same ballpark as cars costing much more.” The only thing missing from the 300C (for now) is an SRT8 version.

2012 Mustang Boss 302/Boss 302 Laguna Seca

Like Chevy with its new Camaro ZL1, Ford is looking to its past for inspiration. The original Boss 302 was a menace on the road and track, battling with the likes of Chevrolet and AMC in the Sports Car Club of America Trans-Am championship. The 2012 Mustang Boss 302 and Boss 302 Laguna Seca pay homage to the original, albeit with a thoroughly modern update when it comes to performance. Ford starts with a snarling 440-bhp 5.0-liter V-8 engine, coupled with a 6-speed manual transmission. The wild bodywork and retro themed touches—like adjustable dampers that require a screwdriver to adjust—should appease devotees of the original Boss, while also earning this mega-Mustang a new generation of fans. The car has been lowered slightly and the suspension upgraded to match the engine performance. That short-throw 6-speed manual should be fantastic on the track, or on your weekend drive. For the truly brave, the traction and stability-control systems can be turned completely off. And if that’s not wild enough, the limited-edition Laguna Seca version ditches the rear seat (to save weight) and adopts an even more track-oriented exterior.

2011 Cadillac CTS-V

The Cadillac CTS-V is the perfect muscle car for the perpetually undecided. Do you want the style of a coupe, the convenience of a sedan, or the utility of a station wagon? With the CTS-V family tree, all three choices are available. Ironically, it’s the station wagon that often gets the nod for being the best-looking of the bunch. Yet no matter what layout you choose, the motivating force is a sensational 556-bhp 6.2-liter supercharged V-8, mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. Cadillac says the CTS-V can reach 60 mph in “less than” 4 seconds. That’s quicker than many sports cars—and more rapid than iconic German sport sedans such as the BMW M5. Magnetic Ride Control constantly adjusts the suspension damping to keep the ride sporty but compliant, never pillowy like the Cads of yesteryear. Optional Recaro sport seats offer infinite adjustments, although the standard squabs are plenty fine if you want to save a few bucks. The CTS-V is the kind of car that will cruise in comfort for hours on the highway. But when you want to let loose, nail the gas pedal to unleash supercar-like levels of performance.

Small Cars Big Attitude - 2011 Chicago Auto Show

These days you don’t have to be paranoid about rising fuel prices to opt for a smaller car. Forget the annoyance of having to make do with wind-up windows and tinny-sounding stereos (or no stereo at all). Those days are long gone. This new breed of small car has style and attitude to match frugal running costs and easy-to-park proportions.

We’ve chosen six of the best small cars here at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show. They range from a sporty “3-door coupe” to an Italian city car that’s cuter than a basket of puppies. An American manufacturer also makes the cut, despite the long dominance of foreign automakers in this highly competitive segment.

Want to spend your money on things other than hefty fuel bills and sky-high insurance rates? Here are some of the smartest small cars on the market (or coming soon):

2012 Hyundai Veloster

The looks are unique and, to be honest, we’re not even sure what to call it. The 2012 Hyundai Veloster is hard to categorize and that’s why we think it could be a hit when it arrives this summer. It might look like a coupe, but the Veloster actually sports three doors: one on the driver’s side, and two on the passenger’s side. It’s much less strange than it sounds, and credit Hyundai for making the asymmetrical design look so cool.

There’s a lot going on in the shape, with perhaps a few too many air intakes and scoops (some of them fake) in the front. Yet we believe many people will love the Veloster simply because it takes a chance at being different. Hyundai says the direct-injected 138-bhp 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine will offer “at least” 40 mpg during highway driving. With an estimated base price of $17,000, the Veloster should have plenty of buyers willing to take a chance on this funky 3-door.

2011 Ford Fiesta

Nimble, attractive and fun to drive. For years you might have automatically associated “foreign-built” to these fine attributes. The 2011 Ford Fiesta hatchback and sedan are bucking the long tradition of weak-willed domestic small cars. Designed with the global market in mind, the Fiesta has a handsome shape (especially in hatchback form) and driving manners that meet, or exceed, the competition.

With a starting price of just over $13,000, the base Fiesta is a bargain that doesn’t sacrifice its driving soul for economy. The 120-bhp 1.6-liter 4-cylinder is efficient (39 mpg on the highway) and offers enough power to keep you zipping along in traffic. Higher up the Fiesta food chain, you’ll find options like a power moonroof and Ford’s Sync in-car connectivity system, which permits hands-free calling and voice controls for other vehicle functions.

