2007 L.A. Auto Show Faves

5) Global Influence: Hyundai Genesis Coupe Concept

In a move that truly represents the international metropolis that is Los Angeles, Hyundai revealed the Genesis. Designers drew influences from sources as varies as drifting to LeMans race cars—and even from of Jada Toys DUB die-cast toy cars. Since the die-cast cars were themselves influenced by emerging automotive trends, the Genesis concept is the end result of the full circle of what drives automotive enthusiasm. Propelling the design is a 300-plus horsepower six-cylinder engine that sends power through the rear wheels. A turbocharged four-cylinder and V8 mills exist only in rumor, but have budget performance enthusiasts seeking the truth. The production version of the Genesis is due to hit the showrooms in 2009.

6) More Mini than Ever: 2008 Mini Clubman

While appearing to be a great deal more Mini than ever before, the 2008 Mini Clubman is actually only nine inches longer than previous versions of the updated iconic runabout. The improvement in space was achieved by squeezing a lot more from a little. Not one body panel is shared with the regular mini even though the cars appear to be siblings. Along with the usual two side doors the Clubman sports a third side mini-door that helps makes rear seat passenger entry and exits less gymnastic. The dual rear doors each have their own wiper for functional style. Twin sunroofs add light and space to the space age interior. Under the hood of this S version is a 1.6L turbocharged four-banger that kicks out 175 horsepower for driving amusement to go with functional style.

7) Tenth Edition: 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X

The tenth Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution has become slightly more mature but lost none of its bite. The gaping maw of Evo houses a massive intercooler, behind which is a 291 horsepower turbocharged 2.0 liter four cylinder engine. The twin-clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (SST) or five speed manual both work in conjunction with Mitsubishi Super All-Wheel control - itself an acronym for at least four other subsystems of super handing technology. What it all means is that the car gives its driver super human rally racing ability! Optional creature comforts such as navigation and steering wheel controls mean the Lancer Evoultion Ten may walk a bit more softly, but it still carries a big stick.

8) Calling All Monsters: 2009 Nissan GT-R

From the island of Japan comes a car bristling with the absolute pinnacle of automotive technology that carries with it a legacy of supreme performance. The Nissan GT-R is the latest in a line of automotive performance masterpieces previously released by Nissan with a Skyline in front of the GT-R. Under the hood is a twin-turbocharged V-6 producing 480 horsepower. A paddle shifted six-speed dual clutch sequential shift transmission puts the power through to the ground via all wheel drive. All this supercar level performance has an MSRP of a shade over 71 large for the fully equipped version. Only 1500 or so are slated to hit American showrooms in June 2008.

9) Muscle Version: 2008 Subaru WRX STi

With the addition of boxy fender flares to house more wheel and tire along with its wider than stock WRX track, the STI version of the latest WRX adds a little sport to what is largely considered a divisive redesign of the popular name plate. A functional hood scoop sends cooler air through the intercooler and helps the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine kick out 305 horsepower. The STI will be available only in this 5-door hatch configuration. Good news for rally racers and consumers alike is that the same chassis stiffening measures that makes the STI a crisper handling racecar also add more safety. Like the Lancer Evolution, the WRX STI is a car loaded with racing technology for the price of a loaded minivan.