2008 LA Auto Show Highlights

3.) Second-generation sporty compact: 2010 Mazda 3

Initially launched for 2004, Mazda's compact sedan gets a freshening for 2010, including a lowered grille for better airflow management, a long hood, and a coupe-like cabin. Gas mileage has risen by 10 percent, carrying on the company's "sustainable Zoom-Zoom" vision. Front-seat cushions have been extended nearly an inch. Re-contoured backrests are 1.4 inches taller. Side bolsters on upper-level models are now canted inward.


The Mazda3 i holds a 148-hp engine, with a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. A 167-hp, 2.5-liter engine goes into the Mazda3 s, with six-speed manual or five-speed automatic. Mazda claims class-leading aerodynamics, with a drag coefficient of just 0.29. Available features include dual-zone automatic climate control, pushbutton start, and Bluetooth connectivity. Steerable adaptive headlights are standard on the Grand Touring model. Four-door sedans go on sale first, followed later by five-door hatchbacks.

4.) Retro-hatchback goes electric: Mini E

At a time when several automakers are planning to launch electric cars, including Nissan and Mitsubishi, BMW's Mini subsidiary has taken the lead in battery power. By the end of 2008, the company says 500 Mini Es will be ready for leasing to residents of New York, New Jersey, and California. Motorists who live near Los Angeles or New York City have been signing up for consideration as lessees, at the MiniUSA website. The one-year lease is extendable. Feedback from participants will help guide Mini into series production of the electric edition.


When using the garage-mounted "wallbox" that's included with the lease, the Mini E uses a lithium-ion battery pack that can be fully charged in 2.5 hours. Otherwise, slow charging takes considerably longer. Part of what Mini calls Project i, the Mini E uses a 150-kilowatt electric motor and has a range up to 156 miles per charge. Capable of reaching 60 mph in 8.5 seconds, the Mini E can hit 95 mph. Performance ranks with regular gas-engine Minis. Dr. Klaus Draeger, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, notes that the Mini E "delivers the full torque from basically zero speed." As a safety measure, when the hood is opened, electricity shuts off. All current-carrying equipment is color-coded, too.

5.) Familiar shape surrounds new engines: 2010 Porsche Boxster and Cayman

At a glance, Porsche's mid-engine Boxster roadster and its closed- coupe companion don't look markedly different in their new-for-2010 form. Modifications are more on the subtle side and technically-oriented, such as extra-large air intakes and larger brake discs (with ceramic composite available).


Both engines are totally new. Replacing a 2.7-liter, the base 2.9-liter four-cylinder produces 255 horsepower (265 under the Cayman's hood). Featuring direct fuel injection, the new Boxster S 3.4-liter engine generates 310 hp (again, 10 more for the Cayman). That's 15 more hp than before. Despite the power boosts, Porsche claims greater fuel economy. A PDK Double Clutch transmission, as used on the latest 911, is newly available. Compared to a regular automatic, PDK cuts fuel consumption by 8 percent, according to Porsche. Base models roll on 17-inch tires, versus 18-inch rubber for the S editions. Inside, the touch-screen display has fewer buttons, and vented seats are new. Porsche Active Suspension Management is an option.

6.) Luxury retractable: 2010 Infiniti G37 convertible

Fabric-topped convertibles have given way lately to steel-roofed retractable hardtops. That's the choice Infiniti made for its new convertible, with a three-piece steel hardtop that folds neatly into the car's short decklid. Based on the company's G37 coupe, the retractable goes on sale in spring 2009. Infiniti touts the seductiveness of its "Dual beauty" design, meant to look equally good with the top up or down. Two models will be offered: base G37, and G37S Sport 6MT with sport-tuned steering, bigger brakes, and 19-inch alloy wheels. A limited-production Premier Edition is marketed through the Bloomingdale's Holiday Catalog.


Beneath the G37's hood sits a 3.7-liter, 325-horsepower V-6 engine, driving either a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed automatic transmission. The latter includes a "Drive Sport" mode and may be equipped with magnesium paddle shifters. Adaptive Climate Control adjusts fan speed and air volume to deliver optimal heating or cooling, top-up or top-down. The Bose Open Air Sound System includes front headrest speakers and Audio Pilot 2, to automatically alter volume and equalization based upon speed and outside noise. A Rear View Monitor is standard. Available navigation includes XM NavTraffic and Real-Time Traffic Information.

7.) Building upon fuel-cell possibilities: Honda FC Sport concept

Following up on its FCX Clarity sedan with a fuel-cell powertrain, which is currently being driven by a growing number of selected motorists, Honda unveiled an FC Sport "design study" at Los Angeles. It's Honda's vision of a future sports car, suggesting the potential of fuel-cell technology.