2012 Fiat 500

Face it; nobody is going to buy a Fiat 500 because of its power. The 101-bhp 16-valve 1.4-liter four is fine, most of the time. But passing another vehicle on a two-lane road should only be done with plenty of patience and lots of room. So what does the Fiat 500 have more than the competition, or even cars costing double its price? The answer: style. Sure it can get cramped with four onboard, but this adorable little 2-door can’t help but make you smile when you see it.

A Mini Cooper has sharper steering, but the softer ride and handling combination of the Fiat 500 is still plenty fun. And like a Mini—or Toyota’s youth-oriented Scion brand—one of the keys to the Fiat 500 is its high degree of customization. You can add stripes, larger alloy wheels, Italian flag decals, and even an in-car perfume dispenser. Fuel economy in the mid-30s is also pretty good. Just be wary with the options since range-topping 500s can break the $20,000 barrier.

2011 Mazda2

With weight trimmed down to approximately 2300 lb. (for the 4-door Touring model), the Mazda2 is light and incredibly nimble. There is a lot of Miata DNA in this economy car’s genes. Even at parking lot speeds you can’t help flicking the steering wheel left and right, simply for the fun of it. The electric-assist power steering lets you know exactly what this front-wheel-drive hatchback is up to all the time. Our biggest complaint is that the 100-bhp 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine can feel breathless on the highway.

There is decent room in back for two adults—although they might start complaining if the trip is of any considerable length. The cabin is simple to master with all major controls logically positioned. And with the most expensive model coming in at $17,230, the Mazda2 is quite the bargain.

2011 Honda Fit

Now in its second generation, the Honda Fit continues to be a benchmark when it comes to blending roominess and driving dynamics in one small package. The cab-forward design of the Fit gives it a modern look, while providing plenty of room onboard for people and all their stuff. The functionality of the rear “Magic Seat” continues to impress us. Fold the seat back down, or the rear cushions up…the Fit offers up to 57.3 cu. ft. of cargo room.

It’s also fun to drive, thanks to its sharp steering and a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder that (true to Honda tradition) simply loves to be revved. The zippy Fit Sport now comes with stability control as standard equipment. However, one technical demerit is Honda’s reliance on cheaper rear drum brakes for the entire Fit range.

2011 Nissan Versa

The Nissan Leaf electric car seems to be grabbing all the headlines and, we’ll admit, never having to fill up a gas tank by choosing an EV is an exciting prospect. Yet with the cheapest Leaf costing more than $33,000 (before federal and state incentives) it’s hard not to make a serious case for the budget-friendly Nissan Versa. Available as a sedan and 4-door hatchback, and with a choice of frugal 1.6 or 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engines, the Versa has features you’d never expect to find in a small car.

Navigation and a 6-disc CD player are some of the high-end options. Even better is the fact that six airbags are standard on all models—while ABS is standard on all but the base sedan. Ironically, it’s the base model that has captured some headlines of its own. With a starting price that barely squeaks past $10,000, at certain times the Nissan Versa has been the least expensive new car for sale in the U.S.

New Best of the 2011 Chicago Auto Show - 2011 Chicago Auto Show

The 2011 Chicago Auto Show has seen the spotlight shift momentarily from hybrids and electric cars to high-performance hardware such as the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, Dodge Charger SRT8 and sport-tuned Hyundai Genesis R-Spec sedan. Better fuel mileage is always a good thing, but Chicago is proving that automakers (and car buyers) are ready for some fun too. How else can you explain Dodge’s decision to unveil a macho minivan? Even Volkswagen is getting in on the action, with the Jetta GLI sport sedan making its long-anticipated appearance.

Here are our top vehicle debuts from the 2011 Chicago Auto Show:

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

This is officially the meanest and most powerful Camaro, at least for now. Powered by the same supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 found in the Cadillac CTS-V, the Camaro ZL1 has approximately 550 bhp lurking beneath its raised aluminum hood, which sports a carbon-fiber power dome and heat-extracting vents. A short-throw 6-speed manual transmission helps direct power to the 20-in. rear wheels. An automatic transmission is also likely to be offered. Chevrolet is keeping strangely mum about the ZL1 being the most powerful version of the Camaro when it goes on sale early next year. Makes us think a 600-bhp Z28 model is on the way…

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8

The 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 makes no secret of its performance potential. Just look at the oversized grille that looks ready to devour anything that gets in its way. Behind the gloss black, MiG 15-mimicking mouth is a new 465-bhp 6.4-liter Hemi V-8—a larger version of the previous SRT8’s 6.1-liter engine. The 5-speed automatic transmission now comes with paddle shifters on the leather-wrapped steering wheel. Aluminum accents and sport seats help upgrade the cabin, which is a quantum leap forward from the previous Charger’s dour interior. If the roar of the Hemi isn’t enough to wake the neighbors, crank up the 900-watt 19-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system.

