LA Auto Show: Concepts Galore

From Foreseeable Production Models to the Weird and Wacky

Concept cars are an integral part of any major auto show. Here are a few of the big debuts at this years show in LA:

Honda Remix

Theres no such thing as too much fun in the automotive world. Honda hopes to cash in on driver enjoyment with a three-door sports car called the REMIX. The friendly looking car was inspired by jet fighters, which can be noted by the shape of its windshield, which seamlessly melds into the side windows and bubble-dome roof, creating a canopy. Under its sporty exterior is a high-performance four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. Smile-a-mile handling is guaranteed by a wide track, a sport-tuned suspension and large-diameter brakes. If the REMIX were to be produced it would be the spiritual successor to the 80-90s Civic-based CRX.

Hyundai HCD10 Hellion

It may be true that most SUVs rarely venture off the paved path, but Hyundais HCD10 Hellion concept was made for the wild outdoors. This tough, compact three-door SUV has an organic, curvy-shaped body that was inspired by outdoorsy gear like hard-shell backpacks and surfboards. The roof system features removable panels, supported by three ribs that provide the car with strength and rigidity. The Hellion packs a powerful 236-hp 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 with 332 lb-ft of torque, which drives all four wheels through a six-speed automatic. Currently, Hyundai has no plans to produce a vehicle like the Hellion, but its styling hints at future production cars.

Acura Advanced Sedan Concept

The Advanced Sedan Concept is what Acura envisions the ultimate luxury car will look like in 2020. This full-size four-door executive sedan was penned by Acuras LA design team after being inspired by modern luxury yachts. Strong lines play an important part of the concept, the nose featuring a combination of curved and angled surfaces, plus fenders that peak upwards at each side. A big, heart-shaped chrome grille and low-mounted headlamps dominate the front end. These aspects, combined with a long nose and sharp, pointed tail, confirm its nautical theme. If ever a car deserved the title "Land Yacht", this would be it!

Volkswagen Tiguan
Imagine taking Volkswagens Touareg SUV, putting it in the wash and then shrinking it in the drier. The result would probably be something like the Tiguan concept, which was revealed in LA this week. Sporting VWs constantly evolving look, the concept features a wider version of the brands prominent chromed grille, and headlamps that feature a sleeker design. Aside from the vivid orange exterior and accent trim, this is what should be expected when the car hits the road in 2008. The Tiguan is powered by a TDI diesel engine sporting Mercedes-Benzs Bluetec clean diesel technology, which enables it to meet new emission regulations.

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