2008 Detroit Auto Show Highlights

Packs of avid journalists crowded the aisles of Detroit's Cobo Hall for two full days in mid-January, to gaze and hear about the latest vehicle models. Performance once again captured plenty of attention, led by the new Corvette ZR1 with its 620-horsepower V-8 engine.


Meanwhile, "Green" cars and comments took center stage from many manufacturers. GM chief Rick Wagoner used his onstage time to promote flex-fuel vehicles, and to outline a new joint venture intended to increase production of ethanol from biofuels. Such terms as "sustainability" and "environmental friendliness" were heard repeatedly on the show floor.


Judging by the number of automakers from China exhibiting at this year's show, a Chinese invasion into the U.S. market might be imminent. Several familiar automakers held back this year. Nissan brought its innovative Forum concept vehicle for display, but held no news conference. Porsche skipped the show entirely. Starting off the events, Chevrolet's Malibu and the Mazda CX-9 won honors as North American Car and Truck of the Year, respectively.


Here are some of the highlights:

Pickup Progress: 2009 Ford F-150

Pickup trucks are still Ford's bread and butter. So, continued success of the F-150 in its newly revised form is vital. Flaunting a bolder, squared-up grille, the F-150 adds several features at the cargo-hauling end. Side steps ease access to the cargo bed. So does a new tailgate step, while a stow-able bed extender adds versatility. Software to correct trailer sway while towing has been revised. Built on a lighter and stronger frame than before, the F-150 gets a reworked suspension. All told, the F-150 comes in 35 distinct configurations, from value-priced XL to a new luxury Platinum series.