2012 Hyundai Genesis R-Spec

The 2012 Hyundai Genesis R-Spec sedan is most powerful car ever built by the South Korean automaker. And unless you’ve been living on some isolated desert island, you’ll know how far Hyundai has come in terms of style and performance. The entire Genesis lineup receives a mild makeover this year, courtesy of a new front fascia, redesigned headlights and taillights, a new grille and more aggressive rocker panels. The big news for enthusiasts is the 429-bhp 5.0-liter V-8 found in the Genesis R-Spec, which mates to a new 8-speed automatic transmission that is standard on all 2012 Genesis sedans. Befitting a proper sports sedan, the Genesis R-spec has firmer suspension, larger anti-roll bars, sharper steering and optional summer performance tires (Michelin PS2s) on 19-in. machined-finish alloy wheels.

2012 Acura TL

Acura called it the “Power Plenum,” though most people probably referred to the Japanese luxury brand’s previous grill as “the chromed beak.” The 2012 Acura TL has received a mid-cycle refresh that includes a less polarizing front end. We’d say the design tweaks give the TL a cleaner (and wider) appearance than before. Considering that the TL is Acura’s best-selling model, a less aggressive design could also give a welcome boost to sales. Honda has always built great engines, and the TL continues with two free-revving V-6s. At the top of the range is the TL SH-AWD, with a 305-bhp 3.7-liter combined with all-wheel drive. Honda says the TL’s new 6-speed automatic transmission provides a noticeable boost to both fuel efficiency and performance.

2012 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Introduced last year, the initial focus of the 2011 Jetta seemed to be about increasing the popularity of the German sedan through lower pricing. That’s fine, but the overly tame styling and 2.0-liter base engine (as well as the 2.5-liter 5-cylinder) left us wanting something extra special. We’ve finally got it with the 2012 Jetta GLI. The looks remain a touch too conservative, but handsome alloy wheels and a sportier front fascia improve matters, as does independent rear suspension in place of the standard Jetta’s twist-beam rear. The turbocharged 200-bhp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine is a gem, mated to either a 6-speed manual or optional DSG transmission with paddle shifters. A base GLI starts at $23,495, with a fully loaded example pushing past $26,000. Better looking, more fun to drive…and still a pretty good value. With the new GLI, VW has finally found the new Jetta’s sweet spot.

2012 Buick Regal eAssist

Not every new car shown in Chicago is about asphalt-chewing burnouts. The 2012 Buick Regal eAssist is a mild hybrid that pushes this handsome compact sedan’s highway economy to 37 mpg. In layman’s terms, eAssist uses a lithium-ion battery and a motor generator to provide a gentle boost (15 hp) to the Regal’s 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and 6-speed automatic transmission. It doesn’t sound like much but, according to Buick’s calculations, the Regal eAssist offers a 25 percent improvement in fuel economy versus the standard 4-cylinder/6-speed automatic. When the car comes to a stop, the engine in the Regal eAssist automatically turns off to save fuel. Revised underbody aerodynamics and economy-oriented tires also work to improve the mpg figures.

2012 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T

Having a family shouldn’t mean you’re forced to drive some soulless box on wheels. At least that’s the thinking behind the 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T. Sure, the idea of a performance-themed minivan might seem to make as much sense as training a Chihuahua to be a sled dog. But there is no disputing the 86-bhp edge the new 283-bhp 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 has over the previous 3.8-liter powerplant. Despite the power increase, fuel economy should remain almost identical. A driver-selectable fuel-economy mode stretches mpg numbers by modifying the shift points of the 5-speed automatic transmission. Meanwhile, a body-colored grille and 17-in. wheels help alert the P.T.A. that you’re driving a minivan with attitude.

