Five Best Designs At the Detroit Auto Show
The Detroit Auto Shows is open to the public through Jan. 22. A calculated assembly of heavy hitting cars make up the bulk of the show. Many will be brought to dealerships over the next five years, with a few exceptions. Here’s what we’ve picked for best in show from gussied up showstoppers to simple vehicle that nail form and function.
1. Acura NSX Concept. On Twitter, I called this the Lambo-cura, and I meant that as a compliment. The Acura NSX was a reminder that a car show can still have audacious, over the top beautiful designs.
2. Lexus LF-LC. The Lexus concept is lush with sculpted angles and aerodynamic proportions. It was revealed before the show in press shots, but looked even more impressive in person.”With a grille shaped like one of Salvador Dali’s hourglasses, a long hood and fastback roof, Lexus’ LF-LC concept luxury coupe is a window into the brand’s thinking for a flagship two-door model to replace the SC luxury coupe and convertible it sold for years,” the Detroit Free Press reports.
3. Porsche 911 Cabriolet. The Porsche 911 is a testament to taking the German automakers discipline to taking the time to get it right. “Now the Cabriolet has the one-two punch. Subtle styling revisions keep the 911 looking fresh for yet another generation,” reports The New York Times.
4.Ford Fusion. With several nips and tuck, the Fusion has moved into new design territory, and is destined to attract repeat buyers.”Ford Americas President Mark Fields said Monday that it will have a base price close to the current Fusion, which starts at $20,200,” ABC News reported.
5.Dodge Dart. Dodge did what it was supposed to do — go back to making an accessible car for everyday driving in reviving the Dart nameplate, which the Wall Street Journal called “endearing.”
No No No. Some things are just better left dead.
Let me explain. There has been a trend to rehash names from the past for years now. Some good, some not so good. For example, the Dodge Charger – Good.
But if you’re going to take a car name from the past and slap it on something modern, please let it at least have the same aura about it that the original had. This new Dodge Dart is a great car. Good performance, styling, efficiency, etc.
But its only good if you see the car first, then find out the name. If by chance you hear the name and know of the original car, you only get disappointed when you see the modern version. This car is not a Dodge Dart. It is a subcompact little bugger that is badged as one. Nothing wrong with the car, but putting this name on it is not right.