NYIAS: Significant Debuts at the New York International Auto Show

Well, it's now time to get to work defining the sights and sounds of the NYIAS for 2009. My initial impression was overwhelming, but after I caught my breath, it was also a bit disappointing. Why? Because the number of debuts have been lackluster, because of the general Malaise that the Auto Industry is currently in right now. However, I will try and bring you, the reader, up to speed.

One of the first debuts this morning was the Mercedes-Benz ML 450 Hybrid, a car designed for the US and Canadian Markets only. It is a conventional Gas/Electric Hybrid, that produces 335 HP, and 381 lb/ft torque. According to Mercedes, is uses 50% less fuel than their conventional ML series.

Also on stage was the debut of the E63 AMG, which has already been covered on the site, but I thought you would like to see pictures from the show floor.

I also went to the GMC Press Conference, and wonder of wonders, the GMC Terrain debuted. This is actually a replacement for the late, lamented Pontiac Torrent. It shares it's architecture with the new Chevrolet Equinox, only trimmed better because of the upscale brand.

There were some other debuts here at the New York Show, that haven't been covered by my collegues. One of the most significant events was the Chrysler Press Conferencs, in which Jim Press was actually driven onstage in a Fiat 500, signaling their pending cooperation with Fiat here in the United States.

Scion had one of the most impressive debuts here at the show. They dropped the new Scion iQ concept from the ceiling, and it's in keeping with the Scion demographic. They have taken the little 2 seat Toyota iQ, and "tricked" it out with 18" rims, honeycomb upholstery, and a 10" LCD panel that pops up from the dash. The eye popping color is called radioactive. This is only a concept, but it should make in into production depending upon the reaction it received here in New York.

More postings to come, so stay tuned.