2011 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic

There is nothing green about this performance coupe, apart from its retina-searing paint. Called “Green with Envy,” this wild hue can be ordered with the new Challenger R/T Classic or range-topping SRT8 model. The 2011 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic finished in Green with Envy comes with retro touches such as side stripes in matte-black or white, and 5-spoke alloy wheels modeled after classic Halibrand wheels from the 1960s. Like any proud muscle car, the R/T Classic also gets a performance boost. In this case, a cold-air intake bumps the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 to 375 bhp (up from 370). A sport-tuned suspension helps keep the power under control. Other performance bits include functional hood scoops, revised steering gear, and 3-mode electronic stability control (with a setting to turn it completely off).

2012 Shelby GT350 Convertible

If you like what you see on the Shelby stand here in Chicago, then you better act fast. Shelby plans on building only 350 examples of the 2012 GT350, which is available as a coupe or a convertible. Buyers can choose from a 430-bhp naturally aspirated version or supercharged models delivering 525 and 624 bhp. A short-throw 6-speed manual transmission is standard, with an automatic available for the naturally aspirated model.

Shelby also installs beefier front brakes, a firmer suspension, 19-in. wheels and a wide assortment of cosmetic improvements—including a particularly vicious (but functional) hood scoop. If that’s not enough American performance hardware for you, Shelby offers leather seats with red, white and blue insets.

2011 Geneva Auto Show Preview

We’ve been hearing about a hybrid version of the Porsche Panamera sedan for quite some time, and now the Stuttgart firm has announced that it will officially unveil the car on March 1 at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. According to Porsche, the new 380-bhp Panamera S Hybrid, without sacrificing sportiness or elegance, is said to be the most economical Porsche of all time.

That’s a heady claim. Porsche says the Panamera S Hybrid—when fitted with optional low-rolling-resistance tires developed by Michelin specifically for the car—gets 34.6 mpg U.S. in the NEDC, the European test cycle that’s a bit more city-oriented than our EPA Combined. With standard tires, the mileage of the Panamera S Hybrid still remains very good, pegged by Porsche at 33.1 mpg. Naturally, with low fuel consumption, the CO2 levels—what Europeans stress—are impressively low.

The Hardware

The Panamera S Hybrid has the same powertrain found in the Cayenne S Hybrid. That means a supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 with 333 bhp does most of the work, aided at times by a 47 hp (34 kW) electric motor. The gasoline engine and the electric motor are able to power the Panamera S Hybrid individually, or in a combined fashion.

The electric motor, which also serves as a generator and a starter, is powered by a nickel metal hydride battery that stores electrical energy recovered from braking and driving. A decoupler—which allows the Panamera S Hybrid to be pure electric, pure gas or any combination thereof—is located between the engine and transmission. As in the Cayenne Hybrid, that gearbox is an 8-speed Tiptronic with a wide spread of ratios.

According to Porsche, the 2012 Panamera S Hybrid is fast (especially by hybrid standards), able to hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in only 6.0 seconds. Top speed is an impressive 168 mph, which will allow for high-speed blasts down the Autobahn. Of note, the pure-electric range of the Panamera Hybrid is approximately two kilometers, or 1.24 miles. And depending on conditions, pure electric driving is possible up to 53 mph.

Porsche also says its hybrid system is the only one in the world that exploits additional consumption reserves by allowing "sailing" on motorways and main roads. At speeds of up to 103 mph (97 mph in the Cayenne Hybrid), the economy of the Panamera S Hybrid is enhanced when the internal-combustion engine automatically disengages and switches off, which occurs whenever no power is being delivered by the combustion engine.

As you might expect, the Panamera S Hybrid is very well equipped. Adaptive air suspension is standard, as is PASM stability control, Servotronic steering and a rear window wiper. What’s more, the car features the Cayenne S Hybrid’s special display, which provides the driver with all relevant information regarding the specific hybrid driving status. Other standard features include navigation and a universal audio interface that allows the driver to use an iPod or a USB stick.

The new 2012 S Hybrid represents the sixth version of the Porsche Panamera sedan, which has been a success for Porsche. The 4-door has been on sale for 15 months now, and nearly 30,000 have been sold worldwide. And if the spy photos are to be believed, it looks like we will soon be seeing a new stretched version of the Panamera, likely for the U.S. and Chinese markets.

In the meantime, look for the new 2012 Porsche Panamera S Hybrid to hit the European market in June, with U.S. cars arriving perhaps a month later, priced at $95